How long are Master's programs in Switzerland?
Master’s programs in Switzerland typically last 1.5 to 2 years, depending on the university and field of study. Swiss education is known for high academic standards, strong research opportunities, and globally recognized degrees.
Both local and international students follow the same program duration, and the structure is consistent across most universities.
Standard Duration of Master’s Degrees in Switzerland
Most Master’s programs in Switzerland fall into one of these categories:
1. Two-Year Master’s Programs (120 ECTS)
This is the most common structure across Swiss universities.
Typical length:
2 years (4 semesters)
Fields that usually follow the 2-year format include:
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Engineering
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Computer science
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Natural sciences
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Medicine and health sciences
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Social sciences
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Business and economics
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Environmental sciences
These programs require completing 120 ECTS credits (European Credit Transfer System).
1.5-Year Master’s Programs (90 ECTS)
Some universities offer Master’s degrees that can be completed in:
1.5 years (3 semesters)
These shorter programs are common in fields such as:
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Finance
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Management
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Hospitality
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Design and arts
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Specialized professional programs
They typically require 90 ECTS credits.
Exceptions: One-Year Master’s Programs
Fully accredited 1-year Master’s programs are less common in Switzerland but do exist in specialized areas, mainly at applied universities (Fachhochschulen). These may cover:
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Applied management
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Communication
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Business innovation
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Hospitality management
Universities of applied sciences sometimes offer shorter, practice-oriented programs for working professionals.
Structure of Swiss Master’s Programs
Regardless of length, most Master’s programs include:
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Coursework and seminars
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Research projects
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Laboratory work (for scientific fields)
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Internships (optional or required depending on program)
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A Master’s thesis
The thesis is a key requirement and can take up to a full semester to complete.
Can International Students Complete Faster?
No. International students follow the same required duration as Swiss students.
However, part-time or flexible options may extend the length rather than shorten it.
English-Taught Master’s Programs
Switzerland offers many Master’s degrees fully taught in English, especially in:
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Business
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Engineering
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Science
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International relations
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Finance
These programs follow the same 1.5–2 year structure.
Why Swiss Master’s Programs Are Highly Regarded
Switzerland is home to some of the world’s top universities, including ETH Zurich, EPFL, University of Zurich, and Geneva. Students benefit from:
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High-quality research environments
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Strong industry links
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Global recognition of degrees
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Access to high-paying European job markets
Final Thoughts
Master’s programs in Switzerland generally last 1.5 to 2 years, depending on the academic field and university type. Most programs follow the European system of 90 to 120 ECTS credits, ensuring strong academic depth and international recognition.
For students seeking globally respected education, Switzerland offers one of the best Master’s degree systems in Europe.
