Practical implementation
Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
BA Graphic Design & Visual Communication
Berlin, Germany
DURATION
3 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Request application deadline
EARLIEST START DATE
Oct 2025
TUITION FEES
EUR 730 / per month *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* monthly
Introduction
In hands-on projects, you will experience the entire workflow from finding ideas for technical implementation. You design apps, animations, posters, books, magazines, brand identities, and more. Our practical approach prepares you to develop your creative personality and become a professional designer.
Study Communication Design in a motivating environment
Studying Graphic Design & Visual Communication (also called "Communication Design") in the middle of Berlin provides permanent inspiration. In a friendly and motivating learning atmosphere, our experienced team of lecturers and professors encourages you to unfold your talents. We support you with an open and inclusive environment and personally respond to your needs to prepare you for a professional career as a graphic designer.
Intercultural experience
The Bachelor in Graphic Design and Visual Communication is completely taught in English and designed to prepare you for an international creative career. With students from more than 48 different countries, we offer a truly intercultural experience.
Program facts
- Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
- Points: 180 ECTS
- Language: English
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
- Location: Berlin-Charlottenburg
- Start: October
- Fee: 660€ monthly
Study Graphic Design and Visual Communication at Berlin International
Graphic Design and Visual Communication Study Program
What you can expect from the Bachelor program in Graphic Design and Visual Communication:
You will learn to analyze, question, and improve given scenarios. Within the framework of your studies, you will do practical exercises such as creating layouts, bookbinding, or drawing and learn about software skills, design thinking, research methods, and creative techniques. In particular, we will deal with the discipline's typography and information design across all media.
Experience an international and multicultural environment in Berlin
In addition to project-based courses within the Graphic Design program, we visit design studios, communication agencies, first-class design exhibitions, and fairs. You will meet leading designers and blend Berlin’s vibrant culture into your studies. Joint projects allow you to collaborate with fellow students from our other design programs and various international backgrounds.
Your career opportunities with a degree in Graphic Design and Visual Communication
The Graphic Design and Visual Communication program prepare you to become a successful designer in fields such as brand design, interaction design, information design, motion graphics, advertising, and design consultancy. Your work in the field of Graphic Design and Visual Communication can impact and improve our daily environment in economic, political, social, cultural, and personal life.
Professional work environments are:
- Graphic design studios
- Branding and advertising agencies
- Publishers (digital, print and learning media)
- Interaction and web design agencies
- Television and film industries
- Design departments of mid-sized and large companies
- Start-ups in fields such as app design or game design
Best training with the accredited Graphic Design and Visual Communication study program
The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design & Visual Communication at Berlin International has been accredited and evaluated as a quality program with transparent structures, regulations, and qualification targets. Our program thus has proven to conform to the highest quality standards set by the European Higher Education Act.
Admissions
Curriculum
The BA Graphic Design & Visual Communication program at Berlin International offers a practice-driven and supportive environment where students are guided by an internationally experienced faculty to develop their creative talents and professional skills.
Key Highlights:
- Building a Foundation: Develop elementary design skills, creative foundations, and expertise in photography, typography, editorial design, interaction design, and new media during the first year, alongside an introduction to design theory.
- Advanced Skills: Gain strategic and intercultural skills in the second year through collaborative and individual projects, focusing on creating complex design systems and addressing ecological, economic, social, and political challenges.
- Professional Experience: In the third year, work on interdisciplinary projects for real-life clients, complete an internship, and reinforce research skills.
- Career Preparation: Finalize the program with a bachelor thesis and design project on a self-chosen topic, supported by a professional strategies course to prepare for a successful career.
The program emphasizes creativity, practical application, and socially conscious design, preparing students to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving global industry.
Rankings
German institutions don’t really fit into the typical international ranking systems, which are usually designed to evaluate institutions on the UK and US model. They are based on, amongst other things, published research in the English language. Research is not done at German universities but at research institutes which are separate bodies, and the published language is German. Therefore, international rankings are meaningless for German institutions. We do have a Research Institute at BI, in order to promote research amongst our staff, however this is not technically classed as the university and would not be counted for international rankings.
