Diploma and Degree May Be at the Same Qualification Level
SwissUK® Diploma may be at the same qualification level as SwissUK® Degree. While the two pathways have different orientations, they work closely together and may support progression opportunities, contributing to a strong and integrated education system.
Level 4 Diploma: Comparable in level to CertHE, HNC, or Year 1 of a UK Bachelor’s programme
Level 5 Diploma: Comparable in level to DipHE, Foundation Degree, HND, or Year 2 of a UK Bachelor’s programme
Level 6 Diploma: Comparable in level to a Bachelor’s degree
Level 7 Diploma: Comparable in level to a Master’s degree
Level 8 Diploma: Comparable in level to doctoral-level study
Diplomas Do Not Stop at Level 5 but Extend to Doctoral-Level Study
The SwissUK® Diploma system is built on both VET (Vocational Education and Training) and PET (Professional Education and Training) pathways. Through this combination, SwissUK® Diploma does not stop at Level 5, but extends to Levels 6, 7, and 8, which are comparable in level to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral-level study.
SwissUK® Diploma is designed for work rather than research.
SwissUK® Diploma is a qualification system designed to equip learners with practical skills and professional knowledge that support workplace readiness after completing the programme. While Degree programmes are typically more academically focused, SwissUK® Diploma is oriented toward applied learning, helping learners develop knowledge and skills that can be used in professional settings.
In Switzerland, around two-thirds of young people choose the vocational route after compulsory schooling.
Progression Between Diploma and Degree Pathways (Rotate the Screen on Mobile)
| When completing a Level Diploma | Switch to university training system |
|---|---|
| Reach Level 2 and Level 3 | In Year 1 University |
| Completion of Level 4 Diploma | Enter the 2nd year Bachelor's degree at British Universities with respective majors or non-UK universities using the National Competency Framework (NQF) |
| Completion of Level 5 Diploma | Year 3 Bachelor's degree at British Universities with respective majors or non-UK universities using the National Competency Framework (NQF) |
| Complete Level 6 | (1) In the final stage (with only 1 graduation report) to obtain a Bachelor of Arts or an Honors Bachelor (Hons) at British Universities or outside the UK using the National Competency Framework (NF) . (2) Admission to Master with respective majors. |
| Complete Level 7 | (1) In the final stage to get a Master's degree (with only 1 thesis) at British Universities with the respective majors or universities outside the UK using the National Competency Framework (NQF). (2) Enter the Doctoral program. |
| Complete Level 8 | (1) Can collaborate with university professors to make or recognize doctoral dissertation to get PhD degree at UK Universities or outside UK. (2) Enter the PostDoc program |
Abour SwissUK® Diploma
SwissUK® Diploma is a Swiss-delivered programme awarding Ofqual-recognised UK qualifications within the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). This helps learners access qualifications that are referenced within the UK system and may support further study and broader career development.
Maximise Career and Academic Opportunities
With its application-oriented approach and qualifications referenced within the UK system, SwissUK® Diploma can help learners benefit from:
Member of SwissUK®
Contact
SwissUK® Diploma is a Swiss-delivered programme awarding Ofqual-recognised UK qualifications within the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF).
