HWZ becomes the first Swiss university to receive international accreditation for entrepreneurship

Since its establishment in 1986, HWZ has focused on providing practice-oriented education and further training that can be optimally combined with professional employment. Accordingly, it promotes entrepreneurial thinking and action, particularly in the environments where its students are already active: within existing companies and organisations. The central focus is on so-called intrapreneurship—the ability to develop new ideas, take on responsibility, and drive change. HWZ also supports the move towards self-employment: some students establish their own businesses during or after their studies.

Practical relevance and entrepreneurial culture

With the ACEEU accreditationIt is recognised how HWZ embeds entrepreneurial thinking and action throughout the entire university. The international review panel particularly highlights the direct transfer between academic study and professional practice: around 800 external lecturers contribute their practical experience to teaching, while students apply new approaches directly in their working environments. The HWZ's ability to rapidly develop and trial educational programmes in response to the needs of the business sector was also evaluated positively.

The financially self-sustaining university model, the entrepreneurial culture in practice, and a leadership that encourages initiative and the testing of new ideas have been recognised with the highest rating, “Excellent”.

A business university should not limit itself to imparting knowledge. It must enable individuals to question the status quo, implement their own ideas, and actively drive change within organisations. At HWZ, we have pursued this commitment for 40 years. Our international accreditation affirms our approach and also motivates us to continue developing our university.

Comprehensive assessment

ACEEU assesses how entrepreneurial thinking and action are embedded within a university’s strategy, leadership, culture, and activities, based on 15 standards across five dimensions. Following a self-evaluation and the review of extensive documentation, a two-day audit was conducted, including discussions with staff, students, programme directors, alumni, and partners. The accreditation may now also be indicated on diplomas. The next re-accreditation is scheduled for 2031.

40 years of HWZ from a personal perspective

International accreditation takes centre stage in the HWZ’s anniversary year. However, the focus of the 40th anniversary celebrations is on the people who shape and have shaped the university. Through a range of celebrations, the HWZ is honouring its close ties with its students, alumni, staff, lecturers and partners.

​Forty portraits spanning forty years also illustrate how the HWZ has influenced individual career paths. In an accompanying LinkedIn campaign, people associated with the university share what the HWZ has meant for their professional and personal journeys.

More about the anniversary

The Accreditation Council for Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities (ACEEU)

The Accreditation Council for Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities (ACEEU) is an internationally active accreditation organisation based in Germany. It specialises in entrepreneurship and social engagement within the higher education sector. Its accreditation as an "Entrepreneurial University" assesses a university's entrepreneurial orientation according to international standards – covering areas such as strategy, leadership, and culture, as well as education, research, and the institution's impact on business and society.