UZH Strengthens Interdisciplinary Studies

In times when challenges are becoming increasingly complex, it is crucial for specialist disciplines to collaborate more closely to understand intersecting issues and develop viable solutions. UZH offers a range of subjects that is unique in Switzerland, putting it in an ideal position to promote interdisciplinary approaches. It leverages its diversity not only in research but also in teaching.

In recent years, UZH has strategically expanded its range of interdisciplinary courses. For example, it has introduced study programs in interdisciplinary fields such as biodiversity, biomedicine, biochemistry, business chemistry, earth system sciences and digital skills.

In the Fall Semester 2025, UZH will launch a new series of interdisciplinary study programs:

• The BSc in Astronomy and Astrophysics (link in German) addresses fundamental questions such as the origin of the universe, the formation of stars and galaxies and the possibility of extraterrestrial life, drawing on the latest knowledge in physics, mathematics and computer technology.
• The BSc in Applied Mathematics and Machine Learning (link in German) teaches students how to structure, analyze and utilize large amounts of data. It combines sound mathematical models with modern methods of machine learning. A particular focus is placed on the responsible and measured use of artificial intelligence.
• The BA in Religious Studies and Theology combines empirical religious studies with theological questions and can be studied entirely online. Students can choose to focus more on religious studies or theology, depending on their interests. The course language is English.
• UZH also leverages its international partnerships to promote interdisciplinary teaching. As part of the Una Europa university alliance, UZH is launching Europe’s first joint degree program in the field of sustainability, the Una Europa Joint Bachelor’s in Sustainability (BASUS), in collaboration with seven partner universities. The program integrates sociology, anthropology and ethics. It begins this Fall Semester with a joint foundation year at Jagiellonian University in Krakow. Students will then complete a two-year specialization track at one of the other partner universities, including a track focused on the social sciences and humanities at UZH. The course language is English.

UZH is also offering new interdisciplinary Master’s study programs this semester:

• The MA in Global Futures focuses on global challenges such as climate change, social inequality and migration, combining perspectives from social anthropology, geography and other disciplines. The course language is English.
• The Specialized MSc in Evolutionary Language Science deals with the origins, development and change of language, drawing on neuroscience, linguistics, biology, computer science, mathematics, anthropology, philosophy and psychology. The course language is English.
• The MA minor program in Health in the Context of Ethics, Spirituality, and Religions (link in German) provides a comprehensive view of suffering, illness and dying. Located at the intersection of medicine, ethics, theology and religious studies, the program teaches students how to address spiritual needs in healthcare.

Interdisciplinary study programs are by no means the only way to combine different academic perspectives. Students at UZH can choose to supplement their specialized studies with a wide range of interdisciplinary modules.

The modules developed jointly with the faculties and offered by the School for Transdisciplinary Studies cover a wide range of topics, from sustainability and digitalization to health and innovation. Students can book the modules regardless of their respective field of study. The courses often follow a project- or problem-solving-oriented learning approach. Guided by interdisciplinary teams of lecturers, students address current and practical issues and learn to reconcile different perspectives, deal productively with friction and develop viable solutions.

In the Fall Semester of 2025, the School for Transdisciplinary Studies will add three new modules to its program:

• The module Cyber Law – Data protection, AI, and Cybersecurity takes a practical approach to legal, social and ethical issues arising in connection with digital technology and cybersecurity.
• In the module Life Worth Living – What Is a Good Life? (link in German), students from all faculties explore existential topics such as happiness, meaning and suffering, combining perspectives from psychology, law, theology, ethics and religious studies.
• The module Start! AI Competences (for Teaching & Learning) teaches the basics of applying artificial intelligence in university teaching. It is particularly aimed at students who are tutors or are preparing to teach courses.

Students decide how much weight to give to interdisciplinary aspects in their studies by choosing their programs and modules. The central student advisory services at UZH support students in making the right decisions.

Dealing with different subject perspectives can be challenging and often requires additional effort. It means stepping out of your comfort zone and grappling with unfamiliar ways of thinking and questions. “But it’s usually worth taking on this challenge,” says student advisor Daniela Bollinger. She maintains that interdisciplinary study broadens your horizons, makes you more intellectually flexible and improves your communication and social skills. Students will reap the benefits in their personal development and later in their professional lives. “Those who have learned to combine different perspectives, deal with uncertainty and complexity, and consider the viewpoints of various stakeholders possess highly sought-after skills in the workplace,” Bollinger says.