Study Programmes ETH Zurich

ETH Zrich
Das Studienangebot
Guide des tudes
Guida ai corsi di studio
Study Programmes
Contents
Foreword
ETH Zurich
Study Programmes
Degree Programmes
> Architecture and Civil Engineering
12
> Engineering Sciences
26
> System-oriented Natural Sciences
64
> Natural Sciences and Mathematics
42
> Management and Social Sciences
80
Campus Life
94
> Specialised Masters degree programmes
87
Useful Information
100
Alphabetical List of Degree Programmes
104
The ETH Main Building in the city centre
Foreword
Dear prospective students,
We are delighted that you want to find out about the options for
studying at ETH! This brochure will give you a concentrated overview of the study programmes we can offer. It will show you how
programmes are structured, and which Bachelors degree programme leads to which Masters degree programmes.
All of our study programmes will give you the relevant technical
and scientific knowledge, closely linked with current research
projects. The focus is on acquiring fundamental knowledge and
skills. In an era in which much technical know-how rapidly becomes obsolete, it is these basic principles which are the foundation for the lasting success of our graduates. However, if these
people are to be equipped to take on future roles as leaders and
decision-makers in the economy, science and society, they need

other expertise and skills in addition to their sound technical
good, solid training. ETH degrees are recognised worldwide, and
able to think critically about what they have learnt, gain experi-
the rapidly changing world of industry and research.
knowledge. That is why we believe it is important for them to be

ence with their own research projects and develop team-working
skills.
ETHs condensed and concentrated courses, which still offer

plenty of scope for choice, especially at Master level, provide
all kinds of careers are open to our graduates in many fields in
We look forward to shaping the future together!

Lino Guzzella, Rector
A University with a Worldwide Reputation
ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich, founded in 1855, educates students in the fields of
ETH has two attractive campuses in Zurich and a location in Basel.
courses for specialists. It supplies the economy with scientific
The Central Campus
off companies.
lecturer, Gottfried Semper, is located in the heart of Zurich, just a
science and technology, conducts research and offers advanced

and technological knowledge, and creates employment in spin-
As a result of its high-class quality in Natural Sciences, Engineering Sciences and Mathematics, ETH Zurich has acquired an outstanding reputation. Since its foundation it has been associated
with the foremost academics and students around the world.
The ETH Main Building, built by the famous architect and ETH
few minutes walk from the main railway station. With other
adjacent ETH buildings it accommodates Engineering Sciences,
Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Management and Social

Sciences.
Twenty-one Nobel prize-winners are connected with ETH Zurich,
The Science City Campus
Over 25,000 people from some 100 countries make up the ETH
second location on the Hnggerberg, a hill at the edge of the city.
from Wilhelm K. Rntgen and Albert Einstein to Kurt Wthrich.

community and take advantage of the attractive study and
research conditions it offers. More than 18,000 students benefit
Approximately 40 years ago, ETH Zurich laid the cornerstone of its
Today this site boasts an extensive campus that is being expanded
to form a real Science City, with the most modern of infra
from the knowledge of ca. 500 professors, two-thirds of whom
structure for study, research and leisure. It houses Architecture
more numerous Masters and doctoral degree programmes
Sciences, and Materials Science.
come from abroad. In the 23 Bachelors degree programmes and

students acquire the qualifications necessary for successful
professional careers. Countless scientists, engineers, teachers,

and business entrepreneurs started their careers at ETH Zurich.
and Civil Engineering, Physics, Chemistry and Applied Biological
The Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, which
offers the degree programme in Biotechnology, is situated in

Basel.
ETH Zurich works in close cooperation with many other institutions
of higher education in in a wide range of research fields. It is

linked to numerous renowned universities around the world. ETH
can thus offer its students the opportunity to acquire further

specialised knowledge elsewhere, and intercultural experience.
Degree programmes in the Natural Sciences are also available at

cantonal universities in Switzerland, but Engineering at university level is only offered at ETH Zurich and EPF Lausanne.
The ETH Library provides ETH Zurich with a global information
network of knowledge in the fields of science and technology. It

holds approx. 7.5 million documents in printed and electronic
form, e.g. books, journals, databases, images or maps. Digitized
documents are freely accessible on online platforms.
Numerous ETH institutions and collections invite inspiring cultural
exchange. For example, the Collegium Helveticum functions as

a forum for the dialogue between the sciences, and between
science and art. The Graphische Sammlung (Collection of Prints
and Drawings), the Thomas Mann Archive and the Max Frisch
Archive are examples of how ETH also endeavours to nurture the

Humanities.
Campus Science City auf dem Hnggerberg
Internationally Oriented Study Programmes
Study Programmes
The study programmes at ETH Zurich provide sound academic

knowledge, practical experience, and competence in interdiscipli
nary cooperation as well as socially relevant key qualifications.
They are subject to specific admission requirements, and the

number of places available is often limited. Masters degree
programmes are intended to provide deeper and more special-
ETH enjoys an outstanding international reputation.
ised knowledge in the field of study.
Course structure
programme requires its students to attend additional courses
ETHs programme structure has been altered in accordance
with the guidelines of the Bologna Declaration agreed upon by

European education ministers, which outline the three-tiered
In the interests of a broader general education, each degree
offered by the Department of Humanities, Social and Political

Sciences (D-GESS) (see page 86).
Bachelors/Masters/doctoral degree system. Students are awarded

ECTS credits for their study achievements: one credit corresponds
to approximately 30 working hours.
The Bachelors degree programmes expand undergraduates
knowledge of basic subjects as well as imparting the theoretical
Bachelors degree programme

6 semesters
(180 credits)
and methodological fundamentals of the major subject. The

Bachelors degree is not regarded as a professional qualification.
Each ETH Bachelors programme is followed by at least one
consecutive Masters degree programme, to which students may

transfer without additional requirements. Several specialised
Consecutive Masters degree

programme
Specialised Masters degree

programme
possibly Doctoral studies
possibly Doctoral studies
34 semesters
(90120 credits)
34 semesters
(90120 credits)
Masters degree programmes, mostly interdisciplinary in nature,

are also offered. These are open to graduates with outstanding
performance records from various Bachelors degree programmes.
The Bachelors degree programme comprises 180 credits and is
designed to be completed in three years. The maximum duration

of study is five years. The first year conveys the fundamentals of
mathematics and those natural sciences related to the major

(e.g. physics, chemistry and biology), and the basics of the majorspecific subject. It concludes with the first-year examinations.
In the following four semesters the theoretical and methodological
knowledge of the major is expanded. Students may focus on

specific subjects in the form of electives and project work, and
conclude with a Bachelors thesis if applicable.
Further study achievements are tested primarily in the form of
semester performance assessments, some of which are grouped
into examination blocks, independently written papers and

presentations.
The Bachelors degree programme is at first conducted in German.
In the second and third years some lectures may be delivered in

English.
Structure of the Bachelors degree programme

First-year studies (60 credits)
General basic courses:
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, possibly Biology
Major-specific basic subjects
First-year examinations
Second- and third-year studies (120 credits)
Major-specific subjects,
electives, project work,
possibly Bachelors thesis,
Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (D-GESS) subjects

Semester examinations (some grouped in blocks), written papers
Title: Bachelor of Science ETH, or Bachelor of Arts ETH
for the Professional Officers degree programme
Masters degree programme
In light of the increasing internationalisation of scientific education
amounting to 90 or 120 credits, and is designed to take three
in English.
The Masters degree programme comprises study achievements

or four semesters, to a maximum of six to eight semesters,
and careers most Masters degree programmes are taught solely
respectively. The Masters degree programme offers students
the opportunity to deepen their education in a subject area

which they themselves determine. After attending lectures and
practicals for two to three semesters, students carry out their
first independent research work and write the Masters thesis.

Many programmes are supplemented by an internship of several
months carried out outside the ETH domain.
Students may select one or more consecutive Masters degree

programmes and, in many cases, one or more specialised
Masters degree programmes. Each consecutive Masters degree
programme is linked directly to a particular Bachelors degree
programme in terms of content. The specialised Masters
degree programmes centre on a specific topic taught from an

interdisciplinary perspective with an international focus. A few
specialised Masters degree programmes, the so-called Joint
Masters programmes, are offered in cooperation with domestic

and foreign universities.
Structure of the Masters degree programme

3 or 4 semesters (90 or 120 credits)
Lectures, semester papers, project work in core courses
and electives,
possibly an industrial placement
Semester examinations, written papers
Masters thesis (3-8 months)
Title: Master of Science ETH, or Master of Arts ETH
for the Masters degree in CIS and the Masters degree in the
History and Philosophy of Knowledge
possibly Doctoral Studies
Student exchange programmes
The increasing internationalisation of the job market is addressed
in the wide range of exchange programmes on offer during the

study programmes. A distinction is made between:
Vertical exchange: The Bachelors degree allows graduates to
progress to a Masters degree programme in the same discipline

at another institution of higher education in Switzerland or
abroad. Opportunities for transfer between ETH Zurich and EPF
Lausanne are particularly favourable.
Horizontal exchange: Agreements exist with several foreign
universities which allow students to spend a semester or a year

abroad, either during the third year of the Bachelors programme
or during the Masters programme. Similar possibilities exist

at EPF Lausanne. Such an exchange is very challenging, but
offers experiences valuable for both personal and professional
development.
The academic year
Doctoral studies
each, beginning in mid-September (calendar week 38) and
programmes. They involve the first independent research work
The academic year is divided into two semesters of 14 weeks

mid-February (calendar week 8), respectively. Bachelors degree
programmes only commence in autumn.
Doctoral studies can follow on from all Masters degree

qualifying graduates for subsequent scientific employment, and
the resulting doctorate is normally essential for a professional
career in the field of Natural Sciences. Doctoral studies generally

take three to four years to complete, and for ETH graduate
students involve paid positions as research assistants
(see www.doktorat.ethz.ch).
Teaching qualifications
Students of Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Computer Science,

Mathematics, Physics and Sports may study for a teaching
certificate which qualifies them to work in the Swiss Gymnasien

(university-track secondary schools, akin to grammar schools).
Several Masters degree programmes also offer teaching certificates qualifying holders for positions in vocational schools, spe-
cialised secondary schools, and universities of applied sciences

and other institutes of higher education (see www.didaktischeausbildung.ethz.ch).
Further continuing education possibilities
The Centre for Continuing Education offers additional qualifications in the form of the Master of Advanced Studies programme
and certificate courses (e.g. Business Management, Development
and Cooperation, Medical Physics, Security Policy and Crisis Management see www.zfw.ethz.ch).
10
Admission requirements
What does it take to study successfully at ETH?
is the Swiss Matura, an equivalent foreign qualification, the
important is undoubtedly motivation. If the educational goal is
Bachelors degree programmes: The requirement for admission

Swiss Passerelle university entrance examination, or graduation
from a federally recognised Swiss university of applied sciences.

