Double degree programmes
The School of Health Sciences at ZHAW has a combined degree agreement with Witten/Herdecke University in Germany, which enables graduate students in Nursing and Midwifery to obtain a Master’s degree from two universities.
Combined degree programmes, as taught at ZHAW, are jointly designed programmes that are offered and organised by two or more universities. They allow students to take part in two independent study programmes, each of which can be completed separately. This type of study enables students to specialise in a certain field or to gain a deeper insight into a second or neighbouring field. Moreover, students will hold degrees from both universities.
Advantages of a combined degree
- Two Master’s degrees: Graduates receive two academic degrees. Study time is considerably shorter than completing two programmes, one after the other.
- Specialisation / Knowledge enhancement: Students can build on existing knowledge by accumulating complementary content offered at a partner university, or by expanding their knowledge by attending different study programmes.
- Networks: Students benefit from different academic approaches in different countries while gaining valuable insights into the health system of another country and making valuable contacts.
- Improved chances on the job market: Combined degrees are highly regarded by employers. They increase graduates’ employability and enhance their career opportunities.
Our combined degree programme
The ZHAW School of Health Sciences currently offers a combined degree programme in collaboration with Witten/Herdecke University in Germany.
Witten/Herdecke University (UW/H)

The combined degree programme in collaboration with UW/H is open to ZHAW graduate students in Nursing and Midwifery.
Between 2018 and 2020, the Institute of Nursing Science at Witten/Herdecke University (UW/H) developed the Master’s degree programme in Community Health Nursing (MSc CHN). Community health nurses take on preventive and advisory tasks in the local community and support people with chronic diseases and/or disabilities. They can provide medical services that currently fall under the remit of doctors. The Master’s programme in Community Health Nursing prepares students for a wide range of tasks in primary and local healthcare for people in all phases of life.
What is a combined degree programme?
The main objective of a combined degree programme is to expand students' knowledge in various areas and give them the opportunity to benefit from a unique international experience.
A combined degree consists of two degrees awarded by two different universities. This type of study enables students to specialise in a specific field or gain a deeper insight into a second or neighbouring field. International combined degree programmes offer knowledge transfer in different countries. They are a unique opportunity to learn about different health systems and job profiles and get to know country-specific healthcare frameworks.
Combined degree programmes are two independent study programmes, each of which can be completed separately. The degree programmes are coordinated to such an extent that mutual recognition of credits is possible. Participating students complete the study programme at their home university (ZHAW) and the respective parts of the study programme at the partner university. After successful completion of the combined study programme, students are awarded Master’s degrees by both universities.
Additional information
Counselling
We offer students a range of confidential counselling services free of charge both before and during their studies.
International Studies
Spending a semester or a clinical placement abroad is a priceless experience for any student and offers the opportunity to learn how professions are taught and practised in other countries.
Questions?
For questions regarding a semester or a clinical placement abroad, please contact our International Affairs office.
Counselling
International Studies
Questions?
We offer students a range of confidential counselling services free of charge both before and during their studies.
Spending a semester or a clinical placement abroad is a priceless experience for any student and offers the opportunity to learn how professions are taught and practised in other countries.
For questions regarding a semester or a clinical placement abroad, please contact our International Affairs office.