Qualification Profiles / Learning Outcomes

nqf.ch-HS Qualifications Framework

In 2011, the Swiss University Conference approved the Qualifications Framework for the Swiss Higher Education Area (nqf.ch-HS) (updated version of 2021). This framework describes and defines the levels and qualifications of higher education in Switzerland on the basis of generic descriptors, admission requirements, volume/duration (ECTS credits) and degrees, thereby helping to achieve the objectives of the Bologna reform. The generic descriptors can be assigned to the following five areas of competence:

• Knowledge and understanding
• Applying knowledge and understanding
• Making judgments
• Communication skills
• Learning skills

These areas of competence serve as the basis for formulating level-appropriate and academically consistent Learning Outcomes as minimum requirements for each degree level.
 

Learning Outcomes are statements about what a student is expected to know, understand and/or be able to do after successfully completing a degree program. They are intended to give students an overview of what they are expected to learn and the associated expectations, as well as awareness and a basis for reflecting on their own learning. The formulation of Learning Outcomes creates a shared language and knowledge base for optimized communication between the areas of study advising, teaching and student administration. For teaching staff, they help improve didactic consistency, support the design of course offerings and serve as reference points for assessing students' learning progress. Learning Outcomes are also a tool for planning, evaluating and further developing the curriculum.
 

Learning Objectives and Learning Outcomes

The University of Basel distinguishes between learning objectives for courses and Learning Outcomes for degree subjects and degree programs. At the level of individual courses, teaching staff define the learning objectives for their course and list them in the online course directory. At the level of degree subjects and degree programs, those responsible for the curriculum define the Learning Outcomes in relation to the intended study objectives and professional qualifications as part of a qualification profile.
 

For each degree program, separately for the bachelor's and master's levels, a qualification profile (QP) is created based on the information paper Learning Objectives and Learning Outcomes as Foundations for Teaching and Studies. This is based on the comprehensive Guide to Formulating Degree Programme Profiles. The qualification profile presents key subject-specific and thematic information about a degree program and comprises the sections study objectives, career opportunities, key features of the degree program, teaching and learning methods, general and discipline-specific competencies and Learning Outcomes.
 

The content of the respective qualification profile is developed by the responsible members of the subject area in collaboration with the Program Development Office of the Vice President's Office for Education on the basis of the guidelines. A guide is available to support the development of the content.

The qualification profiles are published in PDF format on the faculty and subject area websites under the corresponding degree programs.

If revisions or further development result in changes to the curriculum of a degree program, the qualification profile can be adapted at any time in consultation with the Program Development Office.