MA Communication Design

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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.

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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

Check out our Location

Take a look at our Campus Berlin.
Immerse yourself in a city full of culture, diversity, and opportunities!

Check out our Virtual Campus Tour.

Admission Requirements

Here are some things you will require for your application at the UE:

  • Completed admission form
  • Transcript & language proficiency
  • CV & Copy of passport
  • Motivational letter
The powerful impact that graphic design has on emotions

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

Got questions about financing? Check out our fees!


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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.

Our master’s programme Communication Design is the ideal next step for students who have completed a BA programme in Art & Design and wish to broaden and deepen their knowledge, exploring new perspectives. The degree prepares students for careers in both traditional professional roles within art and design, as well as emerging fields for communication designers in the 21st century. It is also suitable for students with backgrounds in business, humanities, cultural studies, media studies and science and technology studies (STS).

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.

Students at Berlin Campus

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.

Christoph-Buch
“Our MA in Communication Design empowers students to go beyond aesthetics and create design solutions with cultural, political, and economic relevance. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, we prepare designers to critically engage with the world, develop sustainable concepts, and drive innovation.”

Prof. Christoph Büch

Students benefit from the university’s collaborations with a range of leading companies and cultural institutions.

  • Celebrating Reporters without Borders for Press Freedom
  • TOA
  • HKW Logo
  • Axel Springer
  • SERVICEPLAN GRUPPE HAUS DER KOMMUNIKATION
  • Pilot Logo

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red and green floral design

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We are thrilled to announce a new partnership with Edge Student Hub, offering students fantastic new accommodation options in Zoessen. Located just 45 minutes from Berlin's vibrant Potsdamer Platz, Edge Student Hub provides a perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. Shared Rooms available from €599 per month, with Single and Shared Apartments also available.
Why Choose Edge Student Hub?
  • Modern, fully equipped accommodation options
  • Prime location in Zossen, with direct access to Berlin
  • Comprehensive facilities including communal kitchens, study areas, and more
  • Vibrant community and secure living spaces
  • Check out the virtual tour here!

Check with your Student advisor

Learn from our Experts

Here you will find further valuable information about our professors and their career.

Prof. Christoph Büch

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

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

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

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!

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FAQs

A master’s in communication design is an advanced degree that dives deeper into the theoretical and cultural aspects of visual communication. MA Communication Design provides a platform to launch a successful career within the creative industries and gives you the skills and knowledge to pursue a range of roles such as a graphic designer or art director.

Completing a master’s in communication design is a great way to showcase your skills and knowledge of the visual communication field to employers. Studying the field of communication design is a big step to becoming a communications designer.

At the University of Europe for Applied Sciences, students can choose to enrol in a two, three or four-semester course, giving them the flexibility to tailor their education to their personal and professional needs.

A master’s in communication design will give you the skills to pursue a range of creative roles including the expertise to become a graphic designer. Many students studying communication design transition into graphic designers after completing a master’s degree in communication design.