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Deutsch Who is the Master's Programme in Communication Design and Creative Strategies Suitable For?
The Master's programme in Communication Design and Creative Strategies (M.A.) is aimed at graduates of a design-related first degree who wish to further develop their conceptual and strategic skills in design. The target group includes designers, creatives, and professionals from the fields of graphic design, visual communication, or art who aspire to leadership positions in agencies, start-ups, or as freelancers. You are in the right place if you want to reflect on design processes, shape innovative communication strategies, and apply current technologies in a creative context.
Which Qualification and Proofs Do You Need for Admission?
You need a first university degree in design, communication design, or a related creative subject. This can be a bachelor's, diploma, or magister degree from a university or university of applied sciences. Additionally required are:
- A portfolio with at least three independently created design works (including process documentation and description)
- Transcript of Records indicating the acquired ECTS credits as well as an overview of modules
- Motivation letter (maximum 250 words)
- Tabular CV
- Proof of required language skills: B2 level in the language of instruction (German for the Cologne campus, English for Berlin and Frankfurt; language certificate required for non-native speakers)
The selection process is NC-free and conducted internally by the university. If your first degree comprises more than 210 ECTS, the programme may potentially be shortened. Alternatively, a dual study programme integrated with practical experience is also possible at the Cologne location.
You should have a pronounced creative talent as well as an aesthetic sensibility. Conceptual and strategic thinking, interest in current design trends, and openness to collaborative and interdisciplinary working methods are also important. Prior knowledge in visual communication, creative problem-solving, and the ability to independently develop and present design ideas are expected. Self-motivation, ability to accept criticism, and enthusiasm for new technologies – including in the area of AI-supported design – are further personal prerequisites for a successful course of study.
Which topics are central to the Master’s in Communication Design and Creative Strategies?
In the Master's programme Communication Design and Creative Strategies, you will acquire extensive knowledge in the areas of design, visual and strategic communication, as well as creative methods. The course teaches skills in the following areas:
- Critical and creative thinking – Systematic development and evaluation of design ideas
- Design and research – Scientifically grounded approach to analysing and creating visual communication
- Visual communication & creative design processes – From conception to the implementation of aesthetically and functionally convincing designs
- Design Thinking & Human Centered Design – User-centred problem-solving strategies
- Strategic Communication & Brand Strategy – Strategies for targeted brand management and communication
- Persuasion and engagement – Designing effective communication tools with psychological relevance
- Innovation, transformation & exhibition design – Developing and managing change processes in communication and design
- Media production, converging technologies, gamification – Integration of modern media approaches and playful elements into communication
- Empirical social research, media law, business English, media psychology – Additional skills for professional design practice
- AI-supported design processes – Application of artificial intelligence for idea generation, visualisation and prototyping
Practical design projects throughout the course consolidate your knowledge, promote teamwork and reflect current demands from business and society.
How is the study structure of the Master’s Communication Design and Creative Strategies organised?
The course is offered in full-time (4 semesters). If you choose the study location Cologne, you can alternatively select a dual practice-integrated model: you work simultaneously at a partner company and apply your knowledge directly. A part-time study option is also available.
- Languages: English in Berlin and Frankfurt, German in Cologne
- Start dates: Winter semester (October) and summer semester (April)
- Structure and modules: Combination of compulsory modules, elective modules and design practice projects
- Project-oriented learning: Practice-oriented exercises, team projects and case studies
- Individual support: Small learning groups, personal supervision by experienced lecturers
- Practice partnerships: Optional integration of practical business projects in the dual study model
- Internationality: Opportunities for study abroad via Erasmus+ and PROMOS
The degree awarded is the Master of Arts (M.A.) with 120 ECTS. If you already hold 210 ECTS from your first degree, you can shorten your studies by one semester.
Which career prospects does the Master’s in Communication Design and Creative Strategies open up?
Graduates of the Master’s take on leading, conceptual or creative roles in the design industry, agencies and companies or as self-employed professionals. Possible fields of activity include:
- Art director, communication designer or creative director in agencies, media companies and start-ups
- UX designer, product manager or brand strategist in technical, digital or cross-media projects
- Self-employment – founding or managing your own design studio or creative agency
- Consulting in the areas of brand strategy, innovation and digital transformation
- Work in research, teaching or university cooperation in the design and communication field
The targeted use of AI-supported creative processes as well as the international orientation of the course improve your employability on both national and international job markets. Thanks to close practical networking and cooperations with companies such as ZDF, SAP or Google, the transition from study to professional life is optimally prepared.
At which locations is the Communication Design and Creative Strategies course offered?
The Master's programme is offered at the locations Berlin, Cologne and Frankfurt am Main. The language of instruction and organisational mode are as follows:
- Berlin: Language of instruction English
- Frankfurt am Main: Language of instruction English
- Cologne: Language of instruction German; on-campus or dual practice-integrated
All three locations are known as urban, creative centres and offer, besides modern seminar rooms, numerous opportunities to network with companies and agencies in the region. The university places great value on small learning groups and personal exchange between students and lecturers.
What costs and financing options should you expect for the Master’s course?
The tuition fees amount to €850 per month. For a regular study duration of 4 semesters (24 months), this results in a total of €20,400. For the dual study in Cologne, the partner company usually covers the tuition fees. In on-campus study, BAföG funding is also possible.
- Erasmus+ – support for study abroad stays in Europe through partial scholarships and grants
- PROMOS – additional funding for internships or study phases outside Europe
- Scholarship programmes – selection of university-specific and external scholarships
- Education loans and instalment payment models – flexible payment arrangements possible
The Media University offers individual advice on funding and financing options – including support with applications for financed study abroad and practical placements.
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