Name Change Information
Topic outline
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Franklin University Switzerland is accredited in both the United States and Switzerland. We encourage our community to learn more about this unique aspect here.
As Franklin University Switzerland aligns with new Swiss regulatory requirements, we invite our community to explore this Q&A series that addresses key questions about the accreditation status of Franklin University Switzerland within the Swiss educational system. This series aims to provide clarity and reassurance about our ongoing commitment to academic excellence.
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Q&A series that addresses key questions about the accreditation status of Franklin University Switzerland within the Swiss educational system.
Q: What is the difference in the validity of degrees between a ‘university’ and a ‘university institute’?
A: The degrees have the same validity and guarantee the same access to students pursuing Masters and PhD programs.
Q: Does it compromise our US accreditation?
A: No, our US accreditors will simply require an official letter informing them of the name change. We are simply adjusting our name to new Swiss regulatory requirements.
Q: When will the new name be implemented?
A: We have received confirmation from the Swiss regulators that current and accepted students will be able to graduate with ‘Franklin University Switzerland’ on their diplomas. We have been notified by the accreditation authorities that we have until July 1, 2026 to make these name changes.
Q: What about funding?
A: Students continue to remain eligible for loans. Faculty continue to have access to research funding.
Q: How do the Swiss classify a ‘university institute’?
A: A university institute is not required to offer the full range of schools in any given area of knowledge and at all degree levels, it is thus more compact. It allows Franklin to be more focused, liberal arts oriented, and true to its mission, while still retaining the right to issue Bachelors, Masters, and PhDs.
Q: How good are university institutes in Switzerland?
A: As good as universities. Some notable examples of university institutes are: IMD in Lausanne and IHEID in Geneva.
Q: Who are the Franklin authorized voices for further information on this matter?
A: For further information on this matter, please contact:
President Dr. Samuel Martín-Barbero, president@fus.edu
Senior Academic Advisor Dr. Caroline Wiedmer, cwiedmer@fus.edu
Senior Academic Advisor Dr. Armando Zanecchia, azanecchia@fus.edu
Below is a visual of University Education in Switzerland.