German institutions and programs are well regulated by the state, and so have a uniform standard that must be fulfilled in order to remain accredited. As a result, quality control is assured, and a ranking system isn’t really useful or necessary. Our institution is accredited by the German Council for Science and Humanities, and all of our programs are state accredited under the Berlin Higher Education Act, and by the Accreditation Council. BI awards Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees in accordance with the Bologna Process, which governs the European Higher Education Area for the purpose of cross-border academic cooperation, and the mutual recognition of study periods and qualifications earned abroad. Credits awarded by BI are in accordance with the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).
Program Outcome
BA Graphic Design & Visual Communication: Transform Ideas into Impact
- Develop cutting-edge skills in design, typography, and digital media.
- Create meaningful projects that address real-world social and environmental issues.
- Gain hands-on experience through client collaborations and industry internships.
- Showcase your creative voice with a self-chosen thesis and design project.
Scholarships and Funding
Berlin International offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support students in achieving their academic goals. Below, each scholarship is outlined to help you find the right opportunity for your educational journey.
10th Year Anniversary Scholarship
Celebrating BI’s 10th year, this scholarship covers up to 50% of tuition fees for the first year. Selection is based on portfolios for creative programs or academic performance for business programs.
Christian Wulff Scholarship
Honoring the former German President, this scholarship awards 50% tuition coverage for exceptional BA or MA students demonstrating academic excellence and BI community engagement. The awardee is announced at the graduation ceremony.
DAAD Prize
Recognizing international students for outstanding academic, artistic, or entrepreneurial achievements, this award includes a €1,000 prize, celebrating intercultural contributions at BI.
DAAD STIBET I Scholarship
Supporting international students with excellent academic records, this scholarship co-finances living expenses with €250/month for six months. Eligible students apply in the spring semester.
DAAD PROMOS Scholarship
A DAAD-funded program aiding students with study or internship plans outside the EU. Awards range from €350/month for 1–6 months, with additional travel grants available.
Student Assistant Positions
Opportunities throughout the year to gain work experience by assisting various BI departments. Calls for applications are shared via email regularly.
Program Tuition Fee
Gallery
Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities with a BA in Graphic Design & Visual Communication
Graduates of Berlin International’s BA in Graphic Design & Visual Communication are equipped for diverse roles in the creative industry. Career paths include:
- Branding and Advertising: Designing visual identities and campaigns.
- UX/UI Design: Creating user-friendly websites and apps.
- Editorial and Print Design: Designing magazines, books, and publications.
- Illustration and Animation: Developing custom artwork and motion graphics.
- Packaging Design: Crafting innovative product packaging.
Potential employers include design studios, advertising agencies, media companies, tech firms, and in-house design teams. Freelance work or launching your own design business is also a promising option.
Ideal Students
- Creative individuals with a German Abitur/Fachabitur or an equivalent international qualification.
- International students holding credentials such as an IB Diploma, US High School Diploma, or GCE A Levels.
- Innovative thinkers passionate about visual storytelling, branding, and digital design.
- Artistic minds eager to explore typography, user experience, and multimedia communication.
- Motivated learners with a keen eye for detail and a desire to master both traditional and digital design tools.
- Aspiring graphic designers committed to creating impactful designs that resonate with diverse audiences.
- Visionaries ready to shape the future of visual communication in a global and multicultural context.
Facilities
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Announcements
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Program Leaders
Why study at Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
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| All Programs Are Taught in English | | Learning in small groups | Global community |
Be a part of a global community
Students from 93 nations are studying at Berlin International University of Applied Sciences. Berlin International is part of a global network that allows students to travel and pursue their studies in different locations.
In addition to this, the university benefits from a large number of cooperations with universities around the globe. Studying at Berlin International offers students unique opportunities to study abroad and an internationalized study experience that prepares them for their careers in a globalised work environment.
Program delivery
All programs at Berlin International University is held on-campus and face-to-face.