Portrait
The Association of Management Schools Switzerland (AMS) was founded in 2009. Its members are the business schools of universities of applied sciences in Switzerland recognized as accredited Swiss higher education institutions.
doctorate
The AMS advocates for transparent, merit-based, and collaborative pathways to the third cycle of higher education. For business universities, doctoral education is a key component in strengthening applied research, fostering the next generation of scholars, and facilitating knowledge transfer to the business community and society.
The AMS supports effective collaborations between universities of applied sciences, colleges of education, and research universities, as well as international collaboration models. At the same time, it advocates examining, in the medium term, the possibility of offering selective doctoral programs in research-intensive fields at universities of applied sciences—based on clear quality criteria, external review, and periodic evaluation.
Strengthening Vocational Education and Training/Vocational Maturity Exam
The AMS advocates for strong vocational training and an attractive vocational baccalaureate as a gateway to universities of applied sciences: Increasing permeability, ensuring clear profiles for universities of applied sciences, and combating the declining vocational baccalaureate rate through flexible models, targeted employer incentives, and clearer communication of pathways to universities of applied sciences. To this end, the AMS commissioned a study among vocational school students to better understand the reasons for and against pursuing a degree at a university of applied sciences.
Professional Bachelor's/Master's
The AMS notes that the title designations “Professional Bachelor” and “Professional Master” are being introduced in Switzerland. This creates a new situation that requires additional guidance for prospective students, employers, and the general public.
The AMS is committed to ensuring that the various educational pathways are clearly understood. Degrees from universities of applied sciences and traditional universities are part of higher education and are based on internationally established standards, particularly those of the Bologna Process. Business degrees from universities of applied sciences combine a scientific foundation with a practical focus and open up opportunities for further academic study, specifically access to advanced master’s programs.
Anyone deciding on an educational path should therefore take a close look at the course content, requirements, opportunities for further study, and international prospects associated with a degree.
