Schools in Europe: Education in Switzerland

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Why is kindergarten mandatory in Switzerland?
How Swiss primary and secondary schools are structured and what they teach there;
What are short and long gymnasiums;
How education is used to combat youth unemployment;
How higher education is structured in Switzerland and how much it costs;
Where do Swiss teachers study and how much are they paid?

Before delving into the details, it is important to note the governmental structure of Switzerland, which significantly affects the country's educational system. Switzerland consists of 26 cantons - administrative units that have their own constitutions and laws, as well as legislative and executive bodies. Each canton independently decides on internal matters, including the organization of educational processes. Federal authorities oversee important areas such as international policy, budgeting, and currency issuance. Because of this, Switzerland has no official capital, but four official languages are spoken, reflecting the country's diverse cultures and educational approaches. This diversity of languages and cantonal structure create unique conditions for learning and development, making the Swiss education system one of the most effective in the world.

Switzerland is made up of 26 independent cantons, resulting in significant differences in the economic and social structure, including the compulsory education system. Pre-school, primary, and lower secondary education are regulated by cantonal authorities. The state guarantees the principles of accessibility and free compulsory education, but the implementation of these principles may vary from canton to canton.

When it comes to compulsory education in Switzerland, it is important to understand that it is a system consisting of 26 distinct educational models united by common principles. In the early 2000s, the differences between them were quite significant: curricula, educational objectives, and languages of instruction varied from canton to canton. The starting age and the overall duration of compulsory education also varied. However, in recent decades, laws and agreements have been introduced aimed at harmonizing the education system and increasing its coherence. This has made education in Switzerland more structured and accessible to all children, ensuring a more equal playing field for their development and successful learning.

In 2009, the HarmoS agreement—the Intercantonal Agreement on the Harmonization of Compulsory Schooling in Switzerland—was implemented. This document defines key aspects regarding school admission, national educational objectives, and the duration of schooling at various levels. In most regions of the country, compulsory secondary education now lasts 11 years, including two years of kindergarten, six years of primary school, and three years of secondary school.

Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich Photo: EQRoy / Shutterstock

Despite the concordat, differences in the education systems of the Swiss cantons continue to exist. First of all, the concordat does not establish uniform curricula for the entire country, and its application does not cover all regions. According to a 2019 report prepared by the Swiss Conference of Cantonal Ministers of Education, only 15 of the 26 cantons have signed up to the agreement. As a result, in cantons such as Appenzell Ausserrhoden and Graubünden, compulsory schooling remains nine years, while in Lucerne, Zug, Schwyz, and several other regions, it is ten years. These differences highlight the need for further reforms in the Swiss education system to ensure a more level playing field for all students.

The basic principles of the structure of the educational system in the country remain unchanged, despite possible differences in detail.

The Swiss education system is characterized by high flexibility and variety of options for education after primary school. It offers a variety of educational paths and levels, as well as the opportunity to move between different trajectories at each stage. Although such transitions may require additional effort, they allow each student to choose the path that suits him or her best. The Swiss education system is focused on the individual needs and interests of students, which contributes to their comprehensive development and successful socialization.

Pre-school Education

There is no compulsory pre-school education in Switzerland, and the upbringing of children until school age, which occurs at 4 or 5 years old, is considered a purely personal matter for each family. Most childcare institutions are private and have a high cost. In cities like Bern and Zurich, the price for a full day of crèches ranges from 60 to 150 Swiss francs. High childcare costs impact women's employment: approximately 60% of employed women aged 25 to 54 work part-time. This underscores the importance of accessible preschool education for balancing career and family responsibilities. Children can attend not only crèches but also playgroups, where they spend two to four hours a day, one to three times a week. These groups are designed for interaction and play with other children under the sensitive guidance of an experienced teacher. There is also a "mother for a day" service (Tagesmutter or Maman du jour), which involves a nanny receiving children in her home, providing them with care and attention in a comfortable environment.

School education

In Switzerland, attending kindergarten is compulsory for children, as in most regions it is the first stage of primary education. Parents should take into account that kindergarten plays an important role in the socialization and preparation of the child for school, providing the necessary level of knowledge and skills. The education system in Switzerland emphasizes early development, which makes kindergarten an important part of the educational process.

