Economics

The Bachelor's Degree in Economics at the University of Bern offers students a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles and analytical tools necessary to understand and evaluate economic issues in a global context. This program is designed to provide a solid foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and quantitative methods, enabling students to analyze complex economic situations and develop informed policy recommendations. Throughout the course of study, students will explore a wide range of topics, including market behavior, fiscal and monetary policies, international trade, development economics, and behavioral economics, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of both theoretical frameworks and practical applications. The program emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving skills, preparing graduates for diverse careers in business, finance, public administration, research, or further academic study. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as applied economics, environmental economics, or political economy, tailoring their education to align with personal interests and career aspirations. The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research projects, facilitated by renowned faculty members who are active researchers in their fields. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in internships, exchange programs, and extracurricular activities to gain practical experience and international exposure. The University of Bern supports a collaborative learning environment, fostering intellectual curiosity and interdisciplinary approaches to economic questions. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will possess a strong analytical toolkit, a deep understanding of economic theories, and the ability to apply scientific methods to real-world problems. This prepares them for competitive entry into the workforce or for continued academic pursuits at the master’s level or beyond. The Economics program at the University of Bern is committed to academic excellence, innovation, and societal relevance, aiming to equip students with skills that are highly valued in today's rapidly changing economic landscape.

Mandatory courses/requirements

• Microeconomics II (4.5 ECTS)
• Macroeconomics II (4.5 ECTS)
• Econometrics II (4.5 ECTS)

Two seminar electives must also be completed.

Electives

Students complete Master electives in addition to the mandatory courses in order to earn the 90 ECTS credits required for the Master's degree in Economics. These electives can be freely chosen from among courses offered in the Master program in Economics. Certain courses may be subject to additional requirements.

A student exchange program allows students to apply courses from other universities to their Master requirement. This possibility also expands the selection of courses that can be taken in the Master program.

Internship (optional, 6 ECTS credits)

It is recommended that students also complete an internship related to economics. This internship must be approved beforehand by a professor (permission form available from the Dean's Office).

Master thesis (20 ECTS credits)

The Master program is concluded with a master thesis (20 ECTS credits).

The following academic qualifications are required for admission to the master’s degree program in Economics (mono):

• Curriculum vitae in table form with uninterrupted chronology of your education and academic studies up to the present incl. up-to-date passport photo (45 mm high by 35 mm wide)
• Motivation letter (incl. family name, given name, full address, e-mail address, date and signature and – if you have one – mobile phone number)
• If you are holding a bachelor degree's: Originally certified photocopies of your degree (e.g. diploma and diploma supplement). The correspondence of the photocopy to the original must be officially certified.
• Originals (stamped and signed) or originally certified photocopies of all official proofs of your achievements (transcripts) with grades/scores
• Grading system of the degree issuing university, if the grading system is different from ours. Our scale goes from 1 to 6, with 6 being excellent and grades below 4 being unsatisfactory.
• Brief description of the content/learning objectives of the different courses/lectures (annotated course catalog or module handbook)
• Originally certified translations of the original documents (e.g. diploma, diploma supplement, bachelor's or master's degree, transcripts of diploma records), if these are not written in German, English, French or Italian. These translations have to be inseparably connected with the originally certified photocopies of the original documents.
• Original or certified photocopy of a GMAT with a minimum score of 575 points. 
• Photocopy of your valid passport or identity card
• Application fee: CHF 105

The University of Bern offers diverse financing options for students enrolled in the Economics degree programme. Tuition fees for international and domestic students are relatively moderate compared to similar institutions in Switzerland. Specifically, the annual tuition fee for Bachelor's students is approximately CHF 1,000 to CHF 2,000, depending on the semester and specific course load. For Master's programs, tuition fees may range from CHF 1,200 to CHF 2,500 per semester. These fees are payable at the start of each semester and cover access to lectures, libraries, and various university facilities.

Students are encouraged to explore additional funding sources, such as government grants, scholarships, and student loans. The Swiss government provides financial aid to Swiss nationals and sometimes to international students under specific conditions, which can significantly offset living and study expenses. The University of Bern also offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding students, which can cover partial or full tuition fees. Application procedures and eligibility criteria for these scholarships vary, and students are advised to consult the university’s official scholarship portal for detailed information.

Apart from institutional scholarships, external organizations and foundations in Switzerland offer various funding opportunities for students pursuing Economics. These include private foundations, regional grants, and international scholarship programs tailored for students in social sciences and economics. Many of these programs require a demonstrated need, academic excellence, or specific research interests aligning with the funding organization's priorities.

Living expenses in Bern constitute a significant portion of overall financing needs. The cost of accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses typically amount to CHF 15,000 to CHF 20,000 per year. Students can reduce costs by opting for shared housing or university dormitories, which are more affordable and provide an opportunity for social integration.

Part-time work is another common means of financing studies. The regulations allow students to work up to 15 hours per week during the semester and full-time during semester breaks. The average income from part-time employment can supplement student budgets by CHF 3,000 to CHF 6,000 per year, depending on work hours and job type.

Financial planning is essential for students pursuing Economics at the University of Bern. It is advisable to prepare a detailed budget ahead of time to manage tuition fees, living expenses, and incidental costs effectively. The university’s student services department provides advisory support for financial planning and guidance on available funding opportunities. Overall, the combination of moderate tuition fees, scholarship options, part-time employment, and personal savings enables students to finance their studies at Bern effectively, making higher education in Economics accessible to a broad range of students from various backgrounds.

Economics at the University of Bern offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare students for the complex economic issues of today and tomorrow. The program emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and empirical methods to analyze economic phenomena at local, national, and global levels. Students will have opportunities to study microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and special topics such as environmental economics, development economics, and financial economics. The curriculum is structured to foster critical thinking, quantitative analysis skills, and an understanding of economic policy implications.

The Bachelor's degree in Economics typically spans three years, with the possibility to pursue further specialization or a Master's program afterwards. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their coursework according to their interests and career goals. Practical skills are developed through coursework involving data analysis, modeling, and interpretation of economic data, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for careers in consultancy, finance, public administration, or research.

The teaching language is primarily German, but some courses and resources are available in English, making the program accessible to international students. The university promotes small class sizes to encourage interaction, personalized feedback, and close collaboration with professors. In addition to traditional lectures and seminars, students participate in workshops, case studies, and project work, which enhance their analytical and communicative abilities.

Research in the Department of Economics at the University of Bern is active and globally recognized, with faculty involved in various international research networks. Students benefit from this vibrant academic environment through seminars, guest lectures, and participation in research projects, which deepen their understanding of current economic issues. The university also fosters international exchanges and collaborations, providing students with opportunities to broaden their perspectives through study abroad programs.

Graduates of the Economics program from the University of Bern are well-prepared for a variety of professional paths, including roles in economic consulting, policy advising, financial institutions, and international organizations. Many alumni pursue advanced studies or research careers, contributing to academia or public policy development. The program's strong emphasis on analytical skills, economic theory, and practical application ensures students are equipped to interpret and influence economic decisions in a rapidly changing world.

In summary, the Economics program at the University of Bern combines a solid theoretical foundation with practical skills, promotes international perspectives, and provides a supportive academic environment. It aims to develop capable economists who can critically analyze economic problems and contribute effectively to society across various sectors.