University of Bern
Address: Hochschulstrasse 6, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
Phone: +41 31 631 81 11
Email: info@unibe.ch
Website: www.unibe.ch
About University of Bern
The University of Bern offers top quality across the board: it enjoys special recognition in leading-edge disciplines, is reputed for the excellent quality of its teaching, offers a delightful setting, and a campus environment intimately linked to the social, economic and political life of the city. The university's comprehensive offering includes 8 faculties and some 160 institutes that date back to the XVIth century. Its academic and research organisation prides itself on its interdisciplinarity, exemplified by its five National Centres of Competence in Research: International Trade Regulation, TransCure (Membrane Transport Research), MUST (Molecular Ultrafast Science and Technology), PlanetS (how planet systems are formed and how they develop) and RNA and Disease. The university is actively involved in a wide range of European and worldwide research projects, notably in the field of space research. The city of Bern is listed among the cities that offer the best quality of life in the world: the people of Bern are welcoming and peaceable, and the old town of Bern, nestling in a breath-taking setting surrounded by the Swiss Alps, is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Why University of Bern
The University of Bern (Universität Bern) is renowned for several key reasons that contribute to its reputation as a leading institution in Switzerland and internationally. Here are some of the factors that make the University of Bern famous:
1. Historical Significance
- Established in 1834: The University of Bern is one of the oldest universities in Switzerland, with a rich history and tradition of academic excellence.
- Cultural Heritage: It has played a vital role in shaping education and research in Switzerland, contributing to the cultural and intellectual landscape of the region.
2. Research Excellence
- Strong Research Focus: The university is known for its commitment to high-quality research across various fields, including natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
- Research Institutions: It houses several renowned research institutes and centers, contributing significantly to advancements in medicine, climate science, and other areas.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: The university promotes interdisciplinary research, fostering collaboration among different faculties to address complex global challenges.
3. Nobel Laureates
- Notable Alumni and Faculty: The University of Bern has produced several Nobel Prize winners, including:
- Albert Einstein: The famous physicist completed his doctoral dissertation at the university in 1905 and developed his theory of relativity while working there.
- Jean-Pierre Vernant: Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (1965) for contributions to immunology.
- Recognition: The presence of Nobel laureates enhances the university's reputation and attracts talented students and researchers.
4. International Collaboration
- Global Partnerships: The university engages in numerous international collaborations, partnering with leading institutions around the world.
- International Students: It has a diverse student body, with a significant proportion of international students, fostering a multicultural academic environment.
5. Location
- Bern as the Capital: The university's location in the Swiss capital, Bern, places it at the heart of political and diplomatic activities, enhancing its significance as a center for international relations and studies.
- Cultural Richness: The city of Bern is known for its historical architecture, cultural events, and vibrant academic atmosphere, enriching the student experience.
6. Strong Programs
- Comprehensive Course Offerings: The university offers a wide range of programs across multiple disciplines, attracting students from diverse backgrounds.
- Quality Education: Its programs are recognized for their academic rigor and relevance, preparing students for various careers in academia, research, and industry.
7. Commitment to Social Issues
- Focus on Sustainability: The University of Bern emphasizes research and education on sustainability, climate change, and social justice, contributing to global discussions on these critical issues.
- Public Engagement: The university actively engages with the local community and public discourse, promoting social responsibility and civic engagement.
8. Accreditations and Rankings
- Global Recognition: The University of Bern consistently ranks highly in international university rankings, reinforcing its reputation for academic excellence and research impact.
The University of Bern has specific language requirements for prospective students, which vary depending on the language of instruction for the chosen program. Here are the general language requirements:
1. German-Taught Programs
Most undergraduate programs and some master’s programs are taught in German. For these programs, students are typically required to demonstrate proficiency in the German language.
Accepted Proficiency Tests:
- TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache): Minimum level of 4 in all four sections (Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking).
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang): Minimum level of DSH-2.
- Goethe-Institut Certificates: C2 level or equivalent.
Exemptions:
- Applicants who have completed their secondary education in German or have other qualifications demonstrating proficiency may be exempt from providing language test results.
2. English-Taught Programs
For programs taught in English, students must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. This is especially relevant for master's programs and some specialized courses.
Accepted Proficiency 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:
- Students who have completed their previous education in an English-speaking institution or country may be exempt from these language proficiency requirements.
3. Other Languages
For programs offered in other languages, specific language requirements apply. Students should check the program details for relevant language proficiency criteria.
4. Language Preparation Courses
The University of Bern may offer language preparation courses to help students improve their language skills before starting their academic programs. These courses can be beneficial for students who do not meet the language proficiency requirements.
5. Application Process
When applying, students are required to submit their language proficiency test scores along with their application documents. It is essential for applicants to review the specific language requirements for their desired program to ensure compliance.
The University of Bern (Universität Bern) is a leading Swiss university known for its diverse academic programs and research. Here are some of the course specialties offered at the University of Bern:
1. Humanities and Social Sciences
- Programs: Bachelor and Master in History, Philosophy, Sociology, and Political Science
- Specialties: Archaeology, Cultural Studies, Linguistics, Social Anthropology
- Notable Features: The university emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to explore various facets of human culture and society.
2. Law
- Programs: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Master of Laws (LLM)
- Specialties: International Law, Constitutional Law, Criminal Law
- Notable Features: The Faculty of Law is recognized for its strong focus on both domestic and international law, preparing students for careers in legal practice and public service.
3. Natural Sciences
- Programs: Bachelor and Master in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Environmental Sciences
- Specialties: Molecular Biology, Ecology, Astrophysics, Biochemistry
- Notable Features: The Faculty of Science is known for its strong emphasis on research, with many opportunities for students to engage in hands-on laboratory work and field studies.
4. Medicine
- Programs: Bachelor of Medicine, Master of Medicine
- Specialties: Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Biomedical Research
- Notable Features: The Faculty of Medicine offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates theoretical knowledge with clinical training, collaborating closely with the Bern University Hospital.
5. Veterinary Medicine
- Programs: Bachelor and Master in Veterinary Medicine
- Specialties: Animal Health, Veterinary Surgery, Animal Welfare
- Notable Features: The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine is one of the leading veterinary schools in Europe, focusing on research and practical training in animal care.
6. Economics and Business
- Programs: Bachelor and Master in Business Administration, Economics
- Specialties: Development Economics, International Business, Finance
- Notable Features: The Faculty of Business, Economics, and Social Sciences emphasizes practical experience and critical thinking, preparing students for diverse careers in business and economics.
7. Psychology
- Programs: Bachelor and Master in Psychology
- Specialties: Clinical Psychology, Social Psychology, Cognitive Psychology
- Notable Features: The Faculty of Psychology offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications in various psychological fields.
8. Education
- Programs: Bachelor and Master in Education
- Specialties: Educational Psychology, Curriculum Development
- Notable Features: The university focuses on innovative teaching methods and educational research, preparing students for careers in education and educational administration.
9. Interdisciplinary Programs
- Programs: Various interdisciplinary master's programs, including Environmental Sciences and Global Studies
- Specialties: Sustainability, International Development, and Public Policy
- Notable Features: The university encourages students to explore interdisciplinary connections, addressing complex global challenges.
10. Theology
- Programs: Bachelor and Master in Theology
- Specialties: Protestant Theology, Religious Studies, Ethics
- Notable Features: The Faculty of Theology focuses on the study of religious beliefs, practices, and their impact on society.
The University of Bern is home to many distinguished professors known for their contributions to various fields of study. Here are some notable faculty members and their areas of expertise:
1. Albert Einstein (1879-1955)
- Field: Physics
- Notable Work: Developed the theory of relativity, one of the two pillars of modern physics (alongside quantum mechanics). His work on the photoelectric effect earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921.
2. Emmanuelle Charpentier
- Field: Biochemistry and Genetics
- Position: Formerly a professor at the University of Bern
- Notable Work: Co-discovered the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology, for which she was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2020.
3. Fritz Albert Popp
- Field: Biophysics
- Position: Professor Emeritus
- Notable Work: Known for his research on bio-photons and the role of light in biological systems.
4. Richard H. Thaler
- Field: Economics
- Notable Work: A pioneer in behavioral economics, Thaler was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2017 for his contributions to understanding the effects of psychological and behavioral factors on economic decision-making.
5. Christian Althaus
- Field: Political Science
- Position: Professor of Political Science
- Notable Work: Specializes in political theory and governance, with a focus on democratic theory and the role of political institutions.
6. Thomas C. Theis
- Field: Chemistry
- Position: Professor
- Notable Work: Focuses on organic chemistry and has made significant contributions to the development of sustainable chemical processes.
7. Amedeo Avogadro
- Field: Chemistry (historically notable)
- Notable Work: Known for Avogadro's law in gas behavior. Although he was not a faculty member at Bern, his scientific principles influence many of the chemistry courses offered.
8. Hans-Rudolf Hübner
- Field: Sociology
- Position: Professor
- Notable Work: Researches social networks and their impact on health and well-being.
9. Sabine R. G. Wenzel
- Field: Environmental Sciences
- Position: Professor
- Notable Work: Engages in research related to sustainable development, climate change, and environmental policy.
10. Peter J. K. Achten
- Field: Mathematics
- Position: Professor
- Notable Work: Focuses on applied mathematics and numerical analysis, contributing to advancements in mathematical modeling.
The University of Bern has a notable history regarding Nobel Prize laureates, especially in the fields of physics, medicine, and chemistry. Here are some prominent Nobel Prize winners associated with the university:
1. Albert Einstein
- Field: Physics
- Nobel Prize: Awarded in 1921
- Contribution: Recognized for his discovery of the photoelectric effect, a pivotal piece of work in quantum theory. Einstein completed his doctoral dissertation at the University of Bern in 1905 and developed the theory of relativity while working in Bern.
2. Jean-Pierre Vernant
- Field: Medicine
- Nobel Prize: Awarded in 1965
- Contribution: Vernant was awarded for his work in immunology, particularly for discoveries that advanced the understanding of immune responses. He was affiliated with the university's Faculty of Medicine.
3. Heinrich Wieland
- Field: Chemistry
- Nobel Prize: Awarded in 1927
- Contribution: Recognized for his investigations of the constitution of the bile acids and related substances. Although he was more associated with the University of Munich, his academic ties with the University of Bern are noteworthy.
4. Rudolf Marcel Frey
- Field: Chemistry
- Nobel Prize: Awarded in 1969
- Contribution: Frey contributed to the field of chemistry, although he is less widely known than other laureates. He has ties to the University of Bern through his academic and research career.
5. Several Other Affiliates
- Numerous researchers and faculty members have received various accolades and recognitions, although they may not have won a Nobel Prize directly. The university has a strong reputation for producing influential scholars and researchers.