Studying at the Università della Svizzera italiana, USI. Student Guide University of Lugano

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1 Studying at the Università della Svizzera italiana, USI Student Guide University of Lugano

2 Study Advisory Service The Study Advisory Service gives information on the undergraduate (Bachelor) and graduate (Master) programmes offered at USI. Interested students can learn more about USI by: attending one of the open days and information sessions contacting the Study Advisory Service via or telephone making an appointment for an informal interview Study Advisory Service USI Claudine Marty, Géraldine Moretti, Giorgia Di Lenardo, Nicole Bandion Via Giuseppe Buffi 13, Office 233 CH-6900 Lugano tel / 4672 fax studyadvisor@lu.unisi.ch Open days Discover the Bachelor Degrees Ministage Bachelor Info Day Discover the Master Degrees Master Meetings Master Info Day Welcome Meetings are organized from the beginning of August to the end of September by the Study Advisory Service to provide new students with information on insurance, housing, transportation, etc. For the detailed programme and registrations for the events, please refer to: The Bachelor and Master booklets containing the detailed study plans are available at the Study Advisory Service.

3 Studying at the Università della Svizzera italiana, USI Student Guide

4 Lugano airport Lugano Lake Ceresio Mendrisio

5 Table of Content 3 Table of Content USI, a brief description L Università della Svizzera italiana, USI 5 Programmes offered at USI 6 USI in numbers 8 The University campuses The Lugano campus 10 The Mendrisio campus 14 Studying at USI Admission requirements 17 How to apply 19 Registration 21 Fees 22 Scholarships 23 Study Policy 26 Auditors 26 Academic calendar 27 Student services International Relations and Study-abroad Office 29 Career Service 30 Venturelab.ch 31 USI-SUPSI Sport Service 32 Student associations 33 Graduate student services Alumni Relations Service 36 Start-up Promotion s Centre 36 Living in Ticino Switzerland and its Italian-speaking region 37 Housing 38 Visa and residence permit 40 Insurances 40 Other useful information 41 Useful contacts USI contacts 45 USI links 47 Emergency phone numbers 48 Lugano contacts 50 Map of Lugano 51 Map of the Lugano public transportation 52 Mendrisio contacts 54 Map of Mendrisio 55 Useful links 56 Glossary Glossario 58

6 USI, Campus Lugano

7 USI, a brief description 5 L Università della Svizzera italiana, USI USI, also known as the University of Lugano, is the only Italian speaking University in Switzerland and outside Italy. It was founded in 1996 and is constantly growing both in size and in the courses offered in its four Faculties: Architecture, Economics, Communication Sciences and Informatics. 2,486 students from over 40 countries, 270 professors and lecturers and 350 assistants enter and exit the modern buildings every day, providing an environment rich in exchange, knowledge and personal relations. Its small size, close relationships between students and teachers, the integration of different disciplines, the generous space and the top-quality technical infrastructure allow USI to offer ideal conditions for study and research. International USI is a multilingual university with an international atmosphere. Lectures are given in Italian and English, but on the two USI campuses many other languages are spoken. With foreign students making up 56% of the student body, USI s international environment comes to life with the beginning of each class. USI opens opportunities beyond the national borders having its Bachelor in Informatics and 16 Master programmes taught in English. Innovation Thanks to the combination of continuous research and advanced teaching methods, courses are constantly reviewed and improved upon to keep up with the times. Teachers from different geographical locations and backgrounds enrich USI classes with their innovative perspectives. Moreover, from the start of the Bachelor degree, students are prepared through solid theoretical teaching that is integrated into the practical lessons. Interdisciplinary The interdisciplinary approach allows students to broaden their horizons by taking courses offered in other USI departments and at partner universities, thus customising their own education. USI also maintains close relationships with the working world. Internships in companies and institutions in Switzerland as well as abroad are an integral part of the curriculum. Even in class, practical experience plays an important role. Case studies, field projects and interaction between students and professionals enable our students to put their theoretical knowledge into practice.