If these prerequisites are not satisfied the candidate may sit an
entrance examination. An excellent command of German is re-
quired and has to be proved according to the ETHs Admissions

Regulations.
Masters degree programmes: The requirement for admission is a

Bachelors degree from ETH Zurich or EPF Lausanne in the same
discipline, or an equivalent Bachelors degree obtained in Switzerland or abroad. Certain stipulations apply to graduates of
Swiss universities of applied sciences who wish to enter a Masters programme in the discipline of their first degree. Acceptance on a consecutive Masters degree programme may, depending on the students background, involve an application proce-
dure. It may also be subject to additional requirements: the

acquisition of additional study achievements via attendance of
course units from the ETH Bachelors degree programme.
Many factors determine educational success. One of the most
sufficiently clear, the chances of completing the selected

programme are good. In addition to possessing a sound overall
education and a general interest in science and technology, it is

also important to
> have an aptitude for mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology

> be open to new ideas
> be creative
> show team spirit
> focus on the overall picture

> be a networked thinker
> be persistent
A good knowledge of English is becoming increasingly important

in the globally interlinked world of research and business. Therefore
an increasing number of courses in higher semesters are taught
in English. Most of the Masters degree programmes are taught

exclusively in English.
The admission to a specialised Masters degree programme is

subject to special conditions (see page 88).
11
Architecture and Civil Engineering
Comprehension and Design of Structured Living Spaces
Architecture and Civil Engineering

Society is making increasing demands on the quality of our living
Geomatic engineers are specialists in monitoring, measuring and
our vital soil, water and air resources are approaching their
deployed in a wide variety of applications, such as the monitoring
and working spaces and our transport systems. At the same time,
limits and are increasingly at risk. Experts from the fields of
Architecture and Civil Engineering seek technically, economically

and ecologically balanced solutions to address these issues.
Architects design and realize residential, office and industrial

buildings. Here they seek creative solutions to satisfy the manifold requirements of both the individual and society at large.
Civil engineers plan and construct infrastructure in the residen-
tial, commercial, industrial, transport and energy fields that must

be both safe and meet sound technical, economic and ecological
requirements.
Environmental engineers use their interdisciplinary knowledge

and diverse skills to apply engineering technology to sustainable
management of, and if necessary the rehabilitation of such vital

resources as water, soil and air.
14
describing our living spaces. The geodata they process are

and control of building and construction work, cartography, land
use management and the increasingly sophisticated control of

our transport systems.
Graduates of the ETH Masters degree programme in Spatial

Development and Infrastructure Systems deploy their broadly
based education in the fields of spatial and transport planning.
Interdisciplinary aspects and an insight into entrepreneurial

thought processes are constituent parts of all of these study
programmes in addition to subject-specific knowledge.
Architecture
Architecture
Civil Engineering
Civil Engineering
Environmental
Engineering
Environmental
Engineering
Geomatic Engineering
and Planning
Geomatics
Spatial Development and

Infrastructure Systems 1)
1) Holders of any one of the four Bachelors degrees may transfer directly to the consecutive Masters degree
programme in Spatial Development and Infrastructure Systems.
15
The Creative Search for a High-Quality Architectural Environment
Architecture
Y www.arch.ethz.ch
Architecture does not only involve construction. It also comprises
Course structure
of building, living and working requirements, aesthetic priorities,
three areas which run through the entire programme. The first,
a search for creative solutions which address the conflicting issues
and maintenance of good quality of life in the structured environment.
Career profile
Architects use architectural resources to create, alter and preserve
The Bachelors degree programme in Architecture is divided into

comprising Architectural Design and Construction and the
fundamentals of art and creativity, is the main focus. The second
covers the scientific and technical disciplines, and the third

humanities and social sciences, and mathematics.
a structured environment to fulfil the expectations and address
field of construction, their area of responsibility involves analysis,
creative faculties, impart the methodology of architectural design,
the conditions of both the individual and society. In the broad

creative thought and negotiation. They reflect on the needs
of society and convert these into a structured environment. They
respond to changes in conditions and design far-sighted strategies to manage change.
Architects either work independently or as employees in architectural offices. They are also employed in construction companies, administration, and large businesses, and work in the fields
of design, art and culture.
The aim in the first year of study is to develop the perceptive and
and provide a grounding in the natural sciences, technology and
the humanities and social sciences. This basic knowledge

is expanded in the second and third years. Six months of work
experience in the field of architecture must also be completed to

obtain a Bachelors degree.
The aim of the Masters degree programme is to expand the

knowledge acquired in the Bachelors degree programme, and
to foster an increasingly independent, individual approach to

working, the development of integrative thought and creative
16
Bachelors degree programme (180 credits)

Courses in design and technology:
Visual Design, Drafting, Construction
Courses in technology and natural sciences:
Structural Engineering, Building Technology, Ecology, etc.

Courses in the humanities and social sciences:
Mathematical Thought, Sociology, History of Art and

Architecture, Law, Economics, etc.
Seminar weeks
6 months work experience in the architectural field

Masters degree programme (120 credits)
Design
Specialisation, elective projects

Electives, seminar weeks
Masters thesis (10 weeks)
6 months work experience in the architectural field

faculties, and the handling of larger-scale architectural assignments. To obtain a Masters degree, proof of external work
experience of at least six months must be provided.
The Bachelors degree in Architecture also entitles the graduate to progress
to the Masters degree programme in Spatial Development and Infrastructure

Systems without additional requirements.
17
Planning, Decision-making, Building
Civil Engineering
Y www.bauing.ethz.ch
It is difficult to imagine our everyday lives without bridges,
tunnels, hydroelectric power plants, road and rail networks,

or residential, office and industrial buildings. All of these are
subject to increasingly higher demands on standards and functionality, because our modern society requires reliable, efficient
and safe infrastructure.
Career profile
Civil engineers are highly sought-after specialists who perform
demanding tasks in the service of our society. They are more

than just cool-headed, smart designers and constructors. While
taking the environment into account, they must ensure that

buildings and installations are planned functionally, built cost-
effectively, and are economically operated and maintained.
They work closely with architects, environmental engineers,
geomatic engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers,

economists, lawyers and other specialists to provide essential
bases for political decision-making processes. They work in
engineering offices and construction companies; for federal,
cantonal and municipal authorities; in power supply and transport companies; and in research and education.
18

The curriculum begins with the fundamentals of mathematics
and natural sciences, and a basic knowledge of engineering.
These core competences are subsequently expanded and the

foundations laid for the Masters degree programme. The Bachelors degree programme concludes with a Bachelors thesis.
The Masters degree programme builds upon the knowledge

acquired in the Bachelors degree programme. Students select
two out of six possible subject areas (see box). A large range
Mathematics, Mechanics, Computer Science, Physics, Geology, etc.

Subject-specific fundamentals:
Structural Analysis, Soil Mechanics, Hydrology,
Structural Engineering, Transport, Hydraulic Engineering and

Process Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, etc.
Social science subjects:
Law, Business Administration, Systems Engineering
Electives, project work, field courses, Bachelors thesis

of electives supplement these, making it possible to either
Choice of 2 specialisations from:
edge. Independent project work and seminar papers reinforce
> Geotechnical Engineering
civil engineering. Topical construction projects or research topics
> Transport Systems
specialise further or to broaden out into a wider area of knowl-
> Construction and Maintenance Management
the scientific work, and foster the working methods expected in
> Structural Engineering
are commonly used as examples.
> Hydraulic Engineering and Water Resources Management

> Materials and Mechanics
Electives, seminar papers and project work

The Bachelors degree in Civil Engineering entitles graduates to progress to
the Masters degree programme in Spatial Development and Infrastructure

Systems without additional requirements.
19
Sustainable Resource Management
Environmental Engineering
Y www.umwelting.ethz.ch
Water, soil and air are becoming increasingly precious as
populations increase. The goal of environmental engineers is
to manage these vital resources in a sustainable manner and to
in insurance companies and banks; and in development collaboration projects.
rehabilitate them wherever necessary.
Career profile
the fundamentals of mathematics and the natural and engineering
Environmental engineers produce well-founded technical solutions

drawn from the engineering sciences in the following fields:
> water supply, wastewater disposal, exhaust air and solid wastes
> rehabilitation of polluted soil and water
> analysis, evaluation and monitoring of environmental risks and

reduction of environmental pollution
> noise prevention
The Bachelors degree programme provides a solid foundation in
sciences. A small project in the second semester gives some

insight into practical problems. Laboratory work also familiarises
students with the necessary analytical and experimental methods.
Additional knowledge is acquired in elective modules (see box).
This section of the programme concludes with an independent

Bachelors thesis.
> sustainable use and management of natural resources
economists and social scientists. They work mainly in the fields
degree programme, the Masters programme expands students
They collaborate closely with civil, geomatic and process engineers,

of water resources management, prevention of water pollution,
water supply and wastewater treatment, recycling and waste

disposal engineering, soil protection, and air and noise pollution
control. They work in planning offices, companies, public administration, and research institutes; in the field of risk management
20
Building on the basic knowledge acquired in the Bachelors
subject-specific knowledge in two of five areas from the fields
of Water Resources Management, Urban Water Management,

Ecological Systems Design, Air Quality Control and Waste Man-
agement, Hydraulic Engineering and Soil Protection (see box).
These specialisations are supplemented by a broad range of

Mathematics, Mechanics, Computer Science, Physics,

Chemistry, Geology, etc.
Hydrology, Hydraulics, Urban Water Management, Ecological
Systems Design and Waste Management, Earth Observation,

Water Resources Management, Air Quality Control etc.

One elective module chosen from Soil Protection,
Environmental Planning, Civil Engineering, Energy

Laboratory course, Bachelors thesis

Choice of 2 majors from:
> Water Resources Management

> Urban Water Management
> Ecological Systems Design , Air Quality Control and Waste

Management
electives. A 12-week external professional training provides a
> Hydraulic Engineering
together with the 16-week Masters thesis, offers the opportunity
Electives, project work, external professional training (12 weeks)
preliminary insight into the professional world, and a project,
> Soil Protection
to approach a subject-specific topic in an applied or research-
oriented manner.
The Bachelors degree in Environmental Engineering entitles graduates to progress

to the Masters degree programme in Spatial Development and Infrastructure
Systems, and Envionmental Sciences without additional requirements.
21
Monitoring, Designing and Sustaining our Living Space
Geomatic Engineering and Planning

Y www.geomatik.ethz.ch
The two disciplines of Geomatic Engineering and Planning deal
with things that we encounter all the time in our everyday lives,
such as our homes, office buildings and other constructions for
which the land has to be surveyed and recorded using geodetic
methods, or road and rail routes that are the result of deliberate
planning.
Career profile
Geomatic engineers are specialists in evaluating, measuring and

analysing structures and changes in our living space. They use
the data they obtain to work out computer-assisted principles
and accurate models which lead to a better understanding of environmental processes and are used in planning and shaping our
future environment . The planning side deals with the long-term
and sustainable development of settlements, landscapes, trans-
and future generations. The range of careers for which graduates
focus on the fundamentals of mathematics and the natural
port and infrastructure designed to meet the needs of todays
are equipped is equally diverse: their expertise is in demand

among engineering practices, industrial companies and IT system providers, in research and education, and in public administration.
22
The first three semesters of the Bachelors degree programme

and engineering sciences. The basic principles of geomatic
engineering are then expanded and extended. From the fifth

semester four elective modules are offered, from which students
may choose two, depending on their interests. The programme

is rounded off with elective courses and a Bachelors thesis.
Masters degree programme in Geomatic Engineering
(120 credits)
> Engineering Geodesy and Photogrammetry
Mathematics, Mechanics, Computer Science, Physics, Geology, etc.
Choice of two specialisations from:
Geodetic Metrology, GIS, Geoprocessing, Parameter Estimation,
> Space Geodesy and Navigation
Photogrammetry, Cartography, Land Management, Planning

and Transport, etc.

Elective modules:
> Geodesy and Geodetic Metrology
> GIS, Photogrammetry and Cartography
> GIS and Cartography

> Planning
Electives, project work, Masters thesis (16 weeks)

Masters degree programme in Spatial Development and
Infrastructure Systems (120 credits)
> Spatial Development and Environmental Planning
Y www.re-is.ethz.ch
Electives, field courses, Bachelors thesis
tion in the fields of Spatial Use, Development and Economics,
> Transport
Students of the four-semester Masters degree programme can

largely design their own curricula, whereby they deepen their
knowledge in two of the four subject areas offered (see box).

Electives supplement this curriculum. An interdisciplinary project
and a 16-week Masters thesis project provide the opportunity to

approach a subject-specific topic in an applied or research-orient-
The Masters degree programme offers a broadly based educaTransport Planning and Systems as well as Planning Methodolo-
gy and Communication. With the help of a professor acting as
tutor, students draw up a personal curriculum. Electives, seminar and project work and a 16-week Masters thesis supplement
the courses offered.
The Bachelors degree in Geomatic Engineering and Planning entitles

graduates to progress to the Masters degree programme in Spatial
Development and Infrastructure Systems without additional requirements.
ed manner. After obtaining the Masters degree, graduates may

acquire the Swiss federal license for cadastral surveyors.
23
Which DEGREE PROGRAMME is right for me?

a comparison
The Architecture and Civil Engineering degree programmes are
characterised by being highly structured at Bachelor level, with
more choice only available at Master level.
On the engineering degree programmes in this field, basic subjects
such as Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science and, in some
cases, Chemistry are taught in the first year, and then from the
second year there is a greater concentration on more programme
specific technical subjects. For Architecture, on the other hand,

the basic principles focus far more on creative design and the humanities.
Key
Mathematics
Physics and Mechanics

Computer Science
Chemistry
Biology
Humanities and Social Sciences

Course-specific subjects
Drafting
It is important when choosing a study programme, along with
The chart shows the distribution of
also to check whether the basic combination of subject areas, as
of the Bachelors degree course.
considering general factors like motivation, staying power etc.,

shown in the following diagrams, appeals to you.
For example, you should ask yourself the following questions:
Am I a technical doer, who enjoys creating or developing something using mathematics, mechanics and IT? Or am I more interested in form and creativity which I can apply to the design of
buildings?
24
subjects during the first two years
Architecture
Civil Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Geomatic Engineering and

Planning
25
Engineering Sciences
The Basis of our High-Tech Society
Engineering Sciences
Whether for transport, communication, industry or medicine,
Engineering graduates are free to roam a vast and international
processes: without them our current standard of living would be
and development, or as product and sales managers i.e. in the
our high-tech society needs efficient products and production

inconceivable. Engineers are responsible for their development.
Mechanical Engineering
world of activity. They work in industrial companies, research
fields of Energy, Mecatronics, Biomedical Engineering, Micro- and
Electrical Engineering and

Information Technology
Computer Science
Materials Science
Process Engineering


programme 1)

programme 1)

programme 1)

programme 1)

programme 1)
Biomedical Engineering
Computational Biology
and Bioinformatics
Energy Science and

Technology
1) The specialised Masters degree programmes are described on pages 8893.
28
Computer Science
Micro- and
Nanosystems
Materials Science
Nuclear Engineering
Nanosystems. They are responsible for logistics and planning in
Engineers educational options are correspondingly broad. They are
Banks and insurance companies are also interested in engineers,
Apart from those in the classical engineering disciplines mechanical
the service sector, or work as consultants and marketing experts.

for example as analysts or damage experts.
always based on solid mathematical and scientific fundamentals.

engineering, process engineering, electrical engineering and in-
formation technology, computer science, and materials science,

increasing numbers of specialised study programmes are being
developed. The Masters degree programme in Management,

Bachelors degree programme 2)
Biotechnology
Technology and Economy, for example, offers holders of Bachelors
degrees in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering and
Information Technology a focus on economics and management.

