CAS ETH in Regenerative Materials – Hygrothermal Specialisation
This description is only available in English.
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Autumn Semester 2025
Start
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1 semester
Duration
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ETH Zurich
Location
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English
Tuition language
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01–31.07.2025
Application period
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CHF 8,230
Programme fee
In brief: The CAS ETH in Regenerative Materials – Hygrothermal Specialisation
The programme focuses on the hygrothermal specificities of earth and bio-based or re-used materials in buildings to ensure high comfort levels and positive environmental impacts.
Structure and content
Programme description
This programme takes four weeks, spread over one semester. Its subject is high-quality building envelopes made of straw bales or light mixtures of mineral binders such as lime or clay, and bio-sourced materials such as hemp, wood, straw or plant harvest waste. Participants acquire results-oriented skills in the areas of thermal efficiency and humidity regulation. Programme graduates are in a position to assist in the hygrothermal dimensioning of long-lasting buildings or infrastructure.
Objectives
The objective is to impart results-oriented skills relevant to the hygrothermal dimensioning of long-lasting buildings or infrastructure. Programme teaching combines six complementary methods based on active learning to ensure an efficient and durable impact on participants' professional development. The long-term strategy of the programme is to further the dissemination of rigorous information on Regenerative Materials and its use in the building industry, and to strengthen the network of players in this field over a wide range.
Professional perspectives
On completion of the programme participants will be able to plan and calculate the dynamic hygrothermal capacity of building envelopes made of earth and bio-based and re-used materials. The main tools available will be analysed and used through exercises based on existing case studies, visits to example buildings and analysis of technical details. Graduates may take advantage of new professional opportunities in architectural or engineering offices, control agencies or construction companies.
Structure and format
The programme takes four weeks, spread over one semester. It combines six complementary teaching methods: theoretical and experimental lectures; digital guest lectures (public); hands-on exercises; visits to inspiring projects; participative engagement; and project-based learning.
Tuition language(s)
English
Credits
12 ECTS credits
Target group and admission
Target group
The programme addresses the needs of professionals who want to deepen and question their existing practice in order to develop more regenerative approaches. Its target groups include HVAC engineers and building contractors, engineers, architects, project managers, NGOs and company representatives.
Requirements
Master's degree acknowledged by ETH or equivalent educational qualifications. Because some calculations require complex modelling, a basis in heat and vapour transfer is expected.
Required language skills
English: C1 – external pageShow proficiency scales
Language(s) of performance assessment
English
Dates and venue
Start
Autumn Semester 2025 (every two years)
Duration
1 semester
Application period
01–31.07.2025
Location
ETH Zurich
Fees
Programme fee
CHF 8,230
Application fee
CHF 50 for persons with a Swiss university degree, CHF 150 for persons with another university degree (non-refundable, credit card payment only)
Withdrawal fee
- Withdrawal within 30 days of admission: Free of charge
- Withdrawal more than 30 days after admission: CHF 4,000
- Withdrawal after the start of the semester: CHF 8,320
Application
Questions about the application
ETH Zurich, School for Continuing Education, HG E 17–18.5, Rämistrasse 101, 8092 Zurich, Tel. external page+41 44 632 56 59, E-mail
Application documents
- Diploma certificate and transcript (of records) of the highest or most relevant degree
- Passport or identity card
- DownloadDeclaration of consent (PDF, 94 KB)
Additional application documents
- Motivation letter
- CV
- 2 letters of reference
Organiser
Programme management
Contact
ETH Zurich
IBI, Chair of Sustainable Construction
Stefano-Franscini-Platz 5
HIL F 28.2
8093
Zurich
Responsible body
ETH Zurich, D-BAUG, Chair of Sustainable Construction