| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2025-03-01 | - |
Program Overview
MA Communication Design
Drive positive change in the world
Master your creative journey
The master’s programme in Communication Design at UE merges theory and practice to strengthen knowledge and skills, as well as develop relevant solutions and an advanced design process. The programme promotes creative design skills, knowledge of the theories and history of art & design, the ability to critically analyse contemporary phenomena, and the practical understanding of both analogue and digital media implementation.
The degree programme combines the fields of art and design with culture and humanities. Social, economic, political and institutional issues are addressed and reflected upon using a wide range of academic discourses that support and enhance the design process. This enables graduates to actively participate in the development and shaping of globally interconnected cultures, manifesting the importance of the designer’s role in the global community.
Curriculum | Communication Design
Gain entrepreneurial thinking combined with cultural competence. The MA Communication Design curriculum accommodates your needs as a working professional or student by offering the option of two, three and four-semester programmes. All three programmes are designed to give you the skills and knowledge to prepare you for a career within communication design with modules including Culture and Environmental Studies and Design as a Culture Studies. Choosing to study communication design gives you the opportunity to build a career in an exciting field.
Key facts MA Communication Design
Admission Requirements
- Completed admission form
- Transcript & language proficiency
- CV & Copy of passport
- Motivational letter
Semesters & Credits
- 2, 3 or 4 semesters
- 60, 90 or 120 ECTS (Credits)
- Choose between the Standard Track (120 ECTS) and the Fast Track (60 or 90 ECTS) study options based on your previous education.
- Teaching language: English
- Classes are typically scheduled between Wednesdays & Saturdays
Examination and Study Regulation
The programme starts in both the winter and summer terms.
Fees
- EU applicants standard: from € 854 monthly
- Non-EU applicants standard: from € 12,000 yearly
Career options with a degree in Communication Design
Graduates take on a variety of roles in contemporary design around the world. They will graduate with the skills for the following professions or industries, such as Creative Director, Design Studio Founder, Researcher, Entrepreneur, Cultural Manager, Project Manager, Lecturer, Senior Designer, Curator, Museum Assistant, Public Relations Worker, Marketing Manager, UX Designer, Publishing Editor and Artist.
The degree category Master of Arts allows students to pursue an academic career path, including doctorate and post-doctorate qualifications.
The programme – courses and projects
The core focus in the first and second semesters will be on the historical developments of art and design up to the present day. You will analyse visual communication within philosophical, economic, and social discourses, and explore the organisation of work in digital economies. These modules include practical assignments.
The third semester shifts the focus to contemporary discourses in art and design, with particular attention to design theory and the question of design’s autonomy as a knowledge culture. Additional topics include cultural and transcultural studies as well as ethics.
Throughout the programme, we place strong emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches. These range from the design of speculative scenarios to the promotional use of drone displays, from storytelling to theory development, and from initiating design processes to successfully implementing them within institutional and economic contexts.
Our goal is to cultivate creative individuals capable of shaping communication processes across political, economic, scientific, and social landscapes—both locally and globally.
A wide range of theoretical perspectives is introduced to help students recognise and navigate the cultural and ethical challenges posed by globalisation and digitalisation. As part of this, students will develop their own practical projects (Capstone Project) and demonstrate their acquired knowledge through a final thesis.
Study in Berlin — the centre of creativity and boundless opportunities
The Communication Design MA in Berlin lets you explore creativity, strategy, and technology. You'll have many opportunities to work with the city’s agencies, start-ups, and media companies. Projects cover a range of media, from print to digital and interactive design, helping you develop your unique style. The program includes workshops, seminars, and talks from industry experts, giving you insights into the latest trends. Berlin’s creative scene offers endless inspiration to enhance your skills and prepare for various roles in communication design.
Industry Collaborations: Building Bridges to Success
Students benefit from the university’s collaborations with a range of leading companies and cultural institutions.
Inspiring Creativity: Student Projects Showcase
See more students projects
Learn from our Experts
Here you will find further valuable information about our professors and their career.
Prof. Christoph Büch
Learn more about Prof. Christoph Büch, Programme Director Communications Design MA, Campus Berlin at University of Europe for Applied Sciences.
Prof. Jan Haux
Jan Haux is the professor for Communication Design at University of Europe for Applied Sciences, Berlin campus. Visit us to know more!
Prof. Yang Liu
Since 2010, Prof. Liu has been part of the Department of Art & Design and teaches Communication Design at the University of Europe in Berlin. Find out more!
Prof. Volker Pook
Volker Pook is the professor for Communication Design at University of Europe for Applied Sciences, Berlin campus. Apply now to know more!
