Programme
Das CAS ETH in Seismic Evaluation and Retrofitting (CAS ETH SER) provides the fundamental knowledge und strategical thinking in:
- Seismic Evaluation and Seismic Retrofitting of Existing Structures located in Switzerland
- Finite Element Modelling of Structures
- Seismic Design of New Structures located in Switzerland
The programme is offered by the Chair of Structural Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering at ETH Zurich.
The presentation of the optimal modelling strategies, analysis methods and practical engineering solutions for the seismic evaluation of existing structures and the seismic design of new structures lies at the core of the programme. The teaching material of the programme comprises case study examples of existing structures in Switzerland presented by experienced civil engineers, group projects, material and exercises for individual study and construction site visits.
The added value of the Programme for the participants comprises the following skills:
- Ability for an independent conduction of a seismic evaluation of an existing structure located in Switzerland
- Practical knowledge of the seismic retrofitting techniques commonly used in Switzerland, their implementation and their cost
- Ability to select the appropriate analysis method (force-based or displacement-based) for the seismic evaluation of structures and understanding of the governing factors
- Deep understanding of the Swiss Code Provisions for the seismic design of new structures and the seismic evaluation of existing structures
- Overview of the dynamics and the principles of seismic design of structures
- Ability to use the state-of-the-art FE (Finite Element) modelling software and implement the optimal FE modelling techniques for the simulation of the seismic response of existing buildings (concrete, masonry, mixed concrete-masonry) located in Switzerland
- Knowledge of the FE software and the modelling techniques for the simulation of soil-structure interaction
- Deep understanding of the current methodologies for the identification and monitoring of the vibration and the seismic behavior of structures located in Switzerland
Successful graduates of the CAS Programme will be able to lead civil engineering projects of the public or private sector related to:
- Modelling of the dynamic and seismic behaviour of structures
- Planning/Consulting in the seismic evaluation and retrofit of existing structures located in Switzerland
- Planning/Consulting in the seismic design of new structures located in Switzerland
The CAS ETH SER is best suited for Civil Engineers with a degree from a University or a University of Applied Sciences and professional experience, as well as managers of interdisciplinary projects and municipal engineers with knowledge of and experience in relevant cross-disciplinary projects.
Requirements
- A Master's or Bachelor's degree obtained by a University or a University of Applied Sciences acknowledged by ETH or equivalent educational qualifications
- Two years of additional professional experience
- German language: C1 level is required
The Programme comprises four different modules:
1. Introduction to Seismic Design and Swiss Seismic Code Provisions
2. Finite Element Modelling and identification of the seismic behavior of structures
3. Analysis methods and Case Study Examples of Seismic Evaluation and Retrofitting of Existing Structures in Switzerland
4. Individual Project Exercise on the Seismic Evaluation and Retrofitting of an Existing Structure in Switzerland
Biweekly basis: Friday 14:00-20:00 (6 teaching hours) und Saturday 10:00-18:00 (8 teaching hours)
Total duration: 6 months
Dates for the CAS Programme 2025/2026:
12.09.2025-28.02.2026
- Module 1: 12.09.2025-04.10.2025
- Module 2: 17.10.2025-08.11.2025
- Module 3: 14.11.2025-13.12.2025
- Module 4: 31.01.2026-28.02.2026
The Programme will take place in-person.
CHF 9‘250 (including CHF 730 for tuition fees, exkluding registration cost of CHF 50 for participants with a Swiss University Degree or CHF 150 for participants with a degree from a non-Swiss University)
Deregistration during 30 days after the acceptance: free
Deregistration fee after 30 days from the acceptance: CHF 4‘625