Equal Opportunities

HWZ promotes equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion across all areas—regardless of gender, background, age, religion, sexual orientation, or physical, mental or cognitive impairment.

We offer confidential advice to students, lecturers and staff, and provide support with questions or concerns related to studying, working and collaborating—particularly in cases of discrimination, harassment, bullying, barriers, or individual situations of strain.

Management & advisory

HWZ’s equal opportunities office is headed by Prisca Aerni. You can contact her at any time, for example in the following situations:

• If your studies or work are not progressing as you would like, or if you encounter barriers or disadvantages—whether physical, digital, social, or related to communication.

• If you are balancing your studies, work and caring responsibilities and encounter challenges in doing so.

• If you have experienced discrimination, (sexual) harassment or bullying—including in digital settings—or if you feel your personal integrity has been violated. In these situations, we offer confidential advice and support.

Gender and sexual orientation

HWZ is committed to respectful, equal treatment—regardless of gender, gender identity or sexual orientation. We value diversity as a strength in our community and an integral part of our culture. HWZ rejects all forms of discrimination.

If you have questions about gender, identity, transition or coming out, you can also contact external counselling services such as Checkpoint Zürich or Regenbogenhaus Zürich.

Sexual harassment

HWZ does not tolerate sexual harassment in any form, whether in the context of study or in the workplace. If you are affected, or unsure how to assess a situation, confidential counselling services are available in addition to HWZ’s equal opportunities office, including the City of Zurich’s specialist service for equality (Online Consultation)

Accessible and Inclusive Study

Studying at HWZ University of Applied Sciences in Zurich is possible with a physical, psychological or cognitive impairment. We are committed to an accessible study environment and work with those affected to agree individual solutions and compensatory measures.

Information for people with reduced mobility

• All classrooms are wheelchair accessible and can be reached by lift.

• Wheelchair-accessible toilets are located on the ground floor, as well as on the first and fourth floors.

• Access via Reitergasse: please use the ground-floor toilet in Sihlhof.

• Access via Woodtli: all floors are accessible by lift; wheelchair-accessible toilet on the 4th floor.

• Access to the auditorium: Lift A1 (main entrance), Lift A2 (upper entrance). Lift door width: 88 cm; toilet door width: 90 cm.