2026 offers the opportunity to join the ‘PhD Research Module – Towards 3rd Cycle Research in the Arts’, a cross-departmental pilot that aims to inform and inspire ZHdK employees and students interested in pursuing a PhD in the Arts. The module’s goal is to share tools that help its participants to orient themselves in the realm of 3rd Cycle Research in the Arts. It will bring into focus the question what it entails to pursue a PhD in the arts, at the ZHdK and beyond – a theme that is urgent considering that Swiss art universities do not have the promotion right. What are the possibilities and potentials of the endeavour, what are its complexities, pitfalls, chances and risks?
The themes are addressed through a wide array of formats varying from workshops and peer-feedback-sessions to mentoring hours, interviews, round tables and talks. Whereas most of the sessions will take place in a closed setting with a selected group of peers, some of them will be openend to a wider audience. In the get-togethers participants will get to know the different voices, experiences and perspectives that make up ZHdK’s landscape of PhD research in the arts; gaining insights in the broader field of PhD research in the arts as well, they will learn how to set the first steps towards a PhD.
Potential participants have either completed their MA studies at the ZHdK or are working at the ZHdK after MA completion at a different (art) university. MA students at the final stages of their studies are welcome to apply as well. The module requires selfstudy, selfmanagement as well as commitment to the mandatory gatherings. It doesn’t guarantee a PhD-position at the ZHdK or elsewhere nor do the participants leave the course with a PhD proposal in hand. The PhD Research Module rather seeks to introduce PhD research in the arts, inspiring its participants and helping them to get a grip on the complexities of the field.
Those interested in the PhD Research Module – Towards 3rd Cycle Research in the Arts can apply through this link, filling out the form and handing in a short motivation of 250 – 300 words until March 16th, 2026. Selected participants will be informed by March 23th, 2026.
If you have any questions, please contact Ilse van Rijn.
Dates of the sessions:
April 2 – introducing
May 11 – 12 – orientating
September 24 – 25 – sharing
November 6 + 9 – preparing