Many other specialised Masters degree programmes offer
Biotechnology
students interdisciplinary further education in specialist areas.
The Biotechnology degree programme is assigned to Engineering

Sciences because, in the field of Biology, the curriculum is based
on an Engineering approach (construction instead of deconstruc-
tion, separation of design and production, working along a hierSpecialised Masters degree
programme 1)
archy of abstractions) and uses methods that originate from Engineering Sciences (simulation and modelling, construction).
Robotics Systems and

Control
2) Biotechnology is only offered in the third year of the Bachelors degree programme. The first
two years of study must be completed in a different degree programme (see page 38).
29
From Nanorobots to Aircraft Engines
Y www.mavt.ethz.ch
A sound technological basis and a wide horizon provide the
basis for the work of mechanical engineers at the interface
of electronics, computer science, mechanics, thermodynamics

and chemistry, and where products, systems and processes are
developed, calculated and planned.
Career profile
Mechanical engineers develop many varied products, ranging

from tiny microsensors for medical technology and highly efficient energy plants to applications for automotive and aviation
engineering. They use computers to design new machine tools or
measure the aerodynamics of ski suits. In the process engineering
field, for example, they control industrial, biotechnical or chemical
processes. They also assume management tasks in companies;

work as quality or risk assessment experts in the service industry
(evaluating fire and explosion hazards, for example); and draw
tancy. Their professional environment is internationally-oriented.
Mechanical Engineering is acquired in compulsory subjects. From
up production forecasts and work in the field of strategic consul-
In the first three semesters basic theoretical knowledge of

the fourth semester onwards, students attend electives in their
main areas of interest. In the fifth semester, they select one

focus area or a focus project in which to expand their knowledge.
In the sixth semester they write a Bachelors thesis. A five-week
30

Mathematics, Computer Science, Chemistry, Physics

Basic courses in engineering:
placement in an industrial company is another component of the
Bachelors degree programme.
Masters degree programme in Mechanical Engineering
At the start of the Masters degree programme, students collabo-
rate with a professor, their tutor, to select a subject area and

draw up an individually designed curriculum. This consists of
specialised courses closely linked to the selected specialist field

(e.g. Sustainable Energy Use, Mechatronics, Product Develop-
Product Development, Control Engineering, Thermodynamics, etc.

One area of focus from: Biomedical Engineering; Design,
Mechanics and Materials; Energy, Flows and Processes;
Mechatronics; Microsystems and Nanotechnology; Production

Technology; Structural Mechanics; Management, Technology
and Economics or focus project
Electives, workshop placement, engineering tools, Bachelors

thesis
ment, Robotics) plus transdisciplinary subjects, which can be
Zurich. The programme is completed by a twelve-week industrial
(90 credits)
(90 credits)
chosen from the entire range offered at ETH or the University of
in Mechanical Engineering
placement and the Masters thesis.
Specialisations (selected indi-
Structured similarly to the
Masters degree programme in Process Engineering
Transdisciplinary subjects,
in Mechanical Engineering
The Masters degree programme is similar in structure to the

Masters degree programme in Mechanical Engineering, but the
specialisations come from the field of process engineering and
cover essential chemical and biological processes. Graduates of

the Bachelors degree programme in Chemical Engineering are
also admitted to this programme.
vidually)
semester project, industrial

placement, Masters thesis
project (6 months)
in Process Engineering

(Specialist courses from the
process engineering field)
Holders of the Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering may enter the

Masters degree programme in Management, Technology and Economics
without additional requirements.
31
Purpose-made Electronic Intelligence
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology

Y www.ee.ethz.ch/studium
Every intelligent device is based on the work of electrical engi-
design the technology of the future.
Mathematics and Physics even in the courses for Electrical Engi-
neers. They use Physics, Mathematics and inventiveness to
Career profile
During their studies students of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology acquire knowledge and skills which provide
a lasting foundation for successful careers in a wide variety of
information processing and energy supply fields. They work in
The first two years of the degree programme are dominated by

neering. From the very first semester, the theory is supplemented
by compulsory practical sessions and small group projects or an
industrial placement. In the third year of the course, Electrical Engi-
neering students can specialise in a focus area of their choice, and

supplement that focus area (see box) with electives.
research and development in many industrial companies, for
biomedical engineering. Keywords here are smartphones, hearing
as for specialisation, in consultation with a supervising professor
example in audio technology, mechatronics, cryptography and

aids, navigation satellites, industrial robots and renewable
energies. The versatility of the ETH programme is reflected by

the fact that its graduates are in demand as professionals in
additional areas such as public companies, the automobile indus-
try and the medical and service sectors. Many challenging jobs
for Electrical Engineering and Information Technology graduates
are also found in sales and marketing.
32
Each individual selects their own range of subjects from five are(tutor).
The Masters course also includes two semester papers and is

rounded off with a six-month Masters thesis.

Networks and Circuits, Digital Circuits, Signals and Systems,

Electromagnetic Fields and Waves, Electronic Circuits,
Semiconductor Devices
Core areas for specialisation (Communication, Computers
and Networks, Electronics and Photonics, Energy and Power

Electronics)
Practicals, projects, seminars, electives

Areas of specialisation (as for the Bachelors degree
programme, plus Systems and Control): courses chosen individually in consultation with a tutor.
Two semester projects (14 weeks part-time) and a Masters

thesis (6 months full-time)
Holders of the Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering and Information

Technology may enter the Masters degree programme in Management,
Technology and Economics without additional requirements.
33
Technologies which Change our Lives and Work
Computer Science
Y www.inf.ethz.ch
Invisible yet indispensible: computer science is omnipresent in

our daily lives. Whether in smartphones, air traffic control, stock
market transactions, industrial plants, or tsunami early warning

systems: without Computer Science the modern world would
come to a halt.
Career profile
In Computer Science, its all about information, or rather the scientific and technical ways of processing, storing, transmitting and
presenting information and, ultimately, imparting knowledge. In
addition to technical knowledge, creativity and social skills are also
very important. Computer scientists are often globally active and
collaborate on projects with other experts. Here they act both as

specialists and consultants and perform management functions.
They operate in very diverse areas of society, which include

science, administration, medicine, transportation, the environmental sector or finance. Thus computer science is an important
mainstay of the global economy.
34
During the first year of the programme, students receive teaching
in the fundamentals of Mathematics and the Natural Sciences as

well as in Systematic Programming and its fundamental concepts
(data structures, algorithms and parallel programming). In the
second year students become acquainted with the core areas of

Computer and Software Systems, Theoretical Computer Science
and Computational Science. In the third year they deepen their

knowledge in selected areas and build a foundation for the
Masters degree programme. The Bachelors thesis completes the

programme.
During the Masters degree programme students may either
deepen their knowledge in one of the areas of Computer Science
listed in the box to the right or design their own study programme
in General Computer Science via a combination of different
specialisation areas. The programme concludes with a six-month

Masters thesis.

General basic subjects:
Mathematics, Digital Technology, Physics
Basic Computer Science, including Programming, Algorithms,

Computer Architecture, Operation Systems, Networks,
Databases
Specialisations:
Computer and Software Systems, Theoretical Computer

Science, Computational Science
Seminar, Bachelors thesis

Possible specialisations:
Theoretical Computer Science, Information Security, Software
Engineering, Information Systems, Distributed Systems, Visual

Computing, Computational Science
Inter Focus courses
Electives courses in Computer Science

Elective courses
Masters thesis (6 months)
35
Materials for our Future
Materials Science
Y www.mat.ethz.ch / www.materials4u.ethz.ch
New materials are factors crucial to the performance efficiency,
dedicated to specialising in materials science subjects (Metals,
and processes in every modern branch of industry and field of
posites). An industrial placement or a twelve-week university
effectiveness, quality and environmental friendliness of products

practical application.
Career profile
Research, development, production, testing and life cycle analysis
Polymers, Ceramics, Materials in Biology and Medicine, Com

research project during the lecture-free period and a Bachelors
thesis supplement the teaching, together with numerous exercises,

seminars and practicals.
are only some of the areas in which materials scientists are
production or technical marketing. They make the connection
regimented Bachelors degree programme, students at Master
active. They work in research and development laboratories,

between the microstructure and structure of materials on the
In contrast to the clearly structured and, in some ways, strictly
level have the option either of specialising very strongly in some-
one hand, and the macroscopic properties of the products
thing that interests them personally, or, alternatively, taking ad-
scientific education and an understanding of issues relating
and training as a Materials Science generalist. The Masters de-
made from these materials on the other. This demands a sound
to process engineering, economics and ecology. A willingness
to cooperate on an interdisciplinary level with experts from all

these fields is essential.
In the first four semesters of the Bachelors degree programme,
the fundamentals of materials science, chemistry, physics,

mathematics and biology are taught. The last two semesters are
36
vantage of the full range of Materials Science courses on offer

gree programme combines the opportunity for in-depth study as
a generalist with options for individual specialisation which
means that it can be tailored to suit students specific interests

perfectly. The learning experience is enriched by projects carried
out outside teaching sessions.
The course is completed with a Masters thesis, the work for
which is carried out independently in one of the numerous research groups.

Basic courses:
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology

Materials science subjects:
Metals, Polymers, Ceramics, Materials in Biology and Medicine,

Composites
Seminars, practicals
Industrial placement or university research project,

Bachelors thesis

Core and elective courses
Two projects, Masters thesis (6 months)
37
Understanding, Programming and Constructing Cells
Biotechnology
Y www.bsse.ethz.ch/education
Biotechnology addresses the technical application of biological

systems and living organisms, and their metabolic products.
Educational objective and career profile
Understanding, controlling and constructing complex biological
processes on different scales from the molecule or cell to

industrial production: this is the foundation for the modern
processes used in the biotechnological or chemical industries, in

diagnostics and in the development of new therapies in medi-
cine. Biotechnologists develop the cells and technologies required

for these new processes and therefore work in all kinds of differ-
ent environments, from dynamic biotech start-up companies to

patent offices, regulatory authorities and major pharmaceutical
and chemical companies.
The study programme
The study programme is offered at the D-BSSE in Basel and is di-
vided into a 1-year Bachelors degree programme (3rd year only)

and a 3-semester Masters degree programme.
38
The first two years of the Bachelors course are completed in one
of the study programmes listed in the box on the right. Students
are recommended to take optional/specialist courses in the fields

of Physics and Mathematics during the first two years. The third
year teaches the knowledge that is required to understand and

construct complex systems in Biotechnology. It includes compulsory lectures designed to boost skills in Mathematics and Engineering Sciences, and their applications in the study and construction of cells, together with a range of elective subjects. The
Bachelors course is supplemented by two practical laboratory
sessions which take place as a block following on from the 3rd
year of the degree programme.
The Masters degree programme is a science-based course focusing on the three specialist areas of Systems Biology, Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology.
Elective subjects give the opportunity to study certain aspects of

biotechnology in greater depth and to extend the knowledge in

Completion of the first and second years of the Bachelors
degree programme (120 credits) at one of the four partner

universities ETH Zurich, EPF Lausanne, the University of
Basel and the University of Zurich in one of the following

degree programmes:
Agricultural Science, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry,
Chemical Engineering, Interdisciplinary Sciences, Food Science,

Materials Science, Molecular Biology, Nanotechnology,
Pharmaceutical Sciences, Environmental Engineering.
Specialised lectures during the third year (60 credits) in

