Studying Business & Management in Zurich: UZH, HWZ & Kalaidos – True Insights for Students

OUS Academy in Switzerland
Sep 18
4 min read

Zurich stands at the heart of Europe as a hub for finance, technology, and innovation. For students interested in Business and Management, Zurich offers not only world-class education but also real opportunities to connect with global companies, start-ups, and research networks.

This article introduces three of Zurich’s most recognized institutions for Business and Management education:

University of Zurich (UZH)
HWZ University of Applied Sciences in Business Administration
Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences

Each has its unique strengths in history, programs, research, and career opportunities.

Why Zurich is a Top Choice for Business and Management Studies

Zurich combines a strong economy, international diversity, and academic excellence. Here are key reasons why the city attracts thousands of students each year:

Global Business Environment – Home to leading banks, insurance companies, consulting firms, and multinational corporations, Zurich offers students countless internships, networking events, and job opportunities.
High Academic Standards – Swiss education is internationally respected for quality, innovation, and research.
Safety and Quality of Life – Zurich consistently ranks among the world’s safest and most livable cities, providing a stable and inspiring learning environment.
Multilingual and International – Many programs are offered in English, and students come from across the globe, making classrooms diverse and globally connected.
Focus on Innovation and Ethics – Modern curricula integrate sustainability, digital transformation, and ethical leadership, reflecting the needs of the 21st-century economy.

University of Zurich (UZH) – Faculty of Business, Economics and Informatics

History and Size

The University of Zurich (UZH) was founded in 1833, making it one of the oldest universities in Switzerland. Its Faculty of Business, Economics and Informatics was established in 1992 as an independent faculty and has grown rapidly.

Today, the faculty hosts:

Around 4,900 students from over 120 countries
More than 100 professors and academic staff
A significant international student population, bringing global perspectives into every classroom

Programs and Research

The faculty offers:

Bachelor’s Degrees in Business Administration, Economics, Banking and Finance, Informatics, and related fields
Master’s Degrees with specializations in areas like Data Analytics, Management, and Digital Business
Doctoral Programs for students pursuing academic or high-level research careers

UZH is known for its strong research culture, with many departments collaborating with industry partners on topics such as fintech, sustainability, and organizational leadership.

Career Opportunities

Students at UZH benefit from its location in Zurich’s financial and corporate district. Internship programs, guest lectures from executives, and career fairs help graduates transition smoothly into the professional world.

HWZ University of Applied Sciences in Business Administration

History and Size

Founded in 1986, the HWZ University of Applied Sciences in Business Administration is Switzerland’s largest part-time business university.

Key facts:

Around 2,500 students enrolled annually
Approximately 600 lecturers, many of whom are experienced industry professionals
Centrally located near Zurich’s main railway station, making it convenient for commuting students

Programs and Teaching Style

HWZ specializes in flexible, career-oriented education, offering:

Bachelor’s Degrees in Business Administration and related fields
Master’s and MBA Programs tailored for professionals
A wide range of executive education courses for leadership and management development

Most programs are part-time, enabling students to work and study simultaneously. Classes often use case studies, simulations, and company projects to ensure practical learning.

Career Relevance

Because many students work while studying, HWZ programs emphasize real-world applicability. Graduates often advance quickly in their careers due to the combination of academic learning and professional experience.

Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences

History and Size

Established in 1997, the Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences is the only fully accredited private university of applied sciences in Switzerland. It serves:

Over 3,800 students
Around 766 lecturers
More than 12,000 graduates to date

Programs and Flexibility

The Department of Business and Management offers:

Bachelor’s Degrees (BSc) in Business Administration, Management, and related disciplines
Master’s Degrees (MSc, EMBA, MBA) for advanced studies and leadership roles
Doctoral and Continuing Education programs for professionals seeking further specialization

Kalaidos focuses heavily on flexibility: most programs are designed for working professionals, with part-time schedules, modular learning, and options for executive education.

Practical Orientation

Like HWZ, Kalaidos integrates practical training, company projects, and applied research into its programs. Students can directly apply classroom concepts to real business problems, bridging theory and practice.

Comparing UZH, HWZ, and Kalaidos

Feature	UZH – University of Zurich	HWZ – Applied Sciences Zurich	Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences
Founded	1833	1986	1997
Student Population	~4,900	~2,500	~3,800
Study Mode	Full-time, research-focused	Part-time, career-oriented	Part-time, flexible schedules
Program Types	Bachelor, Master, Doctorate	Bachelor, Master, Executive Education	Bachelor, Master, MBA/EMBA, Doctorate
Teaching Approach	Academic and research excellence	Practical, applied business skills	Flexible, professional integration
Ideal For	Students seeking academic rigor	Working professionals, practitioners	Professionals needing flexible learning

Why Now is the Right Time to Study Business and Management in Zurich

Digital Transformation – Programs now include modules on data analytics, AI, and digital strategy.
Sustainability Focus – Ethics and sustainable business practices are becoming core topics.
Career Integration – More internships, mentorships, and corporate collaborations than ever before.
Global Networks – Students build international connections that last beyond graduation.

Final Thoughts

Studying Business and Management in Zurich offers a blend of academic excellence, practical training, and international exposure.

UZH suits students seeking academic depth and research opportunities.
HWZ is ideal for working professionals wanting part-time programs with immediate career relevance.
Kalaidos offers maximum flexibility with modular schedules and a wide range of professional programs.