How Switzerland creates a unique learning experience, combining nature with top education

6 December 2025

What if your classroom could be out of four walls, amidst mountains, lakes, and real projects? That is what many international students find when they choose Switzerland for higher study. Most universities in the country blend strong academics with relevant outdoor learning. This blend adds to knowledge, building confidence, adaptability, and also a better grasp of global issues.

Swiss schools have revised the concept of teaching and learning in the direction of more practical research, group projects, and direct observation. Instead of just reading about theories, students apply them in fieldwork studies, environment-based studies, and community tasks. This blend of formal study with experiences in nature makes Switzerland stand apart because learning seems so real.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we guide students to find countries that offer more than just the usual education. You’ll find in Switzerland that nature will form part of your learning experience and that you will be able to develop both academically and as a person during your time at school there.

The Swiss system of higher education provides a unique alternative to traditional academic degrees: an alternative model that enables students to develop their global knowledge through outdoor learning. The concept of innovative lessons promotes outdoor work as part of a more holistic approach to education. Nature-based classes or courses; therefore, innovative lessons can be provided in the form of outdoor educational experiences in the form of environmental projects or sustainability projects that take place in natural settings like forests, wetlands, aquatic ecosystems, or urban parks. Connecting classroom-based learning to real-life application will help students gain employability skills that they can use today.

Not only do Switzerland’s geographical features shape how it approaches education; however, they also play an integral role in the education students will receive during their time there through Exploration & Discovery (e.g., Sustainability Studies, Environmental Research, Tourism Management-Hospitality Management).

For many international students, this method allows for a more complete experience where balance is found between study and research while still allowing one to have a fulfilled life enjoying learning, travel, and the many other joys of existence. There are many other universities that have established themselves with high-quality, research-driven curricula that have well-defined and updated standards. Put this together with Experiential Learning, and students gain knowledge along with practical experience. This blend is very useful for those planning for international careers where global awareness and flexibility matter just as much as textbooks.

If you dream about studying somewhere that values learning beyond books, BCES Admissions Abroad can guide you to Swiss universities that fit your goals and interests. Get in touch with BCES Admissions Abroad for personalized support in guidance and a smooth admission process.