Communication Design (B.A.)

The term "Communication Design" might initially sound abstract. But what it's really about is far-reaching problem-solving skills and a razor-sharp talent for observation.

Graphic Design, Web Design, Interactive Design, Photography or Film. The department teaches all these subjects to provide students with a global cross-section of skills that designers need. Alongside design skills, a high degree of knowledge of socio-cultural processes and interest in other areas of expertise is paramount.

The task of a Communication Designer is one of a mediator. They generate creative, intuitive and easily comprehensible solutions to problems to make them accessible to the general public. A Communication Designer acts as an interface between an area of expertise and society.

To be specific, in daily working life a Communication Designer is mandated to work on a particular topic. In doing so, the Communication Designer has to communicate complex subject matters on behalf of the client. This can only happen when the designer takes a critical look at his/her uninformed position and becomes aware of what is needed to understand the process. To do so, the designer employs design tools such as Graphic Design, Web Design, Interactive Design, Photography or Film. 

The goal of the Communication Design degree programme in Mannheim is to train specialised generalists, that have a broad knowledge of all the different forms of media in addition to specialised areas. This leads to effective design solutions that take into consideration all aspects and all media forms. This effectiveness and practical relevance – repeatedly demonstrated in actual projects – ensures that our graduates are in demand as communication designers, and are able to find employment and clients even during difficult economic times.

The Design Department currently accepts 30 students per semester for the Communication Design bachelor's degree programme. Besides the general higher education entrance qualification, applicants are required to show proof of artistic capability.

The first step in the application process is to apply to sit the proof of artistic aptitude examination. A brochure with all the important information about the application procedure is available from the department. It can be downloaded or ordered by post and includes an application form for the proof of artistic aptitude examination.
Before the portfolio has to be submitted in March/April and in October, interested applicants can make an appointment and obtain advice on producing a portfolio. Appointments can only be made by telephone via the Secretariat of the Department of Design.

Foundation course

1 semester and 2 semester

During the first two semesters, the foundations in each of the areas on offer such as Typography, Interactive Media, Photography, Film and Theory are taught and outlined. 

Main part of course

3 to 7 semesters

The main part of the course begins in the third semester, and at least three areas of specialisation can be chosen by students during the course. The specialised modules are always based on a follow-on course, that consists of two courses [theory and practical part] that have to be passed.

There are also advanced courses that build on follow-on and specialised modules. Furthermore, there are theory courses that students are required to take to graduate as a bachelor. They all need to be successfully completed. These include for instance legal principles and media theory, in addition to a language.

During the degree programme at least one block seminar and one practical semester has to be completed in the main part of the course; the student decides when exactly.