Biology, Technology and Theory
Electives, Laboratory practicals

associated areas. Project work and the eight-month Masters the-
Specialised lectures in Systems Biology, Synthetic Biology and
give a deeper insight into current research topics.
Electives, project work
sis ensure students are familiar with scientific methodology and
Biotechnology
39

a comparison
The degree programmes in Engineering Sciences are characterised by two highly structured years at the beginning, followed,
with the exception of Materials Science, by a third Bachelors
year which allows considerable freedom of choice within the

framework of the specialist courses that are available.
In the first year, the basic subjects of Mathematics, Physics and

Computer Science are taught, with varying weightings, and then
later the foundations are laid for the specific field of study.
Key
Mathematics
Physics and Mechanics

Computer Science
Chemistry
Biology
It is therefore important when choosing a study programme,
power etc., also to check whether the basic combination of sub-
the Bachelors degree course.
along with considering general factors like motivation, staying

ject areas, as shown in the following diagrams, appeals to you.
subjects during the first two years of
Do I enjoy building something mechanical? Or do I have more of
The Biotechnology course only begins in
chemical questions relating to industrial development and pro-
programme and so is not shown here.
a flair for Computer Science and IT? Or am I more interested in
duction? The basis in all cases is solid, application-based knowledge of mathematics.
40
the third year of the Bachelors degree
Computer Science
Materials Science
41
Natural Sciences and Mathematics
From the Basic Laws of the Cosmos to Understanding our Lives
Natural Sciences and Mathematics

Natural sciences and mathematics are firmly anchored in basic
New mathematical insurance models, medicines, plastics and
and our lives. They have fathered a wide variety of applications
research projects that initially appeared abstract, but have quick-
research. They seek the laws that control our universe, the earth
in technology, medicine and economics.
technologies are continually being developed from theories and

ly become established in our world. Over the centuries, our view
First year largely in common

Mathematics
Mathematics

programme 1)
Statistics
44
Physics
Physics

programme 1)
High Energy Physics
Computational Science
and Engineering
Computational Science
and Engineering

programme 1)
Neural Systems and

Computation
1) The specialised Masters degree programmes are described on pages 8893.

programme 1)
Quantitative Finance
of the world has also been marked by major mathematical and
majors available at ETH for students to choose from are corre-
days, every new development in our lives is analysed and re-
larger piece of research work in the form of a doctoral thesis.
scientific ideas, such as evolution, the atom or relativity. Nowasearched within a very short time. The study programmes and
spondingly varied. The Masters degree often leads directly to a
Common first and second years of the Bachelors programme

Chemistry
Chemistry
Chemical Engineering
Chemical and
Bioengineering
Interdisciplinary
Sciences
Interdisciplinary
Sciences
Pharmaceutical
Sciences
Pharmaceutical
Sciences
Biology
Biology

programme
Medicinal and Industrial

Pharmaceutical Sciences
45
The Basis of Exact Science
Mathematics
Y www.math.ethz.ch
Mathematics is the language in which our eras technical and
tool in computer science, insurance and the economy. However,
other institutions of higher education because it dovetails closely
scientific knowledge is formulated. It is also an indispensable

its actual core is pure mathematics: the intensive study of
abstract structures and geometrical objects, and the discovery
and description of the laws that govern them.
The principal aim of a degree in Mathematics is a broad education
in the fundamentals of mathematics that allows graduates to
independently acquire further knowledge for their future professional work.
Mathematicians work in many different fields. They conduct
research and teach at universities, technical colleges and Gym-
The study of mathematics at ETH differs from degree courses at

with physics. The first year of study is nearly identical in the
Mathematics and Physics degree programmes, and, after the

first year, it is possible to switch in either direction without
additional requirements.
The first two years of the Bachelors degree programme cover

the fundamentals of mathematics, physics and computer science,
and advanced knowledge in various mathematical disciplines. In
the third year three core subjects are chosen, of which at least
one must come from the area of Pure Mathematics and another
from Applied Mathematics, Physics or Computer Science.
nasien. They work for insurance companies and, increasingly, in
optimisation, or as statisticians in the public sector. A distinct
study Mathematics or Applied Mathematics. In Mathematics,
banks, industry, software development, planning and business

talent for abstract thought is always essential for studying and
working with Mathematics.
Students of the Masters degree programme decide whether to

core courses and electives can be selected from the fields of Pure
or Applied Mathematics. In Applied Mathematics, some courses

must be taken from applied fields (e.g., Financial and Insurance
Mathematics). In addition, one application area must be selected

(e.g. Computer Science). Students decide only at the end of the
programme which degree title they will apply for.
46

Largely common first year for undergraduates in Mathematics
and Physics:
Analysis, Linear Algebra, Numerical Mathematics, Physics,

Computer Science
Specialised courses from the second year onwards:

Algebra, Topology, Probability and Statistics, etc.
Core and elective courses from the fields of Pure Mathematics

and Applied Mathematics
Seminars, Bachelors thesis

Core and elective courses, seminars, semester papers
Masters thesis project (5 months)
Masters degree in
Mathematics
Masters degree in
Applied Mathematics
47
Exploring the Basic Laws of Nature and Setting the Basis for Technology
Physics
Y www.physik.ethz.ch
Physics is the science which studies the natural laws of our
world and delivers the basic principles for technical developments. Much that is of enormous practical importance today is
based on insights that were gained through physics.
The degree course in Physics builds upon a good basic knowledge
of mathematics and demands a distinct talent for abstract thinking. It provides broad fundamental training which allows graduates to independently acquire further knowledge in their chosen
profession.
Graduate physicists often carry out research in industrial or
state-owned laboratories. They are involved in such varied tasks

as, for example, the testing of atmospheric processes, materials
research, the development of technology on an atomic scale, or

the use of high-energy rays in medicine. Since physicists are
typically found in areas where questions have to be asked, practical
experience gained and methods developed, their skills are also

valued in many other professional fields.
48
The Bachelors degree programme in Physics at ETH Zurich stands
out because of the sound and diverse basic training it offers.

Its aim is to familiarise students with fundamental physical
concepts, structures, and methods, supplemented by a broad
basis in mathematical subjects. The first year of the programme

is nearly identical in the Mathematics and Physics programmes,
and it is possible to switch in either direction at the end of the

first year. In the second and third years, students attend more
specialised lectures in Experimental and Theoretical Physics and
carry out practicals to deepen their theoretical and methodological
grounding. Students can choose between semester papers in

either Theoretical or Experimental Physics.
With its varied range of electives, the Masters degree programme
offers students the opportunity to deepen their knowledge in one

or more areas of physics. Particular value is placed on flexibility
and learning through research within a research group. The
Masters thesis project may be conducted in the field of Experimental or Theoretical Physics.

Largely common first year for Mathematics and Physics
students:
Analysis, Linear Algebra, Numerical Methods, Physics,

Computer Science
Courses in Theoretical and Experimental Physics:
General Mechanics, Electrodynamics, Quantum Mechanics,
Thermodynamics, Astrophysics, Solid-State Physics, Quantum

Electronics, Nuclear and Particle Physics, etc.
Practicals, semester paper in research groups

Theoretical and Experimental Core Courses
Elective courses, e.g. from the fields of Astrophysics,
Atmospheric Physics, Biophysics, Solid-State Physics, Nuclear

Physics, Medical Physics, Neuroinformatics, Quantum
Electronics, Reactor Physics, Particle Physics, Theoretical Physics

Proseminars and semester papers
Masters thesis
49
Using a Computer to Solve Scientific and Technological Problems
Computational Science and Engineering

Y www.cse.ethz.ch
Computational Science and Engineering (CSE) provides future-
least two areas of application from the natural and engineering
but it is possible to complete the first year in another degree
oriented training in mathematics, computer science, and in at

sciences.
Computational Science and Engineering differs from Computer
Science. It also differs from traditional natural and engineering
sciences, offering a third component in addition to theory and
experiment. Computational Science and Engineering is inter
disciplinary, application-oriented, focuses on problem-solving,

and is essentially based on the use of the computer. Graduates of
the CSE programme understand a problem from the scientific

and technological point of view, and they have the skills necessary
to perform a computer-based analysis of a problem. They can
communicate with specialists in the fields of mathematics,

physics, chemistry, engineering and computer science in their
languages, and work with them to find computer-based solutions
to difficult practical problems. Accordingly, their field of activity

lies in research and development in the industrial and university
sectors.
50
The Bachelors degree programme comprises three years of study,
programme at ETH Zurich or another university. After the first
year it is possible to transfer to Computational Science and

Engineering from practically every ETH degree programme.
During the first year students are taught the fundamentals of

mathematics, physics and computer science. During the second
year, in addition to a deepening in the fundamentals of these

subjects they are instructed in the basics of the natural sciences
and engineering. In the third year students study two mandatory
core subjects, as well as one (small) specialisation chosen from the

following list: Astrophysics, Atmospheric Physics, Chemistry and
Biology, Fluid Dynamics, Control Technology, Robotics, Theoretical

Physics, Financial Engineering, Electromagnetics, Geophysics,
Systems Biology. Electives, case studies and a Bachelors thesis

conclude the degree programme.

First year:
Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science
(or first year completed in another degree programme, except

Architecture, Materials Sciences and the Professional Officers
programme)
Basic courses from:
Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering and Natural

Sciences
Core courses:
High Performance Computing, Software Design

One field of specialisation selected from:
Astrophysics, Atmospheric Physics, Chemistry and Biology,
Fluid Dynamics, Control Theory, Robotics, Theoretical Physics,
Financial Engineering, Electromagnetics, Geophysics, Systems

Biology
Electives, case studies, Bachelors thesis

Core courses:
The Masters degree programme consists of two compulsory

core courses; one field of specialisation from those listed above
for the Bachelors degree programme; case studies; a semester
Visual Computing, Computational Statistics
Field of specialisation (see Bachelors degree programme)

Electives, case studies, semester paper
paper; and a five-month Masters thesis project.
51
Molecules, Biopharmaceuticals and Large-Scale Chemical Production
Chemistry / Chemical and Bioengineering

Y www.chab.ethz.ch/lehre
Our environment consists of a vast variety of molecules. The
of development of new substances and synthetic procedures.
in nature. However, they also deal with the products and chemical
and safety, patents, or documentation. Graduates work at
molecular sciences research their structure and their formation

processes in our industrial society, from the manufacture of a
drug to environmental technology processing.
Professional training in the molecular sciences is very diverse, but

have a common basis. Therefore the two programmes offered
Further fields include chemical analysis, environmental protection

universities, in private and state-owned laboratories, research
institutes and the chemical industry, but are also sought after in
other sectors of industry, public services, the health service,

administration and education.
at ETH offer combined teaching in the fundamentals of science
Chemical and Bioengineering from molecules to products
scientific knowledge necessary to acquaint them with various
least partly made from industrially manufactured chemical
during the first two years of study. Students acquire the basic
fields of activity. From the third year onwards training diverges,

as described below.
Chemistry Understanding and creating molecules
Chemistry deals with the fascinating world of molecules. During
their studies, chemists gain the knowledge and skills to research,

understand, and describe the properties of molecules. They also
learn the methods and strategies to produce new molecules with
desired characteristics. Research is therefore one of the most

important areas of activity for chemists, particularly in the context
52
In our modern society, there is hardly a product which is not at
substances, or chemically altered raw materials. It is one of the
main tasks of chemical and bioengineering personnel to develop

and implement the necessary transformation processes at an
industrial level, always taking into account economic efficiency
and ecological sustainability. Chemical engineers are active in
the areas of process development and production. They generally

work where materials are produced, processed, and refined,
mainly in chemical or pharmaceutical industries, but also in other
process industries such as metal and machines, electronics, food-
stuffs, textiles, and synthetics.
The degree programme
Common basic studies during the first two years
The first two years provide the basic knowledge in the core
subjects Analytical, Inorganic, Organic, and Physical Chemistry,

plus basic training in mathematics, physics, computer science,
and biology. Laboratory work is of great importance: here students
familiarise themselves with experimental work and apply
theoretical knowledge taught in the lectures to practical problems.

