Content and structure

Course content and structure

We prepare you for a career in the art field by providing a learning environment in which you can explore the artistic process and acquire theoretical and technological skills. You work on individual and collaborative projects, supported by (inter)national artists. Thanks to an individualized course of study, you take more responsibility for your own learning and become better organized in the process. During the course, you have the opportunity to regularly exhibit within the scope of ZHdK and our exhibition space “Nest”, and to critically discuss your work. Excursions in Switzerland and abroad and the event series “Art Talks” enable you to make contact with renowned artists of the present day. 

Course structure.

We view the educational process to becoming an artist as an independent, self-organized process in which production, reflection and debate intertwine equally with each other. You develop your artistic practice over the entire course in a fixed practice group, which is supported by several lecturers who are experts in a wide range of media and content. You can also expand your knowledge of technology, theory and context modules.

The course is divided into blocks that promote focused, individual or collaborative project work. Artists, curators, art critics and theoreticians contribute their (inter)national experience and networks to the teaching and learning. The high percentage of English-speaking modules, which is unique in Switzerland, advance your English skills and enable you to work in an (inter)national artistic environment.

Skills acquired in the course.

  • Independent development, reflection and teaching of your artistic practice on the basis of exploration of artistic approaches, technologies and theories;
  • Position your own practice in the context of contemporary art, culture and society;
  • Explore practical and theoretical aspects of publicizing art: Exhibitions, publications, performances, events, legal questions, financing and self-organization;
  • Communicate your artistic practice in English in an accomplished manner;
  • Explore individual and collaborative artistic working methods. 
  • Knowledge of how a professional network is built with relevant actors.

Admissions requirements.

  • Interest in contemporary art
  • Differentiated capacity for perception, expression and reflection
  • Prior experience in art history
  • Readiness to develop your own artistic questions and develop solutions
  • Social and communicative skills for collective projects

Benefits of studying at ZHdK.

Our students decide to study in the Bachelor's Major in Fine Arts for the following reasons:

  • The major is unparalleled in its media and content scope in Switzerland. Our team of lecturers includes (inter)nationally active artists, curators, art critics and art theoreticians.
  • The student body is international and culturally diverse.
  • Our English-language study track enhances your language skills.
  • The major offers and supports exhibition opportunities within and outside ZHdK from the time you start studying with us.
  • Zurich is one of the most important art locations in the world, with renowned museums, galleries, art collections and a lively off-scene.