The Swiss labour market is changing rapidly, transformed by digital skills and innovation that are redefining professions. In this context, continuing education is becoming an essential lever for professional development. Whether you are an executive, team leader or specialist, understanding the challenges and opportunities of continuing education is crucial to maintaining your employability and advancing your career.
Definition of continuing education: a pillar of the Swiss education system
Continuing education refers to all learning activities undertaken after initial program.
Unlike initial vocational program, which prepares people for a particular profession, continuing education is aimed at working people who wish to develop, retrain or update their skills.
The main characteristics of continuing education are:
- Aimed at people already in employment,
- Enables participants to update or acquire new skills,
- Part of a voluntary professional development program,
- Can be funded by the company, the individual concerned or the public authorities.
In Switzerland, continuing education is part of a globally recognised educational ecosystem, where lifelong learning is encouraged by federal and cantonal authorities.
To better understand these nuances, check out our detailed guide on Choosing between vocational program and continuing education.
GOOD TO KNOW
According to the Federal Statistical Office, around 45% of Swiss adults took part in continuing education activities in 2021. This statistic places Switzerland among the most dynamic European countries in terms of lifelong learning.
The challenges and benefits of continuing education in Switzerland
Continuing education in response to changes in the Swiss labour market
The Swiss job market is undergoing rapid change. Digitalisation, artificial intelligence and new working methods are redefining your skills requirements.
Swiss companies are now looking for candidates who are adaptable and innovative!
Tangible benefits for your career
- Improved employability and career prospects
- Development of professional networks and opportunities
- Adaptation to technological developments in your sector
- Boosted self-confidence and motivation
Flexibility of formats
The Swiss system offers a wide variety of formats: online courses, classroom-based courses, certificate courses and degree courses. This variety allows you to find the solution that best suits your personal and professional constraints.
Switzerland's incentive for continuing education
The Swiss Confederation and cantons have introduced incentives to encourage continuing education. The 2017 Federal Act on Continuing Education (LFCo) structures this field and guarantees the quality of the program offered.
How to choose continuing education that suits your needs?
Choosing the right continuing education program requires careful consideration of your professional and personal goals.
Here are the essential steps:
- Assess your needs: identify the skills that are lacking in your sector.
- Define your objectives: is it for career development, retraining, specialisation or certification?
- Analyse the constraints: budget, available time, compatibility with your job.
- Compare the options: duration, cost, recognition, teaching quality.
- Check recognition: diplomas, certifications, reputation of the institution.
To learn more about this topic, read our article “How to choose a continuing education program”.
GOOD TO KNOW
Before committing to a program, check that it is recognised by your industry and that it will add value to your career. Certification and diploma courses generally carry more weight in the Swiss job market.
Types of continuing education available in Switzerland
Qualifying and certifying programs
The Swiss system offers certified training courses that are recognised throughout the country. These courses provide official recognition and add significant value to your CV.
- CAS (Certificate of Advanced Studies): 10-29 ECTS credits, duration 3-6 months
- DAS (Diploma of Advanced Studies): 30-59 ECTS credits, duration 6-12 months
- MAS (Master of Advanced Studies): 60 or more ECTS credits, duration 12-24 months
- Federal certificates and diplomas: official recognition by the Swiss Confederation
Short and specialised programs
Some examples:
- Seminars and workshops: 1 to 5 days, on specific topics.
- MOOC (Massive Open Online Courses): open online training courses.
- Short certification programs: to improve specialised technical skills.
- Conferences and masterclasses: to update knowledge.
Corporate programs
Many Swiss companies finance and organise internal training programs. This approach demonstrates their commitment to the development of their employees and their strategic vision of human capital.
Where can you find high-quality continuing education in Switzerland?
The main players in continuing education in Switzerland are:
Academic institutions
- Universities: high-level degree programs
- HES (Universities of Applied Sciences): practical and professional approach
- HEP (Universities of Teacher Education): education programs
- Business schools: management and leadership
Specialized organisations
- OFPC: Office for Guidance, Vocational Training and Continuing Education
- SEFRI: State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation
- Professional associations: specialised sector-specific programs
- Private organisations: wide range of short and specialised programs
To discover our full range of programs, explore the HEC Lausanne Executive Education continuing education catalogue.
Funding and support for continuing education in Switzerland
Covered by the company
In Switzerland, many companies cover all or part of the costs of their employees' programs. They consider this investment to be strategic for their development.
There are various options available:
- Full coverage: if the program is 100% in the company's interest.
- Partial coverage: cost sharing with the employee.
Your company may also be able to adjust your working hours. In some cases, you may be able to take educational leave (the opportunity to take time off work for training purposes).
Cantonal grants and subsidies
Each county offers its own support schemes. This financial assistance varies depending on the region and the target audience.
- Training vouchers: direct financial assistance.
- Grants for job seekers: for those returning to work.
- Scholarships: for long-term and degree programs.
- Specific assistance: check with your local authority and sector for details.
Tax deductions
Continuing education costs can be deducted from taxes as professional expenses (amount capped depending on the canton). Keep all your receipts in a safe place!
This option significantly reduces the net cost for those concerned.
Continuing education is a strategic investment in your career. In Switzerland, where excellence and innovation are valued, maintaining and developing your skills is essential to remain competitive in the job market.
Ready to take the plunge? Discover our continuing education catalogue now and give your career a boost.