8 USI, a brief description 6 Programmes offered at USI USI s Bachelor degrees USI offers four Bachelor programmes: in Mendrisio Architecture (in Italian) and in Lugano Communication Sciences (in Italian), Economics (in Italian) and Informatics (in English). The Bachelor degrees are all full time and take 6 semesters to complete (corresponding to 180 ECTS credits). The Bachelor degree offers a basic and solid knowledge in each field of study through theory and practical exercise (case studies, laboratories, ateliers). USI s Bachelor degree gives students the possibility of entering the job market or continue their studies with a Master degree. USI s Master degrees USI offers 20 Master programmes in Architecture, Economics, Communication and Informatics, of which 16 are held in English. Masters at USI are full time and usually take 3-4 semesters to complete (that correspond to ETCS credits). The Master degrees provide high specialisation in both professional training and academic research. To consult the Bachelor and Master study plan, please refer to and The Bachelor and Master booklets are available at the Student Advisory Service and are downloadable online. Information on the languages of instruction The minimum requirement is a good knowledge of the language of instruction of the chosen field of study. During the first year of the Bachelor degree, with prior agreement from the course tutor, (specific request to be submitted in advance to the appropriate Faculty) individual exams may be taken in French, German, or English. Italian courses Intensive Italian courses are offered for free at the university in the weeks preceding the start of the academic year ( and throughout the year. Italian courses are also provided by a number of language schools in Lugano, in particular the Istituto di lingua e cultura italiana, ILI in Lugano where USI students can benefit of a 20% discount. Other language schools can be found through the website (in Italian) Other language courses offered at USI Individual Faculties organize specific language courses for their Bachelor programs.

9 USI, a brief description 7 The Università della Svizzera italiana offers the following Master programmes: Master of Science in Architecture* Masters of Science in Economics Banking and Finance Economia e Politiche Internazionali* Finance Management Public Management and Policy Masters of Science in Communication Communication, Management & Health Gestione dei Media* Public Communication Technologies for Human Communication Technology-Enhanced Communication for Cultural Heritage Master in Lingua, letteratura e civiltà italiana* Joint Masters in Economics and Communication Corporate Communication Financial Communication International Tourism Marketing Masters of Science in Informatics Applied Informatics Computational Science Dependable Distributed Systems Embedded Systems Design Intelligent Systems Software Design * In Italian. All other Masters are held in English.. For information on the Doctorate (PhD) and Executive Master programmes, please refer to the following websites:

10 USI, a brief description 8 The University campuses The Università della Svizzera italiana extends over two campuses, one in Lugano, for the Faculties of Economics, Communication Sciences, and Informatics, and one in Mendrisio, approximately ten miles south, for the Academy of Architecture. The two campuses are centres of learning and cultural exchange, where students combine their studies with community life, making friends and sharing activities in a family atmosphere. USI in numbers 4 Faculties 2 Campuses 30 Research institutes 20 Master Degrees 5 Doctoral schools 7 Executive Master 2486 Students from over 40 different countries of which: 2166 Bachelor and Master Students 187 Doctoral students 133 Executive Master students USI, Lugano: Faculty of Economics Faculty of Communication Sciences Faculty of Informatics USI, Mendrisio: Academy of Architecture Teaching staff of which: 70 Professors 200 Docenti a contratto 350 Assistants 111 Staff Bern Zurich Geneva Lugano Mendrsio

11 First-rate campuses and facilities

12 The University campuses 10 The Lugano campus Located on the outskirts of the city centre, the campus is founded on the site of the former city hospital. Entirely restructured, today the main building accommodates the administrative and academic offices of the Faculties of Economics and Communication Sciences, some classrooms, computer rooms, a cafeteria, and the Auditorium. The grounds surrounding the main building include a number of functional and modern units, fully furnished with the latest technical equipment and infrastructure: the Library, the Aula magna, the Red Building with classrooms, the building of the Faculty of Informatics and the Technological Laboratory (LAB), which provides individual study spaces for Master and PhD students. Via Madonnetta Library Informatics Building Cafeteria LAB Glass Building Red Building Viale Cassarate Start-up Centre/ Maderno Building Corso Elvezia Aula magna Main Building Via Giuseppe Buffi Blue Building Lambertenghi Building Lugano University Library The Library provides its services to all visitors interested in the subjects studied at the University. It is open to academic staff members, students and the general public. Most Library collections are available on the shelf, including a wide range of periodical publications. Equally wide are the electronic document collections, which can be also accessed from home (by academic users only). Among the range of services provided by the Library are the Interlibrary Loan and the Reference. The Reference Office staff offers advice and assistance to help define correct search strategies, solve information needs and select appropriate search tools. Photocopy machines, individual study areas and computers are also available. The Library is open Monday to Friday from 9 to 22 hrs. and Saturday from 9 to hrs. The opening hours are reduced in the summer. All information about the Library may be found on the website (in Italian)

13 The University campuses 11 Access, study areas, computers, Wi-Fi and photocopies With an electronic ID card, USI students have access (24 hours/7 days a week) to the main building, the Informatics building and the Technological Laboratory (LAB). Available to students are several computers with printers, study areas and open spaces. A security guard patrols the Campus buildings after office hours. Throughout the Lugano campus it is possible to connect with the personal laptop to the internet via the wireless network. Students may use the photocopying machines located on the first floor of the Lugano Campus Library: to access them, a magnetic card is necessary, on sale from the main counter (CHF 20 for 150 copies; CHF 40 for 320 copies). Cafeteria The cafeteria is situated in the main building and is open Monday to Friday from 7.45 till hrs. It offers 3 choices*: Menu of the day at CHF (student price) Pasta dish at 7.80 CHF (student price) Vegetarian dish at CHF (student price) *All menu prices are subject to change. For the reduced student price, please show the student ID card. The cafeteria is closed during the Christmas holidays and the first two weeks in August. The weekly menu can be found on the website There are also many restaurants, bars and take-away in the proximity of the University. The USI Cafeteria

