FAQs

What is Franklin University Switzerland?

Franklin University Switzerland is an internationally recognized liberal arts university located in Lugano, Switzerland. Established in 1969, it was the first university in Ticino and remains a pioneer in global education, offering students a unique blend of American and Swiss academic traditions.

Why is 2025 a special year for Franklin?

2025 marks Franklin’s 55th anniversary, celebrating over five decades of excellence in education and its mission to cultivate global citizens and leaders.

What distinguishes Franklin from other universities?

Franklin is one of the few institutions worldwide to hold dual accreditation from both Switzerland and the United States. It is also renowned for its Academic Travel Program, its emphasis on interdisciplinary liberal arts education, and its global community of students and faculty. 

Naming Evolution of Franklin

It was the end of the sixties, and Fleming College, a program of The American School in Switzerland, was closing its doors. Four of its faculty, Theo Brenner, Wilfried Geens, Pascal Tone and Jacques Villaret teamed up with the chair of Fleming’s European board to found a new higher education institution named after Benjamin Franklin. They believed that by providing international experiences to students, Franklin College would strengthen the relationships between members of different nations and cultures. During the seventies, Franklin moved to Villa Ferrari and then to Villa Sassa, where it was first accredited as a two-year college by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). In 1986 Franklin College Switzerland finally took residence in its permanent campus on Via Ponte Tresa in Sorengo. In that same year it was accredited as a four-year college by the MSCHE. 

The new millennium brought new growth, as the entire academic and administrative community sought to define a new future for Franklin. In 2005  Franklin's undergraduate programs received accreditation from the Swiss University Conference, and in 2006 the college expanded to a second campus formerly occupied by the Leonardo DaVinci school. In 2010, Franklin’s first master’s degree program was created. 2013 saw Franklin receive full institutional accreditation from the Swiss University Conference, making it recognized as a university institution within the Swiss university system and the only higher education institution in the world fully accredited in both the US and Switzerland. In 2014 Franklin renamed itself officially and became Franklin University Switzerland. 

Why is Franklin changing its name?

Today, on the eve of its 55th anniversary, Franklin University Switzerland is changing its status to a University Institute to align with updated Swiss higher education regulations. This is a reclassification in the Swiss system based on the structure of our academic offerings.

What does "University Institute" mean in Switzerland?

In Switzerland, University Institutes are institutions that focus on specific academic areas or degree levels, such as undergraduate education. This designation applies to other prestigious institutions in Switzerland. Franklin remains fully accredited and continues to uphold its rigorous academic standards.

Does this impact Franklin’s accreditation?

No. Franklin remains fully accredited in both Switzerland and the U.S. For Swiss Accreditation: Franklin continues to meet the Swiss accreditation requirements. For U.S. Accreditation: Franklin remains accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and recognized by the U.S. Franklin remains recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for Title IV federal student aid (FAFSA), ensuring that students remain eligible for loans under the FAFSA process. For more information, please click here: https://www.fus.edu/about-franklin/dual-accreditation

Will my diploma still say "Franklin University Switzerland"?

Yes! All students who are currently enrolled will graduate with "Franklin University Switzerland" on their diplomas. 

Does this change affect Franklin’s academic quality or degree value?

No. Franklin continues to offer the same world-class, internationally recognized liberal arts education. Our students and alumni remain highly competitive in the global job market and for admission to top graduate programs. Franklin graduates have gone on to study at institutions such as Yale, Cambridge, Columbia, and King’s College London.

Will tuition fees be affected?

No. The name change is purely administrative and does not impact tuition as it’s purely a reclassification in the Swiss system. Our fees reflect the high-quality, immersive and globally recognized education that Franklin has always provided.

How does this change affect student life and academic programs?

It doesn’t. All current programs, faculty, student services, and extracurricular activities remain unchanged. Franklin will continue to offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees under this designation.

What steps has Franklin taken to communicate this change?

• An announcement has been shared with students, faculty, and staff.
• An SGA meeting and open forum were held to address student questions.
• A Fireside Chat with the Deans will take place on February 17 to further discuss this change with Freshmen students.
• The official rebranding will take place gradually, with all updates completed by July 1, 2026.
• Stay tuned as we embark together with the Franklin community on an exciting rebranding journey!

What makes Franklin’s academic programs so unique?

Franklin’s academic programs are designed to combine rigor and flexibility, offering students the opportunity to explore multiple disciplines while maintaining high standards of accreditation. With 95% of full-time faculty holding PhDs, Franklin provides a transformative education grounded in both cutting-edge research and practical insights.

What accreditations does Franklin hold?

Franklin is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) in the U.S. and the Swiss Accreditation Council (AAQ), ensuring compliance with the highest academic and institutional standards.

How does Franklin prepare students for their future careers?

