The Swiss Distance University of Applied Sciences (Fernfachhochschule Schweiz, FFHS) is Switzerland's public 'open' university, based in Brig (Valais). It was established in 1997 and the first students started in Autumn 1998. Courses use a variety of distance learning methods as well as day-long sessions in one of four regional centres (Zurich, Basle, Bern or Brig). The academic divisions of FFHS are a Business School, the faculty of Computer Science and the Engineering faculty.