| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor’s | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location: Bern, Switzerland
Founded: 2003, through the merger of several older institutions
Affiliation: Part of the Bern University of Applied Sciences
Bern University of the Arts offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in various disciplines:
Music: Performance, Composition, Jazz, Music and Movement, Classical Music
Design and Fine Arts: Visual Communication, Industrial Design, Fine Arts
Theatre: Acting, Directing, Theatre Pedagogy
Literature: Literary Writing, Theatre Writing
Art Education: Art Education, Art Mediation
Conservation and Restoration: Conservation of paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts
State-of-the-art infrastructure: Equipped with modern studios, rehearsal rooms, performance halls, and workshops
Libraries and Resource Centers: Extensive collections of books, scores, and digital media
Campus Location: Main campus in Bern with additional sites in Biel/Bienne and Thun
Accommodation: Various housing options available through university partnerships and private rentals. Costs vary depending on location and type of accommodation.
Cultural Scene: Vibrant cultural scene with numerous events, exhibitions, concerts, and performances
Student Services: Support services including counseling, career advice, and academic support
Eligibility: Varies by program, generally includes submission of a portfolio or audition, academic transcripts, and other specific requirements
Intake: Generally follows the academic calendar with applications typically due several months before the start of the academic year
Scholarships: Various scholarships available for both local and international students based on merit and financial need
Financial Aid: Options for financial aid and grants for eligible students
Reputation: Known for its high-quality education and strong emphasis on practical and interdisciplinary learning
Rankings: Not typically featured in global rankings but highly regarded within Switzerland and among arts institutions
Classical Music
Jazz
Music and Movement
Sound Arts
Visual Communication
Industrial Design
Fine Arts
Acting
Theatre Directing
Literary Writing
Art Education
Art Mediation
Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage
Specialized Music Performance (Soloist)
Music Performance
Music Pedagogy
Composition and Theory
Sound Arts
Music and Movement
Visual Communication
Industrial Design
Fine Arts
Theatre Pedagogy
Scenic Arts Practice
Literary Writing
Theatre Writing
Art Education
Art Mediation
Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage
Music: Doctoral studies in collaboration with other institutions and universities
Design and Fine Arts: Doctoral studies through collaborations
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Music |
|
|
|
Classical Music |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Jazz |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Music and Movement |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Sound Arts |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Design and Fine Arts |
|
|
|
Visual Communication |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Industrial Design |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Fine Arts |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Theatre |
|
|
|
Acting |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Theatre Directing |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Literature |
|
|
|
Literary Writing |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Art Education |
|
|
|
Art Education |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Art Mediation |
3 years |
$1,500 |
|
Conservation and Restoration |
|
|
|
Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage |
3 years |
$1,500 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Music |
|
|
|
Specialized Music Performance (Soloist) |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Music Performance |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Music Pedagogy |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Composition and Theory |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Sound Arts |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Music and Movement |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Design and Fine Arts |
|
|
|
Visual Communication |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Industrial Design |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Fine Arts |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Theatre |
|
|
|
Theatre Pedagogy |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Scenic Arts Practice |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Literature |
|
|
|
Literary Writing |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Theatre Writing |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Art Education |
|
|
|
Art Education |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Art Mediation |
2 years |
$1,800 |
|
Conservation and Restoration |
|
|
|
Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage |
2 years |
$1,800 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Music |
|
|
|
Doctorate in Music Performance |
3-4 years |
$1,800 |
|
Doctorate in Music Composition |
3-4 years |
$1,800 |
|
Design and Fine Arts |
|
|
|
Doctorate in Design |
3-4 years |
$1,800 |
|
Doctorate in Fine Arts |
3-4 years |
$1,800 |
|
Interdisciplinary Programs |
|
|
|
Doctorate in Interdisciplinary Artistic Research |
3-4 years |
$1,800 |
Scholarships: Various scholarships are available for international students based on merit and financial need. These may include:
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
Scholarships specific to HKB
Financial Aid: Options for financial aid and grants for eligible students.
On-campus Housing: Limited options available; it's recommended to apply early.
Off-campus Housing: Various private rental options in Bern and surrounding areas. The cost of accommodation varies depending on location and type.
Cultural Scene: A rich cultural scene with numerous events, exhibitions, concerts, and performances.
Student Services: Includes counseling, career advice, and academic support.
