Transform your ideas into a compelling, relevant story and discover your unique visual language and creative vision as an animator.
Bring your project to life—whether it’s a short film, a series concept, an animation-based installation, or any other format—in the animation technique of your choice. We provide the infrastructure for 3D, 2D, and stop-motion projects. Animation is inherently collaborative, and we encourage students to work together on projects, fostering a dynamic, team-based approach to creation.
The program includes courses and seminars on topics such as:
- Idea & Story Development
- Project Development
- World Building
- Concept & Design
- Producing: production planning, budgeting, financing, dossier/concept
- Applied Research: theories, methods, and realisation in a written thesis
- Case Studies, lectures by renowned filmmakers from the animation industry, and practical workshops
- Distribution
- Excursion to a festival or specialized conference
- Interdisciplinary Modules +NETWORK / +RESEARCH
This comprehensive curriculum is designed to prepare you for a successful career in the ever-evolving animation industry, equipping you with both the technical expertise and creative insights to thrive.
To apply, you will need to submit a specific idea for your practical Master's project.
Possible project types include:
- Concept for an animated short film
- Idea for a series concept or animated feature film
- Technological-exploratory project
- Expanded animation project or another animation-based format
Project modules - production and producing
The project modules form the core of the program. Your studies are project-based and practice-oriented, tailored to the workflow of your chosen project. You will develop and produce your project—either independently or in collaboration with fellow students. You will define your own semester goals and work with a high degree of personal responsibility, guided by experienced lecturers and industry professionals.
All projects are pitched to a panel of production company and broadcaster representatives, offering you the opportunity to receive professional feedback and, ideally, to enter into co-production agreements with animation studios for your Master's project.
Animation Theory-Craft-Practice
This module blends theoretical inquiry with practical application. Seminars focused on theory and critical reflection are complemented by AniTalks—guest lectures from leading figures in the animation industry—and hands-on workshops.
Research and written thesis
The research module introduces methods and practices of academic inquiry, helping you develop skills in scientific work. Your written Master's thesis can but is not limited to provide in-depth research that complements your practical project, enabling you to explore themes and concepts in greater depth.
Transfer and elective courses
In consultation with your mentor and the Director of Studies, you will select elective courses based on your individual interests and professional goals. You may also choose to undertake an additional smaller project or develop new skills and techniques relevant to your work.
Interdisciplinary modules
To foster cross-disciplinary collaboration and professional exchange, all Master's programs in the Department of Design, Film, and Art offers interdisciplinary modules:
+RESEARCH: This module provides an overview of current research projects, exploring the state of research and various research methods across disciplines, while focusing on their application in practice.
+NETWORK: In this module, you will engage in interdisciplinary work and build connections with industry partners. Theoretical knowledge is deepened, and practical skills are developed through workshops and excursions. The module also includes projects, discussions, and guest lectures that encourage the exchange of ideas and experiences across fields.
These modules are designed to enrich your academic and professional development, preparing you for a successful career in the global animation industry.
Programme structure and module overview
Full-time study programme
Part-time study programme
For detailed information on the programme, please contact the MA Animation study coordination: Dr. Tina Ohnmacht, tina.ohnmacht@hslu.ch
We view animation as an expansive, versatile field that encompasses not only traditional short films but also serialized formats and installation-based animations.
With guidance from your mentor, you will develop a personalized study agreement. Experienced instructors will support your project work, while seminars and exercises will provide you with essential technical and theoretical foundations. We offer comprehensive support to help you plan your production both professionally and realistically. Through regular project presentations, you'll engage in ongoing exchanges with lecturers and peers, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
HSLU has established partnerships with numerous schools across Europe, offering you the chance to broaden your experience through exchange semesters abroad. A core component of the Master’s in Animation program includes attending an international festival and networking with animation professionals from across Europe. During your studies, you participate in an excursion to an international festival.
The Master’s program in Film collaborates closely with the research group Visual Narrative. Animation research is also represented in Lucerne. In November 2022, the annual conference of the AG Animationsfilm, Dimensions of Animation, took place at HSLU. Graduates of the Master’s in Animation have the option to pursue an artistic-research or scientific doctorate.
