University of Lausanne
Living knowledge in a unique setting by the lake.
📍 Lausanne, Switzerland 🇨🇭
🏆 #7 in Switzerland · QS World #212 · THE World #125 · ARWU #101
Quick Facts about University of Lausanne
- Type: Public
- Students: 16,951
- International: 20%
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $580 – $580/year
- Language: French, English, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, French Sign Language, Swiss German
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About University of Lausanne
Academics
UNIL boasts seven faculties, with three being unique in Switzerland: Law, Criminal Justice and Public Administration; Biology and Medicine; and Geosciences and Environment. The university emphasizes an interdisciplinary teaching approach, offering various programs such as the Master's in Forensic Sciences and the Master's in Behavior, Evolution and Conservation. Collaboration and exchange are central to UNIL's academic mission, with one-third of its Master's programs being joint initiatives with other Swiss higher education institutions. The university offers a wide range of programs, including Bachelor's, Master's, doctorate, and postgraduate degrees, as well as short programs and part-time studies.
International Students
UNIL is highly international, with approximately one-quarter of its close to 16,000 students coming from abroad, representing nearly 128 nationalities. The university provides a Welcome Centre to assist international hires and their families with settling into daily life in Switzerland, Lausanne, and at UNIL. While the main teaching language is French, some Master's programs and several undergraduate courses are taught in English, particularly in Business and Economics, Biology, English Literature, Geosciences and Environment, and Law and Public Administration. International students starting a Master's program who do not speak French are invited to a special English-language welcome session. A wide array of student organizations and associations cater to diverse interests, including cultural groups and those related to specific disciplines.
Campus & Location
The UNIL campus is primarily located just outside Lausanne, on the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva. It forms a vast campus alongside the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), creating a vibrant academic hub. The campus itself is a lively place with state-of-the-art facilities, including spacious lecture halls and modern research laboratories. An excellent public transport network connects the campus to the city of Lausanne, known as the "Olympic Capital" for its ties to the Olympic movement and varied cultural activities. The campus is also notably green, with a significant portion dedicated to green spaces.
Career Outcomes
University studies at UNIL equip students with not only scientific knowledge but also valuable general skills such as analytical thinking, critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability, which are highly sought after by employers. The university's HUB Entrepreneurship and Innovation supports entrepreneurial spirit among students, researchers, and the wider community, offering programs to foster entrepreneurial skills and develop innovative projects. Lausanne itself is a dynamic startup ecosystem, with UNIL contributing to a rich pool of talent and cutting-edge research. The Careers Centre at UNIL assists students with their transition to employment, offering support in identifying profiles, clarifying professional objectives, and preparing job applications. Alumni portraits showcase diverse career paths in various sectors, including teaching, culture, communication, international cooperation, law, social sciences, economics, geosciences, and health.
Information for International Students at University of Lausanne
University of Lausanne in Lausanne, Switzerland welcomes international students, with 20% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 20% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available (~$700/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: French, English, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, French Sign Language, Swiss German
Admissions Requirements for University of Lausanne
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Lausanne:
- IELTS minimum: 7
- GPA minimum: 2
- Application fee: $200
- Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
- Application deadline: November 1
Programs at University of Lausanne (12 programs)
University of Lausanne offers 12 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (3)
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (BSc) — 36 months · French · $1,160/yr · STEM
This program provides a rigorous foundation in pure and applied mathematics, covering topics like algebra, analysis, and probability. Students develop strong problem-solving and logical reasoning skills.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Data Analyst, Actuary, Financial Analyst, Cryptographer - Bachelor of Science in Geosciences and Environment (BSc) — 36 months · French · $1,160/yr · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of Earth's systems, environmental processes, and human impact on the planet. Students learn about geology, hydrology, climate science, and environmental management.
Field: Geosciences and Environment
Career outcomes: Environmental Analyst, Geologist, Hydrologist, Sustainability Consultant - Bachelor of Science in Physics (BSc) — 36 months · French · $1,160/yr · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in classical and modern physics, covering mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics. Students develop analytical and experimental skills.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Research Assistant, Engineer, Data Scientist, Physics Teacher
Master Programs (4)
- Master of Science in Physics (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,160/yr · STEM
This master's program offers advanced study in specialized areas of physics, such as condensed matter physics, particle physics, or astrophysics. It prepares students for research careers in academia or high-tech industries.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Research Scientist, Aerospace Engineer, Medical Physicist - Master of Arts in History (MA) — 24 months · French · $1,160/yr
This master's program offers advanced study in historical research methods, specific historical periods, or thematic areas. It prepares students for doctoral studies or careers requiring in-depth historical knowledge and analytical rigor.
Field: History
Career outcomes: Academic Historian, Heritage Consultant, Documentary Researcher, Public Relations Specialist - Master of Science in Chemistry (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,160/yr · STEM
This master's program offers advanced specialization in various fields of chemistry, such as materials chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or environmental chemistry. It prepares students for research and development roles in industry or academia.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Research Chemist, Process Engineer, Formulation Scientist, Analytical Specialist - Master of Science in Management (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,160/yr
This program provides advanced knowledge and skills in various aspects of management, including strategy, finance, marketing, and human resources. It prepares students for leadership roles in diverse organizations.
Field: Management
Career outcomes: Management Consultant, Project Manager, Business Analyst, Operations Manager
PhD Programs (5)
- PhD in History (PhD) — 48 months · French · $1,160/yr
The PhD in History enables students to conduct original and extensive historical research, culminating in a dissertation that makes a significant contribution to historical scholarship. Candidates work closely with faculty mentors.
Field: History
Career outcomes: University Professor (History), Senior Archivist, Historical Consultant, Government Historian - PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,160/yr · STEM
The PhD in Chemistry provides an opportunity for advanced, independent research in a specialized area of chemistry. Students conduct original experiments and theoretical work, contributing new knowledge to the chemical sciences.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: University Professor (Chemistry), Senior R&D Scientist, Patent Examiner, Chemical Industry Leader - PhD in Geosciences and Environment (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,160/yr · STEM
The PhD in Geosciences and Environment offers advanced research opportunities in areas such as climate science, glaciology, biogeochemistry, and environmental change. Students conduct independent research to contribute to scientific understanding.
Field: Geosciences and Environment
Career outcomes: Climate Scientist, Geological Researcher, Environmental Consultant (Senior), University Faculty - PhD in Management (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,160/yr
The PhD in Management offers rigorous training in research methodologies and theoretical frameworks within various management disciplines. Students conduct original research to contribute to management theory and practice.
Field: Management
Career outcomes: Business School Professor, Senior Management Researcher, Think Tank Analyst, Organizational Development Consultant - PhD in Physics (PhD) — 48 months · English · $1,160/yr · STEM
The PhD in Physics provides opportunities for cutting-edge research in various subfields of physics, from theoretical to experimental. Students conduct original research, contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: University Professor (Physics), Senior Physicist, Accelerator Scientist, Space Scientist
Scholarships & Tuition at University of Lausanne
Annual tuition for international students: $580 – $580/year
✅ University of Lausanne offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of Lausanne
- National Ranking: #7 in Switzerland
- QS World University Ranking: #212
- Times Higher Education (THE): #125
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #101
- Ranking tier: Top 200
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at University of Lausanne
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Urban
- Housing cost: ~$700/month
Key Highlights
- Scenic lakeside campus on Lake Geneva
- Leading center for life sciences research
- Strong focus on interdisciplinary studies
- High percentage of international students
- Home to the Olympic Studies Centre
- Renowned faculty of law and criminal justice
Accreditation
- Swiss Accreditation Council
- Swiss Agency of Accreditation and Quality Assurance (AAQ)
- European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD-EQUIS)
- Association of MBAs (AMBA)
Fields of Study at University of Lausanne
- Biology
- Medicine
- Geosciences
- Economics
- Law
Notable Alumni
- King Ananda Mahidol
- King Bhumibol Adulyadej
- Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands
- Jacques Dubochet
- Joseph Sepp Blatter
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Lausanne
What is University of Lausanne?
University of Lausanne is a public university located in Lausanne, Switzerland. It has approximately 16,951 students, with 20% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at University of Lausanne?
Tuition fees at University of Lausanne for international students range from $580 – $580/year. Student housing costs approximately $700/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of Lausanne?
IELTS minimum: 7. GPA minimum: 2. Application fee: $200. Selectivity: Selective (20-40%). Application deadline: November 1.
What language are courses taught in at University of Lausanne?
Courses at University of Lausanne are taught in French and English and German and Italian and Spanish and Portuguese and French Sign Language and Swiss German. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 7.
How many programs does University of Lausanne offer?
University of Lausanne offers 12 programs: 3 Bachelor's, 4 Master's, and 5 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is University of Lausanne ranked?
#7 in Switzerland · QS World #212 · THE World #125 · ARWU #101.
Does University of Lausanne offer scholarships?
Yes, University of Lausanne offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of Lausanne provide visa support?
Yes, University of Lausanne provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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