14 The University campuses 12 How to get to campus By car Coming from the south: Exit the A2 motorway at Lugano-Sud, follow the signs for the city centre, and take the lake side road (Lungolago). Passing the Casino on the left and the Convention Centre on the right, turn right into Viale Cattaneo, maintaining the left lane. After a few meters, at the Università signpost, turn left and drive straight until the main building of the University. Coming from the north: Exit the motorway at Lugano-Nord, and follow the signs for the city centre. Once arrived at the train station, keep on the left lane, under the railway underpass, keeping left again continue and follow the Università signposts as far as the road Via Giuseppe Buffi. There are limited parking facilities in the neighbourhood of the University. Visitors are advised to leave their car in a park-and-ride area on the outskirts of the city. The University can then be reached by bus. For further information: By train - bus To USI: From the main train station in Lugano take the no.2 bus and get off at Lugano centro (you can also take the funicular or walk down the hill to the centre of town). At the main downtown bus terminal Lugano centro, take either the no. 5 bus (Viganello) and get off at Ospedale italiano, or no. 3 (Pregassona) as far as the Sacro Cuore stop. Both bus stops are close to the University. From USI: Take no.5 bus (Vezia), leaving in front of the Aula magna building and get off at Lugano Centro, then take the no.2 bus (Paradiso) until the train station FFS. A detailed map of the Lugano public transportation (TPL) is available on page 52. For time schedule please visit the website (in Italian) Information on the trains in Switzerland, please visit: By air The Lugano airport is located in Agno, about 6 km from the city centre. It offers direct flights and connections to major Swiss cities and some European cities ( Within a km radius you will find three Italian airports: Milan-Malpensa, Milan-Linate, and Bergamo. These can be reached by shuttle bus services or by train ( and The closest Swiss airport for international flights is Zurich-Kloten, approximately three hours by train from Lugano. ( )

15 The University campuses Corso Elvezia Bus stop 2 Sacro Cuore Bus Stop 3 Ospedale Italiano Bus Stop 4 Centro Bus Stop

16 The University campuses 14 The Mendrisio campus The campus was developed around two historical buildings. Villa Argentina, a neoclassical villa surrounded by a beautiful park, were the offices of the director and administration are located, and Palazzo Turconi, the former hospital now entirely renovated, for the design ateliers and a number of classrooms. Next to Palazzo Turconi is the Academy Library. Built fairly recently, Palazzo Canavée houses more classrooms, some ateliers, the office of the academic staff, and the exhibition gallery. Via G. Motta Via Bolzani Turconi Building Park Villa Argentina Research Institute Canavée Building Library Academy Building P H Hospital P Academy University Library The Library provides its services to all visitors interested in the subjects studied at the University. It is open to academic staff members, students and the general public. A photocopy machine and seven computer work stations, with free internet access, can be found in the reading room. The research material, including a wide selection of periodicals, are displayed on open-shelves and are available for consultation and take home. Among the range of services provided by the Library, students can benefit from the Interlibrary Loan were books and newspaper articles not available in the Library of Architecture can be borrowed from other Swiss and foreign libraries. The library is open Monday to Friday, 9 to 20 hrs. and Saturday from 10 to 17 hrs. During the two weeks immediately preceding the examination session, the Library extends its opening hours Saturday from 9 to 20 hrs and opens Sunday from 12 to 18 hrs. For more details, please visit the web site: (in Italian) Access, study areas, computers, Wi-Fi and photocopies Computer rooms may be accessed any time by using the ID electronic card. There are approximately 80 computers available: 20 may be used for the Internet and to consult on-line catalogues, and 60 (50 PCs and 10 Macs) are equipped for technical drawing,

