FFHS vs FernUni Hagen
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.
FFHS or FernUni Hagen: which one suits whom?
Hagen is a state university in Germany and very cheap over the whole course of study. FFHS is a university of applied sciences, more practice-oriented and with classroom teaching in Switzerland. Both have fixed semesters. Both offer computer science, law and psychology, engineering and health only FFHS.
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.
FFHS and FernUni Hagen in detail
The same criteria for both, every entry sourced. The information provided by the university is binding.
| Criterion | FFHS | FernUni Hagen |
|---|---|---|
| Country | CH | DE |
| Operator | federally recognised university of applied sciences (part of SUPSI) | state |
| Location | Brig | Hagen |
| Founded | 1998 | 1974 |
| Format | Blended Learning, online | print-based, online, Blended Learning |
| Start of studies | fixed dates | fixed dates |
| Without Abitur | Yes | Yes |
| Recognition | 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 | State university of the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Bologna-compliant |
| Price level | ||
| Price example | CHF 1,800 per semester (20 ECTS, residence in Switzerland or Liechtenstein) | approx. EUR 2,100 to 2,400 total (Bachelor) |
What the table does not show
Exams. 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. At FernUni Hagen: Mostly written on-site exams at regional and campus centres, some online exams.
Accreditation. 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. FernUni Hagen is institutionally accredited via State university, established by state law (North Rhine-Westphalia), with programme accreditation via Programmes accredited by FIBAA and AQAS (per programme).
Subjects. Both offer Computer Science, Psychology. Only FFHS additionally offers Business, Engineering, Law, Health, Nutrition, E-Learning. Only FernUni Hagen additionally offers Business Administration, Economics, Mathematics, Legal Studies, Educational Science.