Haute école de travail social de Genève (HETS)

The Haute école de travail social de Genève (HETS) is a leading institution in social work education in Geneva, Switzerland, affiliated with the HES-SO (University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland). HETS Geneva provides university-level programs with a strong focus on professional practice, aiming to develop expertise in social and socio-sanitary fields. The institution actively contributes to social debates and professional development through its research and strong ties with local social actors.

Academics

HETS Geneva offers Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work and Psychomotricity. The teaching approach emphasizes both fundamental knowledge and applied perspectives, integrating theoretical learning with practical field experience. Notably, the Bachelor in Social Work program is dual and modular, combining school-based instruction with practical training in social institutions and partner associations. The Master in Social Work program is a collaborative effort with other HETS institutions in French-speaking Switzerland and Ticino, focusing on advanced research and expertise in the field.

International Students

HETS Geneva supports international students through its International Relations Office, which manages partnerships for teaching, research, and student exchanges across Europe, Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Canada. The HES-SO Genève, to which HETS is affiliated, provides a range of services for students, including assistance with residence permits, visas, and health insurance. While specific diversity statistics for HETS were not found, the HES-SO Genève as a whole has a significant student body of over 6,500, with nearly 52% being female. Students can also engage in various cultural activities and sports offered by the HES-SO Genève and the University of Geneva, fostering cultural integration.

Campus & Location

The HETS campus is centrally located in Geneva, a vibrant city in Switzerland. The campus environment facilitates daily interaction among students, faculty, researchers, and professionals in social work and psychomotricity. Public transportation options are readily available, with tram and bus stops conveniently located near the campus. Geneva itself offers a rich city life with numerous attractions and cultural opportunities.

Career Outcomes

HETS Geneva maintains strong connections with professional circles, including institutions and associations, which provides students with extensive opportunities for internships and early integration into professional networks. The institution's career services include an intranet platform listing job offers, internships, and first employment opportunities from its network of social institutions and associations. Graduates with a Master's in Social Work are prepared for leadership roles in public, semi-public, or community sectors, such as project managers or evaluation managers. While specific employment rates were not detailed, the HES-SO Genève is actively addressing the demand for qualified personnel in the social sector.