The programme is taught in English.
Intake: October
Non-EU/EEA applicants: Please apply by 15 August (October intake). We also recommend that you apply early (at least four months before the start of your programme).
EU/EEA applicants: Please apply by 1 October (October intake).
Please note: The monthly/semester tuition fees remain the same for the entire duration of the study programme.
The Master’s programme in Strategic Design lies at the intersection of innovation management, brand strategy and creative processes management. During the course of the programme, strategic thinking skills are trained around issues relevant for branding, innovation and design processes.
Students are taught to approach design not as a merely decorative art or in order to beautify surfaces but also as a strategic resource for processes and companies. You will gain knowledge of methods and theories of corporate and brand management, design thinking, social design, transformation design, system thinking, critical thinking and strategic participation. You will learn user-centred research, focused synthesis and systematic development of ideas. You will acquire knowledge on creativity techniques, business models, and sustainability as well as intercultural communication. Soft skills such as presentation skills and the development of your personal leadership style are specifically addressed and promoted through specially designed teaching units. The imparting of methods of scientific work creates the prerequisite for the preparation of a thesis in the fourth semester of study.
The lecturers provide scientific and theoretical input, supplemented by practical project work and workshops. By sharing and collaborating with students from other disciplines and cultures, you will acquire the ability to move freely in interdisciplinary design and design teams.
Innovation is the common thread that runs throughout the course, influencing our thought processes, working methods and approaches to all subject matter. The course is not only about understanding technological and social innovations but also about thinking about them holistically and strategically with regard to the future.
The biggest strength of the programme is its practical relevance. All teachers are experts in their subject area and in addition to teaching, they are active in a wide variety of companies and agencies. They have a history of success in effectively applying what they have learned in project-oriented theoretical studies, to the development of new business fields in existing companies and institutions. Study visits to Berlin-based companies and institutions that implement branding, strategic design and social innovations in their business processes are also an integral part of the curriculum.
Thanks to our focus on practical relevance, you will graduate with valuable experience in the field, relevant contacts and a good network in the professional world of strategic design.
First semester
Second semester
Third semester
Fourth semester
Please note: The monthly/semester tuition fees remain the same for the entire duration of the study programme.
None. Students might be able to purchase a discounted semester ticket or a discounted "Deutschlandticket" for public transport.
The following English proficiency tests are accepted:
Non-EU/EEA applicants: Please apply by 15 August (October intake). We also recommend that you apply early (at least four months before the start of your programme).
EU/EEA applicants: Please apply by 1 October (October intake).
Please use our online application system to submit your application.
Working as a non-EU citizen: In possession of a valid German residence permit for study purposes, you are allowed to work for up to 120 full days (full day = eight hours per day) or 240 half days (half day = four hours) during the calendar year. However, freelance work is not permitted. Internships that are mandatory for the successful completion of your studies at SRH do not count towards the above-named 120 full days.
Employment that is considered “student part-time work” ("studentische Nebentätigkeit", e.g. employment as a student worker at a university or in a university-related organisation or "Werkstudent" activities at companies that are related to your studies) can be done without any time restrictions.
We do not own any student dormitories or hostels. However, we provide assistance in selecting accommodation prior to and after your arrival in Berlin.
Our Career Service supports students and alumni in planning their careers and sharpening their professional profile. Our service portfolio includes:
We are the SRH Universities, part of the non-profit SRH Holding based in Heidelberg.
We offer state-accredited Bachelor's, Master's, and MBA programmes in English and German. Our curricula are built around the CORE Principle, emphasising hands-on, project-based learning in five-week blocks. Our programmes focus on management and logistics, engineering and architecture, computer and data science, hospitality and therapy, design and creative industries, and music and film.
With nine campuses across Germany, we host a diverse student body from over 100 countries, contributing to our vibrant international atmosphere.
Our approach includes practical work experiences and professional networking opportunities, preparing students for successful global careers.
Berlin, Germany's capital, is a hub for politics, media, science, and education. It's the country’s largest city and offers a vibrant cultural scene with rich nightlife and historical sites. Berlin's dynamic start-up scene is attractive to tech and creative industries. Despite rising costs, it remains affordable compared to other Western European capitals.
Cologne is known for its relaxed culture, famous cathedral, and rich Roman history. It offers a vibrant academic and cultural scene with excellent job opportunities in media and other industries. Cologne is well-connected, making it easy to explore nearby cities.
Dresden combines a vibrant cultural scene with affordable living costs. Known for historical sights like the Zwinger and Semperoper, it offers good job prospects in microelectronics and IT. Its scenic location and rich cultural events make it an attractive city for students and young professionals.
Hamburg, Germany's second-largest city, is a major trade and logistics hub in north-western Europe. With a high standard of living and moderate costs, it offers career opportunities in IT, media, logistics, and renewable energy sectors. Famous for its harbour and nightlife, Hamburg is a city rich in water-related and cultural activities.
Hamm combines historical charm with modern innovation. It offers low living costs and affordable housing suitable for students. Home to Germany's first Bachelor's degree programme in logistics at the SRH Hamm campus, the city provides a close-knit community feel and is growing in industries like energy and logistics.
Heidelberg is known for its romantic ambiance and vibrant cultural and academic atmosphere. The city offers a picturesque landscape ideal for outdoor activities, with strong sectors in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and academia.
Leipzig is an economic hub with a growing population, offering career opportunities in technology, digitalisation, and life sciences. It has a vibrant music and cultural scene and remains one of Germany's more affordable major cities.
Münster is a bike-friendly university town known for its museums, theatres, and lively student community. It offers reasonable living costs and robust job opportunities in education, healthcare, and administration.
Stuttgart is a centre for technology and innovation, home to companies like Mercedes Benz and Porsche. It offers excellent educational and career prospects in engineering and sustainable technologies, supported by a vibrant cultural scene.
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