English 
Deutsch Who is the Bachelor’s Degree in Photography & New Media suitable for?
The Bachelor’s degree programme in Photography & New Media is aimed at creative individuals who are passionate about photography, visual communication and digital media. It addresses school graduates who want to develop professional skills in analogue and digital image design as well as media production. The programme is especially suitable for anyone wishing to develop their own artistic signature and apply photography in the context of art, media, advertising or journalism. Career changers with initial design experience will also find a practice-oriented education here that promotes both technical skills and conceptual thinking.
What formal requirements must be met?
To be admitted to the BA in Photography & New Media, you need to provide the following documents:
- University entrance qualification (e.g. Abitur, advanced technical college entrance qualification or equivalent international certificate)
- Proof of sufficient English skills, as teaching is predominantly conducted in English (exact language requirements see university, e.g. at least B2 level)
- A fully completed online application form
- Curriculum vitae as well as a copy of your passport
- A portfolio with at least 20 of your own works (photography, optionally supplemented by video, drawing or graphic design; 2–3 photo series as well as individual images)
You should bring initiative, creativity and openness to new visual forms of expression. An interest in social, cultural or technological issues is an advantage, as photography in this course is understood as an interface between art, media and technology. Initial practical experience with photography, image editing or design projects is helpful but not mandatory. More important than technical perfection is your motivation to develop ideas and further your perspective. Communication and teamwork skills are important, as many projects are realised in group work. Independent working, willingness to engage in critical reflection and the ability to implement feedback constructively will support your study success.
Which content does the Bachelor's degree in Photography & New Media convey?
The Bachelor's programme in Photography & New Media focuses on the combination of classical photography, current digital technologies and cross-media image production. You learn to understand photography as a process from the idea through research to professional implementation. During your studies, you deal with camera and lighting technology, analogue and digital workflows, image editing, post-production, AI-based tools as well as multimedia approaches, such as video or interactive media.
- Camera technology, lighting design and studio photography
- Analogue processes and darkroom practice
- Digital workflows, image editing and fine-art printing
- Use of artificial intelligence in image production
- Visual culture, history and theory of photography
- Video and moving image production
- Concept development, storytelling and narration through images
- Portfolio development and profiling for professional entry
- Projects on socially relevant topics (e.g. excursions on sustainability/climate change)
Through project-oriented work, you continuously gain practical and exhibition experience. The lecturers actively bring in their own professional practice. Besides practical skills, conceptual thinking, analytical ability and the development of an individual visual language are central. The modular curriculum promotes technical, creative and organisational key competences for the image and media field.
How is the Bachelor's degree in Photography & New Media structured?
The course lasts six semesters with a total of 180 ECTS credits and is organised as a full-time on-campus programme taught in English. The start is possible in the winter and summer semesters. The course structure combines seminars, practice-oriented projects, workshops, artistic specialised modules as well as excursions, for example to the Harz or Borkum.
- Full-time on-campus study with compulsory attendance at classes
- Projects and seminars in the fields of photography, video, new media and visual culture
- Practical phases in laboratories, studios and the university’s camera rental (e.g. Photo Studio, Green Screen, Dark Room, Fine-Art-Print-Lab)
- Regular excursions, field studies and practical exhibitions
- In the 5th semester: internship or study abroad at a partner university
- Graduation with a Bachelor’s thesis and creation of a professional portfolio
During your studies, you develop and present your own projects and establish contacts with the international photography scene. The offer is complemented by cooperation with companies and active participation in festivals such as the European Month of Photography.
What career prospects does the Photography & New Media programme open up?
Graduates are prepared for a wide range of activities in the field of photography and visual media. You are able to adapt flexibly to technological changes and work freelance, employed or self-employed for agencies, publishers, brands, media companies or institutions.
- Commercial Photographer (e.g. advertising, fashion, product photography)
- Visual Content Creator and Social Media Producer
- Art Director or Image Director in agencies
- Photojournalist or Documentary Photographer in media houses
- Post-production Specialist (retouching, editing)
- Video Producer and Filmmaker
- Photo Editor or Visual Researcher (e.g. editorial offices, archives)
- Artistic career as a Contemporary Artist in photography & media art
- Creative Entrepreneur and founder of image projects or media startups
According to a university survey, entry into professional life often takes place within one year. Salaries vary depending on position: employed photographers usually earn between 1,600 and 4,000 euros gross per month. In freelance work, the hourly rate depends on experience and the order situation; entry fees are around 80 euros per hour.
At which location does the programme take place and how is it organised?
The course is offered at the Berlin campus and the Hamburg campus of the University of Europe for Applied Sciences. Both locations have modernly equipped studios, laboratories and workspaces:
- Campus Berlin: In the heart of the city at Potsdamer Platz, access to galleries, museums and an active photography scene
- Campus Hamburg: Creative location with close exchange with artists, photographers and media professionals, numerous practical projects and exhibition spaces
- University-internal rental for cameras, lighting technology and accessories
- Virtual learning offers and online campus possible for digital project work
- Accommodation options e.g. in the Edge Student Hub near Berlin
The close integration into cultural life and international networking makes the transition from study to work particularly practice-oriented.
What costs are associated with the Photography & New Media programme and how can you finance it?
The costs for the Bachelor's degree in Photography & New Media are 744 euros per month, a total of 26,784 euros for the standard study period of six semesters. In addition, there are individual living costs and possibly costs for materials.
- Monthly tuition fee: 744 euros
- Total costs during the standard study period: 26,784 euros
- Optional: accommodation costs, e.g. room in the Edge Student Hub from 399 euros per month
- Scholarship programmes for creative and socially engaged students (among others Digital Pioneers, Art & Design, Women-in-Tech)
- Options for funding via BAföG, education funds or study loans
The university offers individual advice on financing and scholarship opportunities to make studying more predictable.
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