Children begin attending kindergarten at the age of four, but there is an important feature: the time when their education begins depends on their date of birth. If a child is born before July 31, which is common practice in most cantons, s/he will be able to begin school at the end of the summer of the year in which s/he turns four. If a child's birthday is later than this date, they must wait another year before attending kindergarten. This approach ensures a more harmonious development of children, taking into account their age characteristics and readiness for learning.

Attending kindergarten before the established age is prohibited, with the exception of the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino in southern Switzerland. In this region, parents have the option of sending their child to kindergarten at the age of three. However, compulsory attendance at the Scuola dell'infanzia, as kindergarten is called in Ticino, does not begin until the age of four. This rule allows parents a more flexible approach to the education and socialization of their children at an early age.

Children attend kindergarten for two years, after which they move on to primary school. In most cantons, such as Zurich, Bern, and Geneva, both years of kindergarten are compulsory. However, in some regions, such as the cantons of Lucerne, Uri, and Schwyz, the first year of kindergarten is voluntary, and only the second year is compulsory. This diversity in the cantonal educational systems allows parents to choose the most suitable option for their children, taking into account their individual needs and readiness for learning.

Photo: Michael Derrer Fuchs / Shutterstock

Kindergarten is an important stage of primary education, although it does not offer traditional lessons. Learning takes place in a playful manner, which promotes the natural assimilation of knowledge. The main goals of kindergarten include the socialization of children, the development of their independence, and preparation for primary school. Classes begin in the morning and last three and a half hours, allowing children to actively participate in games and developmental activities, developing the skills necessary for further learning.

In Switzerland, it is illegal to leave children at home alone until the age of 13. This means that after classes at kindergarten or primary school, parents must be at home or arrange for childcare. Schools offer various after-school programs that include both morning classes and lunchtime. However, it is worth keeping in mind that all these services are paid, and the cost is set by the municipality to which the school belongs.

According to current legislation, children should not be left home alone until the age of 13. However, from the first year of kindergarten, they are already considered old enough to move independently between home and kindergarten. To ensure their safety, they are given special reflective capes. At the beginning of each school year, a traffic safety inspector conducts classes with children, reminding them of street rules and how to cross the road safely. These measures are aimed at reducing risks and developing children's skills for safe behavior in a road situation.

Kindergarten is part of the compulsory education system and is integrated into school education, which means there are specific beginning and end dates for the school year, as well as holidays that coincide in date and duration with school holidays. In Zurich, for example, kindergarten and school children have five holiday periods during the year: summer holidays last five weeks, while other holidays last on average two weeks. This uniformity in the schedule helps parents plan family activities and ensures a smooth transition for children from kindergarten to school.

In Switzerland, after a compulsory year or two of kindergarten, children enter first grade starting at age 6 or 7. This transition occurs automatically, without the need for tests or exams. Students are assigned to schools based on their place of residence, ensuring that educational institutions are close to their homes.

Primary school includes grades one through six. During this period, children study a variety of subjects, including the national language of the canton, reading and writing, mathematics, ethics, design, and natural science. The schedule also includes music and physical education classes, including mandatory swimming lessons. Foreign languages are an important part of the curriculum: in Zurich, English begins in the third grade, and French in the fifth grade. These subjects contribute to the development of comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary for successful adaptation to modern society.

Most schools use a block schedule, which includes morning classes from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by two or three more lessons in the afternoon. This approach optimizes the learning process and focuses on a more in-depth study of subjects during a single block. The block schedule promotes better assimilation of material and reduces student fatigue, as breaks for rest are provided between lessons.

Elementary school classroom, Geneva, Switzerland, 2013. Photo: Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock

In the first grade, as in kindergarten, Grades are generally not given. At the beginning of the second and third grades, the first marks in language and mathematics appear, and from the fourth grade onwards, marks are introduced in all subjects. In Switzerland, a six-point grading system is used. This system allows for a more flexible assessment of student performance and helps create a positive educational environment.

After completing the sixth grade, at the age of 12-13, the typical Swiss child completes primary education and enters the secondary school located in his or her area of residence.

Secondary school in Switzerland, depending on the canton and commune, is usually divided into two or three academic departments. These departments vary in the complexity of the curriculum and the level of demands placed on students. Each department offers different educational paths, allowing students to choose the most suitable option according to their abilities and interests.

