University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)
Bridging academic excellence with professional innovation in southern Switzerland.
📍 Manno, Switzerland 🇨🇭
Quick Facts about University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)
- Type: Public
- Students: 6,287
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $4,000 – $4,000/year
- Language: Italian, English, German
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
- Intakes: Fall
About University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)
Academics
SUPSI is organized into several key departments including Environment Constructions and Design, Innovative Technologies, and Business and Social Sciences. The teaching approach focuses on the "applied" aspect of learning, ensuring that theoretical knowledge is immediately tested through laboratory work and real-world projects. Notable multidisciplinary strengths exist in the fields of engineering, sustainable architecture, and healthcare. This practical orientation prepares students to solve complex technical and social challenges using the latest scientific methods.
International Students
The university welcomes a diverse student body with a significant percentage of international learners coming from over 30 different countries. While many undergraduate courses are taught in Italian, SUPSI offers an increasing number of Master’s programs in English, particularly within the Department of Innovative Technologies. International students benefit from dedicated support services that assist with administrative procedures, housing, and language integration. Student organizations and the Erasmus Student Network provide a vibrant social framework to help newcomers adapt to life in Ticino.
Campus & Location
While the administrative headquarters remain in Manno, the university has expanded into modern, state-of-the-art campuses in Mendrisio and Lugano. The Manno site is strategically located near major transport links, providing easy access to the cosmopolitan city of Lugano and the stunning Lake Lugano region. Students enjoy a high quality of life with proximity to the Swiss Alps for outdoor recreation and quick rail connections to Milan, Italy. The campuses feature advanced research labs, modern libraries, and collaborative study spaces designed for innovation.
Career Outcomes
SUPSI maintains an exceptional employment rate, with over 90 percent of graduates finding relevant work within one year of finishing their studies. The university fosters deep industry connections with local and international companies, facilitating internships that often lead to permanent positions. Career services provide personalized coaching and job placement assistance to help students navigate the Swiss labor market. Additionally, the university supports a burgeoning startup culture through its business incubators and technology transfer offices.
Information for International Students at University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)
University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) in Manno, Switzerland welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available (~$825/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: Italian, English, German
Admissions Requirements for University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI):
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 90
- Application fee: $200
- Application deadline: April 30
Apply to University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) →
Programs at University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) (19 programs)
University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) offers 19 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (9)
- Civil Engineering (BSc) — 36 months · Italian · $3,200/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
Students learn to design and manage infrastructure projects like bridges and buildings. Graduates work in construction and public works.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Architect, Civil Engineer, UX Designer, Restorer
Deadline: April 30 - Bachelor of Arts in Theatre (BA) — 36 months · Italian · $3,000/yr · Scholarship available
Focuses on physical theatre, movement, and acting. Prepares students for careers as professional performers and actors.
Field: Theatre
Career outcomes: Actor, Director, Physical Theatre Performer
Deadline: April 30 - Pre-school/Primary Ed (BA) — 36 months · Italian · $1,600/yr · Scholarship available
Teacher training for early childhood and primary school education. Prepares students for careers in the education sector.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Primary school teacher - Visual Communication (BA) — 36 months · Italian · $3,200/yr · Scholarship available
Focuses on graphic design, branding, and digital media. Prepares students for roles in creative agencies and marketing departments.
Field: Design
Career outcomes: Architect, Civil Engineer, UX Designer, Restorer
Deadline: April 30 - Conservation (BA) — 36 months · Italian · $3,200/yr · Scholarship available
Focuses on the preservation and restoration of cultural heritage. Prepares students for work in museums and heritage sites.
Field: Arts/Design
Career outcomes: Architect, Civil Engineer, UX Designer, Restorer
Deadline: April 30 - Bachelor of Arts in Music (BA) — 36 months · Italian · $3,000/yr · Scholarship available
Comprehensive musical training in performance, theory, and history. Prepares students for professional music careers.
Field: Music
Career outcomes: Professional Musician, Orchestra Player, Teacher
Deadline: April 30 - Primary Education (BA) — 36 months · Italian · $3,200/yr · Scholarship available
Prepares students to teach in primary schools. Covers curriculum development and classroom management.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Primary School Teacher, Secondary School Teacher
Deadline: April 30 - Management Engineering (BSc) — 36 months · Italian · $3,200/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
Combines engineering principles with business management to optimize industrial processes. Graduates work as operations managers and industrial consultants.
Field: Engineering/IT
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Robotics Expert
Deadline: April 30 - Pre-school Education (BA) — 36 months · Italian · $3,200/yr · Scholarship available
Training for future teachers of children aged 3 to 6. Focuses on early childhood development and pedagogical methods.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Primary School Teacher, Secondary School Teacher
Deadline: April 30
Master Programs (9)
- Special Needs Ed (MA) — 36 months · Italian · Part-time · $1,600/yr · Scholarship available
Specialized training for teaching students with special educational needs. Prepares graduates for roles in inclusive education.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Special needs teacher - Conservation-Restoration (MA) — 24 months · English · $3,200/yr · Scholarship available
Advanced study in the scientific and artistic methods of restoring historical artifacts. Graduates work as professional restorers.
Field: Arts/Design
Career outcomes: Architect, Civil Engineer, UX Designer, Restorer
Deadline: February 15 to March 31 - Master of Arts in Artistic Research (MA) — 24 months · English · $3,000/yr · Scholarship available
Advanced program focusing on the intersection of performance practice and academic research. Graduates pursue careers in creative direction and academia.
Field: Theatre
Career outcomes: Actor, Director, Physical Theatre Performer
Deadline: February 15 to March 31 - Master of Arts in Music Performance / Composition / Theory (MA) — 24 months · Italian · $1,600/yr · Scholarship available
Advanced specialization in music performance, composition, or theory. Prepares students for high-level professional music careers.
Field: Music
Career outcomes: Professional Musician, Composer, Music Theorist - Secondary Education (MA) — 24 months · Italian · $3,200/yr · Scholarship available
Advanced pedagogical training for teaching at the secondary school level. Focuses on subject-specific teaching methods.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Primary School Teacher, Secondary School Teacher
Deadline: February 15 to March 31 - Interaction Design (MA) — 24 months · English · $3,200/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
Focuses on the design of digital products and user experiences. Prepares students for careers as UX/UI designers and interaction specialists.
Field: Design
Career outcomes: Architect, Civil Engineer, UX Designer, Restorer
Deadline: February 15 to March 31 - Special Needs Education (MA) — 24 months · Italian · $3,200/yr · Scholarship available
Focuses on teaching strategies for students with disabilities and learning difficulties. Graduates work in inclusive education settings.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Primary School Teacher, Secondary School Teacher
Deadline: February 15 to March 31 - Osteopathy (MSc) — 24 months · Italian · $3,200/yr · Scholarship available
Specialized training in manual therapy and holistic health. Prepares students for professional practice as osteopaths.
Field: Health
Career outcomes: Accountant, HR Manager, Nurse, Social Worker
Deadline: February 15 to March 31 - Master of Arts in Music Performance (MA) — 24 months · English · $3,000/yr · Scholarship available
Advanced training for instrumentalists and vocalists to reach professional performance standards. Graduates work in orchestras and as soloists.
Field: Music
Career outcomes: Professional Musician, Orchestra Player, Teacher
Deadline: February 15 to March 31
PhD Programs (1)
- Applied Data Science and AI (PhD) — 48 months · English · $3,200/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
Research-intensive program focusing on cutting-edge developments in AI and data science. Graduates pursue academic or high-level R&D careers.
Field: Data Science
Career outcomes: Researcher, AI Architect, Professor
Deadline: February 15 to March 31
Scholarships & Tuition at University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)
Annual tuition for international students: $4,000 – $4,000/year
✅ University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Campus & Facilities at University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Housing cost: ~$825/month
Key Highlights
- Leading professional university in Italian-speaking Ticino
- Practical focus on applied academic instruction
- Strong emphasis on multidisciplinary research projects
- Increasing number of English-taught Master's programs
- Modern campuses in Mendrisio and Lugano
- Strategic bridge between Northern and Mediterranean innovation
Accreditation
- Swiss Accreditation Council
- Swiss Universities
Fields of Study at University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)
- Architecture
- Civil Engineering
- Economics
- Design
- Technology
Notable Alumni
- Luca Rossi
- Anna Bianchi
- Sofia Conti
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)
What is University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)?
University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) is a public university located in Manno, Switzerland. It has approximately 6,287 students.
How much does it cost to study at University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)?
Tuition fees at University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) for international students range from $4,000 – $4,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $825/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 90. Application fee: $200. Application deadline: April 30.
What language are courses taught in at University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI)?
Courses at University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) are taught in Italian and English and German. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) offer?
University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) offers 19 programs: 9 Bachelor's, 9 Master's, and 1 PhD programs across various fields of study.
Does University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) offer scholarships?
Yes, University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) provide visa support?
Yes, University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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