| Course Level: | Bachelor’s | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor’s | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor’s | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 6 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Foundation: The University of Lausanne was originally founded in 1537 as a school of theology, part of the Academy of Lausanne. It became a university in its own right in 1890.
Evolution: Over the centuries, UNIL has evolved significantly, expanding its academic offerings and becoming a leading research institution.
The university is located in Lausanne, the capital city of the canton of Vaud, on the shores of Lake Geneva. The main campus, called Dorigny, is situated towards the west of the city and provides a scenic view of the lake and the Alps.
Faculties: UNIL is structured into several faculties, including the Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Law, Criminal Justice and Public Administration, Faculty of Geosciences and Environment, Faculty of Business and Economics (HEC Lausanne), Faculty of Arts, and Faculty of Social and Political Sciences.
Interdisciplinary Approach: The university encourages interdisciplinary studies, integrating various disciplines such as environmental science, public health, and digital humanities.
Research Excellence: UNIL is recognized for its strong emphasis on research in fields like life sciences, medical sciences, humanities, and social sciences. It is part of the Lemanic Neuroscience Program, a collaborative effort with other local institutions.
Collaborations: It maintains numerous partnerships with other universities and research institutions worldwide and is part of international networks.
Student Population: UNIL has a diverse student body with a significant number of international students. It offers various services and programs to support student life, including sports facilities, cultural events, and student organizations.
Languages: Courses at UNIL are primarily taught in French, although there are increasing offerings in English, especially at the postgraduate level.
Undergraduate: Programs include Bachelor of Biology, Bachelor of Medicine, and Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences.
Graduate: Offers Master's degrees in areas such as Medical Biology, Neuroscience, Cancer and Immunology, and Molecular Life Sciences. There is also a strong emphasis on doctoral programs in biomedical research.
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.
Graduate: Master of Law with various specializations like Business Law, International and European Economic and Commercial Law, and Legal Theory. Masters in Forensic Science, Public Administration, and Public Management are also available.
Undergraduate: Bachelor programs in Geography, Earth Sciences, and Environmental Sciences.
Graduate: Offers Masters in Geology, Biology of Environment, and Environmental Policy and Management, catering to a range of interests in the environmental sciences.
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Science in Management, Economics, and Information Systems.
Graduate: Masters in Accounting, Control and Finance, Economics, Information Systems, Actuarial Science, and International Management. HEC Lausanne is particularly noted for its strong emphasis on research and connections with the business sector.
Undergraduate: Offers Bachelors in a wide array of subjects, including Philosophy, History, French Literature, and more.
Graduate: Masters programs cover subjects like Digital Humanities, English, History of Art, and many more, often with interdisciplinary approaches.
Undergraduate: Programs include Sociology, Political Science, and Social Sciences.
Graduate: Masters in Public Opinion and Survey Methodology, Social Sciences, and Political Science. There are also opportunities for interdisciplinary research and studies.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Biology |
3 years |
$1,200 |
|
Bachelor of Medicine |
3 years |
$1,200 |
|
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences |
3 years |
$1,200 |
|
Bachelor of Law |
3 years |
$1,200 |
|
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science |
3 years |
$1,200 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Management |
3 years |
$1,200 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Economics |
3 years |
$1,200 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Information Systems |
3 years |
$1,200 |
|
Bachelor of Geography |
3 years |
$1,200 |
|
Bachelor of Earth Sciences |
3 years |
$1,200 |
|
Bachelor of Environmental Sciences |
3 years |
$1,200 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (various majors, e.g., Philosophy, History, French Literature) |
3 years |
$1,200 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Medical Biology |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Neuroscience |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Cancer and Immunology |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Molecular Life Sciences |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Law (various specializations) |
1.5 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Forensic Science |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Public Administration |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Geology |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Biology of Environment |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Environmental Policy and Management |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Science in Management |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Science in Economics |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Science in Information Systems |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Science in Actuarial Science |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Science in International Management |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Digital Humanities |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Arts in English |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Arts in History of Art |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Public Opinion and Survey Methodology |
2 years |
$1,200 |
|
Master of Social Sciences |
2 years |
$1,200 |
Program Name |
Typical Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Biology |
3-5 years |
$1,200 |
|
PhD in Medicine |
3-5 years |
$1,200 |
|
PhD in Biomedical Sciences |
3-5 years |
$1,200 |
|
PhD in Law |
3-5 years |
$1,200 |
|
PhD in Forensic Science |
3-5 years |
$1,200 |
|
PhD in Earth Sciences |
3-5 years |
$1,200 |
|
PhD in Environmental Sciences |
3-5 years |
$1,200 |
|
PhD in Management and Economics |
3-5 years |
$1,200 |
|
PhD in Computer Science and Information Systems |
3-5 years |
$1,200 |
|
PhD in Social and Political Sciences |
3-5 years |
$1,200 |
|
PhD in Arts |
3-5 years |
$1,200 |
UNIL provides a wide range of programs across various disciplines. While many undergraduate programs require proficiency in French, there are numerous graduate programs offered in English, particularly in business, biology, and environmental sciences, making them accessible to international students who are not fluent in French.
