Content and structure

Course content.

Basic studies
Learn the basics of filmmaking – from storytelling and scriptwriting to production, image composition, film editing, sound design, virtual production and visual effects (VFX). 

Practical projects
Students develop their filmmaking skills by creating short exercise films alone and in small groups. Towards the end of their studies, they work on a graduation project that requires them to create a short film, forming a single film crew with their fellow stu-dents.

Students benefit from the university’s excellent infrastructure, professional networks and cinema.

Course structure.

Year 1 – Basics
All new film students start their studies in one class focusing on the basics of filmmaking. The lectures take place in weekly blocks. A dedicated group of teachers will guide you through the entire film production process. 

Year 2 – Project-oriented studies
Slowly but surely, students move away from the class setup and start studying in smaller groups with students from different semesters. Most of the lecturers at ZHdK have worked in the film industry and still do so alongside their teaching duties. Due to their long-standing practical experience, they are able to provide students with expert support.

In the second year, students focus on filmmaking. In six-weekly sessions, referred to as exercise films, they create short films on their own as well as in groups, based on pre-defined specifications. When working with others, they take on different roles including directing, cinematography, sound production and editing. Moreover, they gain practical experience working as part of a film crew by helping their fellow class-mates or students from other semesters of the BA and MA programmes with their graduation projects. 

In addition to project-based work, students take modules in film theory, methodology and technique. Theoretical elements taught include the history of film, film analysis and the exploration of cultural contexts. The methodology modules focus on production skills (casting, set management, etc.). They are designed to help students develop their artistic understanding (research, content development and definition, etc.). Furthermore, the studies include ‘craft’ modules for cinematography, sound production and editing, which build upon the first year and consolidate the knowledge that the students have acquired to date. 

Year 3 – Developing and producing a graduation project of your choice
The final year is set aside for students to work on their graduation project. At the beginning of the semester, you submit a detailed concept for approval. The designated lecturers and Head of Programme examine the feasibility of the project based on the university’s resources. Once approved, you work independently and take the lead on your project. However, you can always ask your chosen mentors for advice and support. 

Skills acquired in the course.

Theory
Students are exposed to theoretical elements, including the history of film, specific areas of film theory and practice-based theory. As part of the project-based learning, they systematically examine specific aspects of filmmaking, focusing on the development of analytical and conceptual skills needed to master their own creative work.

Craft – Methods of filmmaking and film techniques
Students must be able to recognize and learn the art of filmmaking to engage freely with the full potential of film. The craft of filmmaking is taught in specific modules and practical projects. 

Practice
The practical approach offers you the opportunity to identify and practise your own creative skills based on your needs. You have time to hone and develop your own personal point of view, your conceptual responsibility as well as your ability to work in a diverse team. In addition, you learn how to think on your feet and respond to the changing demands of the audio-visual sector, both in artistic and technical terms.

Entry requirements.

Prospective students should have a strong interest in storytelling, an affinity for capturing moments through film, and enjoy working in a team. Furthermore, you have the following skill set: 

  • Hugely passionate about film and keen to learn more about it
  • Able to think visually and recognize the role of images
  • An enthusiastic storyteller with a sense of the forms and characteristics of narratives
  • Open to exploring social and cultural changes
  • Intuitive and full of ideas, with a good imagination
  • Able and bold enough to think and act independently 

Benefits of studying at ZHdK.

Studying at ZHdK offers you a wealth of opportunities:

  • The wide range of courses enables students to gain in-depth knowledge of film and filmmaking. 
  • At Zurich University of the Arts, we offer a variety of courses in different artistic disciplines. This allows students to take modules in subjects that extend far beyond the discipline of film.
  • Many of our lecturers play an active role in the film industry. Moreover, renowned international figures from the world of film are regularly invited to the university for guest lectures, which gives students the opportunity to expand their network during their studies.
  • The subject area of film also frequently provides important input for artistic research. One example is our Immersive Arts Space, which was created to conduct research on future technologies in the audio-visual sector. There are plenty of projects for students who are interested in getting involved. Moreover, the knowledge gained throughout the research directly transfers into their studies – for example, while working with pre-visualization processes, computer-generated imagery (CGI) and new forms of audio-visual storytelling. 
  • Film festivals regularly showcase films created by our students, including a three-time win of the prestigious Student Academy Awards – a testament to the skills that our students develop throughout their time at the university.
  • Gathered on one campus, ZHdK’s faculties are located in close proximity to one another and offer an extensive infrastructure of the highest calibre. Students have access to workshops with cutting-edge equipment, a museum, concert halls, sound and film studios, rehearsal stages, studios, a library and exhibition rooms. A roof garden, cinema, music club, cafés and a canteen also offer opportunities for them to meet for study and recreational purposes.