Program Overview

Introduction to the Certificate of Advanced Studies in INTERCARE

The Certificate of Advanced Studies in INTERCARE is a university-level continuing education program designed to address the current challenges in geriatric care. The program focuses on developing clinical expertise and leadership skills in nursing professionals, enabling them to take on clinical leadership roles in nursing homes.

Program Overview

The CAS INTERCARE program is a 1.5-year, part-time course of study that consists of 5 modules:

• Modul 1: Leadership and Communication - This module covers various communication and leadership techniques.
• Modul 2: Comprehensive Assessment of the Older Adult - This module includes comprehensive geriatric assessment, clinical assessment, and advance care planning.
• Modul 3: Geriatric Syndromes - This module covers topics such as frailty, sarcopenia, visual and hearing impairments, delirium, falls, gerontopsychiatry, pain, and malnutrition.
• Modul 4: Clinical Focus Areas - This module includes topics such as COPD, heart failure, diabetes, dyspnea, abdominal symptoms, polypharmacy, and medication review.
• Modul 5: Quality Development and Coaching - This module covers evidence-based instruments, treatment pathways, national quality indicators, benchmarking, and online coaching.

Program Structure

Each module is completed with a theme-specific assignment. Additionally, students write a final thesis at the end of the program. The program combines classroom instruction, e-learning, and self-study, with an emphasis on practical training and reflection on current situations in the workplace.

Coaching and Support

The program includes individual and group coaching sessions, which take place via video conferences throughout the duration of the course. There are 9 one-hour individual coaching sessions, which support students in transitioning into their new role. Furthermore, 6 group coaching sessions (each 1.5 hours) provide students with the opportunity to reflect on the course content and ensure a effective and sustainable transfer of knowledge into practice.

Time Commitment

The program requires a significant time commitment, with a recommended allocation of one working day per week (20%). The program consists of 15 ECTS credits, equivalent to approximately 450 hours of work, including self-study and module exams.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must have:

• A completed degree (Bachelor or Master) from a recognized university in the field of nursing science or a related discipline.
• At least three years of professional experience in long-term care or other relevant fields.
• Current clinical activity in a nursing home.
• Support from their employer, including a recommendation from the nursing home management or head of nursing to participate in the program.

Tuition Fees

The tuition fee for the program is CHF 9,500.

Target Audience

The program is designed for nursing professionals with a university degree who wish to take on clinical leadership roles in long-term care.

Program Goals

The goal of the program is to prepare participants for clinical leadership roles in nursing homes, enabling them to actively shape interprofessional collaboration in geriatrics. Upon completion of the program, participants will have developed the necessary clinical expertise and leadership skills to take on challenging roles in the healthcare sector.

Additional Information

For more information about the program, please note that the program starts in February 2026, and the application deadline is January 16, 2026. The number of participants is limited to 20, and applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis.