16Apr2025

BWL or VWL – Which Study Path is Best for Private Banking?

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Just finished your Matura, and are you aiming for a career in Swiss private banking? Choosing the right study path is crucial. Most Private Bankers study Business Administration (BWL), Finance & Banking, or Economics (VWL). But which degree suits you best? Or is there a third option in Switzerland? Take our quiz and find out!

1. Why Does Your Study Choice Matter?

Private Banking is highly competitive. Your study path will shape your skills and determine how well you fit into the industry. Whether you want to become a Relationship Manager, Investment Specialist, or Financial Advisor, your education should match your strengths.

  • 📌 BWL: Best for client interaction, wealth planning, and financial consulting.
  • 📌 Finance & Banking: Ideal for investment analysis, portfolio management, and structured products.
  • 📌 VWL: A perfect choice for macroeconomic research, financial risk assessment, and market strategy.

2. Take the Quiz: BWL or VWL for Private Banking?

Still unsure which degree fits you best? Find out in less than 60 seconds! Answer these simple questions to discover your ideal study path.

Which Study Path Best Fits Your Private Banking Career?

Answer these 5 quick questions to find out which Private Banking career path best suits your skills and interests.

1. When making financial decisions, what’s most important to you?

2. A client wants to invest CHF 5 million. How do you approach the situation?

3. How do you typically handle complex data analysis?

4. What is the most valuable skill you want to develop?

5. If you had to specialize in one area, which would you choose?

📌 **Want to explore more about becoming a Private Banker as a student?** 👉 Read More Here

3. Your Study Path and Next Steps

Now that you know which study path fits your skills and ambitions, it’s time to take the next step. Choosing the right university will give you the best foundation for a successful career in Swiss Private Banking. Below are Switzerland’s top-ranked universities for each specialisation:

  • 🏆 BWL (Business Administration): This is the best path for future Relationship Managers and Wealth Advisors. It focuses on financial consulting, client interaction, and banking strategies, all crucial in Private Banking.
    ➤ Top universities: HSG | UZH | HEC Lausanne
  • 🏆 Finance & Banking: This degree is the best choice if you see yourself as a future Investment Specialist or Portfolio Manager. You will gain expertise in financial markets, risk assessment, and structured products, which are essential for high-net-worth clients.
    ➤ Top universities: UZH | ETH Zurich | HSG
  • 🏆 VWL (Economics): This is the perfect choice if you are interested in becoming a Strategic Advisor or Financial Analyst. This path focuses on macroeconomics, financial policy, and market analysis, which are key in high-level financial decision-making.
    ➤ Top universities: UZH | HSG | University of Geneva

💡 No matter which path you choose, remember: Success in Private Banking isn’t just about your degree— bwl or vwl — it’s about continuously improving your knowledge, earning client trust, and building strong relationships.

🚀 So, what’s next? Start your journey today by researching study options, connecting with industry professionals, and gaining real-world experience through internships. The sooner you take action, the closer you’ll be to a rewarding career in Swiss Private Banking.

Check efinancialcareers for internship jobs in private banking & wealth management.

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Confused businessman in a suit shrugging, symbolizing the dilemma of choosing between BWL or VWL for a Private Banking career.

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