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.
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.
Photo by Jennifer Lang
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.
Video by Alexis Stylianou
Download Curriculum 60 ECTS Download Curriculum 90 ECTS Download Curriculum 120 ECTSKey facts MA Communication Design
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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
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.
Hear from Professor Christoph Büch as he gives an overview of our master’s programme at UE in Berlin.
Fees
- EU applicants standard: from € 854 monthly
- Non-EU applicants standard: from € 12,000 yearly
Got questions about financing? Check out our fees!
Our master’s programme 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).
In the Communication Design master’s programme, we place emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches. These disciplines range from the design of speculative scenarios to the promotional use of drone displays, from storytelling to theory building, from the initiation of design processes to their successful realisation in institutional and economic contexts. The aim is to train creative personalities who can build communicative processes in political, economic, scientific and social contexts on a local or global level.
The core focus in the first and second semesters of the course will revolve around historical developments of art and design, up to the present day. You will assess visual communication in philosophical, economic and social discourses and delve into the organisation of work in the digital economies. Practical tasks are set for these modules.
The third semester will look at contemporary art and design discourses with a special focus on design theory and the question of the autonomy of design as a knowledge culture. Further topics include cultural and transcultural studies as well as ethics.
A wide variety of theoretical approaches are presented in order to be able to recognise and navigate cultural and ethical challenges associated with globalisation and digitalisation. To this end, students will develop their own practical projects (Capstone Project) and demonstrate their newly acquired knowledge with a final thesis.
The third semester will look at contemporary art and design discourses with a special focus on design theory and the question of the autonomy of design as a knowledge culture. Further topics include cultural and transcultural studies as well as ethics.
A wide variety of theoretical approaches are presented in order to be able to recognise and navigate cultural and ethical challenges associated with globalisation and digitalisation. To this end, students will develop their own practical projects (Capstone Project) and demonstrate their newly acquired knowledge with a final thesis.
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 degree category Master of Arts allows students to pursue an academic career path, including doctorate and post-doctorate qualifications.
Apply now for your Communication Design studies! The application deadlines end shortly before the start of each semester, so you can also start at UE at short notice. However, you can apply up to one year in advance - simply fill out our application form online.
Please prepare a Letter of motivation (at least 500 words). A portfolio is welcome but not required.
Important: In the application phase, you must have already decided in which of our degree programmes you would like to study. However, please note that you may change programmes at a later time if desired.
Important: In the application phase, you must have already decided in which of our degree programmes you would like to study. However, please note that you may change programmes at a later time if desired.
More flexible, more interdisciplinary, and more practice-oriented - the new Master's programmes make the University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE) even more attractive! Students of selected MA programmes at UE have the choice of a Master's degree in 90 or 120 ECTS which gives them full flexibility. Students can apply for one of the three options depending on the education they've already achieved and how many ECTS they've already accumulated in their previous Bachelor's (or Master's) courses. Practical experience will also be taken under consideration.
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
Inspiring Creativity: Student Projects Showcase
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. Book and pay for your entire study duration to save at least €6,000 over the course of your studies. Choose from shared rooms, single rooms, or apartments, all equipped with modern amenities and secure access.
Why Choose Edge Student Hub?
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
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, Hamburg 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!
Contact us today
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.