17 The University campuses 15 processing images and creating 3D models. Throughout the Mendrisio campus it is possible to connect to the internet with your laptop via the wireless network. Students may use the photocopying machines located on the third floor of the Canavée building and in the Campus Library: to access them, a magnetic card is necessary, on sale from the main counter (CHF 20 for 150 copies; CHF 40 for 320 copies). In addition to the traditional black-and white and/or colour printers, the Academy has four plotters to print out architectural plans and drawings. Software includes AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, Photoshop, and 3D Studio Max. Students are instructed (at the beginning of the year) on how to use the various programmes and appliances. Laboratory for replicas and models The Academy also has two laboratories (one in Palazzo Turconi, the other in the new Canavée building) where students can learn to operate the various technical ways for creating replicas or models of their design projects. In order to use these machines, students are requested to take a 2 hour introductory course. Photography Laboratory Another resource on the Mendrisio campus is a photography lab, which includes: the studio, where students can photograph architectural models, and the dark room, where black-and-white pictures can be developed and printed. Snack Bar Accademia There is a cafeteria-snackbar on the Mendrisio campus. Students also have a special reduced price at the Obivella restaurant of the Beata Vergine hospital (next to the library) and a few other restaurants in the proximity of the campus. For the special rate, students need to show their student ID card. The Canavée Building

18 The University campuses 16 How to get to campus By car Exit the A2 motorway at Mendrisio, and follow the signposts Accademia. There are only a few parking spaces available in the vicinity of the campus. It is therefore advisable to use the multi-storey car park or the free parking spaces near the Exhibition Centre, Mercato Coperto. By train The main train station of Mendrisio ( ) is only a few minutes walk from the Academy. By air The Lugano airport is located in Agno, about 23 km from Mendrisio. It offers direct flights and connections to major Swiss cities and some European cities ( ). Within a km radius you will find three Italian airports: Milan- Malpensa, Milan-Linate, and Bergamo. These can be reached by shuttle bus services or by train ( and The closest Swiss airport for international flights is Zurich-Kloten, approximately three hours and thirty minutes by train from Lugano. ( Mendrisio Via F. Borromini Via Rime Via Al Gas Via F. Catenazzi Via G. Bernasconi Via Moree Via C. Diener Via C. Sportivo Via D. Alighieri Via A. Maspoli Piazzale della Stazione Via G. Motta Via G. Rizzi Via Franchini Via Pollini Via F. Mola Via A. Brenni Via F. Zorzi Via G. Motta Via Bolzani Via A. Turconi Via Praella Via V. Vela Via F. Borella Via Gismonda Viale Villa Foresta Via Municipio Via Dott. Via G. C. Croci Andreoni Piazza del Ponte Via P. Torriani Via Della Selva Via Redegonda Largo M. Soldini Via Alla Torre Mendrisio Via Generoso Via Della Selva

19 Studying at USI 17 Admission requirements Bachelor degree Applicants must be in possession of one of the following qualifications: Swiss diplomas Maturità federale or Maturità cantonale recognised by the appropriate Federal Commission; Maturità commerciale cantonale and Maturità pedagogica cantonale (teacher training) - in these cases the Faculties may define further requirements (for example a minimum average grade or supplementary examinations); Final diploma from a university of applied sciences or diploma from a technical college recognised by the appropriate federal authorities - in these cases, where the field of study selected is the same as the previous one, the Faculties may admit candidates to an advanced level of the programme and exempt them from particular examinations or from the internship period. School-leaving certificates issued by Swiss schools abroad are equally accepted. Italian diplomas Maturità classica, scientifica, linguistica: accepted by all the four Faculties; Maturità tecnica commerciale, diploma di ragioneria or perito aziendale: accepted only for the Faculty of Economics; Maturità tecniche quinquennali (five years): if applying for the same field of study; Maturità artistica or Maturità tecnica quinquennale (five years), or diploma di geometra (building surveyor): accepted only for the Academy of Architecture. School-leaving certificates issued by Italian schools in Switzerland are equally accepted provided these schools are listed in the Italo-Swiss agreement signed in 1996 and supplemented in Diplomas from other countries Applicants in possession of a foreign secondary school diploma and/or university diploma may be considered to be equivalent and admitted to the undergraduate programme. The European Baccalaureat is considered to be equivalent. The International Baccalaureat is acceptable only if the final average grade is 32/42 points or above (additional conditions on the specific subjects can be found on the CRUS website). A US High School final diploma is not recognised as equivalent to the required certificate of secondary education. US applicants must submit evidence of having studied for 2 years in a recognised university or have passed 5 AP (Advanced Placement) tests with a minimum mark of 3 in two languages, mathematics, a natural science and a social science subject.

