ZHdK - Zurich University of the Arts

Programme overview

PEERS was a pre‑PhD programme run by the Institute for the Performing Arts and Film (IPF) at Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK). It ran over one and a half to two years, beginning each September, and was delivered in English. The programme supported emerging artistic researchers—primarily, though not exclusively, from the performing arts and film—by offering a scaffolded research environment and help with preparing applications for third‑cycle (PhD) study.

What you'll study

Participants take part in collective research gatherings and receive one‑to‑one mentoring. Fellows develop their research proposals while orientating themselves within third‑cycle research practice, become acquainted with ZHdK infrastructure, and engage with local and international partner institutions.

• Collective research gatherings for peer exchange and shared inquiry
• Individual mentoring to refine research questions and proposals
• Orientation to doctoral research practices and institutional resources
• Opportunities to engage with partner institutions (e.g., Amsterdam University of the Arts and UdK Berlin)

Entry requirements

The source text does not list formal entry criteria. The programme targeted emerging artistic researchers preparing to pursue a doctorate in the arts and provided tailored support to develop PhD applications.

Career prospects

PEERS prepares participants for application to artistic PhD programmes and for further third‑cycle research. Graduates would realistically move into doctoral study in the arts or pursue practice‑based research careers within the performing arts and film sectors.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The programme description does not specify scholarships or fees. PEERS offered tailored support in applying for artistic PhD programmes, which may include assistance identifying suitable funding and partner institutions; applicants should contact the PhD Office for up‑to‑date funding information.