Switzerland has a comprehensive system of continuing education and training (CET) with a large number of providers and a wide range of education and training options. Some CET courses lead to work-related certifications and others to more advanced training.
Vocational, occupational and career counsellors can advise you on the range of CET courses available and explain the various conditions and requirements. They also have documentation on occupations and professions and can provide details concerning financial aid opportunities.
Adults may prepare for one of two Swiss upper secondary level vocational qualifications: the Federal Certificate of Vocational Education and Training (normally issued upon completion of two years of training in a given occupation) and the Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training (normally issued upon completion of three or four years of training in a given occupation). It is up to each cantonal VET office to decide whether a person may be authorised to take this examination. Contact the VET office in your canton for more information.
It is also possible to take the academic baccalaureate or the vocational baccalaureate as an adult, and then go on to study at a cantonal university, university of applied sciences or a university of teacher education.
Basic skills – such as reading, writing and arithmetic or the use of information and communication technologies – are an important prerequisite for lifelong learning and participation in social activities. More information on available courses for adults can be found on the ‹Einfach besser!› website
Holders of the Swiss Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training or equivalent have direct access to the Swiss professional education sector, which prepares experienced professionals for challenging technical and managerial responsibilities. There are two options:
Federal examinations (Federal PET Diploma or Advanced Federal PET Diploma)
Diploma from a professional education institution (PEI)
Higher education institutions offer continuing education and training programmes to holders of higher education qualifications seeking to gain further qualifications, specialise or train in a different field.