The function of secretaries and executive secretaries has existed for almost 150 years and the job description has changed over time, as have the names of the qualifications. Until 1980, it was possible to obtain the Federal Diploma of Higher Education as an "executive secretary" in Switzerland. The title was then changed to "Secretary" with Federal Diploma of Higher Education and since 2001 the qualification has been called "Management Assistant". The popularity of this title may yet increase; however, the area of responsibility and skills of executive assistants are increasingly in demand. This is reflected in an increase in job advertisements as well as in the number of graduates taking federal examinations. The number of graduates of the Federal Professional Examination "Management Assistant" is rising steadily from year to year.