Design & Media · EFZ
Polygrapher EFZ
Design print and digital media originals.
About this profession
Design print and digital media originals. Over 4 years you learn this profession in a host company, at the vocational school and in inter-company courses. At the end you receive a nationally recognised Federal VET Diploma (EFZ).
Day-to-day responsibilities
- ›Create layouts for print media
- ›Edit and optimise images
- ›Design digital publications
- ›Prepare and check print data
Skills you'll need
A typical week as an apprentice
Host company
3–4 days/week — you learn the trade hands-on alongside experienced professionals.
Vocational school
1–2 days/week — general education plus job-specific theory.
Inter-company courses (üK)
Several blocks per year — practise core techniques together with other apprentices.
Where you'll work
Design studios, agencies, in-house creative teams or as a freelancer.
Entry requirements
- Completed compulsory school (Sek A or B, depending on profession). Strong school report in relevant subjects helps.
- A 'Schnupperlehre' (1–5 day taster) is the best way to find out if the profession suits you.
What you earn at the end
Federal VET Diploma (EFZ) — a nationally recognised qualification that opens doors to higher VET (HF), the vocational baccalaureate (BM) and universities of applied sciences.
Apprentice wage
Typical monthly gross wage (CHF). Actual wages vary by sector and region.
Year 1
CHF 700 – 900/ Mt.
Year 2
CHF 900 – 1’200/ Mt.
Year 3
CHF 1’200 – 1’600/ Mt.
Year 4
CHF 1’500 – 1’950/ Mt.
Future-readiness
Score 3/5Our take
The industry is dynamic. Polygraphers remain in demand, but must continuously pursue digital upskilling to stay relevant.
Sources
Early contract endings in this field
Across Design & Media apprenticeships, roughly 18–26% of contracts are ended early, compared with about 23% nationally. Most of those apprentices continue their training elsewhere.
Further education & career
- Federal Diploma of Higher Education (BP) as Publishing Manager
- Higher Vocational School (HF) for visual communication
- Vocational Baccalaureate and University of Applied Sciences
- Specialisation in UI/UX design
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.