French: For programs taught in French, international students must often demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in French. This is usually certified by exams like the DELF or DALF.
English: For English-taught programs, students might need to provide proof of proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
Tuition fees at UNIL are relatively low compared to universities in many other countries, including the US and the UK. The fees are approximately the same for both domestic and international students, around 1,200 USD per year, although this can vary by program and level of study.
Switzerland is known for its high cost of living. Students need to budget for housing, food, transportation, and health insurance. Monthly living costs in Lausanne can range from $1,600 to $2,000, depending on lifestyle and type of accommodation.
UNIL offers various scholarships and grants to international students. These can be university-specific scholarships, government-funded scholarships, or external scholarships aimed at supporting international students. Checking with the university’s financial aid office can provide specific opportunities available for prospective students.
UNIL has a vibrant campus life with numerous clubs, sports teams, and student organizations. The university’s location on the shores of Lake Geneva and near the Alps also offers unique recreational opportunities.
Start by identifying the program you are interested in. UNIL offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, along with various postgraduate certificates and diplomas.
Bachelor’s Programs: Typically require a Swiss maturity certificate or an equivalent foreign secondary school diploma. Language proficiency in French is also a requirement, as most undergraduate programs are taught in French.
Master’s Programs: Require a relevant bachelor’s degree. The specifics can vary by program. Some programs might have additional requirements such as GMAT/GRE scores, a portfolio, or specific work experience.
Doctorate and Postgraduate Studies: Usually require a master’s degree in a relevant field. Admission often depends on finding a supervisor and the availability of research funding.
French is the primary language of instruction for most programs, although some graduate programs are offered in English. Proof of language proficiency (e.g., DELF, DALF for French, or IELTS, TOEFL for English) may be required depending on your chosen program and previous education background.
Online Application: All prospective students must apply through the UNIL’s online application portal. The application typically requires personal information, educational background, language proficiency certificates, and sometimes a statement of purpose or letters of recommendation.
Deadlines: These vary by program and start date. Typically, applications for the fall semester (starting in September) close around the end of April, and for the spring semester (starting in February), by the end of November.
UNIL has application fees and modest tuition fees compared to many other international universities. They also offer scholarships and financial aid options which you can apply for separately.
International students from outside the EU/EFTA area will need to apply for a student visa. Additionally, it’s advisable to arrange accommodation as early as possible since housing in Lausanne can be competitive.
After acceptance, you'll need to enroll and possibly attend an orientation program. Keep an eye on emails from UNIL for specific instructions regarding enrollment and the start of your studies.
Before arriving in Switzerland, ensure you have arranged health insurance, accommodation, and understand the local registration processes with the local authorities (a requirement in Switzerland).
Undergraduate Programs:
UNIL typically has one major intake per year for undergraduate programs, which is the Fall semester (September).
The deadline for applications is usually around April 30 for the Fall semester.
Master's Programs:
Most master's programs at UNIL also start in the Fall semester, with the same April deadline.
Some programs may have additional intakes in the Spring semester (February), with applications due around November 30.
Doctoral Programs:
Intakes for doctoral programs can vary significantly depending on the specific department and availability of supervisors. It’s best to check directly with the relevant faculty or department for exact details.
Undergraduate Programs:
Educational Requirements: Applicants typically need a Swiss Maturity Certificate or an equivalent secondary school diploma recognized by UNIL.
Language Requirements: Since most undergraduate courses are taught in French, proficiency in French is required (level B2 or C1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). Proof may be required in the form of a language certificate like DELF or DALF.
Master's Programs:
Educational Requirements: A relevant Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is necessary. The specifics may vary depending on the master's program.
Language Requirements: French proficiency is required for French-taught programs, while English-taught programs will require proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS). Each program may have different score requirements.
Additional Requirements: Some programs might require GMAT/GRE scores, professional experience, or specific preparatory courses.
Doctoral Programs:
Educational Requirements: A Master’s degree in a relevant field is typically necessary.
Other Requirements: Admission usually depends on the availability of a faculty member who agrees to supervise the thesis and the availability of funding for the research project. Applicants must often submit a detailed research proposal.
Ranking System |
University of Lausanne (UNIL) Ranking |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Top 200 |
|
US News & World Report Global Universities Rankings |
Top 150 |
Scholarship Name |
Description |
Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
|
UNIL Master’s Grants |
Grants for students who wish to pursue a Master's degree at UNIL |
International students, based on academic merit and motivation |
|
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships |
Scholarships for international students to undertake postgraduate research |
Foreign scholars and artists who have completed a bachelor’s degree |
|
UNIL Doctoral Scholarships |
Scholarships for doctoral studies in specific disciplines |
Must be accepted to a PhD program at UNIL |
|
Mobility Scholarships |
Supports students wishing to study abroad during their bachelor's or master's studies |
Current UNIL students participating in exchange programs |
|
Fondation Zdenek et Michaela Bakala Scholarship |
Supports students who wish to continue their studies in a prestigious university abroad |
Selection based on academic excellence, motivation, and financial need |
Facility Type |
Description |
Location |
Cost Range (per month) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Residence Halls |
Single or shared rooms, common kitchen and bathrooms |
On campus |
CHF 450 - CHF 800 |
|
Off-Campus Apartments |
Shared apartments or studios, private or shared rooms |
Near campus |
CHF 600 - CHF 1200 |
|
Guesthouses |
Furnished rooms, includes utilities and internet |
Locations close to campus |
CHF 700 - CHF 1500 |
|
Short-term Accommodation |
Temporary housing for conferences, short courses |
Near campus |
CHF 60 - CHF 100 per night |
|
Family Housing |
Apartments suitable for students with families |
Near campus |
CHF 1000 - CHF 1800 |
Interdisciplinary Approach: UNIL encourages an interdisciplinary approach to education, allowing students to engage with various disciplines.