The decision to assign a child to a department is made jointly by teachers and parents. The key factors are the child’s academic performance, social skills, and personal qualities. It is important to consider how diligent and attentive the child is in class, and how interested they are in learning. However, the decision is not final: if a child who lagged behind in primary school begins to show greater diligence in their studies, they may be transferred to an advanced program. Similarly, if an excellent student loses interest in their studies, they will be offered the opportunity to move to the basic level. This approach allows us to take into account the individual characteristics of each student and adapt the educational process to their needs.

Secondary school in Switzerland usually lasts three years, but there are exceptions. For example, in the canton of Ticino, this period is four years, and in Appenzell Ausserrhoden, it is only two years. After completing compulsory secondary education, most Swiss students do not take exams or receive certificates. This allows them to focus on practical training and preparation for future professional activities.

There are two main areas for further education.

Pass exams for admission to a comprehensive school. These educational institutions have different names: for example, Gymnasium (grammar school) in German-speaking regions and Collège (college) in the French-speaking part of the country. After graduating from such a school, you can enter university. Along with general education schools, there are also specialized secondary schools.
Obtain a vocational secondary (basic) specialized education (that is, both secondary education and a profession).

Gymnasium - a direct, but difficult path to university

Swiss gymnasiums and colleges, also known as cantonal schools and gymnasiums, offer a broad general academic education and prepare students for university. After successfully passing the Matura exam, graduates are eligible to continue their studies at most Swiss universities without entrance examinations, with the exception of medical faculties, which require a secondary vocational education or completion of specialized schools. Swiss education is highly valued for its quality and diversity, making it attractive to students from all over the world.

Gymnasium education lasts from three to five years, depending on the canton. Students complete their gymnasium education at the age of 18–20. Gymnasiums offer in-depth study of subjects, which helps prepare students for further study at universities and professional careers.

In some regions, such as the German-speaking cantons of Zurich, Zug, Glarus, and Nidwalden, it is possible to enter a gymnasium immediately after completing primary school, that is, after the sixth grade. To do this, it is necessary to demonstrate a high average grade and successfully pass entrance exams in German and mathematics. This educational path is called Langgymnasium, which translates as "long gymnasium," as education in this system lasts for six years.

After two years of study at the "long gymnasium" or after the first year at the "short" gymnasium, adolescents choose a profile (main focus) for their further education. This choice significantly influences the priority subjects included in the curriculum and determines the available elective courses. The correct choice of profile can have a significant impact on future careers and preparation for admission to higher education.

In the canton of Zurich, gymnasium students are offered a variety of educational profiles that allow them to develop their interests and abilities. These profiles cover a wide range of subjects and areas, promoting a personalized approach to learning. Students can choose a profile that matches their interests and future career goals, making their education more focused and effective. The opportunities offered by gymnasiums in Zurich include both academic and practical areas, allowing every child to find their path and prepare for a successful future.

Scientific and Mathematical;
Economic and Legal;
Musical (emphasis on music and other arts);
Ancient Languages (with in-depth study of Latin and/or Ancient Greek);
Modern Languages (core subjects include linguistics and foreign languages).

Lausanne City Gymnasium, Switzerland, 2016. Photo: Gzzz / Wikimedia Commons

Only a third of students choose gymnasium education. This is due to the fact that studying at a gymnasium requires significant effort. Firstly, admission requires selection, and secondly, a probationary period is provided in the first six months, during which students' abilities and readiness for more in-depth studies are assessed.

During this period, students must demonstrate their readiness for an increased academic workload and meet established requirements. In particular, semester grades in all subjects must not be lower than four points. Approximately 20% of gymnasium students fail the probationary period each year. In such cases, they either return to a regular secondary school or choose the path of vocational education.

This educational institution offers in-depth study of subjects with high student demands. The curriculum includes not only traditional school subjects, but also modern areas such as information technology, economics, and law. Some cantons also offer courses in philosophy and religious studies, which allow students to broaden their knowledge and develop critical thinking.

Upon completion of their studies, students must pass exams to obtain the Matura. Since gymnasiums are under the jurisdiction of cantonal authorities, the requirements for obtaining this certificate may vary by canton. However, the certificate itself is recognized at the federal level, regardless of where it is issued. This ensures a uniform education system throughout the country and allows graduates to continue their studies at universities or other educational institutions, both in Switzerland and abroad.

