Switzerland Pre-University/Vocational School Subjects

The Swiss education system offers a dual-track approach to vocational education and training (VET) at the upper secondary level. This system combines practical training (apprenticeships) with theoretical instruction in vocational and general education subjects.

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

VET programs typically begin at age 15 after completing compulsory education. There are two main paths:

• Federal VET Certificate: A two-year program designed for students with lower academic achievement. It provides a basic professional qualification and prepares students for occupations with less demanding requirements.
• Federal VET Diploma: A three to four-year program (apprenticeship) that prepares students for a specific occupation and provides access to tertiary-level professional education.

Federal Vocational Baccalaureate

High-achieving students can supplement their VET Diploma with the Federal Vocational Baccalaureate, which provides advanced general education and allows admission to universities of applied sciences in a related field of study. There are five fields of study for the Federal Vocational Baccalaureate:

• Technology, architecture, life sciences
• Nature, landscape, and food
• Economy and services
• Art and design
• Health and social affairs

Pre-University Programs

Pre-university programs are also available for students intending to pursue academic studies at a university. These programs often combine various subjects to develop essential skills for university and future careers. An example of subjects offered in a pre-university foundation program includes:

• Foundation Biology
• Foundation Chemistry
• Foundation Physics
• Further Mathematics
• Foundation Business and Economics

Bridge-Year Courses

For students who do not immediately enroll in upper secondary education after lower secondary level, bridge-year courses offer an interim solution. These courses address academic or language deficiencies, provide guidance on post-compulsory education options, and can serve as a transitional period.