Internationalization Strategy of the University of Bern
Crossing boundaries. Deepening knowledge. Gaining insights. Shaping the future
Starting point
The University of Bern's Strategy 2030 considers internationalization to be a key element of research excellence. Global challenges, coupled with the increasing complexity of international relations, necessitate the further development of strategic objectives and their achievement. At the same time, students and researchers at the University of Bern compete in an international environment. The University of Bern addresses these issues with an internationalization strategy as part of its Strategy 2030.
Strategic objectives
Vision – where we want to be
The University of Bern is an essential part of the global knowledge community and of an integrated European university system. Our staff and graduates are sought after internationally. The University of Bern is internationally attractive as a research institution and employer.
Mission – what we stand for
As a university with local roots and international connections, we tackle complex challenges with national and international solutions. Promoting young talent is at the heart of our internationalisation efforts.
Underlying values
- Academic freedom and scientific integrity are essential prerequisites for international cooperation.
- Our partnerships are based on fairness.
- We take measures with ecological sustainability in mind.
- We stand for an open academic culture and address threats to research security. We act "as open as possible, as closed as necessary".
Strategic areas of action
As part of the first phase of our internationalisation strategy, we focus on four areas of action:
- Facilitating internationalisation processes
- Strengthening international networks
- Enhancing our international reputation
- Strengthening international research
Facilitating internationalisation processes
We facilitate access for both members of the University of Bern looking to study abroad and international applicants interested in our university. The University of Bern equips its members with the knowledge and skills needed to introduce them to the international community from an early stage. Students and staff benefit from low-threshold mobility on an internationally networked campus. We impart the knowledge needed to make ecologically responsible decisions regarding mobility. Internationalisation is a functional strategy that cuts across all areas of the university, from research and teaching to administration and activities in the Third Space, and is strengthened and anchored across all sections of the university. The university promotes internationalisation and expects its members to engage in these efforts.
Strengthening international networks
In light of the complex situation currently facing universities worldwide, establishing and maintaining strong connections within European (e.g. the university alliance ENLIGHT) and global networks remains a key priority for the University of Bern. We are establishing criteria for existing networks to ensure their continued development. The University of Bern is open to new international collaborations. We select collaboration partners based on our university-wide strategic priorities, while also supporting collaborations on faculty level.
We establish criteria for existing focus regions and memberships in international networks to ensure the continued development of cooperation. Other focus regions may emerge where a dense network of collaborations is developing in line with the university's strategic priorities.
Enhancing our international reputation
The University of Bern is raising its international visibility and profile. To this end, we will further develop our international communications. We are also strengthening our cooperation with the Swiss federal government's partners in the diplomatic field (such as Swissnex).
Strengthening international research
Visualising global research collaborations enables the University of Bern to identify and develop specific areas of focus. The University of Bern is committed to safeguarding the well-being of its workforce in the context of international partnerships.
Measures for 2026-2027
For the first phase, priority is given to measures that can be implemented by the end of 2027, or which will achieve significant progress. In line with the principles of the University of Bern's "Fit for the Future" process, these measures also aim to reduce administrative duplication and simplify internal processes. Given the volatile conditions, a re-evaluation will be carried out in the form of rolling strategic planning in 2027.
(Translation of the Internationalisierungsstrategie Universität Bern, Teilstrategie zur Strategie 2030, Stand 08.01.2026)