FernFH vs FFHS
Two distance-learning universities side by side, by the same criteria and with the same primary sources, so you can see where they really differ.
FernFH or FFHS: which one suits whom?
The distance universities of applied sciences of Austria and Switzerland in direct comparison. Both rely on blended learning with fixed semesters: FernFH with three attendance phases per semester, FFHS with typically two Saturdays per month. FernFH is federally funded and clearly cheaper, FFHS has the broader range, with engineering, law and health.
Subject information refers to the focus areas recorded in this portal, not to the complete programme catalogue. Which university suits your situation depends on prior education, available time and goal.
FernFH and FFHS in detail
The same criteria for both, every entry sourced. The information provided by the university is binding.
| Criterion | FernFH | FFHS |
|---|---|---|
| Country | AT | CH |
| Operator | state-recognised distance university of applied sciences (Austria), federally funded | federally recognised university of applied sciences (part of SUPSI) |
| Location | Wiener Neustadt | Brig |
| Founded | 2006 | 1998 |
| Format | online, Blended Learning | Blended Learning, online |
| Start of studies | fixed dates | fixed dates |
| Without Abitur | Yes | Yes |
| Recognition | State-recognised university of applied sciences (Austria), federally funded, Bologna-compliant | Federally recognised university of applied sciences (Switzerland), part of SUPSI; admission with the Matura, without the Matura from age 25 with professional experience via an entrance examination |
| Price level | ||
| Price example | EUR 363.36/semester | CHF 1,800 per semester (20 ECTS, residence in Switzerland or Liechtenstein) |
What the table does not show
Exams. At FernFH: Blended learning: online self-study independent of time and place plus three on-site phases per semester (two days each, also virtual). At FFHS: Blended learning: around 80 percent guided self-study via Moodle plus classroom teaching (typically two Saturdays per month); exam fees included in the semester fee.
Accreditation. FernFH is institutionally accredited via AQ Austria, recognition as a university of applied sciences in 2018, with programme accreditation via Federally funded Bachelor's and Master's programmes accredited by AQ Austria. FFHS is institutionally accredited via Swiss Accreditation Council, 2021 (institutional accreditation of FFHS and SUPSI, valid 2021 to 2028), with programme accreditation via No separate programme accreditation required, covered by the institutional accreditation.
Subjects. Only FernFH additionally offers Business Psychology, Business Administration, Business Informatics, Information Technology, Digital Health Management, Aging Services Management. Only FFHS additionally offers Computer Science, Business, Engineering, Law, Psychology, Health, Nutrition, E-Learning.