This master's programme centers on four cross-cutting themes: digitalisation, internationality, entrepreneurship and sustainability. It combines creative and managerial perspectives to prepare students for leading roles where design shapes strategic decisions and product or service development across organisations and markets.
The curriculum is project-driven and practice-oriented, with four signature projects (two group-based, two individual) that move from interdisciplinary innovation and design creation to applied leadership and prototyping. Core taught modules include Advanced Management Theory and Methods, Creativity Methods in Business, Design Leadership Methods, Design Culture Theory and Methods, a Scientific Research Seminar, elective options and a Master's thesis.
Teaching uses digitalised formats—such as inverted-classroom approaches—alongside intensive project work to accelerate learning and real-world application. Graduates are reported to be in strong demand and typically find employment in managerial and leadership positions in national and international companies and agencies.
Program details (concise)
For specific entry requirements, application deadlines and fee information, consult the programme's official admissions page.
The course blends taught modules with hands-on projects to train design professionals for leadership roles. Students complete four signature projects (two group-based and two individual) that walk them through interdisciplinary innovation, design creation, applied design leadership and design prototyping. Core taught modules include:
Learning outcomes: graduates will be able to lead and manage design-driven projects and teams, apply creativity and prototyping methods to real-world challenges, integrate digital approaches into design processes, and develop strategic, sustainable and internationally-aware design solutions.
Overview
This master's programme requires a relevant undergraduate degree and a formal review of your entire application before a binding eligibility decision can be made. You must hold a degree in a closely related subject area, and the university will assess equivalence for foreign qualifications only after you submit all supporting documents.
If you would like a preliminary check of whether your prior studies meet German admission standards, you can use the uni-assist online tool. Full details of the programme’s qualification rules are published in the Study and Examination Regulations (Studien- und Prüfungsordnung), available on the university’s legal department pages. You are welcome to apply; once we receive your complete application we will verify your documents and determine eligibility.
Admission requirements (key points)
Winter Semester (International)
15 June 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Graduates are prepared for management and leadership positions within companies and agencies at national and international levels. The combination of design, management theory and hands-on project experience equips alumni to take on roles such as design managers, project leaders, design strategists or founders of design-driven start-ups where they oversee product development, innovation and cross-disciplinary teams.
The programme’s emphasis on digital methods, prototyping and entrepreneurship also supports careers in organisations that require design-led transformation, innovation consultancy and interdisciplinary collaboration.