HWZ Is the First Swiss University to Be Named an «Entrepreneurial University»

In its anniversary year, the HWZ Zurich University of Applied Sciences will be accredited by the internationally active Accreditation Council for Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities (ACEEU) as an «Entrepreneurial University.» As the first Swiss institution of higher education to receive this accreditation, it is now one of 26 universities worldwide whose entrepreneurial focus has been recognized by the independent organization. HWZ met all standards without any conditions and received an «Excellent» rating in the areas of financial planning, leadership, and culture.

Since its founding in 1986, the HWZ has focused on practical education and continuing education that can be easily balanced with professional life. Accordingly, it promotes entrepreneurial thinking and action, particularly in the settings where its students are already working: in existing companies and organizations. The focus is on “intrapreneurship”—the ability to develop new ideas, take on responsibility, and drive change. However, HWZ also supports the transition to self-employment: Some students start their own businesses during or after their studies.

Practical Focus and Entrepreneurial Culture

The ACEEU accreditation recognizes how the HWZ has embedded entrepreneurial thinking and action throughout the entire institution. The international review team particularly highlights the direct connection between academic study and professional practice: Approximately 800 external instructors bring their practical experience to the classroom, and students apply new approaches directly in their work environments. The HWZ’s ability to rapidly develop and test educational programs based on the needs of the business community was also viewed positively.

The financially self-sustaining university model, the entrepreneurial culture in practice, and a leadership style that encourages initiative and the exploration of new ideas were recognized with the highest rating of «Excellent.».

«A business school must not limit itself to imparting knowledge. It must empower people to question the status quo, put their own ideas into practice, and actively drive change within companies. We have been pursuing this mission at HWZ for 40 years. International accreditation validates our approach and, at the same time, serves as an incentive to continuously develop our university,» says Prof. Dr. Brian P. Rüeger, president of the HWZ.

How the Entrepreneurial University Is Evaluated

ACEEU uses 15 standards across five dimensions to assess how entrepreneurial thinking and action are embedded in a university’s strategy, leadership, culture, and activities. A self-evaluation and a review of extensive documentation were followed by a two-day audit that included interviews with staff, students, program directors, alumni, and partners.

In the future, the accreditation may also be listed on the diplomas. The next reaccreditation is scheduled for 2031.

40 Years of HWZ from a Personal Perspective

According to HWZ, the 40th anniversary celebrations focus on the people who shape and have shaped the university. Through various events, it honors its connections with its students, alumni, staff, faculty, and partners. Forty portraits spanning 40 years also illustrate how HWZ has influenced individual career paths. In an accompanying LinkedIn campaign, people connected to the university share what HWZ means to them in terms of their professional and personal journeys.

More about the university: www.fh-hwz.ch