ZHdK - Zurich University of the Arts

What you'll study

The programme builds research and teaching around three thematic pillars: social relevance, technology and ecology. Students develop concepts for consumer and investment goods that can be produced in high volumes while addressing users’ cultural and social needs, sustainability and production realities. The curriculum uses the ZHdK Major–Minor model: students select Industrial Design as their Major and may choose one or two Minors to deepen or broaden their profile. Example Minors include Craft. Das Prinzip Handwerk – advanced, Student Design Agency and Experience Design.

Entry requirements

The publicly listed page provides study-start, application deadline, language and credit/fee information but does not specify detailed admission criteria on the excerpt. Prospective applicants should consult the programme's admissions page or contact the study advice office for portfolio, prior-education and audition requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates train as industrial designers with responsibility that extends beyond aesthetics to societal impact, production feasibility and environmental considerations. Career paths typically include product design positions in industry, design consultancies, multidisciplinary teams working on user-centred products and roles that bridge design with manufacturing and sustainability practices.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The programme page lists the per-semester tuition/fees for Swiss and non-Swiss students (CHF 720 / CHF 1220). It also references internships and cooperative projects as part of study and research, which can provide practical experience and industry contacts that support employability. For scholarships, grants or financial aid options, applicants should review the university’s funding pages or contact student services.