Competencies at ETH Zurich
An overview for students
The ETH Competence Framework describes the competencies that ETH Zurich aims to foster. With subject-specific competencies at its core, it integrates the teaching of method-specific, social, and personal competencies (transferable competencies).
We developed it to help you recognise your potential and become aware of the competencies you develop as you attend our educational offer. These competencies will support you as you strive in your studies, future jobs, and societal roles.
The importance of a holistic set of competencies
Curiosity for topics outside one's field, empathising with others, and teamwork, for example, can turn purely technical knowledge into solutions. Being aware of these competencies and strengthening them can be crucial for your professional life.
Prof. Dr Günther Dissertori, Rector
At ETH Zurich, lecturers use the framework to formulate their courses' learning objectives and content so that it is easier for you to estimate what to expect from our educational offer. The framework is also used by administrative departments and organisers of extra-curricular activities to help you find the support you need during your time at ETH.
Explore the Competence Framework!
Subject-specific Competencies
These competencies concern knowledge of theories, concepts, and techniques as well as its application to specific fields. Take me to these competencies!
These competencies, that lie at the core of ETH Zurich's education, are specified in detail by the degree programmes.
Method-specific Competencies
These competencies concern knowledge and application of methods to make sense of, and operate in, any context. Take me to these competencies!
Social Competencies
Social Competencies concern competencies applied in the interaction with others. Take me to these competencies!
Personal Competencies
Personal competencies concern self-management in the context of own work. Take me to these competencies!
Note for the doctoral students
About the ETH Competence Framework
The ETH Competence Framework is a product of ETH Talent, an initiative of the ETH Rectorate. More information about the initiative can be found on the ETH Talent website.
Differentiation from the Social and Leadership Competencies
The Social and Leadership Competencies is another competence framework of ETH. The Social and Leadership Competencies are aimed at employees and come into play in everyday work. To employees like you, they offer guidance in the roles one assumes in research, teaching, knowledge transfer and technical/administrative work.