Structure

The MAS in Creative Practice comprises the following elements:

  • Advance achievement means the academic achievement acquired as part of continuing education courses at ZHdK or another university. It is credited by the Course Director with regard to the intended study objective. This usually translates to two CAS worth 15 ECTS each. Officially recognized work or learning achievements worth up to 5 ECTS points can also come from a non-university background.

  • The curriculum for the individual profile is put together during a detailed assessment with the Course Director to determine the student’s personal skills and goals. It includes a practical combination of modules and mentoring sessions or an additional CAS (15 ECTS) at ZHdK.

    The individual profile is concluded with a ten-page reflection report and a two-page outline of the MAS thesis.

    What does the assessment involve?

    The assessment is a skills-based career interview where the programme objective is discussed and, if necessary, specified. The participant’s existing skills are identified and validated with regard to the programme objective. Based on this information, the individual curriculum plan, the responsible Course Director and any mentors can be determined.

    What is the curriculum made up of?

    The curriculum for the individual profile is developed on the basis of the educational objective identified in the assessment and on the students' requirements. It consists of a coherent and demanding mix of elements, for example:

    • Modules from the Summer and Winter School of the Continuing Education Centre or from the range offered by Continuing Education Music or Continuing Education Theatre
    • Mentoring sessions
    • Additional CAS courses
    • Symposia visits
    • Relevant practical experience
    • etc.

  • Students may begin their written MAS thesis at the earliest after completing the individual profile. Before admission, a total of 45 ECTS credits must be achieved, which can be integrated into the MAS in Creative Practice.

    There are two possible options for the MAS thesis:

    a) Practical Project
    A project from practice (concert, exhibition, performance, reading, etc.) is planned and carried out. In the written work, the project is described, contextualised and analysed. The written work in the case of a practice-oriented project comprises 20 to max. 30 pages of A4 (excluding project documentation and appendices).

    b) Research-based work

    A research project is planned and carried out. The written work in the case of a research project comprises 80 to max. 90 pages of A4 (excluding appendices).

    Ideally, the MAS thesis covers a range of topics that links the modules completed so far and clarifies the relationships and significance in relation to the practical project/research project and professional activity. The MAS thesis is mentored with 10 mentoring hours. The choice of the appropriate mentor is discussed with the students.

    Presentation
    The students present and defend their MAS thesis in front of experts and invited guests. 
    Both the written work and the presentation can be written or held in German or English.

  • The MAS is completed with the Master of Advanced Studies Zurich University of Applied Sciences in Creative Practice certificate. (60 ECTS)