Course content.
In this two-semester minor, you will explore transcultural, postcolonial, and decolonial design practices and traditions asking: what characterises design practices beyond the “global north” and what cultural values and social orders are tied to them? Firstly, you will be introduced to the basic theoretical vocabulary of postcolonial theory and global design history. In the following block weeks, we will work together with annually changing international guest lecturers. Depending on the design practice and research interests of the international guest lecturers you will delve deeper into specific historical and cultural contexts as well as engage practically with pluriversal design traditions. In 2025/26 we will focus on transdisciplinary design practices from the Caribbean. 

The minor is taught in English and is open to BA- and MA-students from all departments and is offered once a year. 

Skills acquired in the course.
With this minor, you will gain a broader outlook on design (history) beyond Eurocentric perspectives and improve your transcultural skills. By reading and discussing key texts and participating in workshops on “pluriversal design”, you will learn to develop research questions and design concepts that respond to the complexity of the postcolonial global present. 

Admissions requirements.
There are no special requirements other than having curiosity, openness, and a respectful approach to diverse practices with the willingness to embrace complexity and ambivalence.

Language skills required.
You need the following languages to take this minor:
–  English: to be able to follow a discussion
–  English: to actively participate in a verbal exchange
–  English: to understand a text
–  English: to write a text

Benefits of studying this minor.
You will benefit from lecturers with different cultural experiences and backgrounds. In this way, you can make your first international contacts and prepare for a longer stay abroad. The growing research field of “Global Design” also offers great potential for your own research. 

→ More information about this minor (PDF download)

At ZHdK, students choose a Major. In addition to this core subject, they can choose one or two Minors to deepen or expand their major skills and knowledge across various disciplines. This wide choice of courses is unique in Europe and enables students to develop and sharpen their individual profile.