Currently, Switzerland does not have a single standardized test, similar to the Russian Unified State Exam, for obtaining the Matura certificate. There is also no single date for holding final examinations throughout the country. In most cases, examinations are organized by gymnasium teachers in collaboration with invited independent experts from cantonal commissions. This approach ensures diversity and adaptation of examination procedures to the specifics of each canton, which facilitates a more objective assessment of student knowledge.

To receive the certificate, gymnasium students must fulfill a number of requirements. First and foremost, they must successfully complete curricula that meet the standards of gymnasium education. This includes mastering core subjects such as mathematics, Russian, history, and foreign languages. In addition, students are required to pass final exams to confirm their level of knowledge and skills. Participation in additional educational activities such as Olympiads and competitions is also important, as they can increase the chances of receiving a certificate with honors. Active study and completing homework on time are also required. Thus, to successfully obtain a certificate, students should demonstrate persistence, organization, and a desire for knowledge.

Achieve high grades;
Pass exams in five or six subjects: cantonal language, second official language, mathematics, core subject, and additional elective subjects. The exams include oral and written parts;
Write and defend a thesis.

The certificate issued upon completion of the gymnasium provides the opportunity to enter a university without entrance examinations and competition. However, not everyone succeeds in obtaining this certificate. This requires genuine academic aptitude and perseverance in mastering the educational material. Studying at a gymnasium requires significant effort and dedication, which makes the process of obtaining a certificate an important step in your future educational path.

Secondary Vocational Education: Study Plus Work

About 66% of teenagers in Switzerland, after completing three compulsory years of secondary school, choose to obtain full secondary vocational education. This training program lasts from two to four years and provides students with both theoretical and practical knowledge, which is its main feature. This education allows young people to effectively prepare for future professional activity, combining studies with real-world work experience.

Students at a vocational school spend a significant amount of time at the educational institution, where they study the theory of their specialty and general education subjects. Three or four days a week, they undergo practical training at companies partnering with the school, enabling them to acquire the necessary skills for their future profession. Students sign an apprenticeship contract, which clearly outlines the terms of their internship. Throughout their training, students receive a salary from the company, which promotes financial independence and motivates them to study. In most cases, there are no entrance exams for the schools. Students have the opportunity to select the internships they are interested in from a wide range of available options and submit applications. If the candidate meets the requirements set by the school's partner, that is, final school grades, school references, and other indicators are taken into account, he or she is invited to study.

Photo: Uwe Aranas / Shutterstock

Some cantons, such as Zurich, have specialized commercial schools that focus on economics and languages. There are also computer science schools that train specialists for the information technology field. Admission to these educational institutions requires passing exams.

The dual education system, which combines on-the-job training and vocational school training, provides graduates with a high-quality, applied education and direct access to the labor market. Experts note that this model contributes to a decrease in youth unemployment in Switzerland by creating conditions for the successful integration of young professionals into the workforce. This approach to education not only develops professional skills but also provides practical experience, making graduates more competitive in the labor market.

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Russia plans to develop a model of college-plants that will combine educational programs with production processes. This initiative aims to train qualified specialists capable of successfully working in a modern industrial environment. College-plants will provide students with practical experience, allowing them to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge relevant to the labor market. The project involves collaboration with enterprises, which will integrate the educational process with real-world production tasks, thereby improving the quality of education and enhancing the competitiveness of graduates.

About 230 specialties are available for mastery in vocational schools. Upon completion of training, graduates take an exam and receive a federal certificate confirming their professional qualifications. This certificate opens up numerous opportunities for employment and further career advancement.

After completing the school, it is possible to immediately begin working in their specialty or continue training in specialized courses to obtain a certificate of professional maturity (Berufsmaturität/Maturité professionnelle). This certificate is a federally recognized additional qualification that opens the door to admission to universities of applied sciences without the need to pass exams. Obtaining this certificate allows you to deepen your knowledge and skills in your chosen profession, significantly increasing your chances of a successful future career.

