COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA Design Leadership program at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences is structured to develop future-oriented leaders in the creative industries. Spread over four semesters and totaling 120 ECTS credits, the curriculum combines theoretical insight with practical application, preparing students to lead design processes, manage creative teams, and navigate the challenges of digital transformation and innovation.In the first semester, students engage with subjects such as design research methodologies, entrepreneurial thinking and digital models, and cultural studies. These modules help build a strong foundation in understanding user behavior, market contexts, and cultural narratives. Additional focus is placed on dialogical communication, exploring how design leaders can use channels like social media and influencer networks to communicate ideas and shape public perception.The second semester introduces students to more advanced topics including design strategies, management cases, and operations. Through modules like design project management and design narratives in UX, UI, web, and app design, students develop the ability to guide projects from concept to execution. The curriculum reflects the changing landscape of design, emphasizing digital tools and human-centered strategies.In the third semester, the focus shifts toward innovation, emerging technologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Courses such as design narratives in AR, VR, XR, and generative AI expose students to the latest developments in the field. The capstone project provides a hands-on opportunity to apply knowledge in a real-world consultancy setting, often in collaboration with industry partners. Students also choose an interdisciplinary elective from another program to broaden their understanding beyond the design field.The final semester is dedicated to thesis development and the completion of the master’s thesis and colloquium. This allows students to demonstrate their ability to integrate research, strategy, and design thinking into a cohesive project. Graduates are equipped to take on leadership roles in design, innovation, and digital transformation across various sectors.