The natural sciences form the foundation for innovations that shape our society and bring about lasting improvements to our quality of life. They open up fascinating career paths at the interface of science, technology and health. The University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW) offers a wide range of degree and continuing education programmes in the natural sciences – situated in the heart of one of Europe’s most significant life sciences regions. Whether biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics or interdisciplinary fields such as pharmacy, medical technology, diagnostics or optometry: our practice-oriented programmes impart future-oriented skills and prepare you optimally for positions of responsibility in business, research and education. State-of-the-art laboratories, experienced lecturers and numerous partnerships with leading companies guarantee you a degree programme at the cutting edge. Discover your opportunities at the FHNW and shape your own career path in the natural sciences with sound knowledge.
Subtopics
Biology and chemistry
Biology and Chemistry form the heart of modern natural sciences. At the FHNW, you will learn to understand biological systems and apply them to industrial processes in the pharmaceutical, food or biotech sectors. The focus is on cell biology, bioanalytics and chemistry as the science of substances and their transformations. You will acquire in-depth knowledge of molecular biology, biochemistry and analytical chemistry, complemented by practical laboratory experience and innovative projects. Our undergraduate and postgraduate programmes qualify you for roles in research, development, production or quality control – promising fields with enormous societal benefits.
Degree programmesContinuing educationDiagnostics
Diagnostic procedures are at the heart of modern medicine and the life sciences. Thanks to biochemical, molecular biological and physical methods, precise analyses and early detection are now possible. At the FHNW, you will delve into methodological expertise and instrumentation, such as bioanalytics or laboratory diagnostics. The strong practical focus and emphasis on current technologies will prepare you optimally for careers in medical diagnostics, the pharmaceutical industry, forensic analysis or research.
Degree programmesContinuing educationOpthalmology and optometry
The field of optometry and optical technology combines scientific knowledge with state-of-the-art medical technology – for the benefit of eye health. The FHNW provides you with targeted preparation for the demands of optometry, vision research and optometric services. You will learn to analyse how vision works, fit visual aids, and operate and interpret diagnostic equipment. With our practice-oriented training and further education programmes, you will lay the foundations for a successful career in optometry, optometry or related areas of the healthcare sector.
Degree programmesContinuing educationPharmaceutical, medical and biotechnology
Innovative developments in pharmacy, medicine and biotechnology are opening up new avenues for health promotion, diagnosis and therapy. At the FHNW, you will be optimally prepared for work at the interface between natural sciences and engineering: on the Biotechnology or Pharmaceutical Technology degree programmes, you will acquire expertise in the manufacture of active ingredients, the development of medicines and sustainable production processes. Through intensive laboratory work and interdisciplinary modules, you will learn to solve current biotechnological and pharmaceutical challenges in a practical way – skills that are in high demand in the rapidly growing life sciences sector.
Degree programmesContinuing educationPhysics and mathematics
Physics and mathematics form the foundation for technological developments and analytical thinking. At FHNW, we impart a solid grounding in mathematics and physics, enabling you to understand processes in chemistry, biology or engineering. The programme is practice-oriented, addresses current issues and trains you to think in terms of interconnections – a definite advantage for problem-solvers in almost all high-tech and industrial sectors. Take the opportunity to deepen your expertise in physics and mathematics in a targeted manner and thus qualify for challenging careers in science, industry and teaching.
Degree programmesContinuing educationFurther topics

Computer science and data science

Environment and sustainability

