FAQ
Programme purpose and fit
01 What is this CAS about?
The CAS in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence for Risk Analysis develops the quantitative and technical skills needed to use AI in finance and insurance. You study risk measurement, extreme events, dependence, aggregation and capital, then apply statistical learning, machine learning and deep learning to realistic risk problems. Validation, explainability and responsible model governance run through the programme.
02 Who is the programme designed for?
It is designed for professionals with a quantitative or scientific background who work with risk, models, data or AI. Typical roles include actuarial and pricing work, quantitative risk management, model validation, data science, treasury and capital management, and supervision.
03 Do I need to work for an insurance company?
No. The programme addresses both finance and insurance. Its methods are also relevant to quantitative risk work in consulting, technology and supervision. Eligibility depends on your preparation and relevant experience, rather than your employer alone.
04 What will I be able to take back to work?
You should be better equipped to choose appropriate risk models, assess their assumptions, validate their performance and limitations, and explain results to colleagues and decision-makers. The capstone gives you an opportunity to bring these skills together in a documented risk-modelling project.
05 How does it differ from a general AI or risk management course?
The organising theme is quantitative risk analysis. AI methods are studied in relation to extreme losses, dependence, uncertainty, emerging risks and the scrutiny that models require in finance and insurance. The programme combines mathematical foundations, technical methods, application studios and explainable and ethical AI.
Admission and preparation
06 What academic and professional background is required?
A recognised university degree or equivalent qualification and at least two years of relevant professional experience are required. A quantitative or scientific background and basic programming experience are expected.
07 Can I apply without the standard academic qualification?
Exceptional admission may be considered on equivalent qualifications and substantial relevant experience. The Programme Committee may request an interview or further evidence.
08 How much mathematics and programming should I know?
You need a working basis in probability, statistics and mathematical notation, and the ability to read, run and adapt basic code. Python is preferred; comparable programming experience can be considered..
09 Is Python preparation available?
Yes. Python preparation videos are available without an additional charge for the 2027 cohort. Preparation may be required on admission; in this case, the time needed is additional to the CAS workload.
10 Do I need an English-language certificate?
Good English is required. Formal evidence may be requested if your application does not otherwise demonstrate sufficient proficiency.
11 When should I apply and when will I hear back?
Apply from 1 October to 30 November 2026. Once you submit your application, you will receive an e-mail of confirmation. Reviews begin on 15 October, with decisions normally within three weeks and all decisions by 15 December. The cohort can close earlier when its 25 places are filled.
12 What do I need to submit?
Submit the online form, CV, motivation letter of at most one page, degree certificate and transcript, and evidence of relevant employment. Use PDFs unless instructed otherwise. Only complete dossiers are assessed.
13 How can I apply?
The application process can be initiated by pressing the button "Start your application" in the sub-page Admissions.
Fees and withdrawal
14 What is included in the tuition fee?
The 10'750 CHF fee includes scheduled teaching, digital materials, first-attempt assessments, capstone supervision and certification. Travel, accommodation and meals are excluded.
15 Can my employer pay and can I pay in instalments?
We can invoice you or your employer. Two instalments may be agreed; the dates will be confirmed in writing (they will differ from one year to the other). For the 2027 cohort they are: end of January and end of April 2027.
16 What if I withdraw, defer or cannot continue?
Students may withdraw from the programme at no cost before the application deadline. Withdrawals after the application deadline are generally subject to the payment of all programme fees. If a substitute can be found for the person who has withdrawn, only a processing fee of CHF 200 (for withdrawal from the program) will be charged.