Economics

The Bachelor of Economics at the University of Zurich offers students a comprehensive foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and real-world application. This undergraduate program is designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in business, finance, public policy, research, and international organizations. Throughout the program, students explore essential topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and economic policy, gaining a deep understanding of how economic systems function and how economic decisions affect society. The curriculum emphasizes analytical skills, critical thinking, and data-driven decision-making, complemented by courses in mathematics, statistics, and computer science to equip students with the necessary tools for rigorous economic analysis.

Students benefit from a rigorous academic environment that combines theoretical foundations with practical experiences. The program fosters an understanding of global economic issues, including market dynamics, fiscal policy, monetary policy, and development economics. Close collaboration with faculty members engaged in cutting-edge research ensures that students are exposed to the latest developments in economic thought and methodology. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches and critical perspectives, enabling graduates to analyze complex economic problems from multiple angles.

In addition to coursework, students have opportunities for internships, research projects, and participation in seminars and workshops that enhance their practical skills and professional network. The University of Zurich’s strong ties with industry and research institutes provide valuable connections for future employment or further study. Graduates of the Bachelor of Economics program are well-prepared for postgraduate studies, including Master's degrees in Economics, Finance, or related fields, or to enter the workforce in consulting firms, governmental agencies, international organizations, or private enterprises. Whether aiming for a career in policy analysis, market research, or academia, students will develop a solid understanding of economic principles and the analytical tools necessary to succeed in a competitive global environment.

1 First Year 

During their first year of doctoral studies, students take core courses in Mathematics, Econometrics, Macroeconomics and Microeconomics. These core courses provide the foundation for the topic or specialization courses taken during the second year, which are held by UZH faculty and by distinguished international scholars. Further, students have the opportunity to present the results of their own research in several specialized seminar series. Finally, there are many weekly research seminars with guest speakers. 

Fall

• Mathematics for Research Students
• Econometrics for Research Students Part I
• Macroeconomics for Research Students Part I
• Microeconomics for Research Students Part I 

Spring 

• Econometrics for Research Students Part II 
• Macroeconomics for Research Students Part II
• Microeconomics for Research Students Part II

In addition to the core courses, we strongly recommend that our students attend the seminar Faculty Research for Graduate Students. The seminar takes place on Mondays from 15.15 to 16.45h and gives doctoral students the opportunity to get to know the faculty members and their research within their first year of studies. 

2 Second Year

While the first year of the program will typically be devoted to the core courses, students in their second year will have the opportunity to work on their dissertation projects along with attending the second year program. A Research Proposal is also part of the program and has to be done within 6 semesters. Students have to choose an advisor/co-advisor at some point in their second year. In accordance with PVO1 2013 § 11, graduate students have to submit the Doctoral agreement to the program coordinator no later than six months after the requirements for assigning a supervisor have been met. Students can download the Doctoral agreement from the departmental intranet. Students are allowed to change their primary advisor according to their research interests, but must notify the program director of any changes. 

3 Third Year and beyond 

3.1 Thesis and Defense

The doctoral thesis can either be a monograph or an accumulation of published research papers. All professors of the Department of Economics can function as a supervisor. The report with a grade for the doctoral thesis will be written by your supervisor and co-supervisor. The final grade for the doctoral thesis is the average grade of the two reports and the student can only pass if both referees grade the doctoral thesis at least 4.0 (“pass”). There will be a public thesis defense: 

• 30 minutes of thesis presentation to the thesis committee 
• 30 minutes of public discussion 

The members of the thesis committee will determine the final grade for the thesis defense. The final grade of the doctoral degree will be a weighted average based on grades obtained for

• thesis defense weight: 1
• doctoral thesis (monograph or three essays) weight: 3 

For admission to the Zurich Graduate School of Economics (ZurichGSE) a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Economics from a university or an equivalent degree with the distinction of summa cum laude or magna cum laude is required. Applicants from other fields will be considered if their academic performance is outstanding.
Degrees from Master of Advanced Studies programs (e.g. MAS, EMBA, MBA, etc.) do not qualify for acceptance to our program.

Students are expected to devote themselves full-time to their programs of study.

It is strongly recommended that applicants take the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) General Test. Applications without GRE will be reviewed, but not submitting GRE test results will be considered a major drawback and must be offset by very strong academic credentials (e.g., high grade point average). Applicants obtaining a university degree from a non-Bologna country have to hand in a GRE in order to have a chance to be admitted.

Proficiency in English is required. No specific test is required, but applicants who have taken the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are encouraged to provide a copy of the official test results. Applicants obtaining a university degree from a non-Bologna country whose native language is not English, have to hand in a recognized English certificate and meet the  minimum requirement of the University of Zurich in order to have a chance to be admitted.

• Curriculum vitae
• Transcripts of academic records (documents in English, German, or French require no translation; documents in any other language must be translated into English or German and certified for official use) 
• A Statement of Purpose concerning your plans for doctoral studies and career objectives. The statement should be written in English and should not exceed 1,500 words.
• One copy of an essay that you have written (a seminar thesis for example, a Master's thesis or a research proposal, etc. The purpose is to get an idea of how your scientific work is)
• Letter of recommendation. You will be asked during your online application to invite referees to submit a letter of recommendation on your behalf and you have to submit at least 2 letters in order to complete your application.

Financing for the Economics degree program at the University of Zurich is supported through a variety of sources, including government-funded scholarships, university-specific grants, student loans, and external funding opportunities. Students typically finance their studies through a combination of personal savings, family support, and financial aid packages. The university offers several merit-based scholarships and financial aid schemes designed to assist students in covering tuition fees and living expenses. For international students, there are specific scholarship programs aimed at promoting diversity and international cooperation. These scholarships often require an application process and are awarded based on academic excellence, financial need, and other criteria set by the university or sponsoring organizations.

In addition to scholarships, numerous loan options are available through Swiss banks and financial institutions, allowing students to access funds during their studies with manageable repayment plans post-graduation. The university also encourages students to seek external funding sources, including government grants from their home countries or international organizations that support higher education. Part-time work opportunities within the university or in the surrounding Zurich area can help students supplement their income during the academic year, although restrictions on work hours may apply according to visa regulations for international students.

The university provides detailed information and guidance on financial planning and available resources through its dedicated student services and financial aid offices. It is advised that students begin planning for their finances early in the application process to explore all possible funding opportunities. Overall, the university aims to make studying Economics as accessible as possible by offering a comprehensive support system for students seeking financial assistance.

Expenses

Living expenses depend very much on the individual student. These figures should therefore be regarded as a guideline only (in CHF): 

The expected minimum cost of living for students therefore comes to a total of CHF 1,750 per month.