Double Degree Program with Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)
The Double Degree Program provides students from both institutions the opportunity to simultaneously pursue a Master’s degree from the ZHAW and the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT).
Upon successful completion of the double degree program, the following degrees will be awarded by the partner institutions:
Within the program, students will spend the first year at their home university and the second year at the host university, gaining a unique international perspective and intercultural experience.
About the Double Degree Partner – Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), located in Rochester, New York, is a leading technical university renowned for its programs in engineering, sustainability, and innovation. The university emphasizes practical education and maintains strong industry connections, offering students valuable experiential learning opportunities. RIT's Saunders College of Business is accredited by AACSB. In the U.S. News & World Report's 2025 edition of Best Colleges, RIT is ranked 91st among National Universities.
Program Structure
The Double Degree Program is designed to be completed over two years (four semesters), with students spending their first year at their home university and the second year at the host university. During their studies, participants will complete a combination of core and elective courses and write a Master’s Thesis at the ZHAW.
Double degree students will have full access to courses and the same rights and privileges as regular graduate students in the corresponding Master’s study track at the host university. They are also subject to the same rules and regulations for the duration of their studies at the host institution.
Students admitted for the Double Degree program will complete the study program as outlined in the “Plan of Studies”
Admission and Eligibility
Candidates for the Double Degree Program will be selected by their home university according to selection criteria jointly defined and agreed upon by RIT and ZHAW. Due to the higher workload compared to the regular Master’s studies, only highly qualified students will be admitted to the program. Each institution reserves the right to admit up to three students per academic year to the Double Degree Program.
Students interested in participating in the Double Degree Program should contact the Operations Manager of the MSc CEM program. As part of the admission process, students will be interviewed by the program head or a nominated deputy.
To be eligible, candidates must meet all admission requirements of the host institution, which are detailed on the program website. Additionally, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Language Proficiency: Candidates must demonstrate English language proficiency at a C1 level, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This includes a minimum score of 88 on the TOEFL exam, 6.5 on the IELTS test, or 60 on the PTE Academic.
• Academic Background: Applicants should have a strong foundational knowledge at the Bachelor’s level in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Statistics.
The host university reserves the right to decline a Double Degree candidate from the home institution for academic or other substantial reasons, in accordance with the terms of the bilateral agreement.
Fees
Under this bilateral agreement, all students participating in the Double Degree Program are required to register and pay tuition and other applicable fees to their home university. As part of the arrangement, the host university will grant tuition fee waivers to incoming Double Degree students.
However, students are responsible for covering any additional fees typically required of regular degree students at each university. These may include administrative fees, the cost of books, food, medical insurance, medical treatment, and other personal expenses.
Important Information
Please note that only students already enrolled in the ZHAW MSc in Circular Economy Management program are eligible to apply for a Double Degree with the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT).