Program Details: Zurich University of Applied Sciences- CIS & Engineering
Is this program for me?
ZHAW is one of the leading universities of applied sciences in Switzerland. The university has 8 departments (faculties), one of which is the School of Engineering that serves as the host department of this exchange. There are two options for students to study at ZHAW, Engineering/CIS or Business. This website focuses on the opportunities for Engineering and CIS students. CIS and engineering students are strongly encouraged to consider studying at ZHAW during the Fall semester since there are more courses taught in English. Students with a high proficiency in German may apply to take courses in German during the Fall or Winter (ZHAW's spring) semester. Students interested in taking courses in German must have a proficiency level of B2 to be eligible to take courses in German. This program offers students an excellent opportunity to study and get hands-on experiences at a highly reputable Engineering School in Switzerland. With only a small number of exchange students each year, ZHAW faculty and staff get to know each exchange student. Although the ZHAW semester does not officially end until January, students are allowed to leave in December.
ELIGIBILITY: Open to EE and CE students accepted into the School of Engineering, secondary admission required. This program is also open to all CIS students. Also, students must have a minimum GPA of 2.70. Students must also meet prerequisites prior to participating (see Course Prerequisite section below).
GVSU CONTACTS:
CIS students who are interested in exploring this program should contact Dr. Paul Leidig, Director, School of Computing and Information Systems, [email protected] to discuss course options. Engineering majors who are interested in exploring study options through this program are required to meet with a PCEC Academic Advisor and Dr. Bogdan Adamczyk PRIOR to applying for this program.
ZHAW International Student Website (School of Engineering)
Visa Information
US citizens will be required to apply for a visa and a residence permit for stays longer than 90 days. ZHAW provides some basic information for incoming international students. The Switzerland Visa Guidelines provides information regarding the application process and required documents. Please note that the appropriate consulate or embassy must be consulted for the most up-to-date visa information.
Housing and Meals
ZHAW does not offer on-campus housing; however, there are student residences very close to campus which are easy for students to apply for. Students will apply for housing directly to the student residence of their choosing.
SWOWI is often a popular location for international students; however previous participants have recommended the WOKO complex for those looking to be more integrated with ZHAW degree-seeking students. SWOWI Camp Axa is the closest housing to the School of Engineering campus; although all of the housing complexes are within a reasonable distance to campus.
Meal plans are not common in Switzerland. Students can expect to prepare meals on their own throughout the semester.
Student Accommodations Website
Courses
CIS students should contact Dr. Paul Leidig, Director, School of Computing and Information Systems at [email protected].
EE and CE students take a specific course of study during the fall semester. ZHAW courses will include:
- Signals & Systems (SISY1 - EN) 4 ECTS
- Electricity 3 (ELS-EN) 4 ECTS
- Elektronik 2 (EK2) 4 ECTS
GVSU Course Equivalencies:
EGR 314 Circuit Analysis II ( 4 credits)
EGR 315 Electronic Circuits (4 credits)
EGR 323 Signals and Systems (3 credits)
EGR 399 Readings in Engineering (1 credit)
ZHAW does offer a German language class for students who already have a basic level of German. This is not a introductory class for students who have never studied the language.
Note; This is not a full list of courses offered at this partner Institution.
Campus Information
Winterthur is a small city that is very pedestrian friendly. Students will be able to easily walk to most places such as campus buildings, library, grocery stores, shopping areas, train station, etc. ZHAW has several academic buildings that are in different areas around town. The School of Engineering has several main buildings that are all in the same area. Students will also be just a short 15 minute walk to the main university Library. In Winterthur, students will have an opportunity for full immersion in Swiss life and culture.
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Travel Information
Students typically fly into Zurich airport and take the train to Winterthur main station. The train takes about 10 minutes. From the train station, students are a 5 minute walk from ZHAW's School of Engineering. Get half price on travel in Switzerland with the Halbtax SwissPass. Students will find easy access to trains throughout Switzerland. https://www.sbb.ch/en/home.html