Study Fee: Click here to view the t(/study-fee)uition and subscription options.(/study-fee)(/study-fee) Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal.(/apply)(/apply) Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: • Europe: Switzerland • GCC: Dubai (UAE) • Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: • A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level • A copy of passport or national ID • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume • Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in Digital Arts & Visual Effects

Feb 17
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a 100% research-based academic pathway designed for senior creative professionals, digital artists, visual effects supervisors, media innovators, researchers, and scholars who aim to contribute advanced and original knowledge to the evolving fields of digital arts and visual effects. Positioned at a study level equal to EQF Level 8 and aligned with the third European cycle, the program reflects the highest level of independent research, creative inquiry, and academic excellence within the European Higher Education framework.

The program is structured around seven comprehensive modules to ensure methodological rigor, artistic depth, and technological innovation:

Four research-focused modules dedicated to advanced research methodology, practice-based research design, digital experimentation, academic publishing, and dissertation development.
Two general modules strengthening leadership, innovation management, creative industries governance, intellectual property awareness, and strategic project development.
One specialized module in Digital Arts & Visual Effects, addressing contemporary themes such as CGI innovation, immersive media, virtual production, animation technologies, motion capture, visual storytelling, artificial intelligence in creative production, and digital aesthetics.

In addition to the modules, participants engage in intensive thesis and research activities under academic supervision, producing original research that bridges theory, artistic practice, and technological advancement. The emphasis is placed on innovation, critical reflection, interdisciplinary integration, and measurable impact within global creative industries.

The standard duration of the program is 18+ months. While a minimum study period applies, participants benefit from flexible progression options, allowing them to extend their research timeline according to professional commitments and creative project cycles. This flexibility ensures that scholarly quality and creative excellence remain central priorities.

This doctorate study program is ideal for senior digital artists, VFX directors, animation leaders, creative technologists, film and media producers, academic researchers, and creative industry consultants who seek to position themselves as thought leaders and innovators in digital arts and visual effects through advanced research and artistic contribution.