BA Graphic-Design and Photography

We create—both in analog and digital formats—develop concepts, and bring creative and photographic works to life through text and imagery, form and color. With a solid foundation in craftsmanship, we delve deeply into design questions in the fields of graphic design and photography, exploring the boundaries of visual communication.
We create both fine art and applied works, engage with typography and the design of print and digital media, hone critical media literacy, and explore a variety of visual formats such as photography, illustration, and generative data-driven imagery.

Language	German
Duration	6 semesters
Credits	180 ECTS
Degree	Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Costs	↪Tuition
Important Information	↪ Application ↪ Proof of Language Proficiency ↪ Visas ↪ Contact

Educational and Learning Objectives

The goal of the program is to enable students to give form to content across various media—while developing their own creative approach. Students acquire the ability to convey content creatively and concisely. They understand why one form is effective in a specific context and another is not. After completing the bachelor’s program, students can pursue a master’s degree or begin their professional careers in the creative industries.

We view graphic design not only as design for print media, but also as the knowledge of how to communicate visually using a wide variety of digital and analog media. The concept of photography is also broadly defined: from taking pictures with a camera to creating images through generative methods (AI), drawing, chemistry, or code.

Program Structure

The first year of study lays the groundwork and provides an overview of the entire field. In the first semester, students acquire knowledge of design fundamentals, typography, photography, and lab techniques, as well as digital tools and the equipment in the print lab.
Starting in the second semester, students choose their own courses. Two areas shape the course of study: skills and project work. At the beginning, the focus is on skills—courses in which students develop practical abilities: typography and working with a camera, web and UX design, synthetic imaging, animation, generative design, illustration, and much more. As the program progresses, project work takes center stage, providing opportunities to apply these skills. The Experimental Labs play a unique role: while they also teach skills, they offer space for experimentation. Students can enroll in these labs multiple times and thereby develop their own area of focus.
The program culminates in the bachelor’s thesis: a major, independent project that stems from the skills acquired.