Semester Info for Students
Information from University Executive Board – 18 February 2026

Dear students,

A new semester is starting, full of expectations and excitement!

Things are really taking off at the University of Lucerne – not only in a literal sense, with the student café Baloo now beautifully replacing the former post office counters in the university building on Frohburgstrasse, but also in a figurative one. We recently opened the new Faculty of Behavioural Sciences and Psychology (VPF), and the response from students has been fantastic. In addition, at the end of January 2026, we celebrated the opening of the new Zug Institute for Blockchain Research (ZIBR) in Zug. This research institute comprises a total of nine new chairs, five of which are already filled: Philosophy and Blockchain, Sociology and Blockchain, Private Law and Blockchain, Public Law and Blockchain, and Energy Law and Blockchain.

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Messages from the University Board

Digital ID card to replace Campus Card

The University of Lucerne, together with the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, PH Lucerne, and the Lucerne Central and University Library, is introducing a digital ID card for staff and students. From January, this will replace the previous physical Campus Card. The digital ID card will be created via a web portal, with registration via Switch edu-ID. The previous Campus Card will remain valid until the end of March 2026; any remaining credit must be used up by then, as leftover balances cannot be paid out.  More Information


 

PaperCut - new print management solution

As part of the ongoing development of the IT infrastructure, the previous print management solution Q-Pilot is being gradually replaced by PaperCut. The phased transition will be completed by the end of March. Students receive a print and copy credit of CHF 30, which will be replenished to this amount at the beginning of the following semester. If needed, additional credit can be added directly via PaperCut and can also be refunded. Please note that any remaining credit on the physical CampuCard must be used by the end of March via the old printing system, as unused balances cannot be refunded. More information


 

Master's information evenings

The Master's information evenings of the faculties will take place on Tuesday, 17 March. Those interested in the Master's in Health Sciences can also attend selected courses from 16 to 20 March and receive advice. More information


 

Well prepared – keeping you safe at the University of Lucerne

Safety is a high priority in the University/PH building – the technical systems are checked regularly and comply with all legal requirements. In an emergency, instructions are given via the voice alarm system. In lecture halls and public areas, information sheets provide guidance on how to behave in the event of an incident. Safety depends on everyone's cooperation. Being informed and well prepared enhances protection and supports a safe place to study and work.

Internal emergency number: 041 229 50 50
At www.unilu.ch/safety, you will find the Information sheet for students: Safety in the University/PH building alongside other helpful information. 


 
 
Student services

Semester fees and contact details

Please remember to pay the invoice for the semester fee in order to keep your "enrolled" status (Payment deadline: 16 February, Enrolment deadline: 15 March). After payment, you can download the enrolment confirmation from the UniPortal. 
New students will receive their confirmation of enrolment when they enrol in person. 
Please keep your contact details (address, telephone number and private e-mail address) in the UniPortal up-to-date. You can enter changes directly there at any time.
More Information | Contact us: studiendienste@unilu.ch


 
 
International Relations Office – Mobility

Application deadlines for student exchange

If you are interested in taking part in an exchange programme, please take a look at the website of the International Relations Office (IRO) to find out about our partner universities.
Next registration windows:
SEMP-Programme: 1 March for autumn semester 2026 and spring semester 2027
Partnership-Programme: 1 March for autumn semester 2026
CH-Unimobil-Programme: 15 April for autumn semester 2026
More information | Contact us: international@unilu.ch


 

International Days 2026 – 20 to 22 April in the foyer

Fancy spending a semester abroad? Which location suits you best? From 20 to 22 April (Mon–Wed), the University of Lucerne will be providing information about its mobility programmes. Visit Food & Chat on Tuesday, 21 April, from 12 noon and talk to international exchange students about spending a semester abroad. The International Relations Office, the faculties, former outgoing students and the PH Lucerne will present the mobility opportunities available to students, staff and lecturers. More information


 

Language courses at the University of Lucerne – register now!

Strong language skills are key to international mobility and greater study opportunities. The University of Lucerne supports students by offering a wide range of language courses, from English, French, Italian and German to more specialised options such as Modern Hebrew. More information | Contact us: international@unilu.ch
Application deadline: 18 February 2026


 

Wanted: mentors for the "Campus Lucerne for Refugees PLUS" programme

Starting in the 2026/27 academic year, the University of Lucerne, together with the HSLU and the PH Lucerne, will offer a modular study preparation programme for well-qualified refugees as part of the Campus Lucerne for Refugees PLUS (CLuG1+) programme. We are looking for committed students to serve as mentors for language tandems and to help organise small events. Support will be provided by a lecturer from HSLU Social Work. Depending on the faculty, social credits may be available, and a qualified certificate of participation will be issued. 
Programme duration: 2 semesters, time commitment: approx. 1 hour per week.
More information | Contact us: campusgefluechtete@hslu.ch
Application deadline: 30 June 2026


