BA (Hons) Graphic Design

IN Hamburg

Academic Partner Key Facts Programme Structure Admission Requirements How to Apply

Our graduates have found employment with

ACADEMIC PARTNER

University for the Creative Arts is a specialist creative institution dedicated to art, design, fashion, media, and creative business disciplines. With campuses across the south of England, it is highly industry-focused and known for producing graduates in the creative industries.

Overall ranking: placed 100th in the Guardian University Guide 2026, with strong performance in student satisfaction (80.1%), feedback quality (78.8%), and solid graduate outcomes in creative sectors. UCA is one of the UK’s leading specialist creative universities, particularly recognised for fashion, animation, and design-related programmes

XP-PEN

Industry Tools for Creative Learning

BSBI partners with XP-PEN to provide students on selected creative programmes with access to professional digital art technology throughout their studies.

Using industry-standard drawing displays and pen tablets, students develop practical creative skills while working with the same tools used by designers, illustrators, and digital artists in professional environments.

Watch our XP-PEN explanatory video

KEY FACTS

LOCATIONS

Hamburg, Germany

DURATION

3/4 years (international route)

PRICE**

€10,425 / year (International and EU)

FORMAT

On-campus

CERTIFIED BY

University for the Creative Arts

MODE OF STUDY

Full-time

LANGUAGE

English

INTAKES*

February, October

*Intakes are subject to change 

** Discounts upto 50% available, see all pricing and fees

Download Factsheet

The School’s admissions process is subject to the Consumer Contracts (Terms and Conditions). Information on your Right of Withdrawal and our Refund Policy can be found in the BSBI study agreement.

SECURE YOUR PLACE ON THIS PROGRAMME BY APPLYING TODAY.

FIND OUT HOW TO APPLY HERE >>

Portfolio Scholarship Competition

Students have the opportunity to showcase their creativity and the chance to receive a scholarship on tuition! This competition is valid on the Faculty of Creative Industries programmes being offered at the Hamburg campus.

Best Portfolio (Study for Free!)

1 Student | 100% Scholarship on Tuition

Second Best Portfolio

10 Students | 50% Scholarship on Tuition

Third Best Portfolio

20 Students | 40% Scholarship on Tuition

Find out more about how to apply here.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

Throughout this BA Graphic Design degree, our aim is to foster new talent into creative leaders within the commercially oriented field of graphic design. From typography to visual corporate identity, you’ll meet the demands for UI/UX design solutions, websites and digital publishing.

The four-year international route programme includes a foundation year, which will introduce you to the fundamentals of the creative industry and will give you the opportunity to refine a career path. You’ll build a strong portfolio needed to progress directly into your BA degree, whilst being prepared to use English language in an academic context.

WHO IS THIS PROGRAMME FOR

In partnership with the highest-ranking creative education institutions, we aim to attract the most creative minds to generate expert professionals who will be equipped with the creative and practical solutions required in professional graphic design careers.

You will earn a bachelor’s degree with 120 UK credits per year (equivalent to 60 ECTS per year). This helps student mobility in the EU when it comes to transferring credits from one higher education institution to another.

WHAT WILL THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE?

Central elements of the BA Graphic Design course include typographic skills and the focused application of design principles, which respond to practical design challenges in highly versatile markets. Structured teaching also encourages independent learning and project management. Students will engage in studio time, seminars and workshops but also supplementary activities such as gaining industry experience, all within Europe’s most exciting leading creative industry hub of Hamburg.

The BA in Graphic Design programme is delivered 100% on-campus with full access to state-of-the art facilities. Students will also have additional access to programme and reading materials via the University for the Creative Arts platform.

YOUR LEARNING JOURNEY

  • Build a strong understanding of core concepts and frameworks relevant to the subject area, developing both theoretical knowledge and practical awareness of the field.
  • Explore contemporary industry practices, tools, and emerging trends to understand how the discipline is applied in real-world contexts.
  • Develop analytical and problem-solving skills through case studies, research activities, and applied learning exercises.
  • Strengthen your ability to connect theory with practice by working on projects that reflect real industry challenges and professional scenarios.
  • Enhance your research, communication, and critical thinking skills through independent study and collaborative learning activities.

program structure

The majority of your work will be completed in groups and on-going support will be provided through the use of structured, targeted individual tutorials and online tutorials

The learning and teaching will consist of a variety of elements such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, animated/non-animated video, practical work, seminars and trips. The assessment strategy will include individual/group reports and/or presentations, case studies, essays, portfolio development, reflective journals and experiential work-based activities. Teaching takes place Monday to Saturdays, during morning, afternoon, or evening sessions. Please note: each year is divided into three terms.

YEAR 1

Principles in Practice 01
Typographic Studies
Visual Communications: Context and Theory
Principles in Practice 02

YEAR 2

Specialist Ways of Working
Contextual and Theoretical Perspectives
External Context

YEAR 3

Professional Practice
Combined Dissertation/ Critical Reflection
Final Major Project

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

integrated foundation year entry

This route is for applicants who do not yet meet the academic requirements for direct entry to the 3-year Bachelor’s degree.

