Overview of the University of Bern
The University of Bern (Universität Bern) was established in 1834 and is situated in the Swiss capital of Bern, Switzerland. As a leading comprehensive public research university, it has grown to serve over 19,000 students, making it one of the larger Swiss higher education institutions. The university is structured into eight faculties distributed across its urban campuses, providing a wide academic reach. With a strong tradition of knowledge creation and dissemination, the University of Bern is recognized for its high academic standards and commitment to research and teaching excellence.
Academic Strengths and Structure
The University of Bern is distinguished particularly in life sciences, climate and environmental sciences, medicine, law, and the humanities. Its medical faculty hosts one of the largest university hospitals in Switzerland, and its Climate Science program is internationally renowned. The university promotes interdisciplinary approaches and problem-based learning, ensuring students engage critically and collaboratively across subject areas. Ranked among the global top 120 universities (QS World University Rankings 2024), the University of Bern is a member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU), underscoring its prolific research output. It offers joint degrees and fosters robust collaborations with leading academic and research institutions worldwide, further enhancing its intellectual profile.
Student Life and Community
Student life at the University of Bern is rich and diverse, featuring an array of more than 100 clubs, societies, and student organizations ranging from cultural and social groups to academic and professional associations. The university places a premium on inclusivity and internationalization, welcoming over 2,000 international students annually. A wide range of services—including counseling, career advice, and language support—is available. Students can access campus housing, cutting-edge sports facilities, and extensive arts programming that animate university life beyond the classroom, nurturing a vibrant, supportive, and engaging community.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Guided by principles of sustainability, innovation, equity, and global citizenship, the University of Bern is committed to advancing knowledge for the benefit of society. Its mission centers on fostering research-driven education and responsible leadership to address global challenges.
