SiP FAQs

Here we answer the most frequently asked questions about the program “Science in Perspective”. You will find further information regarding the course program in the “DIRECTIVE for Science in Perspective” or in the “Strategy Paper on Course Program Science in Perspective”. If none of these Guidelines answers your questions, you can contact the Study administration office D-GESS for further information.

Science in Perspective briefly explained

The “SiP” program is part of every degree program at the ETH Zurich and is incorporated as a course unit category. As a rule, SiP-courses are firmly anchored in every degree program at ETH Zurich and they must be taken by all students. In certain study programs (e.g., at D-USYS), different provisions apply.

Students have to acquire at least 6 ECTS during their Bachelor’s degree, and 2 ECTS during their Master’s degree.

The aim of the “SiP” course program is, for students of the natural and technical sciences to gain qualifications exceeding the scope of their main subject. This includes, putting natural and technical sciences in social, political, economic and cultural contexts and getting a better understanding of global conditions and consequences in terms of action in politics, culture and economy.

We only accept courses listed in the course catalogue ETH Zurich under "GESS Science in Perspective".

The Course Catalogue lists the elective course units under the section “GESS – Science in Perspective”. Only the courses listed under this section will be recognized as a “SiP” course unit.

A maximum of 3 ECTS will be recognized for language courses during the entire course of Studies at ETH Zurich (BA- and MA degree together).
In addition: For the languages English, French, Italian and Spanish we only recognize advanced courses (level B2 upwards), and for German language courses level C2 applies.

A maximum of 3 ECTS from course units earned during a student exchange may be recognized towards the “SiP” program.
Attention: The approval from the Director of Studies of the respective degree program and the “SiP” Teaching Commission must be obtained before the course begins.

The courses must relate to the subject matter and methods of the natural and technical sciences thought at the ETH Zurich. For further information, take note of the “Strategy Paper on Course Program Science in Perspective”.

Students who change degree programs at ETH Zurich or re-enter ETH Zurich, or students who are admitted to ETH from another university, may recognize credits from the “SiP” Program already earned at ETH Zurich.

Example: "I visited a course similar to one listed in the “SiP-program” at ETH/ UZH and I think it would fit right into the program. Can I get these credits recognized?"
No! Each semester, the study program “SiP” offers more than 100 classes to choose from. These courses are specifically incorporated into the program at the request of the Teaching Commission D-GESS. Therefore, the course catalogue is binding and cannot be extended.