Franklin’s interdisciplinary approach equips students with critical thinking, adaptability, and cultural awareness. Graduates excel in graduate programs and diverse careers globally, with many entering fields like international relations, business, technology, education, and environmental studies. 

Who studies at Franklin?

Franklin’s student body is highly diverse, representing over 50 nationalities. This multicultural community creates a rich environment for global learning and collaboration.

What is the relationship between students and faculty like?

Franklin’s small class sizes foster close mentorships and personalized academic support. Faculty members actively guide students, ensuring both academic success and personal development.

How does Franklin support students outside the classroom?

Franklin offers robust academic advising, counseling services, and numerous opportunities for extracurricular engagement, including clubs, sports, and leadership initiatives. 

What is unique about Franklin’s admissions process?

Franklin employs a holistic admissions process, considering personal statements, letters of recommendation, and applicants’ individual journeys. The focus is on selecting students who align with Franklin’s values and have the potential to thrive in its global community.

What academic background is required for admission?

Franklin welcomes students from diverse educational systems worldwide. Applicants must provide academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), and supporting materials such as recommendations.

How can students apply to Franklin?

Students can apply through Franklin’s online application portal. Detailed instructions and deadlines are available here. 

What is Franklin’s Academic Travel Program?

Franklin’s Academic Travel Program is a hallmark of its curriculum, offering students the opportunity to participate in immersive travel experiences every semester. These trips connect academic content with real-world applications and cultural exploration.

How many destinations does Franklin’s Academic Travel Program cover?

Students travel to over 40 destinations annually, ranging from historical sites in Europe to ecological reserves in Africa and cutting-edge innovation hubs in Asia.

What are the benefits of Academic Travel?

Students develop adaptability, cultural awareness, and problem-solving skills while gaining firsthand experience of the topics they study. Academic Travel fosters global citizenship and builds resilience, independence, and leadership qualities. 

How is research integrated into Franklin’s academic mission?

Research is a core pillar of Franklin’s academic identity. Faculty are actively engaged in scholarly activities supported by research grants, sabbaticals, and reduced teaching loads.

What opportunities do students have to engage in research?

Students can collaborate with faculty on research projects, gaining valuable skills and insights that prepare them for graduate studies and professional careers.

What is Intervalla?

Intervalla is Franklin’s peer-reviewed journal, showcasing interdisciplinary research and providing a platform for academic dialogue across various fields. 

How does Franklin ensure fairness and inclusivity?

Franklin maintains clear internal policies and a well-structured grievance process to address concerns. Students have a strong voice by serving on campus committees such as the Faculty Assembly, various employee search committees, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, community-based Judicial Board, Career Readiness Steering Committee, and more. The Judicial Board empowers students to take an active role in maintaining the university’s values of justice and equity.

How does Franklin foster a supportive community?

Franklin prioritizes transparency, respect, and accountability. Its inclusive culture and strong organizational framework create an environment where students can thrive academically and personally. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are university-wide responsibilities pertaining to students, faculty, staff, administration, alumni, and all those who have a vested interest in our community. The Committee for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), composed of students, faculty, and staff, ensures that all members of the Franklin community are represented and can be heard. 

Where do Franklin graduates work and study?

Franklin’s network of 8,000+ alumni includes global leaders across diverse fields, from international organizations like the United Nations to Fortune 500 companies. Many also pursue advanced degrees at top universities worldwide. Within a year of graduation, 95% of Franklin students secure full-time employment across various sectors, including technology, finance, and non-profit organizations. Learn more here.

What support does Franklin offer for career development?

Franklin’s Career Services team provides personalized guidance, including resume reviews, networking opportunities, and career workshops to prepare students for the professional world. The Career Readiness Pathway Program, launched in Fall 2024, is designed to provide Franklin students with the opportunity to explore their career interests, reflect on their current skills, identify their potential, participate in a mentoring program, and complete a practical experience. The program consists of various modules tailored to help students identify and develop key personal and professional competencies. Each module is strategically designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of career readiness through hands-on learning and mentorship.

How does Franklin prepare students to be global citizens?

Through its curriculum, Academic Travel Program, and diverse student body, Franklin cultivates the skills and perspectives necessary for addressing complex global challenges and thriving in interconnected environments.

What is Franklin’s vision for the future?

As Franklin celebrates its 55th anniversary, it remains committed to innovation, excellence, and global impact, continuing to shape the next generation of leaders.

What is Franklin’s Strategic Plan 2030: Embracing Stability and Sustainability?

Franklin’s Strategic Plan 2030 is a visionary roadmap founded on seven strategic pillars: Global Footprint, Franklin Voice, Wellbeing, Community Engagement, Academic Identity, Living and Learning Spaces, and Career Readiness. This collaborative plan reflects the input of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and trustees, focusing on innovation, inclusivity, and global engagement to guide Franklin toward a sustainable and impactful future in global education.