Third year of the Bachelors degree programme and Masters
degree programme in Chemistry
The third year of the Bachelors degree programme in Chemistry

includes compulsory lectures in the core subject areas of Inorganic,
Organic, and Physical Chemistry, plus a wide range of electives.
The Masters degree programme of two to three semesters comprises compulsory lectures in the core subject areas described
above, plus a comprehensive range of electives. Practical training

in the laboratory, a research project and a four-month Masters
thesis project familiarise students with research work on current
subjects.
53
Third year of the Bachelors degree programme and Masters

degree programme in Chemical and Bioengineering
In the third year of the Bachelors degree programme in Chemical

Engineering, students acquire the knowledge in the engineering
disciplines necessary for planning, developing, and optimising
industrial processes for the economic and ecological production

of chemical products. The theoretical courses are supplemented
by a laboratory course and case studies in which students deal
thoroughly with aspects of planning, modelling, and simulating
chemical processes.
The Masters degree programme of two to three semesters

includes compulsory lectures in the core subject areas of Bio
engineering, Catalysis, Process Design, and Polymers, plus a range
of electives. Practical training in a study case, in the laboratory, in
a research project and a four-month Masters thesis project familiarise students with research work on current subjects.
A transfer from one programme to the other is possible without

additional requirements during or after completion of the first
two years of the Bachelors programme.
To complete their training a majority of graduates in these

disciplines progress to a doctoral programme.
54
Common first and second year of the Bachelors degree programme
Bachelors degree programme Chemistry (180 credits)
Bachelors degree programme Chemical Engineering (180 credits)
Further lectures:
Further lectures:
Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Mathematics, Computer Science, etc.

Inorganic, Organic and Physical Chemistry
Electives, laboratory courses
Masters degree programme in Chemistry (90 credits)
Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Mathematics, Computer Science, etc.

Chemical Engineering subjects, Process Engineering, Business
Administration
Laboratory courses, case studies

Masters degree programme, Chemical and Bioengineering
Advanced lectures in Inorganic, Organic and Physical Chemistry
(90 credits)
Masters thesis project (16 weeks)
Polymers
Electives, laboratory courses and research project
Advanced lectures in Process Design, Bioengineering, Catalysis,

Electives, laboratory courses and research project, case studies
Masters thesis project (16 weeks)
Holders of a Bachelors degree in Chemical Engineering may enter the
Masters degree programme in Process Engineering without additional

requirements.
55
Where Chemistry, Physics and Biology Meet
Interdisciplinary Sciences
Many rapidly developing research areas, such as physical
somewhere between the classical subjects of chemistry, physics,
either a physical-chemical or biochemical-physical direction. The
chemistry, biophysics, biochemistry, and nanotechnology, fall

and biology. This is why today more and more specialists with
solid basic training in several sciences are in demand.
This programme provides interdisciplinary knowledge in different
sciences and mathematics. It is mainly suited to students with a

broad range of interests. Features of the programme are great
freedom in selecting subjects and the fact that all lectures are
attended together with the students of the particular course
At the start of the Bachelors degree programme students select
first two years cover the fundamentals of natural sciences,

mathematics and computer science. From the second year
onwards, students compile their own individual curricula from a
wide range of electives in physics, chemistry, biology, materials
science, computer science, earth sciences, and environmental

sciences. Lectures are supplemented by laboratory courses.
Students write a Bachelors thesis on a current area of research
to further develop their independent research skills.
unit discipline. The programme is very demanding, but opens up
business, and public services. In particular, graduates find
to specialisation. Subjects are chosen to adequately supplement
the way to a host of activities in research, teaching, industry,
challenging jobs in research, the pharmaceutical and chemical
industries, instrument companies, the manufacturing industry,

and consulting agencies.
56
The two- to three-semester Masters degree programme is the key

the main focus areas of the second and third years of the
Bachelors programme. The programme concludes with a

Masters thesis on a current research subject.

Biochemical-physical
Physical-chemical
Basic courses in mathe
Basic courses in mathe
(focusing on chemistry and
(focusing on physics and
direction
matics/natural sciences
biology)
Laboratory courses
Electives
Bachelors thesis
direction
matics/natural sciences
physical chemistry)
Laboratory courses
Electives
Bachelors thesis

Combination of subjects
(with emphasis on focus areas selected in the second and third

year of the Bachelors programme)
Masters thesis
57
Drugs in the Spotlight
The development of every drug draws on an extensive body of
knowledge concerning the chemical, physical and biological

properties of its active ingredients and excipients; the technology
of its production; and its fate and action in the human body.
Pharmacists acquire fundamental knowledge about drugs. They
are specialists in this field and work in numerous diverse areas for
the benefit of society. In industry they perform research on new

therapeutic and diagnostic approaches, address pharmaceutical
science-related questions, work in consulting and knowledge

transfer, hold positions in the public sector, or manage private or
hospital pharmacies.
In the first two years, the course focuses on the fundamentals of

science. In addition to theoretical knowledge, the practical
skills for experimental work in the laboratory are also acquired
and students are introduced to the Pharmaceutical Sciences.
The third year is dedicated to subjects specifically related to

the pharmaceutical sciences, supplemented by practicals on medicines which have an interdisciplinary orientation. The programme
58
is supplemented by a three-week internship in a pharmacy and a

first-aid course.
Masters degree programme in Pharmaceutical Sciences
This is a two-year programme leading to a Masters degree and

a Swiss Federal Diploma for pharmacists, entitling holders to run
a private or hospital pharmacy. The first year comprises project
work and a Masters thesis, supplemented by compulsory courses
and electives. The second year, which includes a practical internship of several months, prepares the student for pharmacy work.

Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Anatomy and

Histology
Laboratory courses in Chemistry and Biology

Pharmaceutical subjects and practicals
Pharmaceutical Analysis, Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology,

Toxicology, Immunology, etc.
(90 credits)
in Medicinal and Industrial
Masters degree programme in Medicinal and Industrial
in Pharmaceutical Sciences
The fundamentals required for a career in pharmaceutical research
Compulsory subjects and
(90 credits)
and development are provided over three semesters and include

a series of lectures, project work and a Masters thesis (see also p. 91).
Compulsory subjects and
Practical and patient-
oriented training (1 year
of professional training)
59
A New Understanding of Life
Biology
Y www.biol.ethz.ch
In recent decades, Biology has moved away from its focus on
natural history and has developed into a strongly experimental

discipline. Its aim is to examine the structures, functions and interaction of life at molecular and cellular level.
The study programme for Biology is a course in fundamental
principles which encompasses an enormously wide range of specialist areas. After the solid grounding of the Bachelors course,
students opt on the Masters degree programme for one of ten

areas of specialisation, in which they learn about the specific
methods of working and research that are applied in biology.
About two-thirds of all Masters graduates continue their education with a doctorate.
With their broad scientific training, Biology graduates find that a
wide range of careers is open to them. The main employment opportunities include research posts at universities and in private
industry, secondary school teaching and applied work in fields
such as Medicine, Pharmacy, Agricultural Sciences, environmental protection and other areas.
The first year of the course provides in-depth education in the

fundamental natural sciences.
60
The second year is divided into core subjects (to be taken by all
students) and optional areas (three areas to choose from, see box).
In the third year, there is a free choice of block courses and conceptual courses which the students select in view of their intended Masters degree programme specialisation.
In the Masters degree programme, the focus is on experimental
research (two twelve-week practical sessions and one 6-month

Masters thesis). Students choose one of the following areas for
specialisation:
> Ecology and Evolution

> Neurosciences
> Microbiology and Immunology

> Cell Biology
> Molecular Health Sciences (from autumn 2014)

> Biochemistry
> Plant Biology
> Systems Biology
> Structural Biology and Biophysics

> Biological Chemistry

Basic courses of the 1st year:
Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics,

Statistics
Courses of the second year:
Core courses: Cell Biology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology,

Systems Biology, Microbiology, Plant Biology, Bioinformatics/
Genetics/Genomics, Methods of Biological Analytics, etc.
Elective modules:
> Biodiversity: Population and Evolutionary Biology, Mycology,

Systematic Biology, Anatomy/Physiology, etc.
> Cellular and Molecular Biology: Population and Evolutionary

Biology, Systems Biology, Anatomy/Physiology, Organic and
Physical Chemistry
> Biological Chemistry: Inorganic and Organic Chemistry,

Systems Biology or Anatomy/Physiology, etc.
Third year: Concept and Block Courses (free choice)

Choice of specialisation (see text)
Lectures, research projects, Masters thesis project (6 months)
61

a comparison
The degree programmes in Mathematics and Natural Sciences
are characterised right from the start by study of the basic principles of the laws of nature. The main focus is on research, with
less attention being paid during the study programme to specific

subsequent career options.
The approach and course structure of the various study programmes are different. Whereas Mathematics and Physics concentrate more on the abstract formulae which describe the laws
governing our world, in the fields of Chemistry and Biology an
Legende
Mathematics
Physics
Computer Science
Chemistry
Biology
Pharmaceutical subjects
Laboratory
experimental, lab-based approach is more important.

In Interdisciplinary Sciences, even the
them? Or am I more interested in Chemistry and Biology and
tailored to suit the individual, so it is
Do I prefer dealing with mathematical formulae and proving

therefore in spending a lot of time in the laboratory?
62
second year can already largely be

not shown below.
Mathematics
Physics
Computational Science and
Chemistry / Chemical and
Biology
Bioengineering
Engineering
63
System-oriented Natural Sciences
For People, Health and the Environment
System-oriented Natural Sciences

The System-oriented Natural Sciences deal with the fundamen-
The Agricultural Sciences and Food Sciences work from the
the natural resources of our Earth to the human body at molec-
how current and future human nutritional needs can be met
tals of human life and health on an interdisciplinary basis, from

ular level.
perspective of world nutrition and address the pivotal issue of

optimally with scarce resources.
In Health Sciences, on the other hand, the education and re-
Earth Sciences investigate the earth and its present state and
search focus on how to maintain and improve human health. The
the processes which cause constant change in our continents,
neering Sciences. It looks at people from the whole organism
development. Using methods from all areas of science, they study

oceans, biosphere and atmosphere.
Environmental Sciences analyse the biological, chemical and
physical properties of environmental systems, the processes

involved, and the way humans influence them.
66
subject is at the interface between Biology, Medicine and Engidown to molecular level.
These degree programmes offer a broad scientific education
of the highest quality. Great importance is attached to the

subsequent practical application of the knowledge gained.
First year largely in common 1)

Joint Masters degree

programme 2)

programme 2)
Earth Sciences
Earth Sciences
Applied Geophysics
Environmental
Sciences
Environmental
Sciences
Atmospheric and
Climate Science
Agricultural Science
Agricultural Sciences
Food Science
Food Sciences
Health Sciences and

Technology
Health Sciences and

Technology
1) Transfer from one study programme to another is possible

during the first year of study and after successful completion
of the first-year examinations. Additional requirements apply.
2) The specialised Masters degree programmes are described

on pages 8893.
67
Understanding the Earths System
Earth Sciences
Y www.erdw.ethz.ch
Our Earth is a complex system which undergoes change as a re-
those processes, Earth scientists use laboratory experiments,
of the fundamentals of science, basics of Humanities, Social and
sult of all kinds of different processes. In order to understand

field campaigns, computer simulations and remote sensing.
Career profile
Earth scientists make a vital contribution to the exploration of all
parts of planet Earth. They study the Earths materials from the
atomic to the planetary scale and try to understand the evolu-
During the first two years of study students acquire knowledge
Political Sciences and the basics of the specific subject. In the

third year students select a major in Geology, Geophysics, or
Climate and Water, and write a Bachelors thesis in this area.
Excursions and field trips are an important supplement to the

lectures and practicals throughout the period of study.
tion of the planet in the past just as much as its present and fu-
> searching for water, mineral resources and energy sources
choice of specialisation. The Geology specialisation is concerned
ture development. Their work is practice-based:
> predicting and controlling natural catastrophes
> solving hydrogeological problems in major technical projects
> developing long-term solutions for the disposal of all types of

waste
> understanding the causes and consequences of climatic and

other environmental changes
Potential employers include engineering offices, international

companies, public and private organisations, and consulting
agencies.
68
Students define the focus of their Masters degree through their

with the interaction between the earths mantle, the earths crust,
the hydrosphere and atmosphere, as well as the development

cycle of rocks from sedimentation to deformation at all scales.
Mineralogy and Geochemistry examines the earths materials in
the field and in the laboratory to better understand the origins
and composition of the planets, conditions in the earths core,

volcanic activity and the development of valuable raw materials.
Engineering Geology takes a practical approach to address the
interdependence of our society and the geological substratum,

e.g. in the context of construction projects, slump and rockslides.

Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics

Basic course-specific subjects:
Geochemistry and Geophysics, Palaeontology, Igneous Activity

and Volcanoes, Sedimentology, etc.
Humanities and social sciences
Majors:
Geology, Geophysics, Climate and Water

Choice of specialisations:
> Geology
> Mineralogy and Geochemistry

> Engineering Geology
> Geophysics
Compulsory modules and electives, Masters thesis

Geophysics looks for quantitative answers to global issues, e.g.
plate tectonics, the earths magnetic field and the occurrence

and risk of earthquakes.
69
Specialists for the Environment
Environmental Sciences
Y www.usys.ethz.ch/env
Environmental Sciences is concerned with both the theoretical
gain an understanding of the biological, chemical and physical
students develop a broadly networked scientific foundation. This
and practical sides of natural and man-made systems. Students
properties of the atmosphere, biosphere, pedosphere, hydrosphere and antroposphere, and the way in which they interact.
Career profile
Environmental experts work in various fields and are in great
demand where innovative concepts are developed. Thanks to

their interdisciplinary training, which covers the social sciences
and environmental engineering as well as the natural sciences,

they are sought in various areas. These professionals address
During the first two years of the Bachelors degree programme

comprises the basics of the natural sciences and mathematics,
complemented by a grounding in law and economics. Building on
this disciplinary knowledge students are then familiarised with
the environmental systems atmosphere, hydrosphere, pedosphere

and anthroposphere, plus forestry and agriculture. In the third
year students may choose from a variety of specialisations (see

box). Here they learn how to think and work in a system-oriented
and interdisciplinary manner.
issues of ecology, including conservation of nature, management
products, and environmental education and communication.
complex and interdisciplinary issues at a high scientific level and
of natural risks, development of sustainable services and

They are active in research, and work in environmental and
planning offices, in public administration, and in private-sector
environmental organisations. They are also found in the service
sector, e.g. in banks, insurance companies, media, commerce and

schools.
70
The Masters degree programme imparts the ability to address

thus provides the basis for an academic career. Holders of this
Masters degree also acquire the competences necessary to offer

innovative and flexible solutions for society, science and the
economy.

Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Environmental

Systems, etc.
Humanities and social sciences:

Law, Economics, etc.
Selected systems as majors:
Biogeochemistry, Atmosphere and Climate, Environmental

Biology, Forest and Landscape Management, HumanEnvironment Systems
Scientific and technical electives

A specialisation in:
> Atmosphere and Climate
> Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics

> Ecology and Evolution
> Human-Environment Systems
> Forest and Landscape Management
> Human Health, Nutrition and Environment

The Masters degree programme offers six specialisations (see
box). A traineeship in Switzerland or abroad enables students
to address environmental questions in a non-academic setting. A
Masters thesis in which what is learned is applied to a concrete

scientific issue completes the programme.
Second specialisation and/or electives, work experience

(18 weeks)

Holders of a Bachelors degree in Environmental Sciences may enter the
Masters degree programme in Environmental Engineering without additional

requirements.
71
Experts in World Nutrition
Y www.usys.ethz.ch/agr
Agricultural scientists make a valuable contribution to ensuring
nutrition. Here they strive to optimise the use of limited natural
mentals. In the third year students select a major in Agricultural
reliable, ecological, economical and socially sustainable human

resources.
Career profile
Agricultural Sciences graduates are in great demand in the

world of agriculture. They play a significant role in the search for
solutions to problems such as how the growing world population
The first two years cover scientific and subject-specific fundaScience or Agricultural and Resource Economics.
The programme is supplemented with excursions and a Bachelors

thesis. Students also gain insight into practical situations through
work experience in an agricultural setting, part of which may be
completed before studies commence.
can be sustainably fed without damaging soil, water and air
their processing quality can be continuously adapted to market
degree programme:
resources, and how the raw materials for producing food and
requirements. Agricultural scientists occupy management positions in commerce and industry, public administration, private
There are three specialisations to choose from in the Masters

> Crop Science deals with issues of plant production and plant
protection.
organisations and in research. Those working in universities and
> Animal Science covers basic knowledge in subjects such as
and deduce methods, processes or procedures. Graduates apply
> Food and Resource Economics takes an in-depth look at economic
Their know-how enables them to work in public administration
The specialisation is enhanced by specific supplementary subjects
and economic world nutrition policy.
and University of Zurich offering. The six-month Masters thesis
research centres in Switzerland and abroad deliver new insights
their knowledge in consulting services or development agencies.
and sit on international committees which determine political
72
Genetics, Nutrition, Physiology and Animal Husbandry.

and social aspects in the use of natural resources.
and general electives which may be selected from the entire ETH

Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, etc.

Social science subjects: Law, Economics
General agricultural sciences subjects
Areas of focus in Agricultural Sciences:

> Agricultural Sciences
> Agricultural and Resource Economics

Excursions, Bachelors thesis

A specialisation (Major) selected from:
> Crop Science
> Animal Science
> Food and Resource Economics
Supplementary area (Minor I), second supplementary area

(Minor II) or electives
completes the programme. A period of work experience is not
compulsory, but is recommended.
73
For Safe, Healthy and Consumer Friendly Foodstuffs
Food Science
Y www.hest.ethz.ch/education/foodscience
Food scientists work in the fields of production, processing, storage, and distribution of safe, high-quality and healthy foods.
Career profile
Graduates of the Food Sciences programme deal with the

processing, refining and preserving of foodstuffs. Thanks to
broad, interdisciplinary training in scientific and technical

subjects they are able to work in various fields. They are specialists
in their discipline and generalists in their ability to communicate
and coordinate with experts from other fields. They work in

the national and international food industry, in administration,
national and international organisations, in commerce, the service

sector or in development cooperation.
Following a grounding in basic science and social sciences,
second-year students take courses in Food Sciences, ranging

from Human Nutrition, Food Chemistry, Toxicology, Foodstuff
Processing and Business Studies. The programme is supplemented with excursions and a Bachelors thesis.
74
There are four specialisations to choose from in the Masters

degree programme.
> Food Processing deals with food production, transformation

and the optimisation of these processes.
> Food Quality and Safety focuses on quality management, food
composition, and quality maintenance during manufacturing,

storage and transportation.
> Nutrition and Health addresses foodstuffs and their influence

on health.
> Health, Nutrition and Environment examines the effect of
nutrition, disease and the environment on human beings and

society.
The specialisation is enhanced by specific supplementary subjects
and general electives which may be selected from the entire ETH
and University of Zurich curricula. The six-month Masters thesis
completes the programme. A period of work experience is not

compulsory, but is recommended.

Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, etc.

Social science subjects: Law, Economics
Areas of focus and laboratory practicals:
Food Chemistry, Analysis, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Human

Nutrition, etc.
Excursions
Bachelors thesis
A specialisation selected from:
> Food Processing
> Food Quality and Safety

> Nutrition and Health
Supplementary area (Minor I), second supplementary area

(Minor II) or electives
75
Science and Technology in the Service of Human Health
Health Sciences and Technology

Y www.hst.ethz.ch
In an era of ever-changing lifestyles and an ageing population,
role. This requires experts who understand the human organism
of Mathematics, the Natural Sciences and the Technical Sciences.
maintaining and improving peoples health is assuming a central
from the whole body perspective to the cellular and molecular

levels.
This study programme offers innovative training at the interface

between human being, health and technology. Graduates will be
able to build bridges between engineers and doctors/therapists
and between the macro and micro worlds. They work as experts
in the biomedical, medical technology and pharmaceutical sec-
The Bachelors degree programme begins with the fundamentals

Then the course focuses on the four main areas of Movement
Sciences, Neurosciences, Molecular Health Sciences and Health

Technologies. Central subjects include the effects of stress, nutri-
tion, ageing and medication on human systems and health, the

molecular mechanisms of diseases and the properties and adapt-
ability of biological tissue. The programme also covers the basics

of modern technologies and their application in maintaining and
improving peoples health.
tors, in research, development, production and marketing, as well
options include medical research and consultancy.
eas for specialisation: Movement Sciences, Neurosciences, Molec-
as in health policy, administration and insurance. Other career
In the Masters degree programme, students select one of five arular Health Sciences, Health Technologies, and Health, Nutrition
and Environment. The main focus is on providing an introduction
to independent (experimental) scientific work which begins with
the theory and with project work and culminates in the 6-month
Masters thesis.
76

Basic natural science and technical subjects:
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Anatomy and
Physiology, Biomaterials, Product Development and others

Transdisciplinary and specialised subjects:
Movement Sciences, Neurosciences, Molecular Health Sciences,

Health Technologies
Electives, practicals, humanities and social sciences

Specialisation subjects:
> Human Movement Sciences and Sport

> Neurosciences
> Molecular Health Sciences

> Health Technologies
Mandatory subjects, electives, humanities and social sciences,

Teaching Diploma for Secondary Education (Matura Schools) in
Sports
(Supplementary qualification comprising 60 credits + practical

sports training)
Additional studies in the practice of sports and didactic training
which proceed parallel to or follow the Bachelors or Masters

degree programme and qualify graduates to teach sports at
Gymnasium level.
project work, practicals, Masters thesis (6 month)
Teaching Diploma for Secondary Education (Matura Schools)
in Sports (Supplementary qualification comprising 60 credits +

practical sports training)
Courses in practice-oriented sports, pedagogy, specialist
teaching methods, practice-oriented training, compulsory

elective, specialisation
77

a comparison
Study programmes in the field of System-oriented Natural Sciences
take a broad and varied approach to the interdisciplinary connec-
tions between the sciences, always with reference to a particular

area of research.
Whether it is the processes on our Earth, the biological, chemical

and physical properties of our environmental systems or man as
a system, the health of which is held in a precarious balance
the basic principles of Biology, Chemistry and Physics are always
linked together and often also interconnected from the point of

view of society, politics and the economy.
Legende
Mathematics
Physics
Computer Science
Chemistry
Biology
Humanities and Social Sciences

Laboratory

While, initially, all students study a similar and varied combination of basic subjects, they soon focus on one system (Earth, ecosystems, nutrition, man) and all its many different facets.
78
Earth Sciences
Environmental Sciences
Food Science
Health Sciences and Technology
79
Management and Social Sciences
Integrating Technology and Business
Management, Technology and Economics

Y www.mtec.ethz.ch
Developing and launching products and services in line with
ecologically requires more than just technical knowledge and
degree in
market requirements or using new technology effectively and

skills.
Career profile
Graduates of the Management, Technology and Economics (MTEC)
The consecutive Masters degree in MTEC follows the Bachelors

Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering
and Computer Science. Admission with a Bachelors degree in

Engineering or a science subject with a technological orientation
from another university is subject to an application procedure.
programme serve in companies as the link between the production
Curriculum structure
agement. They play innovative and creative roles in various indus-
students take courses in core subjects from all six competence
side and areas such as logistics, marketing, organisation and mantrial sectors, in the service sector and in public administration. To-
day companies are high-tech operations which supply far more

than just machines and products: they offer entire packages,
expertise and services. As a result, specialists are required who

can work in the areas of project management, product and technology management, organisation, production management, innovation and management consultancy. Not surprisingly, their
range of activities is of a versatile, interdisciplinary and demanding nature.
82
In the first three semesters of the Masters degree programme,

areas on offer (see box), although there is also some degree
of choice. The programme is supplemented with electives from
the competence areas mentioned and lectures from the discipline

of the Bachelors degree. In the final semester, students write a
Masters thesis within a company or at ETH. Before the Masters
thesis project begins, the course is supplemented with an indus-
trial placement lasting at least 10 weeks.
Bachelors degree in
Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering and
Admission with a Bachelors degree in Engineering or a

science subject with a technological orientation from
another university is subject to an application procedure.

