Training Paths for Cosmeticians in Switzerland: Your Route to Success

Dreaming of a career in the cosmetics industry? Switzerland offers various training paths to launch your career as a cosmetician. Here's everything you need to know about the main options and what to expect.

Vocational Education and Training (EFZ) - The Traditional Route

The three-year vocational training to become a certified cosmetician (EFZ) is the most traditional path. You'll spend three to four days per week in a training company and attend vocational school for one to two days. This training costs you nothing as an apprentice - on the contrary, you'll earn an apprentice salary of about CHF 500 in the first year up to CHF 1,000 in the third year.

Important: You must register for AHV (social security) and you'll be covered by social insurance. The training is offered in various cantons, mainly in Zurich, Bern, and French-speaking Switzerland.

Private Schools - Flexible but Fee-Based

Numerous private schools offer cosmetics training programs. These typically last between 6 months and 2 years and cost between CHF 8,000 and CHF 25,000. The advantage: you can often study part-time alongside work or choose full-time courses.

What to look for in private schools:

• Is the school registered with the State Secretariat for Education (SBFI)?
• Are the qualifications recognized by employers?
• Are there practical training components?
• Are the instructors qualified?

Higher Education Institution (HF) - For Leadership Roles

With a completed basic education, you can attend a Higher Education Institution. The title Certified Cosmetician HF qualifies you for leadership positions and self-employment. The training takes 2-3 years and costs between CHF 15,000 and CHF 30,000.

Career Change Opportunities

Even without prior knowledge, you can enter the cosmetics industry. Many schools offer special courses for adults. As a career changer, you should pay particular attention to practice-oriented training, since you lack professional experience.

Financing Options:

• Installment payments at private schools
• Educational loans from cantons
• Scholarships (varies by canton)
• Employer support for part-time training

After Training: Becoming Self-Employed

With your completed cosmetics training, you can become self-employed. You'll need a business license, must register with the AHV compensation fund, and depending on the canton, may need an operating permit.

The investment in your cosmetics training pays off: self-employed cosmeticians often earn between CHF 80 and CHF 150 per treatment.

Want to learn more about the path to self-employment? At selbständig.you, you'll find free guides with all the important information for your successful start as a self-employed cosmetician.