In Switzerland, professions can be broadly categorized into regulated and non-regulated professions. Understanding the difference between these two categories is crucial for both Swiss citizens and international professionals aiming to work in Switzerland.

Regulated Professions:

Definition:

• Regulated professions are those that require specific qualifications and certifications by law to practice. These professions are often subject to oversight by professional bodies or government agencies.

Examples:

• Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals must meet stringent educational and certification requirements.
• Law: Lawyers and notaries must be admitted to the bar and fulfill specific educational criteria.
• Engineering and Architecture: Certain engineering disciplines and architecture require accreditation from recognized professional bodies.
• Finance: Some financial roles, such as auditors and accountants, may require certification from recognized institutions.

Requirements:

• Qualifications: Specific academic degrees, professional training, and sometimes additional exams.
• Certification: Registration with a professional body and compliance with ongoing professional development requirements.
• Licensing: Official licenses to practice, often requiring renewal.

Non-Regulated Professions:

Definition:

• Non-regulated professions do not have legal restrictions on who can practice. While qualifications can enhance employability, they are not legally mandated.

Examples:

• Managers: Managers play a crucial role in the success and efficiency of organizations like CEO, HRM…
• Journalists: Their roles are multifaceted and encompass various responsibilities that ensure the delivery of accurate, unbiased, and timely information
• Information Technology: Roles such as software developers, IT consultants, and network administrators.
• Marketing and Sales: Marketing specialists, sales representatives, and business development professionals.
• Creative Industries: Graphic designers, artists, writers, and media professionals.
• Hospitality and Tourism: Hotel management, tour operators, and restaurant management.

Requirements:

• Qualifications: While not legally required, relevant academic degrees and professional certifications can improve job prospects.
• Experience: Practical experience and a proven track record are often highly valued.
• Skills: Specific skills and competencies relevant to the industry.

Key Differences:

Legal Requirements:

• Regulated: Legally mandated qualifications and certifications.
• Non-regulated: No legal restrictions, though qualifications can enhance employability.

Oversight:

• Regulated: Subject to oversight by professional bodies and government agencies.
• Non-regulated: No formal oversight, though industry standards and employer preferences apply.

Mobility and Recognition:

• Regulated: International qualifications may require recognition and equivalence assessments.
• Non-regulated: More flexibility, with qualifications and experience often being transferable.

Programs at SIMI Swiss lead to non-regulated professions:

• As a private higher institute in Zug, Switzerland, SIMI Swiss offers single-degree programs (degrees awarded only by SIMI) in the field of non-regulated professions.
• These non-regulated profession programs enable graduates to work in fields such as management, CEO, human resources director, and principal (director of an educational institution).

Programs of SIMI Swiss lead to regulated professions:

SIMI Swiss only offers programs leading to regulated professions in collaboration with another university.

Through the dual degree system and mutual recognition of results from partner universities, students receive dual degrees. With the second degree from the partner university, students can expand their eligibility for regulated professional fields (if required).

References:

• SERI – Regulated Professional Activities and Fact Sheets
• List of regulated professional activities in Switzerland

Note: Determining whether a field is regulated or non-regulated depends on many factors and the regulations of each country. Please check the information before deciding to join SIMI Swiss. Learners also need to read our disclaimer for more information.