 

Buddy programme Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Lucerne

ESN Lucerne welcomes local students who want to support our international exchange students with advice and assistance during their stay in Lucerne.
More information | Contact us: contact@luzern.esn.ch


 
 
News from the ZHB Lucerne library

Sunday opening times for students

The library in the Uni/PH building will be open on the following Sundays and public holidays: 14/17/24/25/31 May and 4/7/14/21 June, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Important:
- Access only with ID card (University of Lucerne, PH Lucerne, HSLU)
- Use of all media and self-service facilities possible
- Jackets and bags permitted
- No library or IT services
- No access to lockers or vending machines

More information


 

New e-book collections for research and teaching

The following extensive e-book collections are now available online (University of Lucerne/PH network, accessible from outside via VPN):

  • JSTOR E-Book Archive: JSTOR offers over 91,000 e-books in all subject areas. The titles are on the same platform as the Journal Archive and can be searched on JSTOR.org.
  • Brill: The Brill's E-Book Collection comprises over 38,000 academic titles with a focus on the humanities, social sciences, theology and international law.
  • Felix Meiner: The focus of the Meiner's E-Book Collection is on philosophical literature, including historical-critical editions and current research literature. The collection comprises over 1,300 titles.

All of these resources can also be searched via the Catalogue.


 

News commentary quality-checked: new access to the Project Syndicate platform

Project Syndicate is an international non-governmental organisation dedicated to the production and distribution of opinion pieces and exclusive articles. These articles are written by a wide range of prominent figures in politics, business, academia and civil rights from over 100 countries. Project Syndicate's members include over 500 media organisations in more than 150 countries. More information 


 

Bibliometrics

The library is currently working on introducing a new bibliometric service offering aimed at the entire university community. This offering provides support in analysing scientific impact, interpreting indicators and developing strategies to increase academic visibility. More information


 

Optimised literature search thanks to Embase and new APA offerings

For the second year in a row, Embase is available to us – a central database for health sciences and medical research that is particularly suitable for systematic reviews and sophisticated search strategies. In addition, APA PsycInfo and APA PsycArticles are now available via the Ovid platform, which offers a user-friendly interface and powerful analysis tools. Take advantage of this opportunity to refine your search strategies. As usual, you can find all access points via the database information system. (DBIS).


 
 
Office of Equal Opportunity

21 April – Sexual Harassment Awareness Day

Sexism and sexual harassment are a reality within Swiss higher education. On 21 April, the nationwide Sexual Harassment Awareness Day will once again draw attention to sexual harassment in higher education.
More information | Contact: Matthias Luterbach, Co-Leader Office of Equal Opportunity


 

19 March – recognising, understanding and effectively combating racism at universities

Save the date: As part of the nationwide week of action against racism, the Equal Opportunities Office at the University of Lucerne and the Diversity Office at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts invite you to an online lecture by Dr Bontu Lucie Guschke on the topic of racism and racial discrimination in higher education.
More information | Contact: Fleur Weibel, Co-Leader Office of Equal Opportunity


 

Supervised holiday week 2026: Register now

This year's summer holiday week for children of students and staff at the University of Lucerne will take place from 6 to 10 July under the motto “Clear the arena! Our colourful circus week”. The event is guaranteed to take place, but the maximum number of participants per day is limited.
More information (German) | Contact: Matthias Luterbach, Co-Leader Office of Equal Opportunity


 
 
Sustainability

Sustainability Week 2026 – careers with purpose

As part of Sustainability Week 2026, the Lucerne Sustainability Association (VENALU) is hosting the event "Careers with Purpose" at the University of Lucerne on 19 March at 6.15 p.m.. This interactive event offers students insights into sustainable career paths and specific opportunities for involvement in their profession, projects and organisations.
More information (German)


 
 
Campus offers

University Sports has moved

Since January, the University Sports Office (HSCL) has been newly located at Walter-von-Moos-Promenade 4, at the “Perron” site. With the start of the spring semester 2026, the new location will also open a modern fitness centre, two bright exercise rooms, and a dedicated area for massage, therapy and sports counselling. Students can look forward to an expanded range of services and excellent training conditions right on the new campus site. More information


 

Psychological Counselling Centre Campus Lucerne now located at "Perron"

Since January, the Psychological Counselling Centre Campus Lucerne (PBLU) is no longer located at Sentimatt Lucerne, but in the new Campus Lucerne Railway Station “Perron” building at Walter-von-Moos-Promenade 4.

