FAQ – Frequently asked questions Master of Science in Business Administration

No, this Master’s programme is also open to applicants holding a Bachelor’s degree in another field. Experience has shown that having students from different academic backgrounds greatly enriches discussions and perspectives throughout the programme. Depending on your prior education, you may, however, be required to complete certain preparatory courses (Pre-Master’s Modules) before final admission.

Close

The programme is open to students with a Bachelor’s degree from a non-business-related discipline. However, as the Master’s curriculum builds on knowledge typically acquired at Bachelor level in Business Administration, those students may need to complete additional Pre-Master’s Modules alongside their studies. These modules are designed to fill potential gaps in business knowledge, ensuring that all students begin the programme with the foundational understanding required to succeed.

Typically, the Pre-Master’s Modules are taken in parallel with the Master’s courses during the first and second semesters. Students with a greater number of required modules may dedicate an entire semester to completing them. Detailed information about the Pre-Master’s Modules can be found here.

Close

Yes. If you have already completed equivalent coursework in another Master’s programme, you may apply to have these credits recognised in full or in part. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Credits from Bachelor’s studies or from continuing education programmes cannot be transferred.

Close

Start in autumn semester: 30 April
Start in spring semester: For Swiss and EU/EFTA applicants, registration is possible until further notice. For applicants requiring a visa, an application for the spring is no longer possible.

Close

The interview serves three main purposes: first, to learn more about your motivation for pursuing the degree and to assess how well you might fit into the programme; second, to determine whether your prior education meets all admission requirements or whether additional preparation (Pre-Master’s Modules – see here) is needed. Third, it gives you the opportunity to ask questions and explore how the major aligns with your career goals.

Close

Yes. In English-taught modules, you may write individual assessments in German if you wish. The only exceptions are group projects or oral presentations delivered in class. In most majors, you can also choose to write your Master’s thesis in either English or German, taking into account both your own language preference and that of your thesis supervisor or partner organisation.

Close

For all English-taught majors, non-native speakers are generally required to provide proof of English proficiency at C1 level. Details can be found on the relevant page for each major.

Close

Classes are generally held on Mondays and Tuesdays, with occasional exceptions for seminars, study weeks or examinations. Pre-Master’s Modules usually take place on Wednesdays and Thursdays. You will receive your official timetable before the start of the semester.

Classes for the optional Minor in Data Science take place on Thursdays and Fridays. The exact schedule depends on your module selection.

Close

Teaching takes place primarily on campus. Personal interaction and in-class discussions are considered key to the success of the Master’s experience and are highly valued by our students. There may be occasional online sessions for specific modules; these will be announced in advance.

Close

Yes – in fact, combining professional activity with your studies is encouraged, as it helps you apply what you learn directly in practice. However, you should ensure that your workload allows sufficient time and energy for your studies. Experience shows that working up to 50% (part-time) alongside the Master’s programme is manageable. A higher workload, however, can make it challenging to balance study, work and personal life. We therefore recommend not exceeding this level.

If you wish or need to work more than 50%, it is advisable to plan for an extended study period (for example, six instead of four semesters). Your major coordinator will be happy to advise and support you with your individual study plan.

Close

A Master’s degree is academically demanding and requires significant time for reading, research, and writing assignments. This is another reason why we recommend limiting employment to a maximum of 50%.

Close

Professional experience is certainly beneficial, as it allows you to connect theory with practice. However, it is not a formal requirement. The only prerequisites for admission are a recognised Bachelor’s degree and a successful admission interview.

Close

At HSLU, we place great emphasis on both research-based and practice-oriented teaching. With our strong focus on teaching quality (e.g., FT Ranking, AACSB accreditation), you can expect a high academic standard and an engaging learning environment.

Close

Yes, you have the opportunity to complete an exchange semester abroad. HSLU maintains a global network of partner universities. Further information can be found here. Please note that studying abroad may extend your total study duration.

Even if you complete your entire degree in Switzerland, you will benefit from the international diversity of our students, which naturally enhances intercultural competence.

Close

HSLU does not offer scholarships. However, tuition fees in Switzerland are comparatively low thanks to substantial public funding, which makes total study costs very attractive. You will find a sample budget for each major on our website, giving an overview of typical expenses.

Close

As an HSLU student, you will enjoy discounted meals in our cafeteria, access to a wide range of sports activities, reduced software prices and more. Full details about student benefits are provided at the start of your studies.

Close

HSLU supports its students both during and after their studies. You can find an overview of services and offers here.

Lucerne is a beautiful, compact city that provides everything you need for living and studying. Its stunning location between mountains and lakes makes it an exceptional place to study. If you choose not to live directly in Lucerne, the HSLU campus is ideally located right next to the train station, making commuting easy.

Close

HSLU offers various forms of support, including semester leave during pregnancy, information on family allowances, and on-campus childcare facilities in Lucerne. Further information can be found on our “Study and Family” webpage (only in German).

Close

STUDIRAT is the student council at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts – Business and supports students in achieving a good work-life balance. It organises various events, parties and exam preparation courses, promotes campus spirit and is your point of contact for any questions or concerns you may have about your studies. More information is available on the STUDIRAT website.

Close