Specialized Secondary Schools

Another option available to teenagers is Fachmittelschule or Écoles de culture générale, which are usually translated into Russian as specialized secondary schools. These institutions offer a more in-depth general education compared to vocational schools. However, Fachmittelschule also focus on specific professional fields and prepare students for further higher education in their chosen fields. Specialized high schools are becoming an important step for teenagers seeking a high-quality education and developing their professional skills. Specialized high schools in Switzerland were established in 2004 as an alternative to gymnasiums and vocational education. These institutions are designed for students who are not ready to choose a specialty and enter the labor market immediately after ninth grade, but who do not plan to continue their education at gymnasiums. Admission to a specialized high school requires successful completion of exams, emphasizing the high level of requirements and preparation. These schools provide a unique opportunity to develop skills and knowledge in a variety of fields, allowing students to receive a high-quality education and prepare for their future careers. Specialized high schools' curricula include a variety of general subjects, such as the national language of the canton, foreign languages, mathematics, and computer science. The curriculum also includes the natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Unlike upper secondary schools, specialized schools offer courses focused on specific careers, as well as practical internships for students, helping them prepare for future careers.

Specialized high schools offer training in six key areas: healthcare, education, social work, information and communications technology, design and art, and music and theater. These areas provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills for a successful career in their chosen field.

The course lasts three years, after which graduates receive a federally recognized certificate of secondary vocational education. This document opens the door to further vocational education in the chosen specialty at higher technical colleges, which we will discuss below. If a student continues their studies for an additional year in an additional program, they can obtain a certificate of vocational maturity, which will allow them to continue their education at a university of applied sciences.

Higher education in Switzerland: three options

This region is home to both classical universities and higher vocational schools, which are also known as universities of applied sciences. Teacher training universities also fall into this category of educational institutions. These educational institutions offer a variety of programs and training, providing students with a high-quality education and the necessary knowledge for successful professional work.

In most cases, applicants enter universities after completing gymnasium, while higher vocational schools are accepted after completing secondary vocational education. However, the reverse path is also possible, but it will require additional preparation and passing the necessary exams. It should be noted that there is no single list of admission requirements, as each university independently determines what documents and conditions are necessary for enrollment.

Campus of the University of Geneva (UNIGE) in Geneva, Switzerland, 2019. Photo: EQRoy / Shutterstock

The choice of educational institution type plays a key role in developing professional skills and knowledge. The desired profession is an important factor. For example, programs in German language and literature are offered exclusively at universities, allowing students to study the language and culture in depth. At the same time, fields such as landscape architecture and automotive engineering are only available at universities of applied sciences. This means that to achieve success in your chosen field, it is important to choose the right type of educational institution that aligns with your career goals.

Education at Swiss universities is organized according to the Bologna two-cycle system. A bachelor's degree requires three years of study, followed by a master's degree, which lasts from one and a half to two years. After completing the master's degree, students have the opportunity to enroll in a doctoral program, which typically takes three to four years. In most cases, classes are conducted in the national languages, but a number of courses, especially at the master's level, are also offered in English. This education system ensures high-quality specialist training and the recognition of diplomas in the international environment.

Currently, there are ten cantonal universities and two Polytechnic Schools in Switzerland, located in Zurich and Lausanne. All of these educational institutions have public status and receive state funding. Tuition is charged for both Swiss students and foreign citizens.

If parents are unable to finance their studies, students have the opportunity to receive scholarships or grants from cantonal authorities and various foundations that support science and education. Many educational institutions also offer scholarships for students with outstanding academic achievements. The amount of financial aid and the conditions for its distribution vary depending on the specific canton and university, which is important to consider when planning educational expenses.

Studying at a Swiss university is affordable compared to other European countries. Despite the high quality of education and international recognition, tuition fees in Switzerland can be quite reasonable. This makes Swiss universities attractive to students from around the world seeking a high-quality education without breaking the bank.

A semester at one of the world's top technical universities, the Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETH Zurich), costs 730 Swiss francs. By comparison, crèches in Zurich are significantly more expensive: for a full day of work, five days a week, parents will have to pay between 2,500 and 3,000 francs per month. These figures highlight the financial burden on families, as confirmed by data from the Federal Statistical Office. In 2018, the median salary in Switzerland was 6,538 francs per month before taxes, while in Zurich this figure was 20% higher – 7,832 francs. Thus, one can see that childcare costs can be a significant part of a family's budget, while studying at a prestigious university remains relatively affordable.

Rumors about the affordability of Swiss higher education often prove to be partially true. The cost of studying in the country is indeed modest compared to the prices of goods and services. However, additional expenses such as accommodation, transportation, and mandatory health insurance must be factored in. On average, a student living separately from their parents spends between 20,000 and 30,000 francs per year, which equates to about 1,500 to 2,000 francs per month on tuition and daily expenses. In reality, this amount can vary significantly depending on the personal needs and lifestyle of the student.

