University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil

Quick Facts about University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil

• Type: Public
• Students: 6,000
• International: 5%
• Campus: Multiple Campuses
• Tuition: $720 – $720/year
• Language: German, English
• Intakes: Fall

About University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil

Academics

OST offers practice-oriented Bachelor's and Master's programs in various fields including engineering, architecture, business administration, health, and social work. Notable programs at the Rapperswil campus include Civil Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Renewable Energies and Environmental Engineering, Computer Science, Landscape Architecture, Mechanical Engineering and Innovation, and Urban, Transport and Spatial Planning. The teaching approach emphasizes real-world application, with lecturers possessing both academic credentials and business experience, and students engaging in consulting projects for Swiss businesses.

International Students

OST welcomes around 100 exchange students annually and offers dedicated support services for international students. While many programs are taught in German, there are English-taught programs available, particularly at the Master's level, and an English-taught program for Industrial Engineering students at the St. Gallen campus. International students receive assistance with visa applications and can participate in a buddy program for cultural integration. Tuition fees for international students are approximately 1000 CHF per semester.

Campus & Location

The Rapperswil-Jona campus is situated in a prime location between Rapperswil railway station and Lake Zurich, offering a picturesque environment. It features modern infrastructure, including offices, classrooms, laboratories, and a unique Tech Park. Rapperswil is described as a beautiful town with a Mediterranean holiday atmosphere, just 30 minutes by train from Zurich. The campus also provides student dormitories with lake and mountain views.

Career Outcomes

OST emphasizes strong industry ties, providing students with practical experience through internships and industry projects. The university's career services offer support in networking with employers, career advice, and job placement. OST also fosters a startup culture, with events like the MOIN Startup Camp in Rapperswil connecting students with companies, investors, and entrepreneurial resources.

Information for International Students at University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil

University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil in Rapperswil, Switzerland welcomes international students, with 5% of the student body coming from abroad.

• 5% of students are international
• Visa support available
• On-campus work allowed
• Student housing available (~$680/month)
• Work placement / internship opportunities available
• Teaching languages: German, English

Admissions Requirements for University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil:

• IELTS minimum: 6
• TOEFL minimum: 79
• Application fee: $250
• Application deadline: April 30

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Programs at University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil (15 programs)

University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil offers 15 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (9)

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 72 months · German · $1,000/yr · STEM
  This program provides a comprehensive foundation in computer science, covering software development, data structures, algorithms, and computer architecture, preparing students for careers in IT and software engineering.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Developer, IT Consultant, System Analyst
• Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering and Management (BSc) — 72 months · German · $1,000/yr · STEM
  Combining engineering and business aspects, this program focuses on optimizing processes, managing projects, and improving efficiency in industrial settings.
  Field: Industrial Engineering
  Career outcomes: Industrial Engineer, Operations Manager, Supply Chain Manager
• Bachelor of Science in Media Engineering (BSc) — 72 months · German · $1,000/yr · STEM
  This program combines engineering principles with media technology, covering areas like audio-visual production, interactive media, and digital content creation.
  Field: Media Engineering
  Career outcomes: Media Engineer, Content Creator, Broadcast Engineer
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSc) — 72 months · German · $1,000/yr · STEM
  Students in this program gain expertise in electrical circuits, power systems, electronics, and control engineering, preparing them for roles in various industrial sectors.
  Field: Electrical Engineering
  Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Automation Engineer, Control Systems Engineer
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 72 months · German · $1,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, including thermodynamics, materials science, and fluid mechanics, essential for product development and industrial processes.
  Field: Mechanical Engineering
  Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Design Engineer, Process Engineer
• Bachelor of Science in Energy and Environmental Engineering (BSc) — 72 months · German · $1,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on sustainable energy systems, environmental protection, and resource management, preparing students to address global environmental challenges.
  Field: Environmental Engineering
  Career outcomes: Environmental Engineer, Energy Consultant, Sustainability Manager
• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSc) — 72 months · German · $1,000/yr · STEM
  Students learn to plan, design, and construct infrastructure projects such as buildings, bridges, and transportation systems, with an emphasis on sustainability and structural integrity.
  Field: Civil Engineering
  Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Construction Manager
• Bachelor of Science in Spatial Development and Landscape Architecture (BSc) — 72 months · German · $1,000/yr
  Students learn to design and plan urban and rural landscapes, focusing on ecological principles, urban planning, and sustainable development.
  Field: Landscape Architecture
  Career outcomes: Landscape Architect, Urban Planner, Spatial Developer
• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSc) — 72 months · German · $1,000/yr
  This program provides a broad understanding of business principles, including management, marketing, finance, and economics, preparing students for diverse roles in the corporate world.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Financial Advisor

Master Programs (5)

• Master of Science in Information Systems (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
  Focusing on the intersection of business and technology, this program equips students with skills in IT strategy, data management, and digital transformation, crucial for modern organizations.
  Field: Information Systems
  Career outcomes: IT Project Manager, Data Scientist, IT Consultant
• Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
  The MSE program offers specialization in various engineering fields, allowing students to deepen their knowledge and conduct research in areas like computer science, electrical engineering, or mechanical engineering.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: R&D Engineer, Senior Engineer, Project Leader
• Master of Science in Digital Business Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the strategic application of digital technologies in business, including e-commerce, data analytics, and digital innovation, to drive organizational growth.
  Field: Digital Business
  Career outcomes: Digital Business Consultant, E-commerce Manager, Innovation Manager
• Master of Science in Business Administration (MSc) — 24 months · German · $1,000/yr
  This program provides advanced knowledge in business management, strategy, and leadership, preparing graduates for executive and leadership positions in various industries.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Senior Manager, Entrepreneur
• Master of Science in Spatial Development and Landscape Architecture (MSc) — 24 months · German · $1,000/yr
  This master's program deepens knowledge in sustainable spatial planning, landscape design, and urban development, preparing students for leadership roles in these fields.
  Field: Landscape Architecture
  Career outcomes: Senior Urban Planner, Landscape Project Manager, Regional Developer

PhD Programs (1)

• PhD in Engineering Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · $1,000/yr · STEM
  This doctoral program allows students to conduct advanced research in various engineering disciplines, contributing original knowledge to their chosen field under expert supervision.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, R&D Director

Scholarships & Tuition at University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil

Annual tuition for international students: $720 – $720/year

✅ University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil

• National Ranking: #21 in Switzerland
• Ranking tier: Unranked
• Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• No disability support info
• Campus type: Multiple Campuses
• Housing cost: ~$680/month

Key Highlights

• Stunning lakeside campus on Lake Zurich
• Leading Swiss school for landscape architecture
• Strong focus on practical engineering research
• Excellent student-to-faculty teaching ratio
• Highly ranked for technical innovation
• Direct integration with regional industry partners

Accreditation

• Swiss Accreditation Council

Fields of Study at University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil

• Engineering
• Computer Science
• Business

Notable Alumni

• Alessia Schrepfer
• Lukas Gähwiler
• Daniel Nussbaumer
• Nina Fischer
• Thomas Vogt

Frequently Asked Questions about University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil

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