Core subjects, electives and specialisations from the
competence areas:
> General Management and Human Resources Management

> Strategy , Technology and Innovation Management
> Information Management and Operations Management

> Quantitative and Qualitative Methods
> Economics
> Financial Management
Supplementary subjects to enhance the technical and/or

scientific knowledge acquired in the Bachelors degree
programme
Industrial work placement of at least 10 weeks
Masters thesis project (6 months, at ETH Zurich or in companies)
83
Specialists in Conflict Prevention and Management
PUBLIC POLICY (PROFESSIONAL OFFICER)

Y www.berufsoffizier.ethz.ch / www.milak.ch
In the Public Policy programme prospective professional officers
sciences in line with the needs of modern armed forces. The pro-
> Military requirements: include title of Lieutenant, completed
of both sexes are trained in the political, social and military

gramme leads to the internationally recognised title Bachelor
of Arts ETH in Public Policy.
Professional officers of the Swiss Army are high-level personnel

who are responsible for a wide variety of demanding tasks. They
assume leadership functions in Switzerland and abroad, train
and educate others, act as experts in military matters and also
Admission requirements fall into two categories:
practical military service, and pass grades in the Assessment

Centre examination for future professional officers
> Educational requirements: Gymnasium Matura or vocational
Matura with pass grades in the supplementary examination for

universities
Throughout their training, students are employed by the Federal

Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (VBS).
work as trained managers in non-military contexts. These tasks
Curriculum
social sciences and the technological and military sciences. The
are studied from the point of view of the political and military
require a comprehensive education in both the humanities and

six-semester degree programme is organised jointly by the ETH
Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences and the
Military Academy at ETH Zurich (MILAK).
Aspects of the Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (see box)

sciences and taught at ETH. Practice-oriented and military trainings, designed to meet the needs of the army, take place during
the sixth semester in the form of so-called practical modules and
33 weeks of further training supplementing the theoretical

knowledge. The latter follow the study programme and are
taught at MILAK.
84
Bachelors degree programme for Professional Officers

(6 semesters)
Training at ETH Zurich
Courses in Humanities, Social and Political Sciences:

> Business Administration
> Economics, Law
> Political Sciences
> Conflict Research

> History
> Psychology
> Educational Science

> Leadership, etc.
Training at the ETH Zurich Military Academy (MILAK):

9 weeks of practical modules (= part of the course)
Military training between semesters and during 33 weeks of

supplementary training:
> Military leadership and training

> Tactical leadership
> Military didactics etc.
85
Learning to Channel Expertise
Humanities, Social and Political Sciences

Y www.gess.ethz.ch
ETH students should not just be specialists in their subject, but
The options for the elective GESS course include over 100 lectures
light.
pation is compulsory for all students at ETH Zurich: they have to
also view their words and deeds in an ethical, cultural and social
Specialising in natural, engineering and technical sciences calls for
an overall understanding of science. The elective GESS course is

based on problem-solving and offers students a way of acquiring
supplementary skills going beyond their main subject area: firstly
by acquiring reflective knowledge, giving them an additional perspective from the point of view of culture, the humanities and
social sciences on the methods and content of their main subject; secondly by acquiring contextual knowledge, enabling them
to apply their specialist knowledge in a particular context; and
thirdly by acquiring language skills and insights into different cultures, so developing their intercultural skills. In this way, students
become familiar with the thinking and methods of other disciplines and are equipped to see the bigger picture.
86
in all fields of the Humanities, Social and Political Sciences. Particigain six ECTS credits during their Bachelors course and two during
their Masters course.
Specialised Masters degree programmes
87
Specialised Masters degree programmes

Technical and scientific development requires an increasing
The Masters degree programme offers an overall education in all
ETH offers specialised Masters degree programmes in various
and the extraction of raw materials (especially hydrocarbons),
number of experts with interdisciplinary training. For this reason

technical and scientific areas, which Bachelors degree holders
from various disciplines may enter.
areas of applied geophysics, particularly the areas of exploration
and in environmental and engineering geophysics (including

exploration and extraction of geothermal energy).
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: Earth Sciences, Envi-
Admission to specialised Masters degree programmes is subject
ronmental Sciences, Physics, and Engineering Sciences.
numbers may be limited. The language of instruction in these
Atmospheric and Climate Science (120 credits)
For each Masters degree programme the description of the pro-
This degree programme covers weather and climate phenomena
to a special application and selection procedure, and participant

programmes is English.
gramme is followed by a list of Bachelors degree programmes
the content of which, according to the respective Programme

Regulations, corresponds to the profile of requirements. Admission
from other degree programmes is possible sur dossier.
Applied Geophysics (Joint Masters programme, 120 credits)

Y www.idealeague.org/geophysics/
The Masters degree programme in Applied Geophysics is an

inter-university degree programme which comprises an exchange
between ETH Zurich, TU Delft and RWTH Aachen. Students attend
lectures at all three universities.
88
Y www.iac.ethz.ch/education/master
in all their dimensions, from the molecular to the global, from

rapid developments to those which develop over millions of years.
Students select three modules from among Weather Systems

and Atmospheric Dynamics, Climate Processes and Feedbacks,
Atmospheric Composition and Cycles, Climate History and
Paleoclimatology, and Hydrology and Water Cycle. One day per

week courses are held at the University of Bern.
This degree programme requires very good foreknowledge of

mathematics, physics and chemistry.
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: Earth Sciences, Envi-
ronmental Sciences, Agricultural Science.
Biomedical Engineering (90 credits)

Y www.master-biomed.ethz.ch
Biomedical Engineering is the interface between Engineering,
Biology and Medicine, and investigates and describes biological
phenomena to serve the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Students can choose between the following areas for specialisation, also called tracks: Bioelectronics, Bioimaging, Biomechanics, Medical Physics and Molecular Bioengineering. Students will
be given expert advice from a professor when choosing their subjects. For students without the necessary prior knowledge, the
teaching will be supplemented by lectures and practical sessions
tions of political order and governance in the context of international interdependence. Core courses include Political Conflict, Political Violence, Democracy and Political Economy. A second aim of
the degree programme is to provide training in qualitative and

quantitative research methods and design.
The course is offered in partnership with the University of Zurich.
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: An excellent Bache-
lors degree in the fields of Political Science, Sociology, Economics
or another discipline provided that at least 20 credits have been

gained in one of the above disciplines.
in Biology, Anatomy and Physiology.
Computational Biology and Bioinformatics (90 credits)
tific Bachelors degree programmes as stated in the Programme
Computational Biology and Bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: Technical and scienRegulations.
Comparative and International Studies (90 credits)

Y www.macis.ethz.ch
This degree programme combines comparative and international

political science. One of the main pillars of the curriculum is the
fact that the boundary between international and domestic politics is becoming increasingly blurred. The course covers key ques-
Y www.cbb.ethz.ch
domain where procedures and methods from computer science
are developed and deployed to address and solve important

current problems in biology. The teaching offer includes lectures
in Biology, Computer Science and Mathematics and in addition

to laboratory courses where practical experience in research
projects may be gathered. With help from the tutor students

draw up their own individual curricula. This degree programme is
offered in cooperation with the University of Zurich.
89
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: Technical and scien-
nership with the Ecole Polytechnique in Paris and students
Regulations.
compulsory lectures on high energy physics, students also, by
spend one year in Paris and one in Zurich. In addition to their
arrangement with their tutor, attend lectures of their choice
Energy Science and Technology (90 credits)
from the wide range of Masters sessions on Physics and Mathe-
Y www.master-energy.ethz.ch
matics. Semester papers, proseminars and a Masters thesis
with the complexity and interdivisional variety of energy issues
pects of current research work. Graduates receive a joint Mas-
The aim of this Masters degree programme is to acquaint students

and teach them methods and approaches from disciplines
including
electrical
engineering,
mechanical
engineering,
environmental sciences, and economics. With the help of a tutor
round off the study programme and introduce students to asters degree from both universities.
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: Physics.
students draw up their own curriculum from over 50 energy-
History and Philosophy of Knowledge (120 credits)
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: Mechanical Engineer-
This interdisciplinary degree programme equips students with
specific courses.
ing, Environmental Sciences, Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Computer Science, Mathematics, and Physics.
High Energy Physics (120 credits)
Y http://hep.polytechnique.edu
This Masters degree programme specialising in high energy

physics provides a thorough training in the experimental and
theoretical principles of particle physics. It is organised in part-
90
Y www.magpw.gess.ethz.ch
the background and the analytical tools to be able to study todays many forms of knowledge creatively and independently,
from a historic and systematic perspective. Students learn how
to investigate in a scientific manner the normative, symbolic,
social, institutional, political and economic conditions in which

knowledge originates and how its development in turn interacts
with these.
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: The Masters degree
programme is open to any candidate who has an excellent Bachelors degree in the social, cultural, natural or technical sciences.
Medicinal and Industrial Pharmaceutical Sciences (90 credits)
This Masters degree programme covers, in the broadest sense,

knowledge and competences related to medicine development
processes in the industrial, regulatory and academic contexts. It
lays great emphasis on the understanding and application of
procedures which facilitate and simplify development processes
from all of the engineering sciences, physics and mathematics.
In this Masters degree programme new functionalities for inte-
grated systems and the development of innovative products

are explored. The programme has a mechanical and electrical
engineering basis, augmented by elements from physics, materials
science and process engineering. With the help of a tutor,

students draw up their own individual curricula.
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Information Technology.
in an industrial environment.
Neural Systems and Computation (90 credits)
in Pharmacy and involves no internships in public or hospital
This Masters degree programme provides students with a trans
The degree programme does not lead to the Federal Diploma

pharmacies.
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: Pharmaceutical

Sciences, Health Sciences and Technology (with additional requirements).
Micro and Nanosystems (90 credits)

Y www.mastermicronano.ethz.ch
Research and development in the area of micro and nanosystems
is by its nature interdisciplinary, involving procedures and methods
Y www.nsc.uzh.ch
disciplinary background and competences in and knowledge of

the main issues in brain research, preparing them for research
activities in areas of neuroinformatics and system-oriented neu-
ral sciences. With the help of a tutor, students draw up their own
individual curricula. The degree programme is offered in cooperation with the University of Zurich.
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: Technical and scien-

Regulations.
91
Nuclear Engineering (120 credits)
Quantitative Finance (90 credits)
This degree programme covers the process and technology of en-
This Masters degree programme offers a specialisation in the
Y www.master-nuclear.ethz.ch
ergy conversion in nuclear power plants, including the safety of

such plants and the fuel cycle from fissile material extraction to
waste disposal. It includes reactor physics, power plant technology, thermo-hydraulics, radiation protection and the study of materials. Elective courses in the use of nuclear fusion for energy
purposes and the non-energy-related applications of radiation in
medicine and industry supplement the programme. Because of

the multidisciplinary nature of this degree programme, graduates may also be employed in other fields related to energy conversion technology. The course is offered in partnership with EPF
Y www.msfinance.ethz.ch
economic bases of finance, and the uses in finance of probability

theory, stochastics and numerical methods. It is offered in
cooperation with the University of Zurich. All lectures involve the
areas of either Economic Theory for Finance or Mathematical
Methods for Finance. Cooperation with external companies is
encouraged in the context of the Masters thesis.
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: A Bachelors degree

which reflects good basic knowledge of finance and mathematics
(e.g., Economics, Mathematics, Physics, or Engineering).
Lausanne.
Robotics, Systems and Control (90 credits)
ing, Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Materials
Research and development in the area of Robotics, Systems &
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: Mechanical EngineerScience, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Chemical Engineering.
Y www.master-robotics.ethz.ch
Control is by its nature interdisciplinary. The Masters degree

programme is thus based upon knowledge of mechanical engi-
neering and electrical engineering and information technology,
supplemented by courses from the areas mathematics, biology,

physics and computational science. The programme addresses
significant issues in the analysis and development of new,
92
complex integrated systems and innovative products. With the

help of a tutor, students draw up their own individual curricula.
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, and Computer Science.
Statistics (90 credits)
Y http://stat.ethz.ch/education/master
Statistics is an important tool in many areas of empirical science.

This Masters degree programme, which should follow a Bachelors
degree programme in a natural science or technical discipline,
provides an opportunity to further develop statistical thinking

and methods and gain an overview of the most important
models and procedures. Students also learn more about the
quantitative methods of their own disciplines. The programme
offers specialisations in Statistical Methodology, Applied Statistics

and Biostatistics.
Qualifying Bachelors degree programmes: All Bachelors degree
programmes except Architecture and the Professional Officer

programme.
93
Campus Life
Keeping Busy Outside of Lectures
Campus Life
Studying at ETH Zurich is of course demanding, but it is balanced
VSETH the ETH Zurich Student Association
versity-political and other pursuits during leisure periods.
tions offer a wide range of services and opportunities for leisure
by a wide variety of sports activities, cultural events, and uni
Sport
How about some fitness training at lunchtime? Want to relieve
daily stress by playing volleyball in the evening? Or go diving

during the semester break? The range of indoor and outdoor
sports offered by the ASVZ (Academic Sports Association of

Zurich) is unique in Europe. The ASVZ boasts more than one
million participants each year. They come to try their hand at
The ETH student association VSETH and other student associaactivities. They form a platform for representing student interests
on internal ETH committees. They also contribute to organising
the fun side of student life, from the legendary Polyball to films
and cultural activities. They are much appreciated for the services
they provide, e.g. collections of example exam questions or advice

on scholarships. They also run a leisure workshop, and rent out
music rooms, a photo laboratory, and a student centre for parties.
rowing, archery, indoor climbing, basketball, swimming, modern
Music
trips. They play volleyball or, together with over 700 teams, take
student music societies to choose from, ranging from choirs and
dance, yoga or tai-chi and participate in ski camps and sailing

part in the SOLA relay race. And much more!
For the musically inclined, there are more than half a dozen
orchestra, classical ensembles and the jazzy ETH big band.
Learning a language
And to still your hunger ...
future career prospects by learning a language at the Language
virtually every ETH building there is a cafeteria or snack bar
In addition to studying, you can, for instance, improve your
Center of the University and ETH Zurich. Eleven languages,

including Arabic, Japanese and Hungarian, are on the programme,
plus German as a foreign language.
96
It is often said that you cant study on an empty stomach. In

which offers a wide variety of healthy and low-priced snacks and
meals. Besides traditional menus, there are vegetarian, Asian and
pasta dishes, hamburgers and pizza, a huge selection of salads
and organic menus available. A popular and cosy meeting place

in the evening is the bQm Bar run by students.
For those who want to give the canteen a miss, but dont want
to cook for themselves, there is a great (although not always
cheap) choice of top-quality downtown eating establishments
which offer everything from fondue to sushi, tortillas, meze and

smrgsbord.
Other services
Various resources make everyday life easier for students at ETH
Zurich. For example, the student bookshop can find any book you
want; the SSD centre for student discount provides cut-price
computers and entertainment electronics; and the stationery

shop not only stocks pens and paper, but also cards and painting
materials.
Irrespective of whether you are sporty, musical, or enjoy a get-
together, the important thing is to get in there and participate!

