Content and Structure

Course content.

The BA in Contemporary Dance is a full-time course that equips you with the skills to dance at the highest artistic levels. ZHdK provides daily training sessions, courses, seminars and an opportunity for dance practice through project-based work. By studying the basics of dance techniques, learning about their historical and theoretical backgrounds and undergoing extensive professional training, you become autonomous and develop a sense of your artistic self, so that you are able to shape the professional field through your own practice.

Moreover, our students benefit from an excellent infrastructure, professional networks and opportunities to present their work on the university’s own stages or at external venues.

Tanz Training
Tanz Training

Course structure.

Module 1: Dance techniques
To ensure a solid foundation, students are introduced to the basics of dance techniques and train different modern and contemporary dance styles as well as ballet on a daily basis.

Module 2: Performance practice
Students rehearse and perform a wide range of choreographies and train with guest choreographers. Thanks to our collaborations and partnerships, they have access to an international dance network. 

Module 3: Applied theory
Students study the historical and theoretical background of professional stage dancing and explore contemporary dance both as an independent practice and in conjunction with other related art forms (e.g. lighting, costumes, etc.). 

Module 4: Internship
In your third year, you are recommended to apply for an internship in the independent scene or with an institutional dance company. Thanks to our strong connections with the professional world, we can offer you a large dance network.
 
Module 5: Graduation project
Students complete a graduation project, including a public performance and a written thesis.

Compulsory minor in HEC (Health, Excellence and Career Development)

Students combine their major with a minor in HEC (Health, Excellence and Career Development). This innovative programme enables them to underline their artistic practice with physical and mental health tools. Topics such as self-management and career planning provide them with ample preparation for their professional life.

Antiviral Tanzen
Antiviral Tanzen

Skills acquired in the course.

Artistic creativity and performance
High levels of technical, physical and artistic control over your body as well as the opportunity to develop your own profile.

Style and repertoire
Innovative and creative interpretation of various styles including a solid repertoire of contemporary dance styles. Foster an understanding of innovative choreographic processes. 

Training and tools
In addition to the dance training, you develop tools to maintain your own physical and mental health.

Theory and reflective practice 
Students learn to reflect constructively on their own practice and how to communicate what they have learnt. Moreover, they acquire theoretical and methodological knowledge. 

Communication and interdisciplinary collaboration
Collaboration in a multicultural environment for different productions. Complex interdisciplinary teamwork (e.g. with film, music, costumes, etc.).

Entering the working world
Modules offering self-management and career planning support to position you as an artist in the Swiss or international dance scene. 

Tanz Training
Tanz Training

Admissions requirements.

You are a talented dancer aged between 17 and 22, with previous dance experience. You are physically fit and show artistic potential. You have a passion for contemporary dance techniques and the art of dance. Furthermore, you have the following skill set:

  • Able to self-assess
  • Able to reflect
  • A good team player and communicator
  • Motivated and curious
  • Independent, responsible and committed

Benefits of studying at ZHdK.

Studying dance at ZHdK offers you a wealth of opportunities:

  • Be a part of the first university programme in Switzerland to offer contemporary dance.
  • The opportunity to minor in the innovative HEC (Health, Excellence and Career Development) programme, which focuses on physical and mental health as well as self-management.
  • The chance to work with renowned guest choreographers and undertake internships. Thanks to our various partners, students gain access to an international dance network.
  • Mentoring: individual coaching and feedback sessions on your artistic development and written papers. Support and advice from lecturers with regard to auditions and internships. 
  • ZHdK offers multiple opportunities to develop a broad range of dance styles in the professional field, for example at the Zurich Dance Academy (taZ) or by undertaking the Master of Arts in Dance.