CommuniCation desigN PROGRAMME

Develop key design skills to become a visual expert


WELCOME TO

COMMUNICATION DESIGN


Our classes will shape you into the visual expert you aspire to become.

After studying at htk academy in Germany (or online), you will gain the ability to design a wide range of items, from classic magazines to websites, and from supermarket packaging to entire brands. You will master all steps of the creative process, from idea generation and conception to layout and finished production. Upon successfully completing your vocational certificate at htk academy, you will emerge as an expert in visual communication, ready to step into a job with numerous facets.

Editorial Design

Editorial Design

Layout, typography, and colours are your tools - with us, you will learn to tell stories in a layered and creative way
Pathway: Branding & Advertising

Branding & Advertising

Designing a brand is a complex process - those with the ability to think outside the box belong right here.
Pathway: Digital Media

Digital Media & UI/UX

The future is pixelated: encompassing not only UI/UX but also extending into film, motion graphics, and 3D.

Want to learn more about our vocational programme in Communication Design?
Explore the semester-by-semester course content below.

Choose a vocational training at htk academy

Develop your creative skills and experience student life in one of Germany’s most vibrant cities:

  • No university entry qualification required.
  • Earn a vocational certificate that qualifies you to work in Germany.
  • Work part-time while studying with a student visa.
  • Gain industry-relevant skills to thrive as a graphic designer
  • Opt to pursue a top-up bachelor’s or master’s degree in Germany.
  • Live in vibrant Hamburg, surrounded by a wealth of design studios and creative agencies

Prestige

htk academy has become one of the leading German vocational schools, nurturing the creative minds of tomorrow since 1987.

Hamburg

Hamburg’s graphic design scene is one of the most vibrant in Germany. If you choose htk academy, you will study in a city which is home to many design agencies.

Post study

You can qualify to work in Germany with your vocational certificate or continue your studies at htk’s sister institutions and earn a top up degree in design!

Flexibility

We believe that personal and professional commitments should never hinder your creative growth. That’s why we offer you the flexibility to choose between on-campus and online studies.


ALL EYES ON

WHY HTK HAMBURG?


  • A rich and vibrant cultural scene
  • A diverse and international student community
  • A stylish and well-equipped campus
  • A more affordable cost of living compared to the USA and the UK
  • Numerous studios and publishers based in Hamburg
  • Stunning waterside views to inspire your designs
Campus Hamburg - 1
Campus Hamburg - 2
A train of the Hamburg U-Bahn emerging from a bridge, with the historic Landungsbrücken building and clock tower in the background.
Hamburg offers a superbly developed mobility network…
A seagull perched on a wooden piling in the harbour, with masts of ships blurred in the background.
A graffiti-covered entrance of a building in Hamburg, featuring street art, stickers, and a mural of a woman with pink hair.
Graffiti-covered construction site near the Millerntor-Stadion, home of FC St. Pauli, with a bold "Water is a Human Right" mural.
The Überseebrücke at night, with the illuminated Elbphilharmonie visible in the background.
People enjoying an outdoor café at Klippkroog, a trendy spot in Hamburg with a relaxed atmosphere.
…and boasts trendy cafés and cultural attractions—you will love it!

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

KEY FACTS


QUALIFICATION htk vocational certificate

LANGUAGE English

MONTHLY FEES € 584 (standard). For discount and scholarship options, please contact Student Recruitment Team: here

STUDY MODE Campus Hamburg or online

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Secondary school diploma or working experience

APPLICATION Online

VISA INFO here

We offer a variety of savings opportunities designed to suit your individual circumstances, helping to make your education more affordable. Contact one of our dedicated student advisors to explore your options and determine your eligibility.

Online option

If you can’t join us on campus, htk academy offers the chance to complete your programme entirely online.

NEXT START DATES

01.09.25

Hamburg & online

01.03.26

Hamburg & online

01.09.26

Hamburg & online


GET TO KNOW US

OUR EVENTS


Starting in April 2025, we’re launching a brand-new monthly webinar series! Each session will dive into a different topic, providing valuable insights and practical takeaways to start at htk.


BEST OF

DESIGN PROJECTS


Want to wow potential employers? You’ll work on hands-on game projects every semester that will elevate your creative portfolio.

A wall hanging full with posters in yellow and grey.

“My thesis was awarded by the Art Directors Club Germany with the highest national recognition, the ‘Golden Nail,’ and ‘ADC Talent of the Year.’ I have grasped what makes a good idea and how to bring it to life. I learned both at the htk academy.”

Michael Ullrich

htk academy Absolvent


WHAT DOES THIS PROGRAMME OFFER IN TERMS OF

JOB PROSPECTS


After completing your vocational course in Communication Design at the academy, you will be well-prepared for a diverse array of opportunities and possibilities within the creative industry. Check out below:

  • In media and advertising agencies
  • In magazine and publishing houses
  • At corporate companies as an in-house designer
  • in UI/UX field in digital agencies
  • in studios for packaging design
  • as a brand designer in design agency
  • Or… you can also start your own venture

DID YOU KNOW?

According to the Federal Statistical Office, there are currently around 33,000 advertising agencies in Germany. Interestingly, only five percent of these agencies have more than 20 employees

Die Serviceplan Group is the largest communication agency in Germany. The agency group, headquartered in Munich, employed a total of around 2,963 staff (2022) at its locations nationwide by the end of the year. Following closely are Young von Matt and the Hirschen Group in second and third places. (Source: Statista)


ALL EARS FOR

DESIGN & CREATIVITY


Whether you’re passionate about design or user experience, the essence of a perfect creative experience is, undoubtedly, the right music. Our Spotify playlists are meticulously curated for every creative endeavor—whether it’s classic magazine design inspirations or the latest UX trends, we’ve got your soundtrack covered!


READY?!

START YOUR ADVENTURE


Now it’s up to you! You can either apply directly, download the course’s brochure or arrange an online meeting with your student advisor!


Any questions? Ask your

STUDENT ADVISOR



GOOD TO KNOW

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


As a communication designer, you enhance the beauty and functionality of our daily lives. And, indeed, communication design is more important than ever. Many brands have realised that they can stand out with good design and provide their customers with a better experience. Good times for us designers!

The answer is a resounding Yes! The industry is flourishing, be it in advertising or the branding sector, offering you numerous opportunities. The best part is, you are not limited to just one job but can explore a wide range of possibilities. Our Communication Design programme prepares you for any design role, widening your scope in the dynamic field.

Does this vocational programme seem too complicated for you? At the beginning, we take it step by step.
Don't panic! We'll handle it together. We start with the basics, teach you the necessary tools and methods, train you in typography, design language, and time management. From semester to semester, we raise the bar, but at a pace that suits you.

Sitting at the computer for days on end? Far from it! Sure, your main tool is the computer. You will experience a dynamic and engaging learning environment at HTK Academy. You will engage in classes, offering daily interaction with our design and user experience experts. Our vocational course is exceptionally hands-on – each semester, you'll dive into the a new design assignment. Upon completing the certificate programme, you'll have crafted an impressive creative portfolio destined to captivate employers in your future job interviews.

We have made the application process as straightforward as possible for you. In addition to an online interview, where we introduce you to htk academy and you can ask your questions, we need a creative portfolio from you with 10 – 15 works showcasing your potential. Images, drawings, photos, ideas, concepts – just convince us with your creativity!

STILL NEED

MORE DETAILS


WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Download our Communication Design brochure