Clubs and Societies: Various student organizations and clubs to join, catering to a wide range of interests.
International Office: Provides support for international students, including orientation sessions, visa assistance, and integration services.
Language Courses: German language courses available for non-native speakers to help with integration and academic success.
Career Services: Offers support for internships, job placements, and career development.
Alumni Network: Strong network of alumni who have successful careers in various creative and cultural industries.
Mandatory Health Insurance: International students are required to have health insurance. Various plans are available, and students can choose one that fits their needs and budget.
Complete the online application form available on the HKB website.
Submit the application within the specified deadlines.
Completed application form.
Academic transcripts and certificates.
Language proficiency test scores.
Portfolio or audition materials (if applicable).
Letter of motivation.
Letters of recommendation (if required).
For art and design programs, submit a portfolio of your work.
For music and theatre programs, prepare for an audition or performance assessment.
Detailed guidelines for portfolios and auditions are provided on the program-specific pages of the HKB website.
Pay the non-refundable application fee (amount varies by program).
Accepted students must confirm their acceptance by a specified deadline.
Pay any required deposits to secure your place in the program.
Apply for a student visa if you are an international student from a non-EU/EFTA country.
Start the visa application process as soon as you receive the acceptance letter.
Complete the enrollment process by submitting any remaining documents and paying the tuition fees.
Attend orientation sessions for new students.
Primary intake is typically in the fall semester (September).
Some programs may have additional intakes or offer rolling admissions.
Main intake is in the fall semester (September).
Specific programs may offer spring intake (February) depending on the course structure and demand.
Intake periods vary and are often flexible, depending on the research proposal and supervisor availability.
Academic Qualifications: Equivalent of a Swiss high school diploma or an internationally recognized equivalent.
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction (German or English).
German: TestDaF, Goethe-Zertifikat, or equivalent.
English: IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.
Portfolio/Audition: Submission of a portfolio of work or an audition as required by the specific program.
Other Requirements: Motivation letter, letters of recommendation, and possibly an interview.
Academic Qualifications: Relevant undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification.
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction.
German: TestDaF, Goethe-Zertifikat, or equivalent.
English: IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.
Portfolio/Audition: Submission of a portfolio or completion of an audition as required by the program.
Other Requirements: Motivation letter, letters of recommendation, CV, and possibly an interview.
Academic Qualifications: Relevant master’s degree or equivalent qualification.
Research Proposal: Submission of a detailed research proposal.
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction.
German: TestDaF, Goethe-Zertifikat, or equivalent.
English: IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.
Other Requirements: Motivation letter, letters of recommendation, CV, and possibly an interview or presentation of the research proposal.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Benefits |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships |
International students with outstanding academic and artistic achievements |
Full or partial tuition coverage, living expenses |
Apply through the Swiss embassy in your home country |
|
HKB Excellence Scholarships |
High-achieving students in bachelor's and master's programs |
Partial tuition fee waiver |
Apply directly through HKB’s scholarship office |
|
Canton of Bern Scholarships |
Residents of the Canton of Bern; financial need-based |
Financial aid for tuition and living expenses |
Application through the Canton of Bern’s official website |
|
DAAD Scholarships |
German students or students studying in Germany; merit-based |
Tuition fees, living expenses |
Apply through DAAD’s official website |
|
Private Foundations and Grants |
Varies by foundation; often merit or need-based |
Varies (tuition, project funding) |
Individual application to respective foundations |
|
Erasmus+ Scholarships |
EU/EEA students participating in exchange programs |
Mobility grants for study abroad |
Apply through the Erasmus+ office at your home university |
|
BFH Scholarships for Continuing Education |
Students enrolled in continuing education programs; merit-based |
Partial tuition fee coverage |
Apply through Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) |
|
Industry-Sponsored Scholarships |
Students in specific fields; often project-based or competition-based |
Financial support, internships |
Apply through HKB’s career services or industry partners |
Facility |
Description |
Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Main Campus |
Located in Bern, with state-of-the-art studios, rehearsal rooms, performance halls, and workshops |
N/A |
|
Additional Sites |
Additional sites in Biel/Bienne and Thun |
N/A |
|
On-campus Housing |
Limited on-campus housing available |
Approximately $500 - $800 per month |
|
Off-campus Housing |
Private rentals and student residences in Bern |
Approximately $600 - $1,200 per month |
|
Student Services |
Includes counseling, career advice, academic support |
N/A |
|
Libraries |
Extensive collections of books, scores, and digital media |
N/A |
|
Cafeterias and Dining |
On-campus dining facilities |
Typically $5 - $10 per meal |
|
Recreational Facilities |
Includes gyms, sports facilities, and common areas |
N/A |
Vibrant Cultural Activities: HKB offers a rich cultural environment with numerous events, exhibitions, concerts, and performances. Students are encouraged to participate and showcase their work.
