At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 60 or 120 ECTSCredit points
- Full-time or part-timeStudy options
- German or English trackCourse language options
- Specialise in 'Design as Strategy' or 'Speculative Software' studiosStudio specialisations
- Integrated research opportunitiesResearch focus
- Double Degree Programme available (Taipei Tech)International opportunities
The Master of Design (MA) programme at Fachhochschule Potsdam offers a unique space and time for students to develop innovative ideas, concepts, and experiences. It focuses on research, exploration, and reflection within a socio-political context, fostering a diverse community of makers and thinkers. Students can pursue individual learning journeys, engaging with societal transformation processes and interdisciplinary futures. The programme is ideal for those who wish to critically engage with complex global challenges and contribute to shaping the future through design.
Curriculum
The MA Design programme is structured around two main studios: 'Design as Strategy' and 'Speculative Software'. Students can choose between a 60 ECTS (2 semesters) or 120 ECTS (4 semesters) pathway. The curriculum is flexible, modular, and interdisciplinary, allowing students to tailor their learning experience. It combines practical and theoretical research with a focus on societal transformation and future-oriented design.
- Year 1 / Semesters 1-2
- Core modules within chosen studio
- Interdisciplinary electives
- Research project / Master's thesis preparation
- Year 2 / Semesters 3-4 (for 120 ECTS pathway)
- Master's Thesis
- Colloquium
Careers
Graduates of the MA Design programme are equipped with advanced skills in critical thinking, research, and speculative design practice. They are prepared for a wide range of roles in design, innovation, and research, capable of addressing complex societal and technological challenges.
- Strategic Designer
- Interaction Designer
- Service Designer
- User Experience (UX) Researcher/Designer
- Innovation Consultant
- Futures Researcher
- Design Researcher
- Creative Director
- Product Strategist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the MA Design programme?
- There are no tuition fees for Master's programmes at state universities in Brandenburg, including for international students. Only a semester contribution fee is required per semester, which covers administrative costs, student union fees, and a public transport ticket.
- What are the main entry requirements for the MA Design programme?
- Applicants need a completed Bachelor's degree in a design-related field or equivalent. Additionally, successful completion of a specific aptitude test for the Master's programme is required.
- What is the duration of the MA Design programme?
- The programme offers two pathways: a 60 ECTS option which typically lasts 2 semesters, and a 120 ECTS option which typically lasts 4 semesters.
- What are the application deadlines for the MA Design programme?
- The deadline to register for the qualifying examination is April 1st. The main application period for the programme runs from May 15th to July 15th, with studies starting in the Winter Semester.
- What career paths can I pursue after graduating from the MA Design programme?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Strategic Designer, Interaction Designer, Service Designer, UX Researcher/Designer, and Innovation Consultant. They can also pursue PhD studies or employment in design agencies, tech companies, research institutions, or public sector organizations.
- What are the language options for studying the MA Design programme?
- The programme offers both German and English track options for the course language.
Entry requirements
First professionally qualifying university degreeA completed Bachelor's degree in a design-related field or equivalent.
Aptitude testSuccessful completion of a specific aptitude test for the Master's programme.
International applicants must ensure their prior degree is recognised. Further details on the aptitude test can be found on the department's website.
Fees
Tuition (international)No tuition fees for Master's programmes at state universities in Brandenburg. Only a semester contribution applies.
Tuition (home)No tuition fees for Master's programmes at state universities in Brandenburg. Only a semester contribution applies.
LivingInformation not provided. Estimated living costs in Germany vary by city.
A semester contribution fee is required per semester, covering administrative costs and a student union fee. This fee also includes a public transport ticket for the region.
How to apply
1. Register for the Qualifying ExaminationEnsure you meet the admission requirements, including a first professionally qualifying university degree and passing the aptitude test. Registration for the qualifying examination has a deadline of April 1st.
2. Submit ApplicationThe main application period for the Design (MA) programme is from May 15th to July 15th. Please note that admission is restricted, so early application is recommended.
3. Admission DecisionSuccessful candidates will be notified regarding their admission status.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the MA Design programme?
+
There are no tuition fees for Master's programmes at state universities in Brandenburg, including for international students. Only a semester contribution fee is required per semester, which covers administrative costs, student union fees, and a public transport ticket.
What are the main entry requirements for the MA Design programme?
+
Applicants need a completed Bachelor's degree in a design-related field or equivalent. Additionally, successful completion of a specific aptitude test for the Master's programme is required.
What is the duration of the MA Design programme?
+
The programme offers two pathways: a 60 ECTS option which typically lasts 2 semesters, and a 120 ECTS option which typically lasts 4 semesters.
What are the application deadlines for the MA Design programme?
+
The deadline to register for the qualifying examination is April 1st. The main application period for the programme runs from May 15th to July 15th, with studies starting in the Winter Semester.
What career paths can I pursue after graduating from the MA Design programme?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Strategic Designer, Interaction Designer, Service Designer, UX Researcher/Designer, and Innovation Consultant. They can also pursue PhD studies or employment in design agencies, tech companies, research institutions, or public sector organizations.
What are the language options for studying the MA Design programme?
+
The programme offers both German and English track options for the course language.