Graphic Design

Aim and program profile

The Master’s Program in Graphic Design at AAB College is designed to provide high-quality education in graphic design, combining contemporary teaching methods with a strong emphasis on research. The program equips students with the skills to develop and implement multidisciplinary design projects, preparing them to contribute creative and innovative solutions to the labor market.

This program encourages students to critically engage with current design theories and trends, fostering a forward-thinking approach to contemporary graphic design. By re-examining traditional design concepts, students are encouraged to explore new creative directions and expand the boundaries of visual communication.

The program aims to develop students’ analytical and creative abilities through research and practical projects, fostering a culture of innovation and originality. Secondly, it supports students in their personal and professional growth by encouraging independent research and creative exploration in the field of visual communication.

Mission statement

The mission of the MA program in Graphic Design is to: “provide advanced, student-centered education that equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to excel in contemporary design practices. The program fosters creativity, critical thinking, and research-driven innovation, enabling students to develop multidisciplinary design solutions that respond to industry demands and cultural trends”.

Responsible persons of the study program

Learning outcomes

At the end of the MA Graphic Design students will acquire the following knowledge, skills and competences:

Knowledge

Skills

Competences

Admission to studies

According to Article 6 of the Regulation, candidates are eligible for MA studies if they have completed their Bachelor’s studies and earned at least 180/240 ECTS, depending on the program. Further conditions for admission to the MA program are:

Number of study places

The number of study places according to the decision of the KAA is 60 students per academic year.

Recognition of qualifications

Per the Regulation for Master’s Studies at AAB College, recognition of qualifications and transfer of studies are governed by Articles 9, 10, and 11 of this regulation. These articles outline the conditions, criteria, and procedures for admitting students from other higher education institutions, the transfer process, and the recognition and equivalence of previously studied courses.

Duration and number of ECTS

Studies in the MA program in Graphic Design last 3 years (6 semesters) and comprise a total of 360 ECTS, with 60 ECTS per year and 30 ECTS per semester.

Level and Academic Degree

Upon completion of the studies, students are awarded the academic title Master of Arts in Graphic Design.

Employment perspectives

Students who complete the Master’s program in Graphic Design at AAB College are equipped with advanced knowledge, specialized skills, and strong professional competencies that prepare them for the labor market. They can take on creative and leadership roles in advertising agencies, media, publishing, corporate design, branding, as well as in multidisciplinary projects that go beyond the traditional boundaries of graphic design.

The combination of creativity, critical thinking, a multidisciplinary approach, and technological expertise makes graduates highly sought-after and competitive, enabling them to contribute directly to the development of the graphic design field both locally and internationally.

Assessment methods

Regarding assessment, the institutional approach is to promote a variety of assessment methods that reflect the diverse nature of graphic design practice. At the Master’s level, students’ achievements are evaluated not only based on the attainment of learning outcomes but also on their preparedness for professional practice in the design industry. Learning outcomes are assessed through a combination of summative and formative assessment tools, as outlined below:

Summative assessment formats: design projects, portfolio reviews, presentations, research or analytical reports, visual communication tasks, seminar papers, assignments, reflective design processes, etc. Formative assessment formats: in-class critiques, design workshops, peer feedback sessions, collaborative projects, presentations, and discussions.

Data about student progression

DROP OUT <15%

EMPLOYMENT >80%

STUDENT SUCCESS IN EXAMS 8.5

Student rights

Students at AAB College, in accordance with the Statute and the Regulation for MA Studies, have the right to:

Additionally, students have the right to submit complaints and requests regarding any aspect of the teaching process, assessment, or any other issues that they believe may hinder their academic development and well-being while studying at the college.

Student involvement in quality assurance

At AAB College, students are considered equal partners in the design, implementation, and evaluation of quality assurance processes. They actively participate in every working group or workshop that discusses policymaking, strategic planning, and decision-making. Specifically, students engage in quality assurance procedures through the following activities:

Year I

Strategic Design – 8 ECTS
UX Research and Strategy - 8 ECTS
Computer Graphics I – 8 ECTS
Communication Ethics - 6 ECTS

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Business Administration and Marketing – 6 ECTS
Strategic Design II - 8 ECTS
Human-Centered Design and Cognitive Psychology - 8 ECTS
Computer Graphics II - 8 ECTS
Digital Video – 3 ECTS
Project Management – 6 ECTS

Year II

Editorial Design I – 8 ECTS
Advertising I – 8 ECTS
Packaging Design I – 8 ECTS

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Photography – 6 ECTS

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Digital Culture – 6 ECTS
Editorial Design II - 6 ECTS
Advertising II - 6 ECTS
Packaging Design II - 6 ECTS
Master Thesis - 12 ECTS