Summer and Winter Schools at La Source
La Source regularly organises summer and winter schools on current topics in nursing. These bring together people from various international partner institutions and students from healthcare universities in the canton of Vaud.
The courses, delivered entirely in English, are taught by lecturers and healthcare professionals. Alongside the teaching, a programme of social and cultural activities is offered. These leisure activities are essential as they enable participants to familiarise themselves with the local culture and form an integral part of the overall experience for international participants.
A report on the 2025 summer school in Lausanne
This programme, organised by Prof. Meichun Mohler-Kuo and the Teaching and Research Laboratory for Community Health Prevention and Promotion (LER PPSC) brought together 28 international and Swiss participants from 25 June to 10 July 2025. Students from Boston College, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the National University of Singapore, PSG Coimbatore, HESAV and La Source attended seminars, lectures and group work on the theme: ‘Community Prevention and Intervention’.
Visits to healthcare institutions enriched their understanding of local practices. A visit to Geneva to the Palais des Nations (UN) and the Red Cross Museum rounded off the programme. As has been the case every year since 2013, this exchange received financial support from the DGES.
A report on the 2026 Winter University with Japan
During this winter school, organised from 23 February to 13 March 2026 by Debora Martinez and Christophe Boraley, La Source welcomed six Japanese students from the Japanese Red Cross College of Nursing in Tokyo and the Japanese Red Cross Hiroshima College of Nursing.
The three-week programme included exchanges on mental health practices: lectures, workshops, simulations, visits to healthcare institutions, clinical placements and the creation of a research poster.
This project, supported by the DGES, provided opportunities for wonderful encounters and enriching discoveries.
How can I come and study at La Source in Lausanne for a semester?
International students can come and study for a semester at La Source. This unique experience will enable them to gain an insight into the Vaud healthcare system and to gain new professional and personal experiences.
At La Source, students have access to a cutting-edge Bachelor’s programme, comprising high-calibre placements, within an exceptional learning environment.
The modules are accredited through the ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) 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 halls of residence or in shared flats.