Ausstellungsdesign (weiterführend)

The studies take place at universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen). Learning environments at the university include lecture halls, seminar and practice rooms, libraries, laboratories, and workshops. Students also study at home (e.g., preparing for and reviewing courses, completing assignments; possibly participating in online courses).

The standard duration of studies is 2-4 semesters.

Study costs include enrollment and administration fees, as well as semester contributions (e.g., for the student union, student body, semester ticket). Tuition fees may apply for 'long-term students,' for a second degree, or after consuming a fixed study credit. Expenses for learning materials and study needs, such as specialized literature and excursions, are also incurred. Contributions for student health insurance are typically required when exceeding the age limit of 25 years or certain income limits. Information on funding opportunities can be found at the German Student Union (Deutsches Studierendenwerk) and the Federal Education Assistance Act (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz - BAföG).

Modules include, for example: specialized modules like 'Space and Object,' 'Communication,' 'Technology'; studio modules like 'Design Studios,' 'Curatorial Practice,' 'Exhibition Theory'; and a knowledge module on 'Theory.' Practical study content may include internships, practical modules, or practical semesters (e.g., in galleries), depending on the university.

Universities conduct aptitude tests or selection interviews, or they require portfolios of work samples.

Students should be prepared for the following conditions and requirements: attending lectures and seminars in university lecture halls and seminar rooms during the semester, possibly participating in online courses from home. Practical exercises, such as those in workshops and laboratories, involve activities related to exhibition and three-dimensional communication. Independent work includes preparing for and reviewing courses, researching in libraries, preparing presentations, and completing assignments (even during semester breaks). Scientific research involves deepening skills in academic work. Organization and planning require independently planning studies, adhering to given study periods, and timely completion of study and examination achievements (self-discipline and organizational talent are necessary). Career preparation may involve completing internships (e.g., in a gallery) and preparing for entry into the profession.

The following fields of study can be alternatives for Exhibition Design (advanced): Design and Styling, Interior Architecture (advanced), Design (advanced), Stage Design (advanced), Scenography (advanced), Costume Design (advanced), Communication Design, Visual Communication (advanced), Media Design, -Art (advanced). Similarities: Acquiring knowledge in areas such as art and art history, design, drafting, and design concepts; developing and implementing design concepts.

Universities typically require the following degrees as prerequisites: Exhibition Design (undergraduate), Architecture (undergraduate), Communication Design, Visual Communication (undergraduate), Design (undergraduate), Interior Architecture (undergraduate).

Additional and key qualifications facilitate a successful career start. The following topics, for example, may be considered: Business administration, Foreign languages, Time management and work methods. Internships, for example in a gallery, specifically prepare for professional life. Opportunities to acquire additional and key qualifications can be found at the Career Centers of universities (see contact details of the respective university): Universities in Germany - University search of Hochschulkompass.

This advanced field of study deepens knowledge from the undergraduate field of study and, if applicable, from professional activity. This course of study leads to a second university degree.

For Master's graduates in Exhibition Design, various fields of activity are available in the private sector, e.g., exhibition management, -planning, or interior architecture, spatial design, visual marketing. Those aiming for an academic career at a university usually need to pursue a doctorate. A doctorate may also facilitate access to higher professional positions in the private sector and research.

1920s: Founding of the Deutscher Werkbund and the Bauhaus. Early 20th century: Founding of the first design study programs: linking artistic and practical education. 1950s: Specialization in the design field, establishment of exhibition design as an independent field of study. 1999: Beginning of the Bologna Process: Reform of the European higher education landscape with objectives including: Creation of a unified European higher education area, harmonization of study programs and degrees: Introduction of Bachelor's and Master's programs, improvement of mobility for students and teaching staff.

Graduates of this program receive a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree.

During the Studium (university studies), students generally do not receive a salary. However, remuneration may be agreed upon for practical phases or internships.

Legal regulations are determined at the federal level by the Hochschulrahmengesetz (HRG - Higher Education Framework Act) and joint structural specifications between the Länder (federal states). The Qualifikationsrahmen für deutsche Hochschulabschlüsse (Qualification Framework for German Higher Education Degrees) also applies. At the state level, Hochschulgesetze (Higher Education Acts) and related administrative regulations are in place. At the university level, the university's own statutes, along with Studien- und Prüfungsordnungen (study and examination regulations) for each specific program, are applicable.

The prerequisite for this Studium (university studies) is a first professionally qualifying university degree; typically, an undergraduate degree in Exhibition Design is required. Depending on the university, an internal selection process may take place. Selection criteria include, for example, academic performance in the first professionally qualifying degree.