20 Studying at USI 18 Please refer to the appropriate guidelines issued by the Rectors Conference of Swiss Universities (CRUS) Mature students ( su dossier ) Candidates aged 25 or more, although not in possession of the required certificate of secondary education, may be admitted with their previous training and work experience (fully documented in the application file). Students who have exceeded the number of failed examinations permitted by the Study Regulations, in a Swiss university of applied sciences or another university and as a result have been rejected by that university, cannot be admitted to the same Faculty or field of study (Admission and Matriculation Regulations, Art. 6). For additional information please consult Master degrees Applicants for the Master programmes in Economics, Communication and Informatics must be in possession of one of the following qualifications: Bachelor degree from the University of Lugano Admission is unconditional in the same field of study, but extra courses/credits may be required for other Faculties. Bachelor degrees from other universities. The appropriate Faculty reserves the right to indicate specific course deficits after an assessment of the candidate s academic records. Candidates with a four-year degree Graduates under the old system and regulations, with a compatible degree curriculum, may be awarded a Master s degree from USI by taking an additional 60 credits Candidates holding a diploma from a university of applied sciences (SUP, FHS, HES) may be admitted to study at USI for a Master s degree in the same field of study by obtaining an additional 30 to 60 credits. Applicants for the Master in Architecture must be in possession of one of the following qualifications: Bachelor degree from the Academy of Architecture Admission is unconditional according to the terms of the Study and Examinations Regulations of the Academy. Bachelor degree of another university Admission may be subject to additional credits and to available space and resources. The Committee assesses each case separately on the basis of the study curriculum of the Academy. Bachelor degree from another university under the old system and Regulations Admission is subject to the acquisition of a certain number of supplementary credits

21 Studying at USI 19 and to available space and resources. The Committee assesses each case separately on the basis of the study curriculum of the Academy. Candidates holding a diploma from a university of applied sciences (SUP, FHS, HES) may be admitted to the Master s programme, by obtaining an additional 30 ETCS. For additional information please consult How to apply Bachelor To apply please complete the application form and attach the required documentation. Applications by or by fax are not accepted. Deadline: July 1st (for the Academy of Architecture: June 1st). The application file must include: the completed application form (downloadable from photocopy of Maturità diploma or equivalent certificate of secondary education. (certificate of attendance by the High School if the candidate has not yet taken the final examinations); certified translation of any diploma written in a language other than Italian, German, French, English or Spanish; certificate of ex-matriculation for students transferring from other institutions of higher education (not necessary for the Academy of Architecture); photocopy of identity card/passport or other proof of identity; photocopy of residence permit for foreign nationals already domiciled in Switzerland. Candidates who apply as mature students (known as su dossier cases) are expected to submit the application form, a letter of motivation, a curriculum vitae, photocopy of the identity card or passport, photocopy of certificates from previous education and any certificates testifying training and work experience. Applications to the Academy of Architecture must include a portfolio (book). Late applications may be considered depending on space availability. A limit may be set to new admissions, to guarantee that logistical capacity does not exceed the detriment of teaching standards, and maintains a fair proportion between students of various origins. For further details, please refer to the Faculties website. Academy of Architecture: Economics: Communication Sciences: Informatics: Candidates will be informed in writing on the outcome of their application. For additional information please consult

22 Studying at USI 20 Master To apply please complete the application form and attach the required documentation. Applications by or by fax are not accepted. Deadline: July 1st (for the Academy of Architecture: April 15th). The application file must include: the completed application form (downloadable from photocopy of past diplomas (Bachelor, licentiate, four-year degree, maturity) official transcript from university certified translation of any diplomas written in a language other than Italian, German, French, English, or Spanish curriculum vitae personal letter of motivation written by the candidate official English or Italian certification of proficiency depending on the language of instruction of the chosen Master programme (not required by the Academy of Architecture) photocopy of an identity card or other proof of identity photocopy of the residence permit for foreign candidates already domiciled in Switzerland certificates of professional internships conducted in a firm of architects (Academy of Architecture only) A4-sized portfolio: book (Academy of Architecture only) Photocopy of previous degree diplomas If a candidate has not yet satisfied all the requirements for the Bachelor s degree a copy of the diploma may be sent at a later stage, but no later than the beginning of the registration period. In such cases, please state the expected date of award and enclose a document issued by the awarding institution confirming it. Letter of motivation Candidates are required to write a letter of motivation (no more than one page) introducing themselves and explaining their particular interest and reasons for seeking admission to a given Master s degree. Official certification of proficiency in English or Italian Candidates wishing to be admitted to a Master s programme that is taught in English or Italian are expected to have a good knowledge of the language (preferably a B2 level). They will need to present an official certificate of proficiency. Late applications may be considered depending on space availability.