Joining in is the key to success: you get to know students from
other programmes and from every country under the sun, and
can establish connections and friendships which will last way
beyond your student days.
97
Zurich the Pocket-Sized World-Class City
Living in Zurich
Zurich is downtown Switzerland! Check out the charm behind
In summer, life moves outdoors: there are street cafs and open-
is for living in and not just for studying in!
People stroll along its quays and meet at one of the many spots
the cool exterior of this world-class Swiss city. After all, the city
Zurich is regularly awarded prizes for its high quality of life. No
wonder: hardly any other city offers so much in so little space.

Zurich has virtually everything: it is both a business metropolis
and city of culture. There is lots of space to relax near the lake
and, at the same time, it is a popular city for partying.
Zurichs culture ranges from classical to alternative. The theatre,
opera house and concert hall are known internationally. The
Schiffbau, a theatre in an old factory building, is the

trendy venue par excellence. Besides these large venues, there are
a number of smaller theatres and music clubs with attractive
programmes. If you have a passion for alternative and experimental performance you can, for instance, go to the Gessner
allee, a theatre in the former stables of the military barracks.
Well-known museums include the Art Gallery with its temporary

exhibitions and permanent collections, and the Swiss National
Museum. There are lots of other smaller museums and galleries
to tempt you. Contemporary art can be found at the Lwenbru, a former brewery building.
98
air restaurants everywhere. The citys jewel, however, is the lake.

on the lakeshore, or take advantage of clean lake water to swim
near Bellevue or in the Limmat river. Others prefer the quiet
parks, or the zoo with its spacious grounds.
For night owls, the number-one place to be seen is Zurich West.
There are dozens of trendy pubs around Escher-Wyss-Platz. Zurich
also hosts innumerable events. Some of the most well-known

are the Street Parade, the Theater Spektakel and the traditional
Knabenschiessen, Switzerlands largest fair. And more: Weltklasse Zrich (the athletics Diamond League Meeting) and
freestyle.ch (an international snowboarding and skateboarding

event) take place here. And the list wouldnt be complete
without the concerts at the Hallenstadion in Zurich Nord: this
renovated indoor arena plays host to all the big names.
All in all, Zurich is a great place to live. A wide variety of accom-
modation is available, ranging from student residences, flat-share

opportunities, private lodgings and studio apartments. The
University and ETH Zurich Housing Office and the WOKO student
accommodation cooperative offer many suitable places to live,

whether in the busy centre or one of the quieter residential areas.
Getting around Zurich? The efficient public transport system in
and around Zurich, with its blue and white trams and buses, will
get you to your lectures on time, and safely back home after an
evening out on the town (see www.zvv.ch). To keep up your

fitness you can of course also walk or cycle. If you do you may
chance upon one of the 5,000 hedgehogs or the hundreds of

foxes that live in Zurich. This is a world-class city where you can
also see a lot of nature.
99
Useful Information
If you have further questions, please contact:
Orientation and Advisory Services

Y www.soc.ethz.ch
The Student Orientation and Coaching Office offers those inter-
Student Advisory Service
the programme offering and get advice.
discuss the choice of study programme, the degree programmes
ested in studying at ETH various opportunities to learn about
Orientation events
In the orientation phase ETH runs various events which provide

an insight into this university and its degree programmes.
Once per year it organises degree programme information days

for Gymnasium students and other interested parties, where
stands are set up in the ETH Main Building and presentations
Potential students are welcome to arrange an appointment to
on offer and the study environment with an adviser of their

choice:
Mario Foppa
Advice regarding programmes in architecture, civil engineering

and engineering sciences
Tel. +41 44 633 28 59, mario.foppa@soc.ethz.ch
introduce the degree programmes.
Dr. Martino Luginbhl
where a project is undertaken in cooperation with scientists),
and system-oriented natural sciences
Other events include the ETH-Studienwochen (study weeks
ETH unterwegs (visits to Gynmnasien by a travelling ETH

exhibition), and a presentation of Matura projects in areas of
mathematics, natural sciences, or technology.
Advice regarding programmes in mathematics, natural sciences

Tel. +41 44 632 20 61, martino.luginbuehl@soc.ethz.ch
ETH Central Campus, Main Building, rooms HG 68.1 and HG 68.2
Rmistrasse 101, 8092 Zurich
Coaching programme
A coaching programme supports students in various ways during
the first phase of study, offering pre-study events, presentations

on various themes, individual coaching, etc.
101
Registration for study programmes

Y www.admission.ethz.ch
Registration for the first semester of the Bachelors degree
Admissions Office
Y www.bewerbung-bachelor.ethz.ch
with other qualifications from abroad
programme should be undertaken online at

Registration period: 1 November 30 April
Prospective students receive an e-mail with an invitation for an

orientation event. This Prestudy event is specific for the study
programme they have applied for.
Y www.soc.ethz.ch/coaching/prestudyevents
To register for a Masters degree programme please see
Y www.admission.ethz.ch > Master programmes
For further information please contact:
Registrars Office
Enrolment, study programme documentation and general

information on degree programmes
ETH Zurich
Registrars Office

Tel. +41 44 632 30 00
kanzlei@ethz.ch
102
Admission with a Matura not recognised in Switzerland or

ETH Zurich, Main Building
Admissions Office
Tel. +41 44 632 56 53 and +41 44 632 54 10

zulassung@ethz.ch
Useful internet addresses

Y www.ethz.ch
Y www.sprachenzentrum.unizh.ch
Y www.ethz.ch/prospectives
Y www.wohnen.ethz.ch
Y www.soc.ethz.ch
Y www.woko.ch
Y www.vvz.ethz.ch
Y www.gastro.ethz.ch
Y www.admission.ethz.ch
Y www.vseth.ethz.ch
Y www. bewerbung-bachelor.ethz.ch
Y www.asvz.ch
ETH Zurich homepage
Information on courses of study and degree programmes
Student Orientation and Coaching
Electronic Course Catalogue
Information on registering for courses
Registration for the first semester of the Bachelors degree

programme
(Registration period: 1 November 30 April)

Y www.mobilitaet.ethz.ch
Language learning at ETH Zurich
Housing Office of the University and ETH Zurich
Student Accommodation Cooperative
ETH cafeterias
ETH Zurich Student Association
Academic Sports Association of Zurich

Y www.ethlife.ethz.ch
ETHs daily online newspaper
ETH Student Exchange Service
103
Alphabetical list of DEGREE PROGRAMMES

Agricultural Sciences (BSc / MSc)
72
History and Philosophy of Knowledge (MA)
90
16
Interdisciplinary Sciences (BSc / MSc)
56
Applied Geophysics (MSc)
88
Atmospheric and Climate Science (MSc)
88
Architecture (BSc / MSc)
Biochemistry (see Biology)

Biology (BSc / MSc)
Biomedical Engineering (MSc)
60
89
Biotechnology (BSc / MSc)
38
Chemistry (BSc / MSc)
52
Chemical Engineering (BSc) / Chemical and Bioengineering (MSc)

Civil Engineering (BSc / MSc)
Comparative and International Studies (MA)
Computational Biology and Bioinformatics (MSc)
Computational Science and Engineering (BSc / MSc)
52
18
89
89
50
Computer Science (BSc / MSc)
34
Earth Sciences (BSc / MSc)
68
Energy Science and Technology (MSc)
90
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology (BSc / MSc)

Environmental Engineering (BSc / MSc)
Environmental Sciences (BSc / MSc)
32
20
70
Food Sciences (BSc / MSc)
74
Geomatic Engineering and Planning (BSc / MSc) / Geomatics (MSc)
22
Health Sciences and Technology (BSc / MSc)
76
High Energy Physics (MSc)
90
Humanities, Social and Political Sciences
Management, Technology and Economics (MSc)

Materials Science (BSc / MSc)
82
36
Mathematics (BSc / MSc)
46
Medicinal and Industrial Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSc)
91
Mechanical Engineering (BSc / MSc)

Micro and Nanosystems (MSc)
Neural Systems and Computation (MSc)

Nuclear Engineering (MSc)
Pharmaceutical Sciences (BSc / MSc)
30
91
91
92
58
Physics (BSc / MSc)
48
Public Policy (Professional Officer BA)
84
Quantitative Finance (MSc)
92
Robotics, Systems and Control (MSc)
92
Process Engineering (MSc)
Spatial Planning and Infrastructure Systems (MSc)

Sports Teacher (Lehrdiplom)
Statistics (MSc)
BSc
Bachelor of Science
MSc
Master of Science
BA
MA
104
86
Bachelor of Arts
Master of Arts
31
23
77
93

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Study Programmes ETH Zurich

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ETH Zrich

> Architecture and Civil Engineering 

> Engineering Sciences 

> System-oriented Natural Sciences 

> Natural Sciences and Mathematics 

> Management and Social Sciences 

> Specialised Masters degree programmes 

Alphabetical List of Degree Programmes 

The ETH Main Building in the city centre

people are to be equipped to take on future roles as leaders and

decision-makers in the economy, science and society, they need

good, solid training. ETH degrees are recognised worldwide, and

the rapidly changing world of industry and research.

knowledge. That is why we believe it is important for them to be

ETHs condensed and concentrated courses, which still offer

all kinds of careers are open to our graduates in many fields in

We look forward to shaping the future together!

A University with a Worldwide Reputation

ETH Zurich, founded in 1855, educates students in the fields of

ETH has two attractive campuses in Zurich and a location in Basel.

courses for specialists. It supplies the economy with scientific

The Central Campus

lecturer, Gottfried Semper, is located in the heart of Zurich, just a

science and technology, conducts research and offers advanced

Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Management and Social

Twenty-one Nobel prize-winners are connected with ETH Zurich,

The Science City Campus

second location on the Hnggerberg, a hill at the edge of the city.

from Wilhelm K. Rntgen and Albert Einstein to Kurt Wthrich.

research conditions it offers. More than 18,000 students benefit

Approximately 40 years ago, ETH Zurich laid the cornerstone of its

Today this site boasts an extensive campus that is being expanded

to form a real Science City, with the most modern of infra

from the knowledge of ca. 500 professors, two-thirds of whom

structure for study, research and leisure. It houses Architecture

more numerous Masters and doctoral degree programmes

Sciences, and Materials Science.

come from abroad. In the 23 Bachelors degree programmes and

professional careers. Countless scientists, engineers, teachers,

and Civil Engineering, Physics, Chemistry and Applied Biological

The Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, which

offers the degree programme in Biotechnology, is situated in

ETH Zurich works in close cooperation with many other institutions

of higher education in in a wide range of research fields. It is

can thus offer its students the opportunity to acquire further

Degree programmes in the Natural Sciences are also available at

The ETH Library provides ETH Zurich with a global information

network of knowledge in the fields of science and technology. It

Numerous ETH institutions and collections invite inspiring cultural

exchange. For example, the Collegium Helveticum functions as

science and art. The Graphische Sammlung (Collection of Prints

Archive are examples of how ETH also endeavours to nurture the

Internationally Oriented Study Programmes

The study programmes at ETH Zurich provide sound academic

nary cooperation as well as socially relevant key qualifications.

They are subject to specific admission requirements, and the

ETH enjoys an outstanding international reputation.

ised knowledge in the field of study.

programme requires its students to attend additional courses

ETHs programme structure has been altered in accordance

with the guidelines of the Bologna Declaration agreed upon by

In the interests of a broader general education, each degree

offered by the Department of Humanities, Social and Political

Bachelors/Masters/doctoral degree system. Students are awarded

> Architecture and Civil Engineering

> Engineering Sciences

> System-oriented Natural Sciences

> Natural Sciences and Mathematics

> Management and Social Sciences

> Specialised Masters degree programmes

Alphabetical List of Degree Programmes