Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)
Winterthur, 🇨🇭 Switzerland Public
#9 National #801 QS World
#9 National #801 QS World #1001 THE
14,619 students 11% international Multiple Campuses $720/yr
About Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)
The Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) is one of the leading universities of applied sciences in Switzerland, offering a practice-oriented education focused on solving real-world challenges. With its primary locations in Winterthur, Zurich, and Wädenswil, the university serves as a vital hub for innovation and research within the Swiss education landscape.
The university comprises eight distinct schools covering fields such as Engineering, Management and Law, Applied Psychology, and Life Sciences and Facility Management. ZHAW is recognized for its multidisciplinary approach, integrating scientific theory with practical application through laboratory work and industry projects. Notable programs include its highly ranked business administration courses and specialized engineering tracks that address sustainable development and digitalization.
ZHAW offers an increasing number of Master’s programs taught entirely in English, along with specific exchange modules for visiting students. The International Management and Engineering programs are particularly popular among the diverse student body, which represents over 100 different nationalities. Support services include dedicated orientation weeks, language courses, and the Erasmus Student Network (ESN), which organizes cultural events to help international students integrate into Swiss society.
The main campus is located in Winterthur, a vibrant city known for its rich industrial history and extensive parklands. Students benefit from modern facilities housed in renovated industrial buildings, such as the Sulzer-Areal, which provide a unique urban learning environment. Winterthur is a major transportation hub, located just twenty minutes by train from Zurich, offering easy access to international travel and the Swiss Alps.
ZHAW maintains exceptionally high employment rates, with the majority of graduates securing professional roles within six months of finishing their degrees. The university fosters strong ties with global industry leaders and local SMEs, providing students with direct access to career fairs and networking events. Additionally, the ZHAW RUNWAY Startup Incubator supports entrepreneurial students, helping them transform innovative ideas into successful commercial ventures.
Academics
The university comprises eight distinct schools covering fields such as Engineering, Management and Law, Applied Psychology, and Life Sciences and Facility Management. ZHAW is recognized for its multidisciplinary approach, integrating scientific theory with practical application through laboratory work and industry projects. Notable programs include its highly ranked business administration courses and specialized engineering tracks that address sustainable development and digitalization.
International Students
ZHAW offers an increasing number of Master’s programs taught entirely in English, along with specific exchange modules for visiting students. The International Management and Engineering programs are particularly popular among the diverse student body, which represents over 100 different nationalities. Support services include dedicated orientation weeks, language courses, and the Erasmus Student Network (ESN), which organizes cultural events to help international students integrate into Swiss society.
Campus & Location
The main campus is located in Winterthur, a vibrant city known for its rich industrial history and extensive parklands. Students benefit from modern facilities housed in renovated industrial buildings, such as the Sulzer-Areal, which provide a unique urban learning environment. Winterthur is a major transportation hub, located just twenty minutes by train from Zurich, offering easy access to international travel and the Swiss Alps.
Career Outcomes
ZHAW maintains exceptionally high employment rates, with the majority of graduates securing professional roles within six months of finishing their degrees. The university fosters strong ties with global industry leaders and local SMEs, providing students with direct access to career fairs and networking events. Additionally, the ZHAW RUNWAY Startup Incubator supports entrepreneurial students, helping them transform innovative ideas into successful commercial ventures.
Highlights
- Leading Swiss university of applied sciences
- Strong focus on practice-oriented education
- Eight schools covering diverse academic fields
- Increasing number of English-taught Master's programs
- Main campus located in historic Winterthur
- Exceptionally high graduate employment rates
Subject Areas
EngineeringBusinessHealthSocial WorkApplied Psychology
Student Life & Support
Visa Support Campus Housing Work on Campus Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available
Photos
Programs Offered at Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) (12)
Offers programs in:
Bachelor Programs (7)
Architecture
Architecture
Architecture
bachelor in architecturebachelor architecturestudy architecture in switzerlandbachelor in architecture in switzerlandarchitecture bachelor winterthur
German Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →Data Science
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
bachelorbachelor's degreedataengineeringstem
36 months German Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics
STEM
Health Sciences
Health Sciences
bachelor in health sciencesbachelors in health sciencesbs health sciencesstudy health sciences in switzerlandbachelor health sciences in switzerland
36 months German Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →Biotechnology
STEM
Life Sciences
Life Sciences
(zhaw)babachelorbsbsc
36 months German Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →International Management
Management and Law
Management and Law
bachelor in management and lawbsc management and lawbachelor of management and lawundergraduate management and lawstudy management and law in switzerland
36 months English Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →Business Administration
Management and Law
Business Administration
administrationbabachelorsbsbusiness
48 months German/English Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →Business Information Technology
STEM
Management and Law
Business Information Technology
business information technology ZHAWWirtschaftsinformatik ZürichZHAW bachelor IT managementdigital business technology Switzerlandbusiness IT degree Zürich
48 months German Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →Master Programs (5)
Engineering (MSE)
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
engineeringmastermseswitzerland
36 months English Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →Life Sciences
STEM
Life Sciences
Life Sciences
master in life sciencesmaster life sciences in switzerlandlife sciences masterinternational student master life sciencesstudy life sciences
36 months English Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →Circular Economy Management
STEM
Management and Law
Management
circulareconomygraduatelawmanagement
36 months English Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →Banking and Finance
Management and Law
Management and Law
bankingbanking and financefinancelawmanagement
36 months German/English Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →Applied Psychology
Psychology
Psychology
english-taught master psychology in switzerlandinternational master psychologyma psychologymaster in psychologymaster psychology
German Full-time
$2,440/yr
Scholarships View details →Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
5.5+ IELTS
83+ TOEFL
115+ Duolingo
3+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Selective (20-40%)
Intakes Fall, Spring
Application Deadline April 30
Tuition (per year) $720/yr
Housing (monthly) ~$645
Application Fee $100
Teaching Language German, English
Student : Faculty 81:1
Avg Class Size 26
Accreditation
AACSBEQUISAMBAState Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)
Common questions from international students considering Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW).
What is the acceptance rate at Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)?
Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) is classified as "Selective (20-40%)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.
How much does Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) cost for international students?
Tuition at Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) ranges from $720/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing (approximately $645/month), books, and living expenses.
What is Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) ranked globally?
Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) holds the following rankings: QS World #801, Times Higher Education #1001, #9 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 Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) have?
Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) typically requires IELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL 83+ 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 Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)?
Yes, Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) 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 Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) start its semesters?
Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) has intakes starting in Fall, Spring. 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 Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) offer?
Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) offers 6+ 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 Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) located?
Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) is located in Winterthur, Switzerland 🇨🇭. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.
What are the admission requirements for Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)?
For specific details about Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
What programs does Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) offer?
For specific details about Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
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