Research in Design, Art and Media, Master of Arts

Who is suitable for the master's programme "Research in Design, Art and Media"?

The master's programme "Research in Design, Art and Media" at the Merz Academy in Stuttgart is aimed at graduates who have a special interest in current issues and developments in art, design, and media theory. It is primarily targeted at individuals who work independently in artistic-design or theoretical fields, want to deepen their skills, and develop transdisciplinarily. The programme is designed for creative minds who want to realise an individual project at the interface of design, art, and media. The study is particularly suitable for graduates with degrees in humanities, artistic design, or STEM subjects, as well as for those seeking a reflective, research-oriented exploration of societal and technological challenges.

Admission requirements at a glance

• Completed university studies: A bachelor's degree in a humanities, artistic design, or STEM programme is required.
• Proof of 210 ECTS: Typically, a study with at least 210 ECTS is required for direct admission.
• Bachelor's degree with 180 ECTS: Applicants with a bachelor's degree and 180 ECTS must complete a pre-semester with an additional 30 ECTS at the Merz Academy.
• Thematic knowledge: Basic interest and knowledge in contemporary art, design, or film are expected.
• Language skills: The language of instruction is English, so fluency in English is required. Independent presentation and communication in English are necessary.

Personal requirements for the master's programme

• Independent artistic or theoretical practice: Students should have initiative and the ability to independently develop a project.
• Critical-reflexive abilities: Openness to discourse, analysis, and self-critical work are necessary to meet the scientific and artistic demands of the programme.
• Interest in transdisciplinary work: Willingness to exchange ideas with other disciplines is crucial as the curriculum is designed to leverage synergies between art, design, media, and theory.
• Communication skills: Engaging with instructors and fellow students requires high-level communication skills.
• Self-organization: The master's programme is project-oriented, so autonomous time management is important.

Study Contents and Focus

In the Master's programme Research in Design, Art and Media at Merz Akademie, you will develop an individual project in the field of design, art or media. The programme is transdisciplinary and allows you to choose your own focus areas and work across media with the support of instructors. The focus is on the connection between practical, artistic and theoretical engagement with current societal challenges.

• Individual project work – from conceptual development to implementation.
• Possible specializations: photography, film, graphic design, illustration, 3D/interaction/games, media art/digital folklore, artistic research.
• Engagement with "Experimental World Building" and "Experimental Documentary Practice".
• Interdisciplinary collaboration with students from different disciplines.
• Use of state-of-the-art labs and studios (including virtual reality, photo studio, sound studio, media lab, screen printing, print-scan lab, bookbinding).
• Guidance and feedback from international teaching staff.

How is the Programme Structured?

The Master's programme usually consists of three semesters and is designed for 90 ECTS credits. If your Bachelor's degree comprises 180 ECTS credits, you will complete an additional preliminary semester with 30 credits (total of four semesters).

• Starting dates: winter and summer semester.
• The language of instruction is English.
• Intensive project work – your personal project is central from application to completion.
• Individual supervision in small groups and personal contact with instructors.
• Synergies with other disciplines are possible through close collaboration within Merz Akademie.

What Career Opportunities Does the Master's Offer?

With a Master's degree in Research in Design, Art and Media, you open up various perspectives in an international context. The programme prepares you for diverse activities, both in independent practice and in institutional or academic fields.

• Self-employment as a designer or artist.
• Work in the fields of film, art, media production and design.
• Roles in academia or research.
• Positions in journalism or cultural mediation.
• Work in NGOs, lobbying, or leadership roles in cultural institutions.

Study Location: Stuttgart

The studies take place at the location Stuttgart. Merz Akademie provides you with modernly equipped studios, labs, and workshops, as well as personal exchange with instructors and fellow students on-site.

• Central location in Stuttgart.
• Diverse opportunities for artistic and media practice through specialized spaces and technology.
• Networking opportunities with regional and international partners of the university.

Costs and Financing of the Programme

The tuition fees for the Master's programme amount to 2,490 euros per semester.

• Total costs depend on individual study duration (three or four semesters, depending on prior qualifications).
• Various financing options are available, such as scholarships or student loans.

With the practice and project-oriented study focus, this Master's programme offers you many freedoms and excellent conditions for a creative and research-based career in design, art and media.