A law is approved to found the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology. Lectures started October 16, 1855.

ETH Zurich: A Beacon of Science and Innovation in Switzerland

ETH Zurich, officially known in English as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zürich, and in German as Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, stands as a premier public research university located in the vibrant city of Zürich, Switzerland. Established by the Swiss Federal Government in 1854, its foundational mission was clear: to cultivate highly skilled engineers and scientists crucial for Switzerland's industrial and technological advancement. This enduring commitment to excellence positions the institution as a global leader, with a primary academic focus on the critical disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

As a integral part of the Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology Domain, ETH Zurich operates alongside its sister institution, EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne), forming a unique and highly collaborative federal higher education system. This domain falls under the broader umbrella of the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research, underscoring the strategic national importance of these institutions in driving innovation, research, and economic growth for Switzerland.

Global Recognition and Academic Excellence

ETH Zurich consistently garners top-tier positions in international university rankings, affirming its status among the world's elite academic institutions. Its rigorous academic environment, pioneering research, and strong industry collaborations contribute significantly to its global standing.

A Hub for Trailblazing Minds and Global Talent

With an esteemed world-class reputation across both academia and industry, ETH Zurich attracts brilliant minds from across the globe. As of 2020, its vibrant academic community comprised approximately 22,200 students representing over 120 countries, with a substantial cohort of 4,180 students actively pursuing rigorous doctoral degrees. This diverse international student body enriches the learning environment, fostering a global perspective and cross-cultural collaboration.

The legacy of innovation at ETH Zurich is profoundly marked by the extraordinary achievements of its faculty, researchers, and alumni. The institution proudly counts among its affiliates 21 Nobel laureates, including the iconic physicist Albert Einstein, who studied and later taught at ETH Zurich, fundamentally reshaping our understanding of the universe. Beyond the Nobel Prize, its rich tapestry of distinguished individuals includes 2 Fields Medalists (honoring outstanding mathematical achievement), 2 Pritzker Prize winners (the highest recognition in architecture), and 1 Turing Award winner (often referred to as the "Nobel Prize of computing"). Other highly notable alumni include the influential mathematician and computer scientist John von Neumann, known for his work on the Manhattan Project and the modern computer architecture, and the acclaimed architect and engineer Santiago Calatrava, recognized for his iconic bridges and buildings. These luminaries exemplify the transformative impact of an ETH Zurich education and research.

ETH Zurich is also a strategically active member of several elite international academic networks, facilitating global collaboration and advancing research frontiers. It is a founding member of the IDEA League, a strategic alliance of five leading European universities of science and technology, and the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), a global network of 11 top research-intensive universities. Furthermore, it is a member of the CESAER network, which brings together leading universities of science and technology across Europe to promote engineering education and research. These memberships underscore its commitment to international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and shaping the future of global higher education and scientific discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions about ETH Zurich

What is ETH Zurich's primary focus?
ETH Zurich primarily focuses on education and research in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, aiming to produce highly skilled professionals and advance scientific knowledge.
Where is ETH Zurich located?
ETH Zurich is located in the city of Zürich, Switzerland.
How does ETH Zurich rank globally?
ETH Zurich consistently ranks among the top universities worldwide. For instance, it was ranked 8th in the 2022 QS World University Rankings and 15th in the 2021-22 Times Higher Education World University Rankings. It also holds top subject-specific rankings, including 1st globally for Earth and Marine Science in 2021 QS Subject Rankings.
Are notable alumni associated with ETH Zurich?
Yes, ETH Zurich boasts a prestigious list of affiliated individuals, including 21 Nobel laureates (such as Albert Einstein), 2 Fields Medalists, 2 Pritzker Prize winners, and 1 Turing Award winner. Other renowned alumni include John von Neumann and Santiago Calatrava.
Is ETH Zurich part of a larger educational system?
Yes, ETH Zurich is one of two federal institutes of technology within the Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology Domain, which operates under the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research.