SAS PhD Preparation in the Arts 2 Writing a PhD proposal: aim, content, structure

This SAS programme provides support for the development of a research project in art, design, film or the pedagogy of art and design. Participants gain an overview of the field, refine their personal research interests and draw up an initial research outline to serve as the basis for a doctoral project.

Overview

Building on a more detailed project outline (SAS PhD Preparation in the Arts 1), the programme guides participants towards producing a PhD proposal with a clear structure. Participants explore different methodological approaches and gain an overview of the framework conditions for artistic PhDs in Switzerland, as well as national and European funding opportunities. On this basis, participants develop strategies for selecting supervisors and universities.

More information

Target audience

This SAS continuing professional development programme is aimed at those with an interest in research in the fields of art, design, film and the pedagogy of art and design who hold a Master’s degree and have already drawn up a detailed research proposal.

Learning objectives

  • Structuring and developing a research proposal
  • Understanding different methodological approaches to drafting a PhD research proposal
  • An overview of the framework conditions for artistic PhD programmes in Switzerland, as well as national and European funding opportunities
  • Strategic selection of supervisors and universities

Facts

Start

16 November 2027

End

12 February 2027

Application deadline

21 October 2027

Duration

10 weeks (break from 19 December 2026 to 10 January 2027)

Course costs

CHF 960.–

Head
External head

Linda Luv

Type

SAS

ECTS

3

Tuition times

Online sessions: Tuesdays, 4.30–6.00 pm (approximately every fortnight); 1 full day of face-to-face sessions in Lucerne-Emmenbrücke

Language of instruction
  • German
Venue

Emmenbrucke
Online

Target group

Those with an interest in research in the fields of art, design, film and the pedagogy of art and design, who hold a Master’s degree and have drawn up an initial, detailed research proposal (e.g. as part of the SAS PhD Preparation in the Arts 1 programme).

Requirements

Master’s degree at tertiary level (ETH/university, university of applied sciences, higher technical college or equivalent); submission of a detailed concept outline (4–8 pages)

Provider(s)

Design, Film and Art​

Methodology

Online and face-to-face learning (lectures, discussions, talks with experts, mentoring), self-study (literature research, online course, written assignments, peer feedback)

Remarks

Language of instruction: German. Some content and materials are in English