In September, we reported on the upcoming reform of Switzerland’s Federal Vocational and Professional Education and Training Act. At that time, the Council of States had given its unanimous approval, and the law moved to the National Council for final review.
On 10 December 2025, this final step took place. With 168 votes in favor, 24 against and 2 abstentions, the National Council approved the reform. The legislation will now move to the final session vote, but in practice the political process is complete. Switzerland will officially introduce the titles Professional Bachelor and Professional Master in higher vocational education.
For everyone working in fields that rely on internationally understood qualifications cybersecurity and AI among them this is a defining moment.
What the reform brings
The core elements remain the same as outlined in our previous article:
Professional Bachelor and Professional Master
Federal professional examinations will now award the title Professional Bachelor. Higher professional examinations will award Professional Master. Graduates of higher professional schools will also receive the title Professional Bachelor. For the first time, the level and value of Swiss vocational qualifications become instantly clear outside Switzerland.
English as an examination language
Exams for federal professional and higher professional qualifications can now be taken in English alongside the national languages. This opens the door for international talent and makes Switzerland a more attractive place to learn and work.
Protected use of Höhere Fachschule
Only institutions with federally recognized programs may carry the title Höhere Fachschule. This protects quality and strengthens the trust that employers place in vocational education.
What the National Council added on 10 December
During the final debate, Parliament confirmed the importance of these changes for Switzerland’s economy. Speakers underlined that:
- The reform sends a strong signal in the fight against the skills shortage
- Vocational education becomes more accessible and more visible on the global stage
- Employers gain better clarity when assessing qualifications
- The attractiveness of vocational pathways rises, especially for practice oriented careers
A proposal to differentiate title wording between higher professional examinations and higher professional schools was rejected. Parliament opted for simplicity and consistency. The titles Professional Bachelor and Professional Master will apply clearly across the system.
The message was clear. Switzerland needs more practitioners. Switzerland needs qualifications that the world understands. And Switzerland wants vocational education that stands shoulder to shoulder with academic pathways.
Why this matters for cybersecurity and AI
Our fields do not sit still. They evolve every month and rely heavily on standards, mobility and internationally recognised expertise.
With this reform, Switzerland strengthens the talent pipeline for the skills that matter most.
- Better global recognition helps professionals move across borders, collaborate with international teams and build careers without friction.
- English as an exam language lowers barriers for specialists who want to upskill in Switzerland.
- Protected institutional titles reinforce quality and trust exactly where high technical competence is essential.
- Clearer qualification levels help employers understand what candidates can do in practice and why vocational education produces some of the most job ready professionals in the market.
Note from the Swiss Cyber Institute
As an education provider dedicated to cybersecurity, AI and data, this reform marks an important milestone for us as well. It validates the strength of vocational education in Switzerland. It raises its visibility worldwide. And it supports our commitment to preparing specialists who are ready for real work, not just exams.
Our programs reflect this mission.
The Cyber Security Specialist and the AI Business Specialist prepare participants for the new Professional Bachelor level and for careers that demand precision, responsibility and hands on experience.
We welcome this national decision. It strengthens our mandate. It strengthens the careers of our students. It strengthens the role of Switzerland as a hub for future skills.
If you want to understand how these new titles align with your development path or explore our federally recognised programs, you can find all details on our website or speak to our team.
This is a turning point for Swiss vocational education. And for the fields of cybersecurity and AI, it is a step toward a stronger, clearer and more globally connected future.
