University of Bern

The University of Bern’s vision is Knowledge creates value.

Its origins go back to the 16th century: during the Reformation, Bern needed a place to educate new priests in a higher education setting. In 1805, the government reorganized higher education and transformed the former School of Theology into an Academy with four faculties. From then on, not only ministers but also lawyers and physicians could complete their full education in Bern.
In 1834, the Academy became a university, initially offering education to 167 students with 45 lecturers, keeping entry requirements low and allowing access for people from various social classes. By 1885, student numbers exceeded 500, and by 1900 the University of Bern had become Switzerland’s largest university at that time, with foreign students—including pioneering female Russian students—making up half the population. The early 20th century saw notable figures at the university, including later Nobel laureates Einstein and Kocher.

In 2025, the University of Bern counted 19,741 students: 8,014 (41%) at Bachelor’s level, 5,213 (26%) at Master’s level, 3,588 (18%) at doctoral level, and 2,926 (15%) in further education.

For in-depth information please visit the university's website.

Source: Uni Bern Portrait History and Vision