FFHS vs IU
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 IU: which one suits whom?
A Swiss university of applied sciences against the German market leader. FFHS charges 1,800 francs per semester, with 100 francs per ECTS added for residence abroad. IU charges monthly in euros, allows a start at any time and examines online. If you live in Switzerland and want a federally recognised degree from a university of applied sciences, FFHS is the answer.
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 IU in detail
The same criteria for both, every entry sourced. The information provided by the university is binding.
| Criterion | FFHS | IU |
|---|---|---|
| Country | CH | DE |
| Operator | federally recognised university of applied sciences (part of SUPSI) | private |
| Location | Brig | Erfurt |
| Founded | 1998 | 1998 |
| Format | Blended Learning, online | online, Blended Learning |
| Start of studies | fixed dates | any time |
| 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-recognised (since 1999), Bologna-compliant |
| Price level | ||
| Price example | CHF 1,800 per semester (20 ECTS, residence in Switzerland or Liechtenstein) | from approx. EUR 259/month (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 IU: Flexible online exams around the clock with proctoring; on-site exams at locations possible.
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. IU is institutionally accredited via German Council of Science and Humanities (Wissenschaftsrat) (2009, re-accredited 2021), with programme accreditation via System-accredited by FIBAA (since 2018).
Subjects. Both offer Computer Science, Psychology, Health. Only FFHS additionally offers Business, Engineering, Law, Nutrition, E-Learning. Only IU additionally offers Business Administration, Social Work, Technology, Management, Marketing, Business Informatics.