Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS)

How long does a CAS at HWZ take?

A CAS at HWZ typically comprises between 15 and 18 study days, depending on the mode of study. Many CAS programmes are completed within a single semester. Certain courses may differ from this due to their specific content or study model.

You can find detailed information on study dates, teaching days and modes of delivery on the respective programme page.

How many ECTS credits does a CAS comprise?

A CAS comprises a minimum of 10 ECTS credits. At HWZ, it typically amounts to 15 ECTS credits.

ECTS stands for European Credit Transfer System. The credit points make academic achievements measurable and comparable. One ECTS credit corresponds to approximately 30 hours of student work. This includes classroom teaching, independent study, preparation and follow-up work, as well as the effort required for assessments.

For a CAS with 15 ECTS credits, this corresponds to a total study workload of approximately 450 hours.

What qualification will you receive?

Upon successful completion, you will be awarded a Certificate of Advanced Studies from HWZ. To obtain this, you must attend the designated courses and pass the required assessments.

The specific form of assessment varies depending on the CAS. Information regarding examinations, practical projects, presentations or written assignments can be found on the respective programme page.

Can a CAS be credited towards a DAS or MAS?

A Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS) at HWZ consists of two CAS and comprises at least 30 ECTS credits. A Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) usually consists of three CAS and a master's thesis, and comprises at least 60 ECTS credits.

Whether a particular CAS forms part of a DAS or MAS depends on the specific degree programme. Admission to one or more CAS does not automatically grant admission to an MAS. This is assessed through a separate admissions procedure.

How does a CAS work alongside employment?

The CAS programmes at HWZ are specifically designed for working professionals. The study dates are announced in advance, making it easier for you to plan your executive education alongside your work and personal life.

The study model may include classroom-based teaching, digital learning units, independent study, and practice-oriented assessments. Teaching days, the proportion of online learning, and the schedule vary depending on the CAS. For binding information, please refer directly to the relevant programme.

In addition to the study days, you should allow time for preparation and follow-up work, independent study, and assessments. The total workload is determined by the ECTS credits of the chosen CAS.

CAS, DAS or MAS: Which executive education qualification suits your goals best?

Which executive education format is suitable for you depends on how extensively you wish to engage with a subject and which qualification you are aiming for.

A CAS is suitable if you wish to acquire specific additional qualifications within a manageable period of time. A DAS offers broader specialisation, comprising two CAS programmes. A MAS is the most comprehensive of these executive education options and also includes a master's thesis.

When making your choice, please check which CAS programmes can be combined and which admission requirements apply to the qualification you are aiming for.

Why complete a CAS at HWZ?

HWZ is the largest university in Switzerland to offer exclusively part-time degree programmes in the field of business. Its executive education courses combine academically rigorous content with a strong practical focus.

Developed for working professionals

The degree programmes are structured to enable you to combine executive study with your professional work. Study dates are announced well in advance to assist you with your planning.

Knowledge from practical experience

The lecturers bring specialist knowledge and practical professional experience to their teaching. Case studies, projects and application-oriented tasks enable you to transfer new insights directly into your professional context.

Current economic topics

The HWZ offers a wide range of CAS programmes covering numerous subject areas. These include, among others, management and leadership, banking and finance, accounting and controlling, data science and artificial intelligence, marketing, communication, human resources, innovation, transformation, and real estate.

Central study location in Zurich

HWZ is located on Europaallee, just a few steps from Zurich main station. This central location is easily accessible from various regions of Switzerland.

Opportunities for executive education

Depending on the programme, CAS can be combined to form a DAS or MAS. This allows you to begin with a targeted specialisation and expand your executive education at a later stage, provided you meet the respective admission requirements.

What are the admission requirements for a CAS?

Admission to a CAS generally requires a university degree or a higher qualification, along with at least two years of relevant professional experience.

Other equivalent educational qualifications may be recognised through a special admissions procedure, provided they are accompanied by relevant practical experience. This process is often referred to as admission sur dossier.

As individual CAS programmes may have additional or differing entry requirements, the information provided on the respective programme page is authoritative. There you will also find details regarding required language skills and other subject-specific prerequisites.

Frequently asked questions about the CAS programmes at HWZ