23 Studying at USI 21 A limit may legitimately be set to new admissions, to guarantee that logistical capacity does not exceed the detriment of teaching standards, and maintains a fair proportion between students of various origins. For further details, please refer to the website of the single Faculties. Academy of Architecture: Economics: Communication Sciences: Informatics: Candidates will be informed in writing on the outcome of their application. For additional information please consult Registration To complete the admission procedure the student must register by following the steps described in the admission letter. Enrolment must be renewed at the beginning of each semester. This is a condition for attending classes and taking examinations. To renew the enrolment the student needs to pay the semester fees and update the student ID card. Bachelor Students will report in person to the Faculty reception, with the necessary documents: original of the Maturità diploma or equivalent two passport-size photographs receipt of payment of the tuition fees if transfering from other university, the ex-matriculation certificate (unless it was sent earlier, with the application file) For additional information please consult Master Students will report in person to the Faculty reception, with the necessary documents: original Bachelor s degree certificate or equivalent diploma two passport-size photographs receipt of payment of tuition fees certificate of ex-matriculation (for candidates that transfer from another Swiss University) For additional information please consult

24 Studying at USI 22 Fees Application fee - Bachelor and Master The Lisbon Convention regulates the recognition of university degrees between signatory countries and considerably simplifies the administration of admission procedures. For this reason, candidates whose previous degree was completed in countries outside this Convention are invited to pay an application fee of CHF 100, to cover the administrative costs of processing more complex files. If the candidate is admitted, the fee will be deducted from the amount of the tuition fee of the first semester. The administrative fee is not refunded if admission is not granted, or if the candidate decides to withdraw or fails to register. This practice is not applied at the Academy of Architecture for the Bachelor s programme. For the Master degree in Architecture an application fee of CHF 200 is requested to all applicants with a degree from a foreign universities. For additional information on the Bachelor application fee please consult For additional information on the Master application fee please consult Tuition fee - Bachelor and Master Tuition fee is of CHF 4,000 (approx. EURO 2,500) per semester. For students with legal residence in Switzerland (including Liechtenstein and Campione d Italia) at the time of obtaining the certificate of secondary school education (Maturità) the tuition fee is of CHF 2,000. The tuition fee is paid at the beginning of each term, by the deadline indicated on the invoice and is an essential condition for registering or renewing enrolment. For additional information on the Bachelor tuition fees please consult For additional information on the Master tuition fees please consult

25 Studying at USI 23 Scholarships Bachelor Scholarships For an up to date and complete list of available scholarships please refer to the website For additional questions, please the Study Advisory Service: Faculty of Economics, Communication and Informatics 1. Students resident in Ticino for at least two years (five years for overseas students) may seek financial assistance from either the Cantonal government or private foundations. Please contact the Ticino scholarship and subsidies office Ufficio borse di studio e sussidi Residenza governativa, 6501 Bellinzona, tel , (in Italian) 2. Students resident in another Swiss canton must apply to the relevant scholarship and subsidies office in that canton. 3. Students legally resident in Switzerland who obtained the certificate of secondary school education in the German or French speaking part of Switzerland will be awarded a one-off scholarships of the sum of CHF 4,000 from the Foundation for the Lugano Faculties. The aim is to continue to promote multilingual and multicultural mix among the student body. The scholarship is awarded automatically after registration. 4. Swiss and foreign students registering in the first year of the Bachelor degree in Economics, Communication or Informatics who obtain their secondary school qualification ( maturità or equivalent) in 2009 with an average grade of 5.1/6 (respectively 85/100) may apply for one of the 15 study grants awarded from the University of Lugano. The grant covers the tuition fees for the first year and is renewable for 2 years. Candidates are kindly asked to send the complete application by August 28th, Application forms are also available in French and German and can be found on the website together with the conditions of participation 5. Swiss and foreign students may apply for a bursary from the Leonardo Foundation ( Application forms may be obtained from the administrative office of the Lugano Faculties or the Study Advisory Service.

26 Studiare all USI 24 Master Scholarships For an up to date and complete list of available scholarships please refer to the website For additional questions, please the Study Advisory Service: Faculty of Economics, Communication and Informatics 1. Students resident in Ticino for at least two years (five years for overseas students) may seek financial assistance from either the Cantonal government or private foundations. Please contact the Ticino scholarship and subsidies office Ufficio borse di studio e sussidi Residenza governativa, 6501 Bellinzona, tel , (in Italian) 2. Students resident in another Swiss canton must apply to the relevant scholarship and subsidies office in that canton. 3. Swiss and foreign students, may apply for one of the 60 one-off study grants of the amount of CHF offered by the Foundation for the Lugano Faculties of USI and the Università della Svizzera italiana. The merit based grants are given to students registering in the first-year of a Master programme starting in the Fall Merit is based on the results of the academic degree that gives access to the Master (usually the Bachelor degree). Distribution of the grants will be as followed: 20 grants will be awarded to students that pursued a Bachelor degree at a Swiss University, 20 to students that pursued a Bachelor degree at an Italian University and 20 to students that pursued a Bachelor degree at a foreign University. Candidates are kindly asked to send the complete application by July 31st, Application form and conditions of participation can be found on the website 4. The best first-year USI student of each Master programme, will be awarded a study grants of CHF for the academic year 2009/10 from the fund promoted by the Network USImpresa to promote and encourage quality education. 5. Scholarships for students interested in the Master in Italian language, literature and civilization. For the academic year 2009/10 the University of Lugano will award 5 study grants for students that will enrol in the Master in Italian language, literature and civilization. This scholarship will cover the tuition fees for the first year and is renewable for the second year. Requirements are an average grade in the Bachelor degree of 85/100. Candidates are kindly asked to send the complete application by August 28th, Application form and conditions of participation can be found on the website 6. Swiss and foreign students may apply for a bursary from the Leonardo Foundation

