Method and systems for patterning a hardmask film using ultraviolet light is disclosed according to one embodiment of the invention. Embodiments of the present invention alleviate the processing problem of depositing and etching photoresist in order to produce a hardmask pattern. A hardmask layer, such as, silicon oxide, is first deposited on a substrate within a deposition chamber. In some cases, the hardmask layer is baked or annealed following deposition. After which, portions of the hardmask layer are exposed with ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light produces a pattern of exposed and unexposed portions of hardmask material. Following the exposure, an etching process, such as a wet etch, may occur that removes the unexposed portions of the hardmask. Following the etch, the hardmask may be annealed, baked or subjected to a plasma treatment.