Research Opportunities: There are ample research opportunities available, especially given UNIL's strong focus on life sciences, social sciences, and environmental studies.
Language of Instruction: Courses are primarily taught in French, although there are increasingly more programs and courses available in English, especially at the postgraduate level.
Cultural Diversity: With a significant percentage of international students, the campus is a melting pot of cultures, offering a global perspective and fostering international understanding.
Events and Festivals: UNIL organizes numerous events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, concerts, and film screenings, contributing to a lively campus atmosphere.
Wide Range: UNIL supports a variety of student clubs and societies ranging from sports and cultural clubs to academic and political groups.
Student Union: The Fédération des Associations d’Étudiants (FAE) is very active and plays a key role in the university's community life, organizing events and advocating for student interests.
Facilities: The university boasts excellent sports facilities, including gyms, football pitches, tennis courts, and a rowing club on Lake Geneva.
Outdoor Activities: Its location near Lake Geneva and the Alps provides unique opportunities for outdoor sports such as hiking, skiing, and water sports.
Student Support: UNIL offers comprehensive support services including counseling, career services, and academic advising to help students navigate university life and plan their careers.
Housing Assistance: The university provides assistance in finding accommodation through its housing office, aiding students in securing both on-campus and off-campus housing.
Transport: The university is well connected by public transport. Students benefit from discounted fares, making it easy to explore the city and surrounding areas.
Living in Lausanne: While Lausanne is known for its high living costs, students can manage a reasonable living budget with careful planning. The city offers various student discounts for cultural and recreational activities.
Career Counseling: UNIL provides career counseling services where students can receive guidance on career planning, resume writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops and seminars are held to help students develop key professional skills such as networking, effective communication, and digital literacy.
Career Days and Job Fairs: The university organizes career days and job fairs that connect students with potential employers. These events are opportunities for students to meet companies and learn about job openings and internships.
Faculty-Specific Programs: Various faculties have tailored programs that facilitate internships related to their field of study. For example, the Faculty of Business and Economics has strong ties with local and international businesses.
Credit-Earning Internships: Some programs at UNIL allow students to earn academic credits through internships, which encourages students to gain professional experience while they study.
Strong Alumni Relations: UNIL has a strong alumni network that can be a valuable resource for current students. Alumni often participate in networking events and serve as mentors to students.
Alumni Platforms: The university offers platforms where alumni can post job opportunities and share their professional experiences with current students.
Collaborations with Industry: UNIL actively collaborates with various industries, particularly in sectors like life sciences, environmental sciences, business, and law. These collaborations often lead to research partnerships, guest lectures, and direct recruitment from campus.
Employability: Although specific employment rates post-graduation vary by faculty, UNIL generally boasts high employability rates due to its strong academic programs and proactive career services.
Sector-Specific Opportunities: Graduates find opportunities across diverse sectors including pharmaceuticals, banking, international organizations, and academia, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the university’s programs.
Support for Startups: UNIL encourages student entrepreneurship through initiatives like incubators and startup competitions, which provide both funding and mentorship to student entrepreneurs.
International Students: For international students, the university provides additional support regarding work permits and regulations in Switzerland, which is crucial for securing employment after graduation.
1. Program-Specific Requirements: Admission requirements at UNIL can vary widely between different faculties and programs. Some programs may have more stringent criteria based on the competitiveness and the specific qualifications required.
2. Type of Program: Bachelor’s programs, for instance, generally require applicants to hold a Swiss maturity certificate or an equivalent secondary education diploma. Master’s and doctoral programs have additional requirements, often including a relevant Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, respectively, and sometimes specific grades or research experience.
3. Language Requirements: Since many programs at UNIL are taught in French, proficiency in the language is a critical requirement for non-French-speaking applicants. Some programs offered in English might also have language proficiency requirements for English.
Geographical Setting: The main campus, known as the Dorigny campus, is situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, offering picturesque views and a serene environment conducive to academic pursuits.
Address: The specific address is 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
Access and Transport: The campus is well-connected to the city of Lausanne and the wider region. It's easily accessible by public transportation, with frequent bus and metro services. The nearest metro stop is UNIL-Sorge on the M1 line, which links the campus to central Lausanne and the nearby town of Renens.
Layout: The Dorigny campus houses most of the university’s faculties and major administrative buildings. It's a modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities, surrounded by green spaces and equipped with sports facilities, libraries, cafeterias, and student accommodation.
