Frequently Asked Questions

Based on our last Programme Information Session, and other interactions with candidates, we thought it useful to compile a list of frequently asked questions and offer our answers. We hope that this list will help all candidates make an informed decision about whether our MAS ETH CSD programme is the right choice for them.

Q1: To apply, how advanced do my programming skills need to be?

A: We expect candidates to have some programming experience, particularly in Python or C++. This is not a programming course—we will not teach you how to program. Instead, we will focus on computational workflows, including how different tools interact and exchange data. While you don’t need to be an expert, you should already be familiar with writing Python or C++ code. We especially recommend having strong Python scripting skills.

Q2: Do I need to know software like Rhino?

A: While familiarity with Rhino or other software is helpful, this is not a Rhino or Grasshopper course. Our primary work will be done in visual studio code with a simple viewer. However, we will also use Rhino, Grasshopper, and Blender, and we will explore how to exchange data between these platforms. A key focus of the programme is developing robust and transparent data exchange across different environments—an essential skill in multidisciplinary contexts. Instead of teaching specific software, we will focus on fundamental principles: designing problem-specific data structures, optimizing computational workflows, and ensuring accurate data translation between different tools without loss of precision. These concepts are covered in the foundations part of the programme.

Q3: As part of my application, how can I evidence my programming skills?

A: We expect, and hope to be able to see the evidence of all your skills in your portfolio, in which you can showcase not just your final results (models/drawings ect) but also describe the methods you used to get there. If we have some doubts about your skills, we will get in touch with you and ask you about that. If you have done some programming courses, and have certificates to show that, then do include them. Otherwise, we will look for this in your portfolio. At the end of the day it is really up to you to know if you are the right person with the right skills, competencies and interest to enroll on this programme.

Q4: How advanced does my knowledge of mathematics need to be?

A: You don’t need to be an expert in linear algebra—we will cover some fundamentals during the programme. It helps to have a basic understanding of key concepts, but you don’t need prior knowledge of numerical optimization or singular value decomposition, for example. In the foundations part of the programme, we will introduce simple mathematical concepts in a practical context, showing how they apply to computational workflows. There will be no exams testing your math skills.

Q5: How much structural design knowledge do I need?

A: Again, you don’t need to be a hardcore engineer. This programme is designed for architects and designers interested in structures, as well as engineers interested in structural or architectural design, or design. It sits at the intersection of both fields. If you are already strong in one area, having some familiarity with the other before starting will be beneficial. Regardless of your background, a solid understanding of geometry will be very helpful.

Q6: Can this programme help me transition in my career?

A: Yes, this MAS is designed as an upskilling programme. It is ideal for those who want to explore computational structural design without committing to a full PhD. It can also serve as a stepping stone for those considering a PhD in this field. If your current work environment lacks certain skills you want to develop, but learning them on your own is challenging, this MAS provides a structured way to build that expertise—one that is directly relevant to engineering practice.

Q7: Will this programme focus only on experimental pavilion-like structures?

A: No, the programme is structured as a step-by-step journey, starting with foundations and moving toward applied case studies and real-world projects. While pavilions may be used as a way to explore key concepts and innovative approaches, the goal is to equip you with a flexible, self-made computational toolbox that can be applied to real construction projects. Also, for the thesis, you will be expected to develop a computational solution for a specific problem. This solution should not only demonstrate what you've learned but also be usable by others—whether in an academic setting or within a company. This approach ensures that you leave the programme with practical skills that extend beyond pavilion design.

Q8: Is this programme exclusively about compression-only structures?

A: No, not at all. For example, many assume that the HiLo roof is a compression-only structure, but that’s not true—it is a bending-active shell, multi-layered system. You can think of it as a large spatial structure, where concrete works together with foam blocks to create a special kind of truss. Also, while projects like Striatus and the Armadillo Vault are compression-only systems, others, such as the KnitCandela is also a bending shell, the formwork for KnitCandela is a tensile structure etc. Going further, in this programme, we will also study how these structural system principles apply to real buildings, including traditional frame structures. We will explore challenges related to design, disassembly, and reuse. So, in essence, the goal is to cover a broad spectrum of structural systems—not just compression-only designs—but all the structural challenges we have worked on over the years.

Q: What is the difference between the MAS ETH CSD, and the MAS ETH DFAB?

A: The key difference lies in focus. The MAS ETH DFAB is centered on digital fabrication. It focuses on the technical aspects of fabrication processes, such as robotic printing, automated assembly, and other advanced construction methods. The MAS ETH CSD is focused on computational structural design. Our primary interest is in developing structural solutions and their construction systems. While we consider digital fabrication constraints—since they influence structural design—we do not focus on the technicalities of robotic assembly or 3D printing. If we use these tools, it is mainly as part of a broader design exploration, such as in a workshop setting. In short, MAS ETH DFAB teaches how to fabricate, while MAS ETH CSD focuses on how to design structurally efficient and constructible systems using computational methods.

Q: Will there be opportunities to test physical prototypes in this programme?

A: Yes, to some extent. When working with certain structural models, we may create scaled physical prototypes—for example, printing rigid block structures to better understand their volumetric and assembly aspects. Small mock-ups of components or structural elements may also be built to explore design concepts. However, developing a full-scale prototype as part of a thesis is not an objective of the programme, as this would not be feasible within one year. That said, hands-on workshops will involve working with physical structures, focusing on challenges like precision, assembly sequences, and construction constraints. While these workshops are predefined, there is room for discussion and adjustments.

Q: Will this programme enhance my career opportunities?

A: It depends on your current role and career goals, but the programme is designed to equip you with the tools to drive innovation in professional practice. You will learn to integrate computational and structural design methods at an industry-ready level, applying cutting-edge solutions to real projects. From an academic perspective, the programme has proven to be a strong foundation for further research—several people in our group, for example, came from similar MAS programmes. There are also opportunities within startups and research groups working in related fields. Overall, this MAS should give you a significant edge in both industry and academia.

Q: Are there any funding opportunities for this programme?

A: Yes, the Block Research Group is offering up to five scholarships to candidates applying to start the programme in October 2025. The scholarships are based on merit and offer CHF 10,000 per successful applicant as a bursary to help with living costs.

If there are any futher questions which we should list here, then get in touch. Email us on .

Do not miss out: applications for the excellence scholarships are now open, find out more here.

Note in your calendars: applications to the programme will open on 1st April 2025.