Our master’s programme in Design and Media (MDM) builds on our bachelor’s programme in Design. In two semesters of regular study time, participants continue their development into independent designers. Beyond the craft of the associated disciplines, the MDM programme offers students the possibility to reflect on design and development processes, understand their own responsibilities as designers and, in particular, to analyse the role of design in the social context.

The master’s programme conveys qualifications in the following core areas: conceptualisation, theory, communications and design-related thinking. Joint designs are worked up in an interdisciplinary way, and the results are reflected upon scientifically to develop generally feasible design solutions. Further qualifications are conveyed such as aesthetics, media theory, team development, self-management, project organisation, text competency, entrepreneurship and transcultural action. We lay particular value on advanced approaches to current design topics and an historical understanding of design practices.

The MDM programme fosters intellectual and creative analysis of a topic that each student chooses independently. In the first semester, the project work is consolidated at the design-related, methodological and scientific levels. The starting point is the project concept presented in the application to the programme. The second semester focuses on the master’s thesis. Over the entire study period, students work in interdisciplinary teams. The master’s thesis is a final project that generally includes an interdisciplinary task, works towards a concrete realisation objective or involves a research-based approach. For instance, concrete product developments for business, science or research can be developed, and innovative solutions can be produced to the point of product maturity or market readiness. In addition, free design topics of an experimental or research-based character may also be possible

Every master’s student can count on the support of an experienced designer from our staff at the Department of Design and Media. The curriculum allows time for coaching and guidance from the team of MDM teachers.

The top-of-the-line equipment in our custom master’s lab, as well as the great degree of individual guidance from professors and external experts, are the foundation and guarantee for a challenging study programme.

A significant component of our master’s programme is cooperation among the students. The synergetic, team-based exchange of skills represents a great factor in supporting individual master’s projects.

Our one-year programme involves a strict time plan; internships and semesters abroad are not possible. However, time-limited research, or development phases outside the University are both offered and expressly supported. In the same way, long-term collaboration with partners from business, research and public institutions is encouraged. These types of cooperative work result in concrete professional experience and may lead to future job opportunities.

As analytical designers, our master’s graduates possess interdisciplinary skills and can see the broad social horizons of their work. This gives them the ability to take on leading positions in culture, media and business. Prospects for graduates include positions in middle and upper management in companies in design-related and creative fields, in cultural institutions and as independents in the media and design industry. The diploma provides access to work in government services, cultural policy and teaching at postsecondary institutions.

The master’s programme in Design and Media encompasses two semesters.

Student guidance at Hanover University of Applied Sciences and Arts can advise all students and those interested in studying. It can inform them about study offers, study content as well as about the form and structure of our courses of study. Moreover, we can provide advice concerning study-related questions and problems surrounding admission requirements, funding opportunities, changing universities or subject areas, difficulties with exams, contact and work-related problems and professional prospects. For more information about student guidance, go to hs-h.de/studienberatung.

Every student pays a fee each semester. This fee includes a student pass for the Greater Hanover Transport Area (GVH), a public transport pass for Lower Saxony, a student fee, membership in the Students’ Union and an administration fee. More information is available at: hs-h.de/semesterbeitrag-und-rueckmeldung.