The Best Universities in Bern

Bern may be Switzerland’s capital, but it has the warmth and pace of a true university town. Students settle in easily here and feel right at home. Families love Bern for its safety, rigorous education options, and welcoming community. 

The beautiful Aare River, green parks, and its charming old town provide a beautiful backdrop to student life. Universities here offer everything from law and medicine to climate science, digital innovation, hospitality and the arts. Most bachelor’s courses are in German, while many master’s programmes are in English, especially in business and science. This mix of quality teaching, international outlook, and relaxed lifestyle makes Bern one of Switzerland’s hidden gems for higher education. So, what is the best university in Bern? Let us help you find the answer.

How do families choose the best Bern university for their child?

Choosing a university should not be all about ranking. It’s about finding where your child will feel supported and inspired. Some families prefer English-taught or international programmes. It really depends on your child’s background, language skills, and future plans. Most bachelor’s courses in Bern require a recognised diploma and a good level of German, while English-taught master’s programmes ask for proof of language ability. 

Bern’s universities are known for their friendly, open atmosphere, encouraging curiosity and collaboration. Students can explore a wide range of subjects, from sustainability and politics to space research and the arts. Hospitality, tourism and business are very popular choices. Being in the capital also means students have access to government offices, NGOs, and international companies that make learning feel real and relevant. Public universities in Bern are well respected both in Switzerland and abroad, and tuition fees are still quite reasonable. Taking part in taster days or visiting campuses is a great way to get a real sense of what the university has to offer.

 

Practical considerations for choosing a university in Bern

Bern may be smaller than Zurich or Geneva, but this makes it wonderfully easy to live in. Everything feels close, and the public transport system makes getting around simple. Most students use trams, buses, or bikes instead of cars, and even at rush hour, commuting is manageable. The only real choke points tend to be around Wankdorf and the A6 Bern-Ostring, where traffic can slow briefly during peak hours before clearing quickly again. Bern’s central location also makes weekend trips across Switzerland and into neighbouring countries easy. Don’t forget to look into the right SBB Travelcard for more affordable rail travel.

Student housing varies depending on location and setup. In neighbourhoods like Länggasse and Felsenau, close to the university, expect to pay around CHF 900–1,200 a month for a room or small apartment. Breitenrain and Lorraine are a bit cheaper, but Bümpliz offers the most affordable options. Quieter, upscale areas like Kirchenfeld cost more but offer tranquil and green surroundings. Students often find shared apartments and student lodges in these areas, balancing affordability and convenience.

Public universities in Bern are highly regarded both in Switzerland and internationally, yet tuition fees remain reasonable for international students. Admissions are selective, with most bachelor’s degrees requiring a recognised secondary diploma and proof of German skills. English-taught master’s programmes ask for recognised proof of English proficiency. Some international students may also need to take supplementary exams if their qualifications differ from Swiss standards. 

Despite the academic rigour, student life here feels balanced since it is surrounded by history, art, and nature. For many families, Bern’s mix of quality education, affordability, and gentle pace makes it one of the best places in Switzerland to study.

UNIVERSITIES IN OR NEAR BERN

University of Bern – Swiss public university

Bern University of Applied Sciences | BFH – Swiss public university

ARTICLES

Here we bring together articles on education and daily life in Bern. From helpful tips for settling into Switzerland’s capital, to discovering top things to do in the area, it provides practical advice and trusted insights for families and newcomers alike.