ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities, especially in science, technology, and engineering. Located in the German-speaking part of Switzerland, it attracts top talent from across Europe and beyond. As a recent graduate of the Data Science Master’s program, I’d like to share my insights into academic life, campus activities, local culture, and career opportunities.
Introduction to ETH Zurich and the Data Science Program
ETH Zurich consistently ranks among the top universities globally. It is particularly renowned for computer science, engineering, and natural sciences. The institution has a rich academic tradition and a modern, research-driven approach to education.
The Data Science Master’s program is relatively new, having welcomed its first cohort in 2017. It is jointly offered by the Department of Computer Science (D-INFK), the Department of Mathematics (D-MATH), and the Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering (D-ITEE). Although interdisciplinary, it is administratively housed under D-INFK.
Admission Process
Admission to ETH Master’s programs is highly competitive and emphasizes prior academic background. The university pays close attention to course matching—applicants are required to list relevant courses they have completed during their bachelor’s studies.
If you lack a few prerequisite courses, you may still receive a conditional offer. In such cases, you’ll need to complete those courses after enrollment, though they won’t count toward your Master’s credits.
Most admitted students come from backgrounds in computer science, mathematics, or engineering. Many also hold a minor or double degree in a related field. The cohort is international, with a strong representation of European students and a growing number of applicants from Asia.
Academic Experience
Program Structure
The Data Science Master requires the completion of 120 ECTS credits, typically spread over two years. The curriculum includes:
- Core courses in computer science and statistics
- A Data Science Lab
- A seminar series
- A Master’s thesis (30 credits)
- A specialization track in an applied field such as computational biology, finance, or neural information processing
- Elective courses in humanities and social sciences
Many courses are shared with other Master’s programs, including Computer Science, Statistics, and Computational Biology and Bioinformatics. Students also have the option to take courses at the University of Zurich (UZH), which has a close academic partnership with ETH.
Learning Environment
The academic culture at ETH is intense and rigorous. Courses are often theoretical and taught by professors who are leaders in their fields. It’s common for instructors to use their own textbooks or lecture notes.
A typical week involves attending lectures, reviewing reference materials, working on group projects, and preparing for assignments. The learning atmosphere is focused and collaborative—students often study together and actively participate in class.
Examinations are held in two sessions: end-of-semester exams and session exams. The latter take place during the break between semesters, which means winter and summer vacations are often shorter due to preparation and testing.
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Campus and Extracurricular Activities
Sports and Fitness with ASVZ
ASVZ is the academic sports association serving ETH and other local universities. It offers over 100 sports courses, from conditioning and ballet to climbing and parkour. There are also self-training facilities with modern equipment.
Membership is included in the semester fee, making most activities virtually free for students. Popular classes like Super Kondi (high-intensity interval training) are often fully booked, reflecting the students’ enthusiasm for staying active.
Student Organizations and Events
The VSETH student union and department-specific groups like VIS (Computer Science Association) organize various events throughout the year. These include:
- Welcome BBQs
- Free brunches during exam periods
- Hackathons and datathons
- Career fairs and tech talks
One of the most anticipated annual events is the Polyball, a formal dance held in the decorated main building. It’s attended by students, professors, and alumni and features live music, performances, and dancing until the early hours.
Life in Zurich
Cost of Living
Switzerland is known for its high cost of living, but studying at ETH can be more affordable than attending a private university in the U.S. Tuition is around CHF 730 per semester. The main expenses are housing, food, and transportation.
Student housing can range from CHF 400 to over CHF 1,000 per month. Eating at the university cafeteria costs between CHF 7–10 per meal, while cooking at home can significantly reduce food expenses.
Funding and Employment Opportunities
ETH offers scholarships such as the ESOP (Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme), which covers tuition and provides a stipend. Teaching and research assistant positions are also available, paying around CHF 25–30 per hour after taxes.
These roles not only offer financial support but also provide valuable academic and professional experience.
Local Culture and Lifestyle
Zurich is a city known for its efficiency, rule-following culture, and high quality of life. Public transportation is punctual, and recycling rules are strictly followed. The city is also very international, with easy access to nature and outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and climbing.
Weekends often see locals engaging in sports or traveling. Switzerland’s central location in Europe also makes it a great base for exploring neighboring countries.
Career Prospects After Graduation
Many graduates pursue academic careers through a Ph.D. at ETH, UZH, or EPFL. Others find employment in Switzerland or elsewhere in Europe.
Non-EU/EFTA students should be aware of visa challenges. Swiss companies must prove that no local or EU candidate is available for a role before hiring a third-country national. This can make finding a job more difficult, though it is not impossible.
Language skills can be an advantage, especially for roles requiring German, French, or Italian. Many students also find opportunities in other European countries or return to their home countries for employment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How competitive is admission to the Data Science Master’s program at ETH?
Admission is highly competitive. The university emphasizes strong academic records and relevant background in computer science, mathematics, or engineering. Meeting course prerequisites is essential.
What is the typical class size?
The program remains relatively small, with around 30–40 students per cohort. This allows for closer interaction with faculty and a tight-knit learning community.
Can I work while studying?
Yes, students can work as teaching or research assistants for up to 15 hours per week during the semester. During breaks, there are no hour restrictions.
How is the student life at ETH Zurich?
Student life is active and diverse. There are numerous clubs, sports activities, and academic events throughout the year. Zurich itself offers a high quality of life with rich cultural and outdoor opportunities.
Is it possible to stay in Switzerland after graduation?
While possible, it can be challenging due to work visa restrictions. Many students pursue further studies or gain experience elsewhere in Europe before returning to the Swiss job market.
What support does ETH offer for career development?
The university provides career services, networking events, internship listings, and connections to industry partners. Many departments also host recruitment talks and workshops.