BSwiss - Swiss International Business Summer School

Our International Business Summer School offers an intensive programme specialised in studies of international management and economics in a Swiss environment. The two-week seminar about innovation and competitiveness in business is taught in English by internationally experienced lecturers. It focuses on subjects typically taught in the first two years of business application studies: Global Competitiveness, Innovation and International Migration. They are academically challenging with a strong applied management focus. Interactions between students and lecturers are actively encouraged.

Attractive cultural and social events will make the participants’ stay an unforgettable experience. The programme features a guided tour of Basel as well as excursions to cultural and historical sites in the city and beyond; it also includes field trips to different Swiss companies.

Classroom lectures introduce up-to-date business studies topics in an international context. Company visits provide students with first-hand experience related to the theory discussed in the classroom. Cultural and social activities encourage participants to interact and network.

Basel is one of the most successful economic regions in Switzerland and central Europe. Many international companies have their headquarters in Basel: Novartis, Roche, Syngenta, Lonza Group, UBS, Panalpina and Swiss International Airlines. These companies directly recruit employees from our pool of highly qualified and practically-oriented graduates.

The historic city of Basel is more than 2000 years old and the quality of life ranks among the best in the world. Basel is a vibrant centre of cultural activity – a city of theatre, music, museums and festivals. We have the highest density of museums in Europe. The city proudly hosts numerous international trade fairs, such as Baselworld and the world’s largest Art Fair ARTBasel. Modern architecture aficionados will find buildings by Herzog & de Meuron, Mario Botta, Diener & Diener and many more. Basel also has a pulsating nightlife with numerous restaurants, cosy bars, exciting parties and clubbing until dawn.

Located in the middle of Europe, with a world-famous train network and its own international airport nearby, Basel is the ideal starting point for countless travel opportunities.

The programme is open to international and Swiss Bachelor students. Participants must have a minimum of two semesters of business studies and need to be fluent in English (advanced level: European levels B2 written/C1 oral). A letter of motivation, an updated CV and a transcript showing the most recent grades are required.

Places are limited. Please be aware that “early bird catches the worm”.

The programme includes preparatory work, classroom learning, guided self-study and company visits.

The ECTS credits are awarded for:

• Reading preparatory literature (ca. 150 pages)
• Answering questions set by the lecturers based on the preparatory literature
• Participation during the Summer School
• A Review Essay about one of the three main themes of the Summer School 2022 at the end of the Summer School (3 hours)
  
• Completing the survey after the Summer School

On successful completion of the Summer School, participants will receive an official Transcript of Records featuring the ECTS credits achieved.

The Summer School offers accommodation with shared rooms close to the FHNW campus. Breakfast is not included. The accommodation is located in downtown Basel within a quiet and safe atmosphere.

All courses are held at the Basel campus of the FHNW School of Business in modern and well-equipped rooms. Access to quiet study areas, computer facilities and free wireless internet access is provided for all participants.

Liability

FHNW is only responsible for the quality of the programme. It does not act as a travel agency. The liability for all aspects of the travel agreements lies within the responsibility of each participant individually.

Visas

• EU citizens from Western Europe do not need a visa, only a valid passport or Identity card is required.
• EU citizens from Eastern Europe and non-EU should contact the Swiss Embassy or Consulate in their own country and enquire about whether entry permits and visas are required (up to 90 days a tourist visa is ok).
• Switzerland is part of the Schengen area. Please check if you require a Schengen visa. More information.

If students from non-EU countries finish their studies and then decide to travel after the semester, they must ensure their passport or ID card (and visa) is valid for this period after the time of study.

The University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland does not cover visa costs or any cost involved in an unsuccessful application.

Insurance

The students must provide for their own international insurance plan and are personally responsible for all international insurance policies and claims:

• A travel insurance which covers medical costs, liability, accidents and expatriation to your home country in case of emergencies.
• A liability insurance is advisable. Make sure your insurance policy at home covers you abroad.

Clothing

Clothing for summer but also a warm sweater and a (rain) jacket (night min 13 C° / day max 33 C°). You also need sneakers or other good shoes for walking (we will have several walks like the city tour). Don't forget your sunglasses and also an umbrella.
Dress code for company visits; light shirt for men (no tie) and a blouse for women. You should wear comfortable shoes (no high heels are required).

NO blue jeans, jogging trousers, flip-flops, tank-tops, mini-skirts, shorts, etc.

• Tuition: CHF 950
• Visits and cultural events: CHF 400
• Accommodation (if needed): CHF 600

Not included: transport to Basel, health insurance, visa costs, meals, additional individual sightseeing trips and personal expenses.