Franklin University Switzerland is updating its institutional name and will operate as Franklin Switzerland going forward. This change reflects developments in the Swiss higher education framework established under the Higher Education Act (HEdA) and is accompanied by a revised visual identity.

The Swiss higher education system is organized around three main institutional types: Universities, Universities of Applied Sciences, and Universities of Teacher Education. Alongside these, the official Swiss list of accredited institutions also includes a fourth grouping of “other institutions of the higher education sector.” Franklin appears in this group with the designation “University Institute.” This designation signals that Franklin is an institutionally accredited higher education institution operating in the university domain, but with a distinct institutional profile compared to the comprehensive public universities. It places Franklin within the nationally recognized and accredited system, while distinguishing its scale, focus, and mission from the publicly funded universities (federal and cantonal). The full list of accredited Swiss Institutions can be found here: https://www.swissuniversities.ch/en/topics/studying/accredited-swiss-higher-education-institutions

Key points

  • Franklin is institutionally accredited under Swiss federal law (HEdA), alongside all recognized higher education institutions in Switzerland.
  • The designation “university institute” identifies Franklin’s position within the Swiss system based on institutional profile, not academic level or quality.
  • This designation places Franklin within the accredited higher education sector while distinguishing it from the comprehensive public universities.

What this means for Franklin

  • Degrees remain fully accredited and recognized.
  • Academic programs and curriculum are unchanged. Franklin continues to offer degrees at every level: Bachelors, Masters, and PhD.
  • The student experience and faculty structure remain the same.
  • Franklin continues to operate with dual accreditation in Switzerland and the United States.

Why the name and logo are changing

The updated name and logo ensure alignment with Franklin’s classification within the Swiss higher education framework and provide consistency in how the institution is represented.

These changes are administrative in nature and do not indicate any shift in mission, academic direction, or institutional priorities.

Continuity for students and alumni

For current students and alumni, there is no impact on the validity or recognition of Franklin degrees. Academic records, transcripts, and credentials continue to reflect accredited programs within both systems.

Franklin’s academic model, including its liberal arts approach and international orientation, remains unchanged.

Quick facts about Franklin

Established in 1969 as a non-profit, independent institution, Franklin College earned its four-year accreditation from Middle States in 1986. Following institutional accreditation from the Swiss University Conference in 2013, it was renamed Franklin University Switzerland. In 2026, the institution transitioned to the name Franklin Switzerland, operating as a recognized university institute while upholding its unique dual accreditation in both Switzerland and the United States.

Additional information and answers to common questions are available on our FAQ page.