Europe's Higher Technical School (ETH Zurich) in Zurich, Switzerland, 2019. Photo: EQRoy / Shutterstock

University education is primarily full-time. For example, the École Polytechnique Supérieure offers distance learning or individualized schedules only in limited circumstances: for students who are professional athletes, raising a child, or have a disability. Distance learning is unavailable in other cases. The standard student workload is approximately 50 hours per week, highlighting the intensive nature of the educational process.

Swiss universities offer high-quality academic education and emphasize research, which actively engages both students and faculty. Many applicants choose these institutions seeking a career in science. Most Swiss universities offer faculties in law, economics, mathematics, natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences, enabling students to gain the diverse knowledge and skills needed for successful professional careers.

Higher polytechnic schools, such as ETH Zurich (ETHZ) and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), are leading institutions in the fields of engineering, mathematics, and natural sciences. These institutions offer high-quality education and cutting-edge research, attracting students and scholars from around the world. ETHZ and EPFL are known for their innovative programs and close collaboration with industry, enabling students to develop practical skills and in-depth knowledge in their fields.

Switzerland is home to eight public higher education institutions and one private institution that emphasize applied learning. These institutions offer programs aimed at developing the knowledge and skills needed for successful professional careers. Students gain practical experience, which helps them prepare for the real challenges of the labor market.

Universities with a broad profile offer studies in a variety of fields, including five to ten departments. For example, the Bern University of Applied Sciences offers eight faculties, providing a variety of study programs and opportunities for students. This approach allows them to gain in-depth knowledge in their chosen field and develop interdisciplinary skills, which makes graduates more competitive in the labor market.

School of Architecture, Wood and Civil Engineering;
Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science;
Faculty of Medicine;
School of Business;
Academy of the Arts;
Department of Social Work;
Institute of Sport;
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Nutrition.

Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts offers education in a variety of fields, including business, engineering and architecture, computer science, social work, design and art, and music. The university's curricula are aimed at training highly qualified specialists who meet the current demands of the labor market. Students have the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills that will help them successfully build a career in their chosen field.

The universities offer studies in various disciplines, such as economics, political science, criminology, applied psychology, management, and marketing. Many programs at these institutions overlap with university programs, but the main difference lies in teaching methods. Universities emphasize fundamental theoretical knowledge, while universities of applied sciences focus on the practical application of knowledge. These institutions actively collaborate with businesses and public sector companies, engaging expert practitioners from relevant fields in their teaching. This approach ensures the high relevance of educational programs. Internships and practical training at real companies become an integral part of the educational process, allowing students to gain valuable experience and skills necessary for a successful career in their chosen field.

Building of the Higher Pedagogical School in Lucerne, Switzerland, 2019. Photo: KlavdiyaV / Shutterstock

Universities Applied sciences in Switzerland include higher pedagogical schools, which train specialists in preschool education, as well as teachers and instructors of further education. These educational institutions are distinguished in the Swiss higher education system due to their specific specialization and management characteristics. This approach allows for the more effective preparation of qualified teachers who meet the modern requirements of the educational system. Higher vocational education includes training at higher technical colleges. These educational institutions provide specialists with basic vocational education and some work experience with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and skills in a specific field. Students can acquire not only specialized technical skills but also management competencies, which significantly increases their competitiveness in the labor market. Higher technical colleges play an important role in the training of qualified personnel, providing relevant education that meets modern industry requirements. Education in Switzerland offers high-quality programs that can last from two to three years. Students can choose either full-time or part-time study. Switzerland offers eight main fields of study: technology, tourism, transport, business, agriculture and forestry, health, social and adult education, and art and design. These fields provide students with the opportunity to acquire in-demand knowledge and skills that meet the demands of the modern labor market.

According to recent data from the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, 93% of graduates from the country's higher education institutions, including universities, colleges of applied sciences, and colleges of applied sciences, find employment in their field within the first year after completing their studies. While these figures vary by type of education and region, they remain high. For example, for graduates of colleges of applied sciences, the probability of not finding employment in their field is 10%. For university graduates, this figure is lower at 7%, and for teachers, it reaches only 1%. These data highlight the high demand for qualified specialists in Switzerland and the relevance of higher education for a successful career.

The Russian educational system shows an interesting parallel with the history of education in the Russian Empire before the Revolution. Currently, the general rule is that gymnasium graduates continue their education at universities, while college and specialized secondary school graduates have the opportunity to enroll in higher vocational schools, with the option to change their path. In the past, in the Russian Empire, a similar system existed: universities generally accepted graduates of classical gymnasiums without additional examinations, while graduates of real schools most often enrolled in technical institutes. This historical context underscores the importance and continuity of educational trajectories in Russia.

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How Teachers Are Trained in Switzerland

The compulsory education system varies by region, resulting in the fact that higher pedagogical schools, which train education specialists, are under the complete control of the cantonal authorities. This creates a diversity of approaches to teacher training and impacts the quality of education in different parts of the country.

Education is organized according to the Bologna system, which implies the availability of a bachelor's and master's degree. Students receive a qualification tied not to a specific discipline, but to an educational level. This allows for flexibility in choosing a specialty and adapting to the demands of the labor market. The Bologna system promotes the development of competencies necessary for successful professional activity and ensures high quality education.

preschool teacher (kindergarten teacher),
primary school teacher,
teacher of the first (compulsory) stage of secondary education,
teacher of the second stage of secondary education (grammar schools and vocational schools).

Pedagogical schools offer a variety of educational programs covering such areas as speech therapy and special (correctional or therapeutic) education. Continuing education courses are also available for teachers and educational institution leaders. An important aspect of training is practical training and internships, which occupy at least 20% of the total study time, allowing students to gain the necessary skills and experience for successful professional work.

The teaching profession is quite popular among young people in Switzerland. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), 6% of Swiss 14-15-year-olds answer the question about their future plans that they want to become teachers. For comparison, the average figure for OECD countries is only 4.2%. This indicates that Swiss schoolchildren are more likely to consider a career in teaching compared to their peers in other countries. This interest in the teaching profession may be due to the high level of respect for the educational process and the importance that Switzerland places on quality teaching.

In Switzerland, the average workload of teachers in public schools ranges from 30 to 35 hours per week, including 40-42 working hours. This time structure allows teachers to effectively organize the teaching process and ensure a high-quality education for students.

The average teacher salary in Switzerland is 86,000 Swiss francs per year before taxes, equivalent to 7,167 francs per month. This figure exceeds the national average, which is approximately 6,500 francs per month. However, teachers' actual income depends on several factors, including length of service, qualification level, and the type of educational institution they work in—preschool, primary school, or secondary school. It's also worth keeping in mind that salaries can vary significantly by canton. This salary level makes the teaching profession attractive, but it is important to remember the influence of various factors on the final income.

Teacher and students, Zurich, Switzerland, 2021. Photo: Michael Derrer Fuchs / Shutterstock

In the canton of Thurgau, teachers earn an annual salary of 100,385 francs, significantly higher than their colleagues in other regions. Bern, meanwhile, has the lowest teacher salaries, at just 69,923 francs per year. In Zurich, kindergarten teachers earn on average 5,000 francs more than their peers in other cantons. Geneva primary school teachers have the highest median salaries, reaching 97,000 francs per year, which is higher than the national average of 77,800 francs. These data highlight the significant differences in teacher and educator salaries across the cantons of Switzerland.

The average annual salary for various professions in Switzerland shows significant differences. A doctor earns an average of 121,861 francs per year, making this profession one of the highest paid in the country. A bank clerk earns 76,642 francs, a police officer 81,114 francs, a lawyer 97,475 francs, and an accountant 79,455 francs. These data highlight the attractiveness of professions in medicine and law and allow one to assess the financial prospects of various career paths in Switzerland.

According to statistics, only 6% of teachers in Switzerland are foreigners, meaning they were born, raised, and educated outside the country. Remarkably, half of these teachers are German. This is due to the high demands placed on teachers' language skills and the need for the validation and recognition of their diplomas. In a highly competitive education market, such barriers can limit the influx of foreign specialists, which in turn impacts the diversity and quality of the educational process in the country.

At the compulsory education level, the teaching profession, as in our country, is predominantly associated with women. According to data from the Swiss Statistical Office, 76% of teachers in primary and secondary schools are women. In kindergartens, the proportion of male teachers is even lower—only 5%. However, at the upper secondary and vocational school level, the situation is changing: here, more than half of teachers are men—56%. This indicates differences in the gender ratio among teachers depending on the level of education.

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