FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Who is the CAS for?

The program addresses individuals with a degree in pharmaceutical or natural sciences working in the pharmaceutical industry or for the health authorities. Especially younger professionals benefit from the possibility to extend their knowledge in industry-relevant fields, which were not covered during their studies.

What is the content?

„Pharmaceuticals – From Research to Market” provides an overview over the processes a drug goes through from development to marketing. The program builds on the participants’ background in natural sciences and adds knowledge in pharmaceutical development, production, quality management, regulatory affairs, project management as well as marketing and communication. In short, this program provides the additional knowledge that natural scientists need for a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry.

What is the duration?

The program consists of seven modules of three or five days over a minimum of two years. Participants usually attend while working fulltime. Participants can start with any module.

What teaching methods are involved?

Participants can interactively participate in workshops and case studies. Furthermore the relatively small group of approximately 25 participants makes the learning atmosphere personal and allows in-depth discussions with the lecturers. Plant visits (in module 3 and 5) illustrate the transfer into the daily business and complete the program.

The modules are held in German or in English.

Who can apply for the CAS?

A recognised university qualification (level Master of Science, MSc) in pharmaceutical sciences or natural sciences or equivalent qualifications is required to start the program (see study regulations).

What degree can be achieved?

The ETH Zurich awards the Certificate of Advances Studies (CAS) to participants who prove 11.5 ECTS credits (equivalent to 23 course days) from the six modules and provide a successful thesis of approximately 30 working hours (details see study guidelines).

Participants not wishing to obtain a certificate are welcome to attend single modules and will receive a confirmation of attendance.

What are the costs?

The costs depend on the modules chosen and are stated on the application form. In order to obtain the certificate, participants have to pay an additional fee of CHF 580.-

When and where do modules take place?

please see course overview