Does my diploma have value on the job market? Is it recognized in Switzerland or internationally? What are certifications issued by private bodies really worth? You've probably asked yourself this question. At the same time, it's hard to sort through the vast array of continuing training courses on offer!  We'll help you make sense of it - just follow the guide!

Types of diplomas recognized in Switzerland

Federal exams

Under the responsibility of labor organizations, these exams are designed for people wishing to specialize in a particular field.

  • The Brevet fédéral: this will enable you to develop in-depth knowledge in a very specific field. This will enable you to work as a middle manager.
  • Diplôme fédéral: sometimes known as a "maîtrise fédérale”, this diploma guarantees a higher level of expertise. It attests to expert skills and represents advanced specialization.

To obtain a federal certificate or diploma, you'll need a certificat fédéral de capacité (CFC) and several years' professional experience. These certificates are recognized in Switzerland, but are not widely recognized abroad.

MAS, DAS & CAS

A guarantee of quality, these certifying courses will enable you to obtain a university degree.

  • MAS (Master of Advanced Studies): awarded after a minimum of one year's training, it offers 60 ECTS credits. You will be assessed on your knowledge and will be required to write a final report.
  • DAS (Diploma of Advanced Studies): awarded after at least 250 contact hours of training, plus hours of personal work. Here too, you'll be assessed on your knowledge and, in most cases, asked to write a final report. It offers between 30 and 59 ECTS credits.
  • CAS (Certificate of Advanced Studies): offering 10 to 29 ECTS credits, this is awarded after a minimum of 120 hours of training, plus various exams. In some cases, a final report is also required.

Find out more about the differences between professional training and continuing education in Switzerland.

GOOD TO KNOW
Some of our CAS, MAS and DAS programs offer open blocks. This means you can take part of the program on your own (even if you're not registered for the whole CAS, DAS or MAS course), and receive a certificate of attendance.

Quality certificates: labels for continuing education in Switzerland

You can also obtain a recognized certificate from an accredited organization. Labels and certificates are a guarantee of quality and professionalism!

Here are just some of the quality labels and certificates available in Switzerland:

  • EduQua: created by the Swiss Confederation, the cantons and the Swiss Federation for continuing education, this label groups together 6 quality criteria: the offer, the contribution of the service, the qualification of the professors, the development, the success of the learning and the communication with the participants.
  • EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System): this accreditation system is awarded to business and management schools for a period of 3 to 5 years. Among the criteria scrutinized: relations with companies, the school's international dimension, and the program and resources allocated.
  • BSIS (Business School Impact Score): developed by the FNEGE, this label studies the positive economic, educational and social impact of schools on their local environment. Criteria studied include contribution to regional attractiveness and innovation.
  • AMBA: created in 1967, the AMBA label is reserved for MBAs, DBAs and MBMs. This accreditation is awarded to an individual program, not to the institution as a whole. To obtain it, the program must meet a professionalization objective, be in line with business needs and have a cross-cultural pedagogical approach.
  • QTEM (Quantitative Techniques for Economics and Management): this certificate is awarded by an international network of partner universities and companies. Thanks to the QTEM program, you can boost your career and gain international exposure through study semesters abroad.

GOOD TO KNOW
Beware of certifications from private institutes, which are generally not highly regarded internationally. Some are not recognized by the Swiss Confederation. Be vigilant and take the time to find out whether your diploma is recognized and/or whether the training institute is serious!

The advantages of university certification

Real added value for international work

As a guarantee of seriousness and quality, university certifications are a real asset to your professional career. All the more so if you want to work for a large group and/or pursue an international career.

The possiblity of training thanks to ECTS credits

A universal unit of measurement, ECTS credits facilitate the recognition of university courses throughout Europe. They enable you to validate different levels of study, even if you're taking a break from your course. Thanks to ECTS credits, you can continue your training, and go from a CAS to a DAS, for example.

You now have all the information you need to choose a continuing education certificate in Switzerland. To find out more, take a look at the criteria for choosing the right continuing education course.