Summer and winter Schools at La Source
La Source regularly organises summer and winter schools on current topics in nursing. These bring together students t and staff from international partner institutions and students from healthcare institutions in the canton of Vaud.
The courses are taught entirely in English, are taught by lecturers and healthcare professionals. Alongside the academic programme, a range of social and cultural activities is also organised. These activities give participants an opportunity to experience the local culture and are an integral part of the programme.
A report on the 2025 summer school in Lausanne
This programme, led by Prof. Meichun Mohler-Kuo and the Teaching and Research Laboratory for Community Health Prevention and Promotion (LER PPSC) brought together 28 participants from Switzerland and abroad from 25 June to 10 July 2025. Students from Boston College, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the National University of Singapore, PSG Coimbatore, The School of Health Sciences (HESAV) and La Source took part in seminars, lectures and group work on the theme of: ‘Community Prevention and Intervention’.
Visits to healthcare institutions gave participants a better understanding of local practices. A visit to the Palais des Nations (UN) in Geneva and the Red Cross Museum rounded off the programme. As in previous years, since 2013, this exchange received financial support from the Directorate General for Higher Education (DGES).
A report on the 2026 Winter school with Japan
During this winter school, held from 23 February to 13 March 2026 by Debora Martinez and Christophe Boraley, La Source welcomed six students from Japan, from the Japanese Red Cross College of Nursing in Tokyo and the Japanese Red Cross Hiroshima College of Nursing.
The three-week programme included an exchange of knowledge and practices in mental health practices with lectures, workshops, simulations, visits to healthcare institutions, clinical placements and the creation of a research poster.
Supported by the DGES, the project provided opportunities for valuable exchanges and new insights.
How can I come and study at La Source in Lausanne for a term?
International students can come and study for a term at La Source. This unique experience will enable them to gain an insight into the Vaud healthcare system and develop professional and personally.
At La Source, students have access to a high-quality Bachelor’s programme with excellent placements in an exceptional learning environment.
The modules carry ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits and can therefore be recognised by the student’s home institution.
Testimonials
Testimonials in English from participants in the ‘Summer University’ (SU)
What are the entry requirements?
What are the entry requirements?
To enrol at La Source for a semester, you must meet the following requirements:
Ensure that your home institution has an agreement with La Source setting out the framework conditions and based on the compatibility of the study programmes
Have a good command of the French language (minimum CEFR level B2)
What is the registration deadline?
What is the registration deadline?
Exchange semesters are organised during the autumn term. Those interested must submit their application to their home institution. Responses will be sent out no later than one month after the deadline.
How do I find accommodation in Lausanne?
How do I find accommodation in Lausanne?
Subject to availability, La Source can offer furnished rooms in one of the student residences of residence or in shared flats.