Diverse Clubs: Various student organizations and clubs cater to a wide range of interests, including music ensembles, art collectives, theatre groups, and more.
Student Union: An active student union that organizes social events, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Libraries and Resource Centers: Extensive collections of books, scores, and digital media available for study and research.
Studios and Workshops: State-of-the-art studios, rehearsal rooms, and workshops equipped with modern technology and tools.
Counseling Services: Professional counseling services are available to support students' mental health and well-being.
Academic Support: Tutoring, academic advising, and study groups help students succeed in their courses.
Career Services: Guidance and resources for internships, job placements, and career development.
On-campus Housing: Limited on-campus housing options provide convenient access to university facilities.
Off-campus Housing: A variety of private rental options in Bern and surrounding areas, with support from the university to find suitable accommodation.
On-campus Dining: Cafeterias and dining facilities offering a variety of meal options at reasonable prices.
Nearby Restaurants: Numerous cafes and restaurants in Bern offer diverse culinary experiences.
Sports and Fitness: Access to gyms, sports facilities, and fitness classes.
Common Areas: Social spaces for students to relax, socialize, and collaborate.
Dedicated Career Office: HKB has a career services office that provides guidance and resources to help students transition from academic life to professional careers.
Career Counseling: Personalized career counseling sessions to help students identify their career goals and develop a career plan.
Workshops and Seminars: Regularly organized workshops and seminars on resume writing, interview skills, and job search strategies.
Industry Partnerships: Strong ties with local and international art institutions, galleries, theatres, design firms, and music organizations, providing students with valuable internship opportunities.
Internship Placements: Assistance with securing internships that align with students' fields of study and career aspirations.
Job Fairs and Networking Events: HKB organizes job fairs and networking events where students can meet potential employers and industry professionals.
Job Listings: Access to a job portal with listings of available positions in the arts and creative industries.
Alumni Connections: A strong and active alumni network that provides mentorship and networking opportunities for current students.
Alumni Success Stories: Graduates of HKB have gone on to successful careers in various fields such as music performance, visual arts, theatre, design, and art education.
Portfolio Development: Guidance on creating professional portfolios and showcasing work effectively to potential employers and clients.
Entrepreneurship Support: Resources and support for students interested in starting their own ventures in the creative industries.
High Employment Rate: A significant percentage of graduates find employment or continue with advanced studies shortly after graduation.
Diverse Career Paths: Graduates work in various roles including artists, designers, performers, educators, conservators, and arts administrators.
1. Program Popularity: Highly sought-after programs like music performance, theatre, and fine arts often have lower acceptance rates.
2. Quality of Portfolio/Audition: Admission heavily depends on the strength of the applicant’s portfolio or audition performance.
3.Academic Qualifications: Meeting the academic prerequisites is essential but not the only criterion.
4. Language Proficiency: Demonstrating proficiency in the language of instruction (German or English) is crucial.
Location: Bern, Switzerland
Address: Fellerstrasse 11, 3027 Bern, Switzerland
Description: The main campus houses the majority of HKB’s facilities, including studios, rehearsal rooms, performance halls, and administrative offices.
Biel/Bienne
Location: Biel/Bienne, Switzerland
Description: Some specific programs and departments are based in Biel/Bienne, providing a vibrant environment for students in these areas.
Thun
Location: Thun, Switzerland
Description: Certain specialized courses and workshops are conducted in Thun, offering a unique setting for creative exploration.
Studios and Workshops: Equipped with state-of-the-art technology for art and design students.
Rehearsal Rooms and Performance Halls: Available for music and theatre students to practice and perform.
Libraries and Resource Centers: Extensive collections supporting research and creative work.
Public Transportation: The campuses are well-connected by public transportation, making it easy for students to commute.
Proximity to City Center: The Bern campus is conveniently located near the city center, providing easy access to cultural, dining, and recreational facilities.
