Curriculum and course datesCurriculum and course dates

To obtain the CAS Design Cultures qualification, a total of 15 ECTS credits 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: August 7, 2026 (Early Bird until  June 5, 2026) 
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.

Dozierende: Mona Mijthab (ZHdK Strategic Design & Mosan) und Omar Crespo (Link4)

Duration: 3 days
Cost: CHF 1,800
Registration deadline: 30 July 2026
Further information and registration

The circular model expands the user-centred approach to include ecological, social and entrepreneurial 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.

Duration: 3 days
Cost: CHF 1,800
Registration deadline: 30 July 2026
Lecturer: Mona Mijthab
Further information and registration

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)

From April 19–28, 2027 the CAS Design Cultures offers a 10-day study trip experience for participants to immerse in the indigenous context at Lake Atitlán in Guatemala and at the same time contribute to projects around the topic of circular design and regeneration. Participants get to experience a complete, real-world cycle—from waste treatment to soil substrates for agriculture and reforestation. This study trip is an opportunity for everyone who wants to take their design practice to the next level, leave their comfort zone, experience circular design and co-creation principles.

Duration: 10-day study trip from April 19–28, 2027
Places: Guatemala City, Santa Catarina Palopó, Lake Atitlán
Cost: CHF 2,800 excluding flights, accommodation and meals
Registration deadline: 4 January 2027
People involved: Mona Mijthab (ZHdK Strategic Design and Mosan), Nadine Heuberger, Omar Crespo (Link4)
Further information and registration

Interested? Please contact us via the form to stay informed. 
An hybrid information event will take place on June 4, 2026 at 5 p.m.
The trip can also be booked independently of the CAS programme.

Contact: Katharina Nill

(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.