Overview
Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and is known around the world for its idyllic setting which encompasses Lake Zurich, the Limmat River, and mountains. The city is one of the world’s largest financial capitals and is also known as a top location for chocolate production. Zurich is an artistic center for Switzerland. The Dada movement was founded in Zurich in 1916 and the Kunsthaus Zurich holds one of the world’s largest collections of modern art. Other notable arts institutions include the Industrial Design Museum and the Centre Le Corbusier located in the last house designed by the architect. Students participating in this exchange in the Spring semester can experience the Fasnacht carnival in late winter and the Sechseläuten festival in April which is known for its ceremonial snowman burning.
Academics
Find classes here: ZHdK course catalog
Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK) is a state university and was founded in 2007 when the School of Music and Drama (HMT) merged with the University of Art and Design (HGKZ). Today Zurich University of the Arts has 2,500 students and is part of Zurich University of Applied Sciences and Arts. The school is also known for research in arts and design, cultural studies, and technology. There students can major in Art Education, Crossmedia, Emerging Technologies, or Design. The official language of Zurich is German, although the most common spoken language in the city is a dialect of Swiss German. The language of instruction at the Zurich University of Arts is German, but some classes are taught in English and assistance is provided to students in the practical classes (not the theory classes) who do not speak German. German language classes are recommended and are available free of charge. Exchange is available for both undergraduate and graduate students. Students must take only classes in their major.
Housing
Students are responsible for their own housing. The "Home from Home" for Students in Zurich (WOKO) rents over 2,000 furnished rooms in student shared apartments or residence halls, some of which are specifically for foreign students. The International Office also maintains a list of possible openings for students.
Dates
The university is on a semester calendar, but only Spring semester is possible for Willamette students. Spring semester is February to mid-June.
Cost
Students pay Willamette tuition and can use their usual funding. Additional scholarships for study abroad are available for this program. Students are responsible for the costs of their own room and board. .