Information for new students
Welcome new students to Switzerland and congratulations on your acceptance to FUS. We are thrilled that you will be joining our international community. It is our goal, and mission, to ensure that you have an inspired, challenged, and enlightened experience here, and we hope you participate in all of the great learning opportunities that Franklin has to offer both in the classroom and beyond. It will be a life-changing time for you that will shape the way you interact with the world from here forward.
OUR CAMPUS
FUS sweet home. Discover every corner of our multicultural campus in the heart of Europe through our virtual tour. Providing students with a safe environment in which to live and learn, and keeping students, parents, and employees well informed about campus security are among our top priorities.
HOUSING
Living in the residences on Franklin University Switzerland is a great opportunity to make your first friends on campus and adjust to living alone. There are seven residence halls at Franklin, and each one has a trained Resident Assistant.
No matter which type of room and residence you live in, you will see that Franklin’s residences are the perfect environment for writing your own story. All residential students must read and sign the Housing Agreement each year and follow the Code of Conduct and all policies outlined in the Student Handbook.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
As a liberal arts university, Franklin University Switzerland offers you more courses in a wider array of subjects than other international universities. Our core curriculum has a much stronger focus on language and interdisciplinary study. You will have more options in terms of Majors and Minors. You can even customize your own academic plan. FUS has both U.S. and Swiss accreditations, so if you’re only with us a short time, your credits have a high likelihood to transfer.
Browse through the FUS offer of undergraduate majors and minors providing an increasingly focused path towards advanced knowledge and competency in specific fields of study. Select from a wide range of disciplines including:
- History
- International relations
- Communication and Media Studies
- Finance
- Political Science
- Environmental studies
- Art History and Visual Culture
- and much more!
At Franklin University Switzerland (FUS), you’ll have a unique set of academic opportunities, like our signature program, Academic Travel: study in a new country for two weeks every semester. That isn’t the only thing that sets us apart though. Our professors use real-world experiences to teach you the practical skills you’ll need in your career. We host industry experts to talk about current and emerging trends, so you’re better prepared.
What’s more, Franklin offers opportunities for honors students, for students that may need some additional preparation, and for displaced persons needing additional support to begin or continue university study.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Every moment spent on campus, whether studying or relaxing, becomes a learning experience. We offer multicultural events, clubs, and activities to help grow your international competence and confidence.
Franklin has something for everyone! Whether you like gardening, yoga, or discussing current political issues, you can find a student club to join on campus. We also have clubs dedicated to the culture and traditions of different regions of the world. A great way of connecting with people from your country and exploring new customs and cuisines.
WELCOMING NEW STUDENTS
Franklin University Switzerland is a small, international university located in the southern Swiss city of Lugano. Founded in 1969, Franklin was among the first institutions to bring American Liberal Arts education to Europe. It is the only liberal arts university in the world accredited in the United States (MSCHE) and Switzerland. It is the only university in Switzerland that offers a flexible, interdisciplinary, experiential-learning education, placing Academic Travel at the core of its curriculum.
ORIENTATION FOR NEW STUDENTS
Franklin’s Orientation program is an important opportunity for new students to make friends and begin their time at Franklin. The program includes informational, cultural, and social sessions that we hope will help students and their families get a solid start as members of the Franklin family. Participants will meet the administration, faculty, staff, and students; tour the campus and the surrounding area; and share their first meals with new friends and classmates. Orientation provides a memorable introduction to one's student experience and the exciting, multicultural Franklin community.