Mechanical Engineering Technician (CHE): What are the downsides of this program?
After earning your CHE degree in Mechanical Engineering, you will be able to independently analyze technical problems and develop appropriate solutions. In doing so, you will take into account technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and your customers’ requirements.
The main disadvantages of pursuing a degree as a Certified Mechanical Engineer (CHE) are:
Depending on the program, the CHE Mechanical Engineering Technician program takes about two to three years to complete and requires a significant time commitment. Especially if you’re pursuing continuing education, further training while working, you’ll need to balance your job, classes, exam preparation, and personal life. This requires good organizational skills, self-motivation, and perseverance.
Despite cantonal subsidies, you should expect to pay approximately CHF 15,000 to CHF 25,000 for the entire mechanical engineering program, depending on the school and study model. In addition, there may be expenses for textbooks, exams, and other materials. If you decide to pursue a full-time degree, you’ll also need to factor in a potential loss of income.
The continuing education program for becoming a Mechanical Engineering Technician (CHE) covers a wide range of technical and business-related topics. These include, among others, mechanics, measurement technology, electrical engineering, drive technology, and business administration. This breadth of subject matter can be challenging and requires a willingness to engage deeply with a variety of topics. Patience, perseverance, and a structured approach to work are especially important during periods of intensive study.
A diploma in mechanical engineering from a CHE is federally recognized in Switzerland, but is less well-known internationally than, for example, a bachelor’s degree. Even foreign employers or executives at Swiss companies are not always familiar with the Swiss CHE Education System.The new title suffix “Professional Bachelor” is intended to improve the international recognition of higher vocational education.This additional title is intended for Advanced Federal Diplomas of Higher Education (CHE), but not for the “Professional Master,” which is reserved for graduates of the Advanced Federal Professional Examination (AFPE). Nevertheless, when applying for jobs internationally, it may be necessary to explain your qualifications and practical skills in more detail.
Mechanical engineering technicians (CHE) are responsible for coordinating and supervising workshops and production facilities—in smaller companies, this encompasses the entire production process, while in larger companies, it covers a key subprocess. They work alone or in small teams, often alongside polymechanics, production mechanics, automation technicians, and design engineers.
Educational institutions offering a mechanical engineering technician (CHE) degree program