Program Outline
Degree Overview
This program focuses on merging theory and practice in the field of communication design. Its primary goal is to equip students with practical skills and theoretical expertise to develop relevant solutions, particularly within the field of strategic brand and creative design thinking. With a deep emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, the program aims to provide the critical analysis skills for students to navigate various disciplines, ranging from speculative scenario design to drone display marketing and story-telling. This interdisciplinary approach prepares its graduates to successfully adapt to various institutional, political, economic, and social contexts on both localized and global levels.
Outline
Program content:
The program encompasses a curriculum that interweaves the study of communication design within broader cultural and artistic contexts. It offers a nuanced understanding of social, economic, political, and institutional matters as they relate to the world of design, exploring their influence and interaction through a comprehensive lens of academic discourse. This unique focus cultivates graduates adept at participating actively and shaping various globally connected cultures, highlighting the vital role designers fulfill within their respective communities.
Program structure:
- Standard Track (120 ECTS) – This comprehensive structure offers the most thorough program experience. These include speculative scenario planning, promotional use of drone displays, storytelling approaches, theory building, design process initiation (and their realization within institutional and economic landscapes).
Assessment
The assessment approach for this program includes diverse methods to gauge students' learning and progress accurately throughout their studies.
Teaching
The core tenets of the educational approach within this program revolve around encouraging creative individuals capable of fostering communication-driven endeavors across varied political, economic, scientific, and social settings. This fosters graduates equipped to build impactful communicative processes on local and global scales within various institutional structures.
Careers
The Communication Design program opens up an array of career pathways upon graduating. Examples within the context include roles in both traditional design professions and emergent positions for digital-age communication designers. Additionally, its scope extends to those with backgrounds outside creative fields, encompassing professionals from areas like business, humanities, cultural studies, and science and technology studies (STS).
Other
- University-led collaborations with leading businesses and cultural organizations offer practical, industry-oriented internships and real-world projects to participants for an immersive, application-based learning and development experience.
- Student projects showcase creative student endeavors, demonstrating innovative outcomes from students’ engagements throughout the program curriculum. These examples can serve as inspiration as students formulate their creative approaches and build their portfolios.
- The context highlights the expertise available through professors. It encourages deeper exploration through contact information.
EU applicants standard: € 820 monthly Non-EU applicants standard: € 10,938 yearly
University of Europe for Applied Sciences
Overview:
The University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE) is a state-recognized, private university with four campuses in Germany: Berlin, Hamburg, Iserlohn, and the UE Innovation Hub. It is known for its excellent teaching, international focus, and strong industry partnerships.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The UE offers a vibrant campus experience with a unique atmosphere at each location. Students can participate in various events, engage with faculty and peers, and benefit from the university's international connections.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Excellent Teaching:
The UE has received numerous awards for its high-quality teaching, including recognition from STERN, the German Institute for Service Quality, and ntv.International Focus:
The UE is recognized as a leading institution in international orientation by U-Multirank and is ranked among the top 10 universities in economics.Industry Partnerships:
The UE has established partnerships with renowned organizations like Borussia Dortmund, providing students with unique opportunities for internships, networking, and career development.Career Success:
Over 90% of UE graduates in business and art & design fields find jobs within 12 months of graduation.Academic Programs:
The UE offers a range of Bachelor's and Master's programs. Specific program details are not provided in the context.
Other:
- The UE has opened its first campus in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to international collaboration.
- The UE has been recognized as one of the best private universities in Germany by the "Deutscher Bildungsaward 2023/24."
- The UE has been ranked among the top five providers of continuing education by Globis.
- The UE has been awarded the "TOP Media School" title by ServiceValue.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- Completed admission form: Applicants must submit a completed application form available on the University's website.
- Transcript & language proficiency: Applicants must provide official transcripts from their previous academic institutions, demonstrating their academic qualifications. Language proficiency in English is also required, with accepted proof including TOEFL, IELTS, or other recognized tests.
- CV & Copy of passport: Applicants need to submit a current CV highlighting their academic background, work experience, and relevant skills. A copy of their passport is also required for identification purposes.
- Motivational letter: A well-written motivational letter outlining the applicant's interest in the program, their academic goals, and how the program aligns with their career aspirations is mandatory.
International Overseas Students (Non-EU):
All requirements listed for EU home students apply to international students as well. Additionally, international students must:
- Meet specific visa requirements: International students must obtain the appropriate visa to study in Germany. The University can provide guidance on the visa application process.
- Applicants can choose between the Standard Track (120 ECTS) and the Fast Track (60 or 90 ECTS) study options based on their previous education.
- The program starts in both the winter and summer terms, offering flexibility for students to begin their studies.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English.
- Accepted proof of language proficiency includes:
- TOEFL: minimum score of 90
- IELTS: minimum score of 6.5
- Other recognized English language tests with equivalent scores.