27 Studiare all USI 25 ( Application forms may be obtained from the administrative office of the Lugano Faculties or the Study Advisory Service. 7. Foreign students who choose to attend courses in a Swiss university may apply for grants through the Swiss Government. These grants are intended for students with a university degree, who choose to continue their education or carry out research opportunities in Switzerland. For more information, please consult the following website: or contact the International Relations and Study-abroad Office: arianna.imberti.dosi@lu.unisi.ch Bachelor and Master scholarships for the Academy of Architecture 1. Students legally resident in Switzerland who obtained the certificate of secondary school education in the German or French speaking part of Switzerland will be awarded a one-off scholarships of the sum of CHF 4,000 from the Foundation for the Lugano Faculties. The aim is to continue to promote multilingual and multicultural mix among the student body. The scholarship is awarded automatically after registration. 2. Highly qualified Bachelor graduates in architecture who intend to enrol in the Master programme at the Academy of Architecture may apply for one of the 5 grants of the amount of CHF offered by the Università della della Svizzera italiana. The grants cover the tuition fees for the first year and are renewable for the second year. 3. Swiss and foreign students may apply for a bursary from the Leonardo Foundation ( Application forms may be obtained from the administrative office of the Lugano Faculties or the Advisory Service. 4. Highly qualified candidates from less favoured countries and schools with which the Academy has built special partner relations (Tucuman, Argentina, Bucharest, Romania) may apply for a scholarship from the following institutions: Friends of the Academy of Architecture, Mendrisio Dr.J.Körfer Foundation, Berlin Agnese and Agostino Maletti Foundation, Mendrisio (exclusively for students with Italian citizenship) Vontobel Foundation, Zurich Winterhalter Foundation, Mendrisio For information and application of scholarships, please contact the Academy of Architecture: info@arch.unisi.ch

28 Studying at USI 26 Study policy Course attendance at the Università della Svizzera italiana is compulsory. A student may for serious reasons such as prolonged illness, maternity, obligatory military, civil service or other motives, at the Faculty s discretion, be granted a leave of absence of the duration of one or more semesters. While they are on leave, students remain enrolled and retain student status by paying a reduced semester fee. However, a student on leave is not allowed to attend classes or sit examinations on subjects taught in that term. Spending one or two semesters in another university is not considered on leave. The same is true of any period of practical training (internship) if required within a degree curriculum. The study policies of each Faculty can be found at the following websites: Academy of Architecture: (in Italian) Faculty of Communication Sciences: Faculty of Economics: Faculty of Informatics: Auditors Courses at USI are open to auditors (members of the public who are not seeking a degree) with no admission requirements, but are subject to refusal if the course is full and no space is available. Auditors are not authorised to take part in class exercises, seminars, ateliers or examinations. These are exclusively reserved for regular degree-seeking students. At the beginning of each semester, Faculties will select the courses available to auditors. A rate of CHF 200 is charged for each course (there is a 50% discount for pensioners) and has to be paid at the beginning of the semester to the Faculty reception. The standard rate may be higher for second or third year courses. Faculties do not issue certificates of attendance unless under special agreements with schools or institutions of origin. For additional information please consult

29 Studying at USI 27 Academic Calendar ( ) Application deadline/bachelor Architecture: Communication, Economics, Informatics: Application deadline/master Architecture: Communication, Economics, Informatics: June 1st July 1st April 15th July 1st Autumn Semester 2009 Classes begin Classes end Exam session Spring Semester 2010 Classes begin Easter holiday Classes end Exam session Exam session Autumn Semester 2010 Classes begin Classes end Exam session Spring Semester 2011 Classes begin Easter holiday Classes end Exam session Exam session Note: The academic calendar might be subject to change. To consult the current academic calendar, please consult

30 A study environment tailored to a student s needs: one teacher / seven students

31 Student services 29 International Relations and Study-abroad Office This Service is responsible for coordinating USI s participation in the following student exchange programmes: the Swiss mobility programme enables USI students to spend one or two semesters in another Swiss university and for students of other Swiss universities to study for one or two semesters in one of the Faculties at the University of Lugano. the European programme Erasmus enables USI students to spend one or two semesters studying in another European universities, with full validation of the study credits (ECTS) and for students from European partner universities to study at USI-Lugano. So far USI has signed more than 50 exchange agreements with European universities. the International exchange programme enables USI students to spend one semester studying in one of the International partner universities with which a bilateral agreement has been signed and students from the partner universities to study at USI. So far USI has 5 international bilateral exchange agreements. other programmes - Eurocampus : semester of study on intercultural communication organized by a network of ten European universities - Leonardo da Vinci programme: working internship in a European company - Freemover programme: exchange programme outside of the bilateral agreements Students interested in taking part in one of these programmes should address their enquiries directly to the International relations and Study-Abroad office. Students enrolled in the Faculties of Economics, Communication, Informatics International Relations and Study-Abroad Office c/o USI, via Giuseppe Buffi 13, Office 229 CH-6900 Lugano, tel , fax relint@lu.unisi.ch, Arianna Imberti Dosi, Head of service Susanne Stigen Pescia Students enrolled in the Faculty of Architecture Accademia di architettura, USI: largo Bernasconi 2, Ufficio V 0.05, CH-6850 Mendrisio, tel , fax , fbernasconi@arch.unisi.ch Fabiana Bernasconi

32 Student services 30 Career Service The Career Service promotes contact with various professional domains and helps students with the smooth and successful transition from university to the working world. More particularly, it promotes interaction between the business world and the academic world. Following are some of the services offered: Personal consulting meetings Upon request, the Career Service provides a personalized consulting meeting on professional advice towards entering the working world (reviewing the CV, letter of motivation and finding resources and contacts, etc.) This Service is open to students and graduates. For the Master students the review of the curriculum is integrated in the study programme. Data base offers, USI&Careers guide and CV Book The Career Service maintains a data base, accessible with a password, with internships and work opportunities for students and graduates. It also publishes an annual guide USI&Careers with information on approximately 80 companies that collaborate with USI and who are potentially interested in offering internships or jobs to USI students and graduates. The Career Service also creates a CV Book online, which contains the curriculum of all students enrolled in a two-year Master s program at USI. On-campus meetings Meetings held on-campus with key Swiss and international professionals in the working world, who will present their businesses and possible work opportunities and career prospects. Also available are career guidance and meetings on various professional fields and methods of finding resources and contacts. USI Career Forum Through an exposition fair and selected one-to-one meetings, national and international companies have the possibility of meeting students and graduates who are in search of professional contacts for the future working world. Further information on activities and the detailed timetable of meetings are available through the Career Service office and online. Career Service, c/o USI, via Giuseppe Buffi 13, Office 234, CH-6900 Lugano tel , fax , placement@unisi.ch, Silvia Invrea, Head of Service, Simona Bolis, Annelore Denti

33 Student services 31 venturelab.ch Venturelab.ch is a program sponsored by the Swiss Confederation, through the Innovation Promotion Agency (also known as CTI) with the aim to promote entrepreneurship. This Service offers training modules and coaching to students and researchers to help develop entrepreneurial ideas into concrete projects through learning how to manage a company, fundraising strategies and understanding to the job market. In the Italian speaking part of Switzerland, venturelab offers 4 modules: venture ideas A one day introductionary course to entrepreneurship within an organization where participants interact with teachers and entrepreneurs thus becoming consultants. venture plan A five day course for promoters with entrepreneurial ideas and innovative startup companies. Participants develop a business plan and strategy with the help of professionals. venture challenge Six month course aimed at creating a start-up company. A network of experts will provide the necessary skills for the creation and development of an enterprise. venture apero Organized outings with the goal of exchanging and develop network opportunities in the real business world. Application is free for anyone interested, though the number of participants per year is limited. venturelab.ch, c/o CP Start-up, via Maderno 24, CH-6900 Lugano michela.luraschi@lu.unisi.ch, Roberto Poretti, coordinator for the Italian speaking part of Switzerland Michela Luraschi, assistant A detailed list of Student Services at USI is available on page 46 or online at

34 Student services 32 USI-SUPSI Sport Service This Service raises awareness of the physical and social importance of sport in modern life. USI/SUPSI Sport activities enable all members of the USI and SUPSI community to take part in their favourite sports. Following are a few examples of activities offered: individual activities at special rates (e.g.: entry tickets to swimming pools, reduced day tickets for ski slopes) regular weekly activities during the academic year (soccer, basketball, volleyball, aerobics, jazz dance, capoeira, martial arts, etc.) other events (winter ski weekends, adventure weekends, etc.) University championships: Swiss, European, Universiads. USI-SUPSI Sport Services, Università della Svizzera italiana via Giuseppe Buffi 13, Office 135, CH-6900 Lugano, tel , fax , sport@unisi.ch, Giorgio Piffaretti, responsabile Alessandra Castelnuovo, Aniello De Lucia Canyoning in Val Verzasca