Can a student from an engineering background switch to a master's in humanities like English literature or philosophy at ETH Zurich?
Yes, you can switch from engineering into humanities at ETH Zurich, though not into a standalone English Literature or Philosophy degree, since neither exists there. Apply instead to the MA in History and Philosophy of Knowledge, built for students moving from technical and science backgrounds into philosophy, literature, or history.
Yes, you can make this switch, but not through a traditional literature or philosophy degree since ETH Zurich does not offer either as a standalone program. Your route is the MA in History and Philosophy of Knowledge, which is built specifically for students crossing over from technical fields.
The Program at a Glance
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Run by | Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences |
| Focus areas | Philosophy, literature and cultural studies, history |
| Academic requirement | Excellent bachelor's, any discipline |
| Language proof | Verified English or German certificate |
How to Strengthen Your Application
- Submit transcripts, a CV, two to three recommendation letters, and a focused motivation letter.
- Frame your engineering background as an asset, for instance by proposing to study the philosophy of AI or the history of computing.
- Show proof of your reading, analytical, and essay writing skills through prior coursework or writing samples.
My Advice
Write your motivation letter around a specific bridge topic, like the history of technology or the philosophy of computing, rather than a generic interest in humanities. This lets the admissions committee see exactly why your engineering background adds value instead of raising questions about why you are switching fields.
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