Curriculum and course datesCurriculum and course dates

To obtain the CAS Design Cultures qualification, a total of 15 ECTS credits (corresponding to a workload of approximately 375 to 450 hours) must be achieved over a period of approximately three to six semesters. The start and end dates of the course can be determined individually. The core component is participation in a study trip; the CAS trip is supplemented by compulsory and elective modules of varying topics and duration and the associated assessments. 

In an individual final thesis, participants reflect on their personal experiences and challenges in applying design-oriented approaches and attitudes in an unfamiliar context. 

Study trips, seminars and modules can also be attended separately without completing the CAS Design Cultures. Interested parties and participants develop their individual CAS journey based on their interests and in close cooperation with the programme managers.

The Summer School programme includes courses from all departments of Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK). The compact courses – known as modules – impart practical knowledge and skills relating to current artistic and design issues. The programme usually comprises 1–3 modules, the content of which is ideally suited for integration into the CAS Design Cultures programme.

Duration: 2.5 days
Costs: CHF 850.– (Early Birds 800.–)
Registration deadline: tba
Further information here: https://www.zhdk.ch/weiterbildung/sws

(subject to change)

The focus is on applying and further developing co-creation methods to interact with stakeholders in an experience-oriented way. Participants will learn to identify relevant target groups and actively involve them in playful workshop settings. They will also practise useful facilitation techniques and methods for collecting, developing and implementing collaborative innovation projects. This module is part of the CAS Facilitating Innovation programme.

Lecturer: Mona Mijthab

The circular model expands the user-centred approach to include ecological, social and organisational contexts. Participants apply systemic thinking and sustainable design approaches for co-creation and participatory formats. They incorporate different perspectives and examine interactions within complex systems. This module is part of the CAS Design Thinking programme.

Lecturer: Mona Mijthab

The Winter School programme includes courses from all departments of Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK). The compact courses – known as modules – impart practical knowledge and skills relating to current artistic and design issues. The programme usually comprises 1–3 modules, the content of which is ideally suited for integration into the CAS Design Cultures programme.

Duration: 2.5 days
Costs: CHF 850.– (Early Birds 800.–)
Registration deadline: tba
Further information here: https://www.zhdk.ch/weiterbildung/sws

(subject to change)

A 10-day study trip to Guatemala is planned for spring 2027. Among other things, participants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the indigenous context of Mayan culture and learn about projects related to regeneration, reforestation and circular systems. The study trip is designed as a hands-on learning format in which participants actively contribute to specific impact initiatives. This experience is intended to be an opportunity for everyone to expand their design practice with approaches from participatory design and co-creation. Participants will learn to apply a range of tools, methods and approaches to facilitate participatory design processes with very different actors in an intercultural environment.

In a nutshell
What: 10-day study trip
When: April/May 2027
Where: Guatemala

Interested? Please contact us via the form to stay informed. An initial information event will take place in May 2026. The trip can also be booked independently of the CAS programme. 

(subject to change)

Preparatory and follow-up meetings as well as individual mentoring sessions help to establish a connection for the subject of the certificate thesis. The CAS certificate thesis can be submitted at a freely selectable time within 2-4 semesters and pursues the answering of an individual question in the context of designed culture.
(subject to change)

Please contact us to stay up to date or to receive support in developing an individual curriculum.