Residency programmes and curricula in primary care (PC) provide low-threshold access to PC training, with the aim of attracting more physicians into these setting. Alumni from the canton of Zurich were asked about their careers and the content of PC curricula. Of 178 alumni, 46.6 % (83 alumni) completed the survey. 79.5 % had completed training and 84.3 % reported that they intended to work in PC in the medium term. The majority work in the canton of Zurich. Dermatology, otorhinolaryngology, rheumatology and psychiatry were rated as the most attractive specialties within a curriculum. The majority of alumni are aiming for a career in PC in the medium term. Accordingly, the programmes are an important instrument for promoting young talents.