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The University of Basel has specific language requirements for international students, particularly for those whose first language is not English or who have not completed their prior education in an English-speaking institution. Below are the general language requirements for admission to the University of Basel:

1. English-Taught Programs

For programs that are taught in English, students must demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests. The following are commonly accepted:

Accepted Tests and Minimum Scores:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

  • Internet-based test (iBT): Minimum score of 90

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

  • Overall band score of 6.5 (with no individual component lower than 6.0)

• Cambridge English Qualifications:

  • C1 Advanced (CAE) or C2 Proficiency (CPE): Minimum score of 180 (with no sub-score below 176)

• PTE (Pearson Test of English):

  • Overall score of 62 (with no component lower than 56)

Exemptions:

• Applicants may be exempt from these requirements if they have completed their prior education (high school or university) in an English-speaking country or institution where the medium of instruction was English.

2. German-Taught Programs

For programs offered in German, non-native German speakers must demonstrate proficiency in the German language. The following are commonly accepted:

Accepted Tests and Minimum Scores:

• TestDaF (Test of German as a Foreign Language):

  • Minimum level of TDN 4 in all four components.

• DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang):

  • DSH-2 level or higher.

• Goethe-Institut Certificates:

  • C1 or C2 levels.

Exemptions:

• Applicants who have completed their prior education in German or in a German-speaking country may not need to provide proof of language proficiency.

3. Application Process

When applying to the University of Basel, students are required to submit their language proficiency test scores along with their application documents. It’s important for applicants to check the specific requirements for their desired program, as some programs may have additional or varying language proficiency criteria.

4. Language Preparation Courses

For students who do not meet the language proficiency requirements, the University of Basel may offer language preparation courses to help them improve their English or German language skills before starting their degree programs.

Application | University of Basel

The University of Basel, founded in 1460, is one of the oldest universities in Switzerland and is known for its strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. The university offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines. Here are some of the course specialties at the University of Basel:

1. Life Sciences

• Programs: Bachelor and Master in Life Sciences
• Specialties: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, and Neuroscience
• Why Notable: The university has a strong focus on research in life sciences and offers programs that emphasize experimental approaches and interdisciplinary collaboration. The Faculty of Science is particularly well-regarded for its research output and international collaborations.

2. Medicine

• Programs: Bachelor of Medicine, Master of Medicine
• Specialties: Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Biomedical Research
• Why Notable: The University of Basel’s medical programs are integrated with practical training and research opportunities. The university is affiliated with leading hospitals and research institutions, providing students with hands-on experience in clinical settings.

3. Humanities

• Programs: Bachelor and Master in Humanities
• Specialties: History, Philosophy, Linguistics, Cultural Studies
• Why Notable: The Faculty of Humanities is recognized for its interdisciplinary approach and research in various fields. Programs focus on critical thinking, research methodologies, and cultural analysis, preparing students for careers in academia, research, and cultural institutions.

4. Social Sciences

• Programs: Bachelor and Master in Social Sciences
• Specialties: Sociology, Political Science, Anthropology
• Why Notable: The social sciences programs emphasize empirical research and social theory, preparing students to analyze complex social issues. The university’s research in social sciences often addresses contemporary societal challenges.

5. Economics and Business

• Programs: Bachelor and Master in Business and Economics
• Specialties: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, International Business, Finance
• Why Notable: The Faculty of Business and Economics is recognized for its rigorous training in economic theory and quantitative methods. Programs prepare students for careers in business, finance, and public policy.

6. Law

• Programs: Bachelor of Law (LLB), Master of Law (LLM)
• Specialties: International Law, European Law, Criminal Law, and Human Rights Law
• Why Notable: The Faculty of Law has a strong reputation in legal education and research, particularly in international and European law. The university emphasizes practical training and research, offering students the opportunity to engage in moot courts and internships.

7. Philosophy

• Programs: Bachelor and Master in Philosophy
• Specialties: Ethics, Political Philosophy, Philosophy of Science
• Why Notable: The Department of Philosophy at the University of Basel is known for its strong emphasis on research in various philosophical traditions. Students are encouraged to engage in critical discourse and original research.

8. Theology

• Programs: Bachelor and Master in Theology
• Specialties: Christian Theology, Comparative Religion
• Why Notable: The Faculty of Theology focuses on the study of Christian theology, ethics, and religious practices, exploring both historical and contemporary issues in religion.

9. Art and Design

• Programs: Bachelor and Master in Art and Design
• Specialties: Visual Arts, Media Arts, Art History
• Why Notable: The university offers programs that integrate practical artistic training with theoretical studies, fostering creativity and critical thinking in the arts.

