School of Management Fribourg

Key information

Partner Institution: School of Management Fribourg

Location: Fribourg, Switzerland

Dates: 22 June - 03 July 2026 

Costs: CHF 1'500 (approx. A$2,850) (more information can be found below)

Funding:

• Swinburne Abroad Travel Grants (TBC)
• A$8,442 (as at 2026) OS-HELP Loans available for eligible students

Application deadline: 10 April 2026

Overview

Study as an exchange student at one of our partner universities, School of Management Fribourg, under their intensive two-week Entrepreneurship and Innovation program. This intensive two-week experience goes beyond traditional entrepreneurship- participants will work on the development and improvement of real start-up projects in partnership with Le PeeL, gaining hands-on exposure to the innovation ecosystem in Switzerland. capabilities you've learnt.

Through interactive workshops and lectures taught in English by experienced academics and entrepreneurs from around the world, you will explore purpose-driven leadership, learn the dual purpose playbook for managers and founders, and understand the role of humane entrepreneurship in shaping sustainable businesses. The program also examines how digital tools, e-commerce, and smart product development are transforming industries, with a special focus on Swiss Made standards, intellectual property protection, and anti-counterfeiting strategies in the luxury market.

Beyond the classroom, you’ll immerse yourself in Switzerland’s culture of innovation and creativity. Field trips to leading Swiss companies- potentially in Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and more- will give you firsthand insights into European management approaches and global business trends. Fribourg itself is a vibrant medieval city perched on the Sarine River, offering breathtaking views, rich architectural heritage, and a lively student atmosphere. From boutique-lined streets and cozy cafés to energetic nightlife, this picturesque destination is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable academic and cultural experience.

Courses offered

Students will be studying the one course (module):

Module: Discovering Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Participants will experience a hands-on approach to entrepreneurship and founding a startup. Learn how to develop your business model, the different approaches in funding, branding and leadership. 

The 2026 company visits are yet to be finalised. However, in 2025, the partner organized some outstanding visits, including:

• The CEO of Montblanc, a prestigious brand known for its luxury writing instruments, watches, and leather goods
• Young startups, giving students insight into emerging business trends
• Hublot, a leader in innovation within the watch industry

Note: itinerary is subject to change.

Eligibility criteria

To apply for this program, students must:

• be enrolled into an Undergraduate or Postgraduate Business degree
• meet the overseas exchange program eligibility requirements
• meet any pre-requisites listed by the host institution and for the courses you choose
   

Academic credit

You'll earn 7.5 ECTS for completing this module.

You are able to take this program as credit for one of your elective units Alternatively, you may be able to earn credit for a core Business unit for this program, subject to approval from your Course Director.

Credit equivalence

7.5 ECTS = 12.5 CP (1 unit) at Swinburne

Costs

Program cost: CHF 1,500 (approx. A$2,600) - TBC for 2026

This program cost is paid to the host institution and may include the following:

• accommodation 
• transport to the company visits
• study material
• cultural activities
   

The host university will provide further information upon application.

Note: Tuition fees to the host university are waived for students completing a short-term exchange program at one of our partner universities. You will continue to pay your regular tuition fees to Swinburne while you are on the program.

There may be other program costs incurred outside of tuition fees, including living expenses, airfares, and visas (if applicable). Program costs are accurate as of the latest website update and may be subject to change.

Accommodation

2026 details will be confirmed in the coming months. However, all students were accommodated at Philanthropos Residence last year, and they might do so again this year. 

Located in a beautiful, peaceful setting overlooking Fribourg, it offers a great environment for studying and community life. Just 10 minutes by bus from downtown Fribourg, it is the perfect place to enjoy bothcity life and nature. Nestled near the stunning Gottéron Gorge, the residence provides easy access to beautiful hiking trails and breathtakingviews of the surrounding mountains. Choose between a single or double room, and enjoy a fully equipped shared kitchen, ideal for cooking and socialising with fellow residents.

View the brochure for more information regarding the accommodation.