University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil
Rapperswil, 🇨🇭 Switzerland Public
#21 National
#21 National
6,000 students 5% international Multiple Campuses $720/yr
About University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil
The Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences (OST) in Rapperswil, Switzerland, is part of a larger institution formed in 2020 by the merger of FHS St. Gallen, HSR Rapperswil, and NTB Buchs. It is a dynamic and innovative university that contributes significantly to the economic and social development of Eastern Switzerland. With approximately 3,800 students across six schools and over 1,000 ongoing research projects, OST is a central educational hub in the region.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Subject Areas
EngineeringComputer ScienceBusiness
Student Life & Support
Visa Support Campus Housing Work on Campus Work Placements Sports Facilities Scholarships Available
Photos
Programs Offered at University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil (15)
Offers programs in:
Bachelor Programs (9)
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Business Administration
Business Administration
bachelor in business administrationstudy business administration in switzerlandbusiness administration program in rapperswilbs business administrationbusiness administration at university of applied sciences rapperswil
72 months German Full-time
$1,000/yr
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
STEM
Civil Engineering
Civil Engineering
babachelorbengbsbsc
72 months German Full-time
$1,000/yr
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science
computer scienceBS CSSwitzerland CSRapperswilGerman-language CS
72 months German Full-time
$1,000/yr
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
STEM
Electrical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
appliedapplied sciencesbabachelorbachelors
72 months German Full-time
$1,000/yr
Bachelor of Science in Energy and Environmental Engineering
STEM
Environmental Engineering
Environmental Engineering
bachelorenergyengineeringenvironmentalscience
72 months German Full-time
$1,000/yr
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering and Management
STEM
Industrial Engineering
Industrial Engineering
appliedbabachelorbsbsc
72 months German Full-time
$1,000/yr
Bachelor of Science in Spatial Development and Landscape Architecture
Landscape Architecture
Landscape Architecture
architecturebabachelorbsbsc
72 months German Full-time
$1,000/yr
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
STEM
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
bachelors in mechanical engineeringbachelor in mechanical engineeringbsc mechanical engineeringstudy mechanical engineering abroadstudy mechanical engineering in switzerland
72 months German Full-time
$1,000/yr
Bachelor of Science in Media Engineering
STEM
Media Engineering
Media Engineering
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72 months German Full-time
$1,000/yr
Master Programs (5)
Master of Science in Business Administration
Business Administration
Business Administration
masters in business administrationmaster of business administrationmsc business administrationms business administrationstudy business administration in switzerland
24 months German Full-time
$1,000/yr
Master of Science in Digital Business Engineering
STEM
Digital Business
Digital Business
businessdigitaldigital businessengineeringgraduate
24 months English Full-time
$1,000/yr
Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
engineeringgraduatemastermastersmse
24 months English Full-time
$1,000/yr
Master of Science in Information Systems
STEM
Information Systems
Information Systems
information systems program in rapperswilinformation systems at university of applied sciences rapperswilMS information systemsstudy information systems abroadmaster's in information systems
24 months English Full-time
$1,000/yr
Master of Science in Spatial Development and Landscape Architecture
Landscape Architecture
Landscape Architecture
architecturedevelopmentlandscapespatialswitzerland
24 months German Full-time
$1,000/yr
PhD Programs (1)
PhD in Engineering Sciences
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
university of applied sciences rapperswilgraduate research engineering sciencesdoctoral program engineering sciencesengineering study in switzerlanddoctorate engineering sciences
36 months English Full-time
$1,000/yr
University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
6+ IELTS
79+ TOEFL
Intakes Fall
Application Deadline April 30
Tuition (per year) $720/yr
Housing (monthly) ~$680
Application Fee $250
Teaching Language German, English
Accreditation
Swiss Accreditation Council
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Frequently Asked Questions About University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil
Common questions from international students considering University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil.
How much does University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil cost for international students?
Tuition at University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil ranges from $720/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing (approximately $680/month), books, and living expenses.
What is University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil ranked globally?
University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil holds the following rankings: #21 in Switzerland. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.
What English language requirements does University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil have?
University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil typically requires IELTS 6+ or TOEFL 79+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.
Are scholarships available at University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil?
Yes, University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.
When does University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil start its semesters?
University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil has intakes starting in Fall. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.
How many English-taught programs does University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil offer?
University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil offers 4+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.
Where is University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil located?
University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil is located in Rapperswil, Switzerland 🇨🇭. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.
What are the admission requirements for University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil?
For specific details about University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
What programs does University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil offer?
For specific details about University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
How does University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil compare to other universities?
University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil is a strong choice that compares favorably to peer institutions. Each university has different strengths — we recommend comparing specific programs, location, cost, and graduate outcomes for your field rather than overall rankings alone.
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