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260 Affordable Master's degrees in Switzerland
When considering an affordable master's degree, it's essential to understand what qualifies as 'affordable'. In our system, any master’s programme with tuition fees ranging from 0 to 2,500 euros per year is considered affordable. Switzerland, renowned for its high-quality education, offers a surprising number of budget-friendly options for international students. In fact, affordable master's programmes in Switzerland can start from €0, meaning some universities offer tuition-free education. This makes Switzerland an incredibly appealing destination for students searching for cheap master's degrees. Not only do you get to experience world-class education, but you also benefit from significantly reduced financial burdens. For those looking to pursue a cheap master degree in Switzerland, exploring the top universities in Switzerland can provide valuable insights into the most cost-effective options available.

Physics of Life
The Physics of Life degree at University of Basel provides training in cutting-edge research in biophysics, at the interface of physics, mathematics, engineering, and life sciences.
Experimental Biomedical Research
The Specialized Master of Science in Experimental Biomedical Research provides opportunities for a broad learning experience in the area of biomedicine. At the University of Fribourg, this programme emphasizes research training and acquisition of practical skills that will enhance the students' capacity to take on a future employment and/or develop a career in research.
Biomedical Engineering
The interdisciplinary and application-oriented Master of Science program "Biomedical Engineering" is assigned to the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Bern. The program is offered by the ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research in cooperation with the Bern University of Applied Sciences.
Translation and Specialised Multilingual Communication
Master of Arts in Translation and Specialised Multilingual Communication programme of University of Geneva will help you find your place in the fascinating world of translation and confront the challenges related to technological developments.
Physics
This Physics master's degree program at the University of Bern provides general training in applied, experimental and theoretical Physics or Astronomy, enabling students to undertake independent academic work.
Molecular Life Sciences
The program in Molecular Life Sciences of the University of Bern is run jointly by the Institutes of Cell Biology and Plant Sciences and the Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences of the Science Faculty.
Biomedical Engineering
As a student in our MSc in Biomedical Engineering programme at Bern University of Applied Sciences, you will contribute to innovation in medtech and benefit from an excellent network.
Economics
The Economics master's program from University of Basel combines to a certain extent still events from the areas business and economics as well as methods. Due to the structure of the core subjects, the students receive a methodologically demanding training in business and economics at a master’s level.
Circular Innovation and Sustainability
The Bern University of Applied Sciences master's programme in Circular Innovation and Sustainability combines business skills with a technical and ecological understanding of production cycles and the sustainable use of our natural resources.
Economic History
Historians and economists use different models and terminologies to explain economic developments, and business and economic policy decisions. The Economic History course offered by The University of Zurich removes these barriers to understanding to build a productive relationship of cooperation between the two disciplines.
Chemical and Molecular Sciences
The specialized program in Chemical and Molecular Sciences at University of Zurich requires a scientific Bachelor’s degree with a significant amount of education in Chemistry.
Economics and Management - Market-oriented Management
Do you have an interest in business management topics and want to help actively shape corporate decisions in the future? If so, this is the right master’s programme for you! Master Specialisation Economics and Management - Market-oriented Management is offered at University of Lucerne.
Economics and Management - Applied Data Science
The University of Lucerne offers a Master of Science in Economics and Management with a specialisation in Applied Data Science. This programme is designed to be completed in a flexible format, allowing students to engage in their studies while managing other commitments.
Nursing
The Nursing program from University of Lausanne (UNIL) is intended to train you as specialist nursing clinical practitioners, to optimise patient and family-centred care, embed results in clinical practice and develop clinical leadership in nursing.
Nursing
With a Master of Science in Nursing from the ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, you will acquire the knowledge required for Advanced Practice as well as scientific competencies necessary for specific clinical practice, modern leadership, and practically oriented research.
Banking and Finance
This Banking and Finance program from ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences offers a full time option for those students who do not work part time and wish to enter the job market with a MSc degree as soon as one year after they finish the BSc.
Biomedical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering programme at the University of Basel's students can choose among courses in image-guided therapy or biomaterials & nanotechnology to learn the basics of a broad spectra of medical devices used for diagnostics, surgery and treatment.
Drug Sciences
The MSc in Drug Sciences at the University of Basel provides theoretical and practical skills in the field of the discovery, development and safety aspects of drugs. This Master program is focused on a future career in industrial or academic research, product development or in a regulatory agency.
Changing Societies
The Changing Societies master's degree from University of Basel's students benefit from the advantages of an interdisciplinary social science degree as well as from compulsory methodical training.
People-Oriented Computing
The program in People-Oriented Computing course from University of Zurich provides students with an advanced academic education and allow them to shape their own profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
To qualify for a Masters in Switzerland, you must hold a recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Most programmes require a minimum GPA, often around 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, you need to provide proof of language proficiency, typically TOEFL or IELTS scores for English-taught programmes. Some universities may also require a motivation letter, letters of recommendation, and a CV. It's important to check specific entry requirements for each programme, as they can vary. For detailed information on application processes, visit top universities in Switzerland.
Switzerland is home to several world-renowned universities. The ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne consistently rank among the top institutions globally. The University of Zurich is also highly regarded. These universities offer a range of affordable master's degrees, with tuition fees generally under €2,500 per year. For a comprehensive list and rankings, explore the top universities in Switzerland.
Master's degrees in Switzerland are affordable due to significant government funding and subsidies. The Swiss government heavily invests in education, ensuring that tuition fees remain low. Additionally, the strong economy and high standard of living contribute to the overall affordability of education. This makes Switzerland an attractive destination for international students seeking budget-friendly, high-quality education. With tuition fees generally under €2,500 per year, Switzerland offers some of the most economical master's programmes in Europe.
For cheap master's degrees in Switzerland, language requirements depend on the programme's language of instruction. English-taught programmes typically require TOEFL or IELTS scores, with minimum scores often around 90 for TOEFL and 6.5 for IELTS. German-taught programmes require proof of German proficiency, usually at the B2 level or higher. Some universities may accept alternative tests like the Cambridge English exams. It's crucial to check specific language requirements for each programme to ensure you meet the criteria.
Yes, international students in Switzerland can study part-time while pursuing their master's degree. The Swiss government allows students to work up to 15 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during semester breaks. This flexibility enables students to gain work experience and offset living costs. However, it's important to balance work and studies to ensure academic success. Many universities also offer part-time master's programmes, providing additional flexibility for working students.
While tuition fees for master's programmes in Switzerland are low, there are additional costs to consider. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation, can vary significantly depending on the city. On average, students should budget between €1,000 to €1,500 per month for living costs. Other expenses may include health insurance, which is mandatory for all residents, and semester fees, which cover university services and amenities. It's important to plan for these costs to ensure a smooth study experience in Switzerland.