Double Degree Program with Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)
The Double Degree Program provides students from both institutions the opportunity to simultaneously pursue a Master’s degree from the ZHAW and the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM).
Upon successful completion of the double degree program, the following degrees will be awarded by the partner institutions:
- ZHAW Master of Science in Circular Economy Management
- UPM Master Universitario en Economía Circular
/ Specialty in Consumption and Sustainable Management of Natural Capital (in Spanish)
/ Specialty in Minerals and Construction Products (in English)
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 – Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)
The Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), located in Madrid, Spain, is a leading technical university recognized for its excellence in engineering and technical disciplines. Consistently ranked among the top global universities, UPM is renowned for its cutting-edge research, innovation, and commitment to academic excellence. UPM is an active member of the EELISA network, a European Universities initiative that fosters collaboration among institutions to promote innovation and interdisciplinary education.
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 under the combined supervision of mentors from both ZHAW and UPM.
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.
The Master Universitario en Economía Circular program offers two specializations. The specialty in Consumption and Sustainable Management of Natural Resources is taught in Spanish, while the specialty in Minerals and Construction Products is conducted entirely in English. Students must provide proof of language proficiency in the relevant language of instruction, depending on their chosen specialization.
Students admitted for the Double Degree program will complete the study program as outlined in the “Plan of Studies”.
Plan of Studies for ZHAW students(PDF 128,7 KB)
Plan of Studies for UPM students(PDF 127,1 KB)
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 UPM and the 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 five 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 proficiency in the chosen language of instruction, either Spanish or English, at a minimum level of B2; however, a C1 level is strongly recommended, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
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 their own international travel arrangements and all associated costs, including transportation, housing, meals, academic materials, valid student health insurance, medical care expenses, personal expenses, required orientation fees, and passport or visa application fees.
Students enrolled in the double degree program may be eligible for funding through the Swiss European Mobility Program (SEMP) during their period of study at the host university.
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 Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM).