National Qualifications Framework for Vocational and Professional Qualifications (NQF VPQ)
Understanding qualifications from different countries is complicated. That is why the European Union developed the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) in 2008 as a reference tool. Each country uses the EQF as the basis for developing its own national qualifications framework (NQF). The various reference levels in each NQF are then mapped to those found in the EQF. In Switzerland, there are two NQFs: the National Qualifications Framework for Vocational and Professional Qualifications (NQF VPQ) and the Qualifications Framework in Swiss Higher Education (nqf.ch-HS).
Levels of NQF for Vocational and Professional Qualifications
Brief overview of the eight levels in the National Qualifications Framework for Vocational and Professional Qualifications.
NQF VPQ referencing process
Process that professional organisations go through to reference their vocational and professional qualifications to the NQF VPQ
Diploma supplements for professional qualifications
Whenever professional qualifications are awarded via a federal examination, the corresponding qualification is accompanied by a diploma supplement. When these qualifications are awarded upon completion of a study programme at a professional education institution (PEI), then it is the PEI that issues the diploma supplement directly, based on templates that SERI has provided to the PEI. Holders of examination-based professional qualifications who wish to obtain a diploma supplement at a later point in time should contact SERI.
FAQ – National Qualifications Framework for Vocational and Professional Qualifications
Answers to frequently asked questions about the NQF VPQ
The European Qualifications Framework
The European Qualifications Framework (EQF) is the basis for Switzerland’s own National Qualifications Framework for Vocational and Professional Qualifications (NQF VPQ) as well as for national qualification frameworks in other European countries. It serves as a frame of reference for all European countries and makes it possible to compare qualifications within Europe.
Qualifications Framework in Swiss Higher Education
The Qualifications Framework in Swiss Higher Education (nqf.ch-HS) is based on a three-cycle system: Bachelor, Master and Doctorate. The nqf.ch-HS covers both formal study programmes at higher education institutions for all three cycles as well as non-formal advanced studies programmes (CAS, DAS and MAS) offered by these institutions.