General education - Specialised Middle School
Specialised Middle Schools (formerly Diploma Middle Schools) offer a three-year course of study as a middle way between Gymnasium (high school) and vocational training. They provide comprehensive general education, promote personal development and offer vocationally relevant subjects that provide the basis for future career decisions. A diploma from a Specialised Middle School enables access to Colleges of higher vocational education and training in the fields corresponding to the certificate. A vocational Matura can be acquired through additional experience (practical internship, independent work). This confers eligibility for studies at Universities of Applied Sciences in health, social work, communication and information, applied psychology, design and art, music and drama, or pedagogy.
