Overview The programme trains strategic thinking at the crossroads of innovation management, brand strategy and the management of creative processes. You will learn to treat design as a strategic asset—used to shape processes and organisations—rather than simply as decoration. The curriculum emphasises innovation as a guiding principle, encouraging holistic, forward-looking approaches to technological and social change.
What you will learn The course covers methods and theory in corporate and brand management, design thinking, social and transformation design, systems and critical thinking, and strategic participation. Practical skills include user-centred research, focused synthesis, systematic idea development, creativity techniques, business model thinking, sustainability and intercultural communication. Targeted teaching units also strengthen presentation skills and help you develop a personal leadership style, while training in scientific methods prepares you for a master’s thesis.
Teaching format and career relevance Teaching combines academic input with project-based work and hands-on workshops led by instructors who are also active practitioners in companies and agencies. Regular study visits to Berlin organisations that apply branding, strategic design and social innovation are integrated into the curriculum. By working alongside students from different disciplines and cultures and collaborating on real projects, you will build practical experience, industry contacts and an interdisciplinary professional network—culminating in a master’s thesis in the fourth semester.
Programme details and expectations
This Master's curriculum builds progressive, practice-oriented skills in strategic design across four semesters. The first two semesters establish foundations—introduction, research methods, synthesis, content management and early professional practice—while combining theory with hands-on creation, realisation and publication. The third semester shifts focus toward Purpose Driven Innovation with a three-part sequence (from research to realisation) and culminates in a personal Strategic Design Manifesto and professional portfolio. The final semester is dedicated to the Master's thesis, allowing you to synthesise theory and practice in an extended research or project piece.
Throughout the program you move from analysis and strategy into tangible outputs and professional presentation. Modules are arranged to reinforce research-led design (Research → Synthesis → Creation → Realisation → Implementation/Publication), and to build a sustained professional identity through recurring “Profession and Best Practice” and “Theory” courses. Expect a mix of studio projects, research tasks and portfolio work that prepare you for strategic roles in design, innovation and related fields.
Key modules (by semester)
Primary learning outcomes
What this means for you as an international student
This master’s program seeks applicants with a solid foundation in creative practice and a clear interest in strategic, design-led thinking. Successful candidates typically hold an undergraduate degree in a design-related area and can demonstrate both practical work and reflective intent about how the MA will advance their goals. Admissions also require documentation of language ability and prior educational qualifications for administrative assessment.
When preparing your application, focus on presenting a coherent creative profile: a well-structured portfolio of your best work (15–20 pieces) and a concise motivation letter that explains what you want to achieve with the degree and what “Strategic Design” means to you. Include an up-to-date CV and the requested academic certificates; reliable proof of English proficiency is essential if the program’s instruction is in English.
Requirements (bullet points)
Winter Semester (International)
15 August 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
1 October 2026
Graduates are prepared for roles at the intersection of design and business, such as strategic designer, design manager, brand strategist, innovation consultant, UX/service design lead, or product development specialist in agencies, startups and corporate innovation teams. The programme’s focus on brand management, business models, user-centred research and sustainability equips students to influence strategic decisions and lead cross-disciplinary teams.
Alumni can also pursue positions in social innovation organisations, design-led consultancies, or in-house design and innovation departments. The taught research methods and thesis component provide a foundation for further academic work or roles requiring advanced analytical and project-management skills.