CAS in Theory and History of Photography

Call for application for the CAS in Theory and History of Photography 2023/24 program at the University of Zurich, Switzerland. Registration deadline extended until July 31, 2023.

The continuing education program Certificate of Advanced Studies in Theory and History of Photography offers foundational knowledge on the theory and history of the medium of photography to a wide professional audience. Building on the expertise gained through operating study programs at the international Center for Studies in the Theory and History of Photography at the Institute of Art History, University of Zurich, for over ten years, we offer an in-depth understanding of the following: (I) The theory and global history of photographs, in both analog and digital form. (II) The aesthetics, science, and cultural history of the photographic image. (III) The artistic, political, and ethical uses of photography.

This program is designed for professionals who are currently working or will be working with photographic images in museums, archives, research- and educational institutions and want to acquire knowledge about photographic theory, history, and methodology. The target audience includes persons from both in and outside of the field of the humanities, who are dealing with photographs and want to learn about photographic theory and image analysis.

Participants will learn to expand their research skills in the field of photography in order to understand and theoretically reflect on forms of theoretical discourse about photography. They will learn to analyze photographs as visual and artistic objects, considering the relationship between the history of technology, materials, and the intellectual history of images. They will examine photography as a visual medium in relation to social and political discourses and in the context of exhibitions, museums, the art trade, and public media.

Classes are held predominantly in German. A proficient knowledge of English is required for the understanding of readings and, if applicable, contributions by international guests.

Twelve academic credits in compliance with the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) are awarded. For further information and application details, please visit our website, contact us by e-mail (casphotography [​at​] khist.uzh.ch), or learn more about our program by joining one of our digital information events via Zoom: Monday, May 15, 2023, 12–1pm / Wednesday, June 14, 2023, 7–8pm. Register here to recieve the link.