Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK)

Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK) is part of Zurich University of Applied Sciences and Arts. They offer undergraduate courses in art education, design, film, media & art, music, music and movement, theatre and contemporary dance.

At-A-Glance

What

Global Exchange School

Where

Zürich, Switzerland

When

Final dates announced on exchange school's website.

Spring Semester

February — June

Fall Semester

September — February

Who

Open to RISD students

Juniors + Seniors. Minimum 3.0+ GPA required.

Eligible RISD Departments

Film/Animation/Video
Graphic Design
Illustration
Industrial Design
Painting
Photography
Sculpture

Links

Fact Sheet
University Website
Exchange Webpage
Inbound Student Guide
Academic Calendar

Academic Credits

Minimum 12 RISD credit equivalency

Instruction Language

English
German

Some English instruction

About ZHdK

Language + Courses

The language of instruction at ZHdK is generally German. A sound knowledge of German is strongly recommended for a successful exchange.

To view ZHdK coursework available to exchange students, visit their Exchange Website.

A prerequisite for the following specializations is a very high level of competence in written and spoken German:

Department of Performing Arts and Film
Department of Acting
Department of Stage Design
Department of Cultural Analysis

Zurich University of the Arts offers supplementary German language courses for international students and these are highly recommended.

National College of Art and Design (NCAD)

Apply for Global Exchange & AICAD

The entire application process will be completed using an online application portal. Apply the semester before you plan to attend.

View details

1:1 Advising Session

Have questions? The RISD Global team is available to meet for a 1:1 advising session. We can give you more information about your study options, help you figure out which program makes sense for you, and assist you with the application process.

Schedule an Appointment