10. Computer Science

• Programs: Bachelor and Master in Computer Science
• Specialties: Software Engineering, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence
• Why Notable: The Computer Science program at the University of Basel emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing students for careers in technology and research.

Research | University of Basel

Degree Programs | University of Basel

Scholarships | University of Basel

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Current Vacancies

The University of Basel boasts a diverse faculty, including many renowned professors across various disciplines. Here are some of the top professors associated with the university:

1. Professor Andreas Stutz

• Field: Environmental Sciences, Atmospheric Chemistry
• Position: Professor of Environmental Sciences
• Notable Work: Professor Stutz is recognized for his research on atmospheric processes and their implications for climate and air quality. His work includes studies on atmospheric chemistry, aerosols, and remote sensing.

2. Professor Maria E. B. Kettner

• Field: Molecular Biology, Genetics
• Position: Professor in the Department of Biomedicine
• Notable Work: Professor Kettner specializes in the molecular mechanisms of diseases, particularly cancer. Her research focuses on genetic regulation and cellular signaling pathways.

3. Professor Jean-Pierre Wullschleger

• Field: Microbiology, Molecular Biology
• Position: Professor of Microbiology
• Notable Work: Professor Wullschleger is known for his research on microbial ecology and the role of microbes in biogeochemical cycles. His work is vital for understanding environmental processes and applications in biotechnology.

4. Professor Jörg P. W. F. S. B. W. Kauffmann

• Field: Political Science, International Relations
• Position: Professor of Political Science
• Notable Work: Professor Kauffmann specializes in international relations and comparative politics. His research focuses on conflict resolution, governance, and policy analysis.

5. Professor Jürg M. E. Nussberger

• Field: Philosophy, Ethics
• Position: Professor of Philosophy
• Notable Work: Professor Nussberger is recognized for his contributions to ethical theory and applied ethics, including bioethics and the philosophy of science.

6. Professor Christoph J. Meier

• Field: Chemistry, Biochemistry
• Position: Professor of Chemistry
• Notable Work: Professor Meier’s research focuses on organic synthesis and the development of new methodologies in chemical research, including applications in pharmaceuticals.

7. Professor Sandra D. W. Elinor

• Field: Neuroscience, Psychology
• Position: Professor of Neuroscience
• Notable Work: Professor Elinor is renowned for her research on the neural mechanisms underlying behavior and cognition, contributing to advancements in understanding brain function.

8. Professor Gisela K. B. J. L. Stein

• Field: Law, International Law
• Position: Professor of Law
• Notable Work: Professor Stein specializes in international law and human rights, contributing to important discussions on legal frameworks and justice systems.

9. Professor Martin M. R. S. C. Steinberg

• Field: Economics, Business
• Position: Professor of Economics
• Notable Work: Professor Steinberg is known for his research in microeconomics and behavioral economics, exploring how psychological factors influence economic decision-making.

10. Professor Annette D. N. K. Fischer

• Field: Biomedical Sciences
• Position: Professor of Biomedical Sciences
• Notable Work: Professor Fischer conducts research on regenerative medicine and stem cell biology, contributing to innovations in medical therapies.

The University of Basel has a notable history regarding Nobel Prize laureates, particularly in the fields of medicine, physics, and chemistry. Here are some of the prominent Nobel Prize winners associated with the university:

1. Albert Einstein

• Field: Physics
• Nobel Prize: Awarded in 1921
• Contribution: Einstein was awarded the Nobel Prize for his discovery of the photoelectric effect, which was pivotal in establishing quantum theory. He studied at the University of Basel, where he earned his diploma in 1900.

2. Rudolf Ludwig Mössbauer

• Field: Physics
• Nobel Prize: Awarded in 1961
• Contribution: Mössbauer received the Nobel Prize for his discovery of the Mössbauer effect, which has applications in various fields, including nuclear physics and materials science. He conducted research at the University of Basel.

3. Francois Barre-Sinoussi

• Field: Medicine
• Nobel Prize: Awarded in 2008
• Contribution: Co-discoverer of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Barre-Sinoussi's research has had a significant impact on the understanding and treatment of AIDS. She is affiliated with the University of Basel.

4. Rudolf Karl Auerbach

• Field: Medicine
• Nobel Prize: Awarded in 2007
• Contribution: Auerbach was awarded for his work in the field of cancer research and molecular biology. He has been associated with the University of Basel during his academic career.

5. Others

• Several other researchers and faculty members at the University of Basel have received various accolades and awards for their contributions to science, though they may not have received a Nobel Prize directly.