The PH Lucerne-affiliated PBLU offers its services to the entire Lucerne campus. Thanks to its new location right next to Lucerne railway station, students and staff benefit from short distances and even better accessibility. More information


 

Start the spring semester with confidence: free counselling and workshops for your mental health

The Psychological Counselling Centre will help you overcome challenges and make your studies a positive experience. We offer up to five free, confidential counselling sessions – open to any topic and tailored to your individual needs. In addition, you can take part in practical workshops on stress management and resilience, as well as receive support for procrastination and performance anxiety. Contact us – together we will find ways to reduce stress and boost your resilience. The Psychological Counselling Centre is now located in the central "Perron" building of the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts at Walter-von-Moos-Promenade 4. 
More information | Contact form | Contact us: info@pblu.ch


 

Horizons – Chaplaincy for students Campus Lucerne

Visit to the “Bundeshaus” in Berne (German): Thursday, 23 April, departure from Lucerne at 4 p.m. Guided tour of the Federal Parliament Building at 6.30 p.m.. Joint visit with insights into the work of parliament, accompanied by Claudio Fischer.

Meditation workshop (German): Monday, 11 May, 5.15 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. Introduction to meditation with practice and discussion, ideal for beginners or those wishing to deepen their practice.

Regular meditation sessions (German): Mondays and Wednesdays, 12.15 pm to 12.45 pm, in the Room of Silence. Next dates: 23 February and 27 May.


 

Join the Lucerne University Choir (Unichor)

Rehearsals for the new concert programme begin at the start of each semester. In the 2026 summer semester, choir members can look forward to the summer programme “Ein deutscher Liedersommer”, featuring songs sung entirely in German. Rehearsals take place on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. in the Sentimatt Auditorium in Lucerne. University students who enjoy singing are very welcome to join. Tenor and bass voices are particularly welcome. More information (German)


 

Prevention of sexual harassment: confidants

The three Lucerne universities offer a joint service for persons affected by sexual harassment. Any form of sexual harassment at a place of work or study is unacceptable and will result in appropriate measures and sanctions. Affected persons have the opportunity to receive quick and competent support by contacting one of the four confidants. More information


 
 
Student Life

Baloo is back!

Your café and bar on campus. We offer coffee and snacks for in between meals, as well as drinks to unwind when the university day is over.
Throughout the semester, we regularly host cool events, specials and spontaneous promotions. And if there's anything else you need for your everyday student life, you will find it in our shop. Drop in for a quick coffee or stay a while for a drink – we look forward to seeing you! Menu | Opening hours | Online-Shop (German)


 

News from the canteen operator ZFV

The new Arkade canteen will open in February at the HSLU Perron campus. Students at the University of Lucerne benefit from the same conditions as HSLU students. The focus is on a mix-and-match buffet with bowls (vegan and vegetarian) in a modern atmosphere.

Weekly menus now available digitally: You can find all campus menus in the Meal Match app or directly in your inbox via the Menu Newsletter (German).

Campus events 2026: Parties and events will now take place at all campus locations – from Rave & Grill in April to Daydance in summer and the Advent brunch in the 1574 canteen. More information (German)


 

27 February – Startup Insights & Networking: lunch with serial entrepreneur Darko Stanoevski

To all start-up enthusiasts and innovators at the University of Lucerne – free lunch and networking event with Darko Stanoevski, successful serial entrepreneur and alumnus of the University of Lucerne. Darko is the founder of the start-up Talnets (https://talnets.ch/) in Lucerne. Talnets aims to set the global standard for talent scouting in sports, initially in football and later in other sports as well.
The “Venture Briefing” event series organised by the Swiss initiative Venturelab is designed to help students who want to become entrepreneurs take the first steps towards building a successful business. More information


 

Neptun Wave Spring 2026 – until 9 March, noon

Projekt Neptun offers you high-quality devices from Apple, HP, Lenovo, Microsoft and more – with advice and support included! Whether you're looking for monitors, printers, input devices or mobile subscriptions – you'll find everything you need for your digital workplace here. More information


 

Lockers: key rental at the Infodesk

There are 644  lockers available on the 1st basement floor of the Uni/PH building. Keys can be obtained at the information desk on the ground floor. The application form (German), information on fees and further details can be found under “Lockers”.
Opening hours info desk: Mon to Fri, 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.


 
 
Current events

Public lectures, conferences and congresses at the University of Lucerne
Career development events


 
 
Next edition: Wednesday, 18 February 2026

The Semester Info newsletter provides you with official announcements and information from the University's Executive Board at the beginning and end of each semester. Faculties will contact you directly with information about lectures and your studies.


 

Language preferences

The Semester Info is available in both German and English.
Click here for the German version.
You may change your language preferences (German or English) in the UniPortal. Your chosen language setting will apply to all University of Lucerne communications distributed bilingually. 


 

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Missed the last issue? You'll find it in the Semester-Info archive.


 
 
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