University of Fribourg

University of Fribourg is a public research university located in Fribourg, Switzerland.

The history of the University of Fribourg can be traced back to the 16th century, when the Jesuit College St. Michel was founded on Belze Hill in 1580. The college was founded at the invitation of the government of Fribourg, and it quickly became one of the most prestigious educational institutions in Switzerland.

In 1763, an Academy of Law was founded by the state of Fribourg. The academy was housed in the Albertinium (now a Dominican residence), and it offered a rigorous program of study in law and jurisprudence.

In 1889, the University of Fribourg was finally created by an Act of the parliament of the Swiss Canton of Fribourg. The university was founded as a bilingual institution, offering instruction in both French and German.

The early years of the university were challenging. The university was underfunded, and it faced opposition from some members of the Fribourg government who were skeptical of the need for a bilingual university. However, the university persevered, and it gradually grew in size and stature.

In the early 20th century, the university began to expand its academic offerings. The Faculty of Humanities was founded in 1915, and the Faculty of Science was founded in 1946. The university also began to offer a wider range of postgraduate programs.

After World War II, the University of Fribourg experienced a period of rapid growth. The university benefited from the expansion of the Swiss economy and the growth of the Swiss higher education system. The university also attracted a growing number of international students.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the University of Fribourg has continued to grow and develop. The university has invested heavily in its research infrastructure, and it has attracted world-renowned scholars in a number of fields. The university has also expanded its international partnerships.

The University of Fribourg is a proud institution with a long and distinguished history. It is committed to providing its students with a high-quality education and to conducting cutting-edge research. The university is also committed to diversity and inclusion, and it welcomes students from all over the world.

Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2025, University of Fribourg is positioned as the #539 top university in the world, which makes it the #9 top university in Switzerland. The university's global rank is improved by 24 points from last year.