Graphic Design, Bachelor of Arts

Who is the Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design at FHD suitable for?

The Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design Screen- & Printmedia (B.A.) at the Dresden University of Applied Sciences is aimed at everyone with a strong interest in design, visual communication, and innovative design processes. The programme is designed to specifically support creative and design-motivated individuals. The flexible university entrance regulations also make the degree attractive for professionally qualified applicants or those without a traditional Abitur, provided a special artistic aptitude can be demonstrated. It is especially targeted at prospective students who wish to develop their careers in the fields of print and screen media, brand communication, editorial design, UI/UX design, or illustration. The practice-oriented, interdisciplinary programme is also suitable for those wishing to switch fields who are looking for a related course of study.

Admission requirements for the Graphic Design degree at FHD

• University entrance qualification:
  • General university entrance qualification (Abitur)
  • Advanced technical college entrance qualification (Fachhochschulreife)
  • Subject-specific university entrance qualification (e.g. in the field of design)
  • Upper secondary school leaving certificate from vocational schools with a focus on design
  • Or: Admission entitlement according to §18 SächsHSG even without Abitur, if a special artistic aptitude is demonstrated (e.g. through a completed vocational training and aptitude test)
• Successful participation in the artistic aptitude test (aptitude assessment test):
  • Digital completion of creative tasks (provided by the university)
  • Submission of an application portfolio as a PDF (15–20 own works; technique and subject choice free)
  • Motivation interview regarding portfolio and solutions (approx. 30 minutes)

The aptitude test can be scheduled individually, is also possible online, and can be completed before the school qualifications are finalised. Necessary documents such as certificates can be submitted later.

Personal requirements and competencies

• Strong interest in graphics, design, visual communication, and design trends
• Artistic talent and enjoyment of experimental work
• Creativity and own design thinking
• Visual intelligence and the ability to abstract
• Conceptual as well as critical thinking and reflection skills
• Motivation, initiative, and perseverance for project-based work
• Ability to work in teams within interdisciplinary contexts
• Basic knowledge of handling analogue and digital media is helpful but not mandatory

Good knowledge of German is required, as the course is largely taught in German.

Course Content in Detail: What Do I Learn in the Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design at the Dresden University of Applied Sciences?

In the Bachelor’s degree programme in Graphic Design at the Dresden University of Applied Sciences, you will acquire comprehensive creative, conceptual, as well as practical and technical skills that are central to the professional field of graphic design. The content combines aesthetic, functional, and strategic issues while taking into account current developments such as artificial intelligence and sustainable design.

• Design Techniques: Development and implementation of creative design processes.
• Visual Communication & Design Theory: Teaching the basics of visual perception and their application.
• Illustration and Graphics: Free and applied drawing, life drawing, illustration techniques.
• Typography & Editorial Design: Type design, handling text, AI-supported layout development.
• Photography & Digital Image Editing: Fundamentals of photography, image editing including with AI tools.
• Interface & Interaction Design: Design of user interfaces and applications.
• Identity Design & Brand Communication: Development of brand identities and their communication.
• Information Design & Infographics: Structuring and visualising complex information.
• Design Methodology, Conception & Project Realisation: Methods for creative work, project planning and execution.
• Creativity and Innovation Management: Methods to promote innovation processes.
• 3D Development: Development and design of 3D models and prototypes.
• Workshop Work: Practical work in photography, printmaking, bookbinding, paper workshop and 3D prototyping.
• Strategic Communication & Advertising Psychology: Targeted design for different audiences.
• Design Philosophy & Transcultural Design: Reflection on contemporary design concepts in international contexts.
• Practical Projects: Collaboration with companies and institutions.

You can set individual study focuses and choose from electives such as Motion Design, Brand Communication, Online Marketing, Application Design, Game Design, Illustration, Editorial Design, Type Design, and other topics.

Course Structure: How Is the Graphic Design Degree Organised?

The Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design at the Dresden University of Applied Sciences typically lasts seven semesters (3.5 years) and is modular in structure. Credit points (ECTS) are awarded per module, with the entire degree programme comprising 180 ECTS.

• Start of studies: Annually in the winter semester.
• Teaching hours: Usually four days per week, with on-campus attendance.
• Course structure: Combination of mandatory and elective modules as well as project-oriented courses.
• Interdisciplinary mobility: Possibility to take modules from other degree programmes at the university.
• Support: Small study groups and individual mentoring by experienced lecturers.
• Practical phase: 20-week mandatory internship in the 5th semester. The internship can also be completed abroad upon request, supported by the International Office.
• Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Graphic Design Screen- & Printmedia.

You benefit from modern facilities including computer labs, workshops, studios, and ateliers, as well as close interaction with your lecturers and fellow students.

Career Prospects & Professional Opportunities After Studying Graphic Design

As a graduate of the Graphic Design programme, you are an expert in visual communication. The degree prepares you in a versatile way for the demands of the labour market in the creative industries.

• Work as a graphic designer in advertising agencies, media agencies, and creative agencies.
• Employment in marketing and design departments of large companies.
• Work in PR agencies, publishing houses, film and television production, as well as in trade fair and exhibition sectors.
• Opportunities for self-employment with your own design studio or as a freelancer.
• Design of corporate design, campaigns, interactive applications and online publications.
• Entry into specialised professions such as illustration designer, information designer, online marketing manager, interface designer, web designer, interaction designer.

Depending on your chosen focus during the studies, positions such as Art Director, Creative Director or Design Manager are also attainable. A shortened Master’s programme at FHD, such as the Master Creative Direction (M.A.), is possible in just three semesters following the Bachelor’s degree.

Study Location: Studying in Dresden at FHD

The Dresden University of Applied Sciences is located in the centre of the Saxon state capital. The campus offers modern technical facilities including computer labs, studios, workshops and ateliers. Here, you study in small groups and benefit from a familial atmosphere with direct access to lecturers. The lively campus life provides space for creative collaboration and numerous student projects.

• Address: Fachhochschule Dresden, Campus Straßburger Platz
• Site features: Modern facilities, close cooperation with industry and culture, interdisciplinary learning environment
• Discounts: You have access to university networks, cooperation partners and advice from the International Office.

Costs and Financing of the Graphic Design Degree at FHD

The Graphic Design programme at the Dresden University of Applied Sciences involves tuition fees. As a private university, FHD offers individual support, excellent technical facilities, and high service quality.

• Monthly tuition fee: 590 Euro
• Total costs for 7 semesters: 24,780 Euro
• Included services: Access to all facilities, personal support, use of computer labs, workshops and studios

Various financing options are available to you, such as BAföG, scholarships, student loans, or instalment payment options. The student advisory service supports you in selecting the appropriate financing. You are also welcome to discuss individual solutions with the university.