Applicants should normally meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum age: : 17 (titles awarded upon completion of at least 11 years of schooling)
  • Academic Qualifications: ECCTIS UK equivalent to GCSE

3 year bachelor’s degree- direct entry

This route is for applicants who meet the academic requirements for direct entry into Year 1 of the Bachelor’s degree.

Minimum age: 18 (titles awarded upon completion of at least 12 years of schooling)

For direct Year 1 BA entry you’ll be required to submit an online portfolio via our BSBI Applicant Portal.

Academic Qualifications: A school leaving certificate with a pass to pursue higher education in Germany e.g. Abitur, Fachhochschulreife or Matura. Alternatively, an international baccalaureate, international school leaving certificates, BTEC/national diploma or advanced vocational certificate of education will be accepted.

year 3 Direct entry

This route is for applicants who already hold a relevant qualification and wish to enter directly into the final year of the Bachelor’s degree.

Applicants should normally hold a qualification equivalent to the first two years of a UK Bachelor’s degree (Level 5), such as:

  1. Higher National Diploma (HND)
  2. Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE)
  3. Another recognised qualification equivalent to UK Level 5 in a relevant subject area
  4. Graduates from a vocational academy/institute are not required to present a portfolio upon certified successful completion of their vocational training and are eligible for a direct entry into year 3.
  5. Same is applicable for students who completed HND in Graphic Design, Illustration or Animation or direct year 3 progression upon successful completion of level 5/Year 2 by a UK awarding body.

All Year 3 Direct Entry applications are assessed individually to confirm academic suitability and subject relevance.

English Proficiency

Applicants must meet the English language requirements for the programme.

Foundation Programme

  • A minimum English language proficiency of B1+ is required (e.g., IELTS Academic 5.0 overall; TOEFL iBT 46; PTE Academic 46; Duolingo English Test 95; or another equivalent English language qualification accepted by BSBI Admissions).

3-year Bachelor’s Degree Entry

  • A minimum English language proficiency of B2 is required (e.g., IELTS Academic 6.0 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component; TOEFL iBT 80 (L17, R18, S20, W17); PTE Academic 56 (minimum 51 per component); Duolingo English Test 105; or another equivalent English language qualification accepted by BSBI Admissions).

Year 3 Direct Entry

  • Graduates from a Schengen zone vocational academy/HND/ Level 5 progression by UK awarding body are not required to present an IELTS language test but required to pass BSBI English diagnostics test which will be provided by BSBI for direct entry year 3 BA Degree.

    Portfolio Submission

    What is a Portfolio?

    • Your portfolio is a collection of your best work. We want to see what inspires you, how you develop your work, your creative thinking processes, what and how you create, and what makes you a unique creative individual.

    What Should My Portfolio Contain?

    • Your portfolio might contain sketches, paintings, digital art and design, sound work, short films, or other examples of your creative work.
    • You may include up to 12 pieces of work.
    • If your work includes audio, video, a website, or a showreel, please present it within your portfolio using relevant screenshots, descriptions and/or links.

    How do I Submit My Portfolio?

    • If your portfolio is a website or showreel, please convert it into a presentation and submit it as a PDF. Relevant external links, such as Vimeo or YouTube, may be included within the PDF where appropriate.
    • You can upload your PDF once you have applied via our online submission system within the Applicant Portal.
    • The maximum file size is 512 MB.

    Further information on how to compile and upload your portfolio will be provided by our Admissions Team via the admissions portal once you have applied.

    Required Documents

    What you’ll need to apply

    As part of your application, we generally ask for:

    • School leaving certificate and transcript
    • Proof of English language proficiency
    • Up-to-date CV
    • Personal statement
    • Academic or professional reference(s)
    • Portfolio Cookbook

    Please note that additional or alternative documents may be requested where applicable.

    Apply now

    Edge Student Hub

    Finding the perfect place to live while you study is crucial. BSBI has partnered with Edge Student Hub, to provide an accommodation package that ensures you have a comfortable from day one in Germany. Located just 45 minutes from central Berlin, the accommodation provides convenience and ease. Shared rooms start at €599 per month, with single rooms and shared apartments also available. Secure your ideal living arrangement and focus on your studies without any worries.

    Bring a Friend and save €500!

    If you have a friend who is also planning to study in Berlin, let your Accommodation Advisor know. You can receive a €500 discount on your final month’s rent for a shared room*. Please note that your friend must be enrolled at Gisma, BSBI, UE Germany, or Arden Berlin to qualify for this offer.

    Terms and conditions apply

    SPEAK TO A RECRUITMENT CONSULTANT

    CAREER PROGRESSION

    BSBI’s industry focused environment provides the ideal support to our students in their personal and professional development. Upon successful completion of the BA Graphic Design course, you’ll be able to pursue the following graphic design careers:

    • Graphic designer
    • Branding/corporate designer
    • Packaging designer
    • Editorial designer
    • Web and app designer
    • UI/UX designer
    • Art director
    • Creative director
    • Video director
    • Visualiser/visual creative

    BSBI’s dedicated Careers Service helps graphic design students and alumni reach their career goals and realise their potential. The Service offers specialised support and aims to build long-lasting relationships with local and national employers.

    Visit the Careers Service website.

    LEARNING OUTCOMES

    Communication and Concept Development

    Students will develop strong English communication skills to effectively present international, cultural, contemporary, historical, theoretical, and professional ideas. They will also learn to transform unique ideas into compelling and industry-relevant design concepts.

    Research and Industry Understanding

    The programme encourages the application of research skills alongside technological, theoretical, and advanced knowledge of graphic design. Students will also gain awareness of emerging trends and contemporary debates within the communications and design industry.

    Professional Application and Problem-Solving

    Students will build the ability to identify project risks and develop effective strategies to manage them for successful outcomes. They will also apply autonomy in conducting primary and secondary research, using relevant resources to support their creative and professional work.

    Technical Skills and Career Development

    Learners will combine practical training with independent study to maximise their design potential and respond effectively to client needs and changing briefs. They will also strengthen their technical skills, critical engagement, teamwork, and professional networking to remain career-focused within the evolving creative industry.

    OUR NUMBERS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

    Built from more than 2,800 student responses across BSBI campuses, the results reflect strong student satisfaction, support, and career-focused learning.

    87%

    overall student satisfaction

    88%

    feel BSBI provides a diverse and inclusive environment

    90%+

    satisfaction with career services

    84%

    would recommend BSBI

    96%

    satisfaction with enrolment support

    400+

    students secured jobs or internships in 2025

    HOW TO APPLY

    Apply for your enrolment today and secure your place at BSBI.

    Apply Now

    Speak with an expert and plan your academic future at BSBI.

    Book a call

    STUDENT VOICES

    Discover what international students have to say about their first days at BSBI!

    TESTIMONIALS

    • "BSBI moved me closer to where I want to be — and gave me a completely new perspective on global business."
      Audrey JohnstoneGlobal MBA
    • "BSBI helped me develop skills, and above all, understand and appreciate different cultures. Living and interacting with people from diverse backgrounds has also improved my language skills."
      Matteo LuccheseMSc Digital Marketing Matteo L, MSc. Digital Marketing
    • "BSBI guided me every step of the way, from the application process to arriving in Germany. Their support reassured me I'd made the right choice of choosing them."
      Aida Al Masri​BSc (Hons) International Business and Management​Aida Al Masri, BSc (Hons) International Business and Management
    • "BSBI plays some crucial roles in shaping the leaders of the future through various strategies and initiatives. "
      Victor MadunemeDoctorate in Business Administration (DBA)Victor M, DBA
    • "BSBI broadened my options and simplified my decision-making process. It provided a kickstart to my life in Germany, fulfilling the expectations every international student looks for."
      Adarsh AgarwalMA Tourism, Hospitality and Event ManagementAdarsh A., MA Tourism, Hospitality & Event management
    • "BSBI offers career fairs showcasing a diverse range of hiring companies and agencies from various sectors. These fairs were particularly helpful in developing my professional CV. The feedback and guidance I received helped me create a strong application that grabbed recruiters' attention, resulting in several successful interviews."
      Aya ShawkyMSc International Health ManagementAya S., MSc. International Health Management
    • "I was seeking a business school in Europe that aligns with my career goals and budget. The affordability offered by BSBI was a key attraction when compared to other universities and business schools."
      Vibin BalachandranGlobal MBA

    Frequently asked questions

    Contact Admissions Team →

    FAQs

    BSBI offers various scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate students to support their academic journeys. Some of the scholarships include the BSBI Women in Tech Scholarship, the Leadership and Enterprise Scholarship and the BSBI Portfolio Scholarship competition. Learn how to apply for a scholarship at BSBI here.

    The bachelor's degree in graphic design at BSBI is shaped around the future of graphic design careers to enable the development of in-demand skills and essential knowledge. Our strong industry connections provide opportunities for students to pursue internship opportunities, network with industry professionals and build a platform for successful graphic design careers.

    The BA Graphic Design programme offers a unique student experience, through the collaborative learning approach and emphasis on creative projects. The BSBI Hamburg campus is a hub of diversity and holds events for students to network with experts in the design industry.

    The graphic design bachelor’s degree programme is taught 100% from BSBI’s state-of-the-art Hamburg campus. Delivered by industry experts and taught mostly in a collaborative style, the BA Graphic Design programme provides students with ample opportunities to develop in-demand skills like communication, creativity and strategic decision-making.

    In addition to the diverse student body representing over 100 nationalities, BSBI offers dedicated support services for international students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, including career guidance, language assistance and regular extracurricular events.