Communication design describes an interplay of different creative means of expression. Illustration, photography, typography, language, interactive media, each of which is artistically and technically complex and sophisticated in its own right, are combined in a variety of ways to create books, films, exhibitions, performances, visuals, posters, typefaces, animations, websites, magazines and much more.
Craft and technology in communication design: a practical approach
Understanding by touching, “grasping” and “understanding” play a key role here. Teaching therefore not only teaches skills in mastering digital tools, but also manual skills in workshops such as bookbinding, lead typesetting, film development, photo printing or screen printing.
Objectives in communication design: freedom, diversity, aspiration
The aim of the study program is to give students the greatest possible freedom and self-determination in their future careers in design, in which interesting, varied and challenging tasks can be mastered through this comprehensive training.
The role of visual communication in modern society
Another aim of the study program is to qualify designers for the fields of visual communication in modern society. The training at an art university spans the spectrum between “free” aesthetic innovation and the “hard” practice of social communication in business and culture.
Training and practice in communication design: a holistic approach
In addition to the acquisition of technical and creative skills in the classic areas of print media, exhibition design and photography, the communication design program also covers the use of digital media in all areas. The practical work is supplemented by systematic training in accompanying theoretical subjects on the history of art and design, the sociology of art and the psychology of perception, marketing and general aesthetics. In addition, there is training in the use of artistic and practical language in the field of verbal communication.
In an increasingly complex and dynamic world of communication design, the aim of the course is also to do justice to this by providing training that is both artistic and innovative, technically demanding and practical.
Critical reflection and job profiles in communication design
Finally, the increasing importance of visual communication in modern society requires that outdated traditions of the subject are subjected to permanent critical reflection; i.e. the new job profiles in design require an equally intuitive and creative as well as distanced and reflective creative practice, which is to be learned in seminars, exercises, projects and internships inside and outside the art university.
With this objective and a corresponding study program, the Communication Design degree course provides the basis for later work in the profession.
Here is a selected list of possible professional fields in which our students work after graduation – either as employees in an agency or as self-employed entrepreneurs:
- Graphic Designer: Design of visual concepts and graphics for various media such as print, web and digital platforms. Tasks include the design of logos, brochures, websites and other visual identities.
- UI/UX Designer: Designing user interfaces and user experiences for digital products such as apps and websites. The focus here is on optimizing usability and increasing user satisfaction.
- Art Director: Creative management in advertising agencies, design studios or in the creative departments of companies. Responsible for the visual strategy and creative direction of campaigns and projects.
- Illustrator: Creation of illustrations, drawings and graphics for books, magazines, advertising materials and digital media. Illustrators can work on a freelance or permanent basis.
- Motion Designer: Development and design of moving image content such as animations, video sequences and visual effects for film, television, web and social media.
- Typographer: Specialization in the design and application of type in design. This includes the selection and adaptation of fonts as well as the design of font systems and text layouts.
- Packaging Designer: Design and development of packaging that is not only functional but also visually appealing. This includes the design of labels, boxes and other packaging materials.
- Brand Designer: Design and development of brand identities, including logos, color schemes, typography and all visual aspects that make up a brand.
- Advertising Designer: Conception and implementation of advertising materials and campaigns for print and online media. The aim is to attract the attention of the target group through creative designs and to convey the advertising message effectively.
- Communication Consultant: Advising companies and organizations on visual communication and brand strategy. This can include the development of communication concepts and strategies.
Teaching Staff
PROF. OSWALD EGGER
Language and Form
PROF. ANDRÉ HEERS
Typography and Design
PROF.IN CHRISTINE ERHARD
Photography
PROF. MARKUS HUBER
Illustration
PROF. ANNETTE E. leFORT
Book design
The Course of Study in Interactive Media with PROF. TOM DUSCHER and Film/Time-based Media with Gor Margaryan (M.F.A.) are interdisciplinary courses and subordinated to the Centre for Media. Both teaching fields offer a Master’s degree.
Degrees
Bachelor of Arts (B. A.) (8 Semesters)
Master of Arts (M. A.) (4 Semesters)
in the focal points:
Photography
Typography and design
Book Design
Illustration
Interactive information design
Language and form
PhD
