14.09.2022
Overview
Design
A good design is crucial in almost any business – whether a company produces products or just wants to communicate. There is a variety of study opportunities such as communications, media, and information or game design.
The study field at a glance
The main goal of designers is to make good ideas work. While product and industrial designers think in three dimensions, graphic design or visual communication designers create 2D layouts.
- Industrial designer design consumer goods (e.g. fashion, jewelry, household items, furniture, packaging), assets (e.g., machinery, equipment, tools, medical equipment, work equipment) and vehicles (e.g. cars, rail vehicles, ships, aircraft).
- Communication designers design layouts for print or digital media such as newspapers, magazines, brochures, packaging, displays and websites. This includes, for example, print data for ads, catalogs, customer information, manuals and other press products. Equally relevant are the conception, design and creation of corporate designs and media (such as promotional videos, games and instructional films). In addition to numerous other modules, during studies students learn to design websites or other digital media.
In both fields functional, technical and economic aspects are taken into account. Digital tools ensure that designs are becoming even more diverse.
Offered courses
The range of courses offered in this area is extremely broad and ranges from audio design, exhibition design to photography, game design, graphic design, media design, fashion design, product design, industrial design, and jewelry design to textile design.
Contents of the course
The content varies massively depending on the degree program.
- In the basics studies of product and industrial design, the following modules are part of the curriculum: Presentation techniques; design history; color, shape, composition; art history; material and manufacturing technology, media techniques CAD and DTP; technical communication and graphic principles.
- In graphic design / visual communications the following is taught : imagery; color, shape, composition; photography; basics of communication design; interaction, interface design, arts, culture and design history; typography; visual vocabulary; drawing.
In consecutive studies, the knowledge and skills can be expanded and further specialized according to talent and interest.
Admission criteria & study application
An artistic portfolio is commonly compulsory. Where appropriate, there may also be a personal aptitude assessment e or an in-house selection procedure. Some universities also demand relevant pre-practical internships of varying duration.
Possible careers after graduation
Designers work in design offices, advertising and communications agencies or in studios. Graphic and communication designers work predominantly in advertising and public relations, but also in new media companies. Industrial and product designers find employment in the consumer and capital goods industry.
In addition, designers can also work for newspapers, magazines, publishers, online shops or for film and television.
