The best universities for art, design & architecture in Germany

Studying art , design , or architecture opens up a fascinating universe of creative possibilities, from the initial idea to final realization. In professionally equipped workshops and inspiring study environments, you have the opportunity to develop your own individual artistic style .

It doesn't matter whether you work analog, digital or spatially – the variety of forms of expression is open to you and allows you to fully exploit your creative potential.

Creative degree programs as a horizon-expanding symbiosis of theory and practice

What makes a creative degree program special is the symbiosis between sound theoretical foundations and intensive practical work . You will not only become familiar with fundamental concepts and theories, but also be challenged through diverse practical projects to apply and further develop your knowledge. Every design challenge thus becomes an opportunity to refine your skills and shape your unique perspective.

A key component of your academic training at one of Germany's top universities will be the exchange with an international student body. This diversity of cultural backgrounds will not only broaden your creative horizons but also foster innovative approaches and perspectives. You will learn to think outside the box and develop concepts that are globally relevant.

Art colleges and universities offer not only traditional art and cultural theory programs, but also these fascinating courses of study specifically for people who want to work independently and on a project basis, and who have the drive to put innovative ideas into practice. This practical training optimally prepares you for a wide range of activities in the fields of art , design , and architecture . You will not only acquire extensive design techniques and methods, but also develop crucial conceptual and entrepreneurial skills.

With these skills, you are able to turn your visions into concrete projects and make a significant contribution to the creative world.

German universities for expats and students from abroad

Germany presents itself as a first-class destination for developing an artistic career and obtaining a recognized degree. With their outstanding teaching and research offerings, as well as a welcoming and diverse environment, German universities are among the best in the world. Regardless of your career goals, you will undoubtedly acquire the knowledge and skills you need for future professional success .

Depending on your current location, attending an in-person portfolio course online portfolio course ; this will maximize your chances of admission to your preferred university.

If you're aiming for a career in art and design, Germany is an excellent choice. Many German universities offer practice-oriented degree programs that harmoniously combine theory and practice. This allows students to realize the full potential of their academic training. Studying in Germany also means being part of a fascinating, multicultural, and culturally rich environment that is highly regarded internationally. 

Studying art, design & architecture in Germany – The best universities

In Germany, a country with a rich cultural tradition and a multitude of inspiring movements, aspiring artists, architects, and designers have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and skills at some of the world's most prestigious universities. These institutions are not only breeding grounds for creative exchange but also places where practical skills are taught to help students succeed in a competitive environment.

The best universities for art, design, and architecture are distinguished by their diverse range of courses. They offer specialized programs that address a wide variety of disciplines—from fine arts and graphic design to interior design and urban planning. Students are encouraged to develop their individual styles and explore innovative concepts. In doing so, they benefit from an international exchange of ideas and perspectives, which enriches the German art scene.

Anyone interested in studying in these creative fields should carefully examine the variety of available universities. Different institutions have different approaches and focuses, which can be important for personal development. It's worthwhile to compare the programs and find out which university best suits your career goals and aesthetic preferences.

In a meta-analysis of the databases and rankings from MyGermanUniversity , EduRank , and Studying-in-Germany.org, we present the best public and private universities for creative degree programs in Germany. We have also given significant weight to the range and diversity of courses offered, specifically in the fields of art, design, and architecture, in our ranking.

A. State universities

01 University of Heidelberg

EduRank: #1 (of 369) in Germany | Humboldt Ranking: #2 | DFG ranking #2 |  Times Higher Education Ranking #47

Year of foundation: 1386

Students: 28.400

Heidelberg University – Germany is one of the world's leading research universities and boasts 219,165 published scientific papers and 6,761,909 citations. Its research profile encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including medicine, biology, chemistry, genetics, biochemistry, computer science, physics, pathology, as well as the humanities, social sciences, and engineering.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : Musicology, Art History, American Studies, Museum Studies, Literary Studies, Archaeology

Famous alumni : Thomas Mann (literature), Maria Furtwängler (acting), Wilhelm Busch (humorist & poet), Erich Mendelsohn (architect)

02 Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich

EduRank: #2 (out of 369) in Germany | Humboldt Ranking: #1 | DFG Ranking: #1 | StudyCheck: #33

Year of foundation: 1472

Students: 52.400

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich is one of the world's leading research universities and boasts 168,344 published scientific papers and 4,824,598 citations. Its research profile encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including biology, medicine, chemistry, genetics, biochemistry, humanities and social sciences, physics, computer science, engineering, and pathology.

Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) Munich is widely recognized for its outstanding academic quality and significant contributions to research. Founded in 1472, LMU looks back on a long tradition marked by numerous Nobel laureates and groundbreaking research achievements. The university offers a diverse range of subjects.

The International Office at LMU Munich offers comprehensive support for international students, including assistance with visa applications, finding accommodation, and integration into academic and social life. The International Office ensures that all necessary resources are available for a successful stay. LMU is located in the vibrant city of Munich, whose diverse cultural scene and proximity to the Bavarian Alps create an enriching campus experience. This ensures a balance between academic rigor and a dynamic social environment.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : History and Art Studies, Art History, Art (Teacher Training), Art and Multimedia, Art + Music + Theatre, Art Education, Theatre Studies and Cultural Practice, General and Comparative Literature, Book Studies, Dramaturgy, Empirical Cultural Studies and European Ethnology, Film and Media Culture Research, Musicology, Media Culture Studies

Famous alumni : Arnold Schwarzenegger (actor), Bertolt Brecht (poet), Ian Fleming (writer), Werner Herzog (filmmaker), Rainer Maria Rilke (poet)

03 Berlin University of the Arts

EduRank: #100 (out of 369) in Germany | Humboldt Ranking: #97 | DFG Ranking: #77 

Year of foundation: 1696

Students: 4.140

The Berlin University of the Arts (UdK Berlin) is one of the oldest and most prestigious art schools in Europe, founded in 1696. With approximately 4,000 students, it offers a multifaceted education in the heart of Berlin, particularly in the fields of fine arts, design, music, and performing arts. The campus in Charlottenburg impresses with its modern architecture and the vibrant urban atmosphere of its surroundings.

The Berlin University of the Arts has produced a total of 955 scientific publications and received 4,232 citations. Its research profile encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including humanities and social sciences, philosophy, political science, computer science, engineering, art and design, environmental sciences, physics, law, and sociology.

Over 70 degree programs foster interdisciplinary collaboration and offer students opportunities for specialization. The university places great emphasis on artistic excellence, practical learning, and connections to industry. Its prominent alumni include artists such as Norbert Bisky and Günter Grass, underscoring the UdK's success in developing creative talent.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : Early Music, Architecture, Art in Context, Fine Arts, Stage Design, Design, Design & Computation, Conducting, Singing and Musical Theatre, Social and Economic Communication, Jazz, Church Music, Composition, Costume Design, Cultural Journalism, Art and Media, Artistic-Pedagogical Training, Piano , Orchestral Instruments

Famous alumni : Norbert Bisky (figurative painting), Günter Grass (writer), Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (architect), Wotan Wilke Möhring (actor), Max Raabe (jazz singer)

04 University of Hamburg

EduRank: #4 (of 369) in Germany | DFG ranking #10 |  Times Higher Education Ranking #132

Year of foundation: 1919

Students: 43.000

The University of Hamburg (UHH) is a prestigious public research university in Northern Germany, founded in 1919 and currently home to approximately 43,000 students. Its main campus is spread across the diverse city, creating a dynamic learning environment. With a broad range of disciplines, including law, economics, social sciences, and natural sciences, UHH is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach and maintains numerous collaborations.

The university has consistently achieved outstanding rankings in national and international competitions and was awarded the title of "University of Excellence" Its impressive alumni include Nobel laureates such as Otto Stern and Wolfgang Pauli, as well as prominent figures like former German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt. A distinctive feature of the University of Hamburg is its commitment to sustainability and addressing global challenges, which is reflected in its various research centers. Furthermore, its international network offers students valuable intercultural perspectives.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : British and American Cultures, German Language and Literature, Empirical Cultural Studies, Classical Cultures, Cultures of the Near East, Musicology, Art History, Liberal Arts, Media Studies, Art Education

Famous alumni : Peter Sloterdijk (philosopher & cultural theorist), Hans Magnus Enzensberger (writer), Sibylle Berg (author), Elke Heidenreich (writer), Daniel Budiman (game developer)

05 Free University of Berlin

EduRank: #5 (of 369) in Germany | DFG ranking #5 |  Times Higher Education Ranking #104

Year of foundation: 1948

Students: 37.600

The Free University of Berlin (FU Berlin) is a renowned public research university, founded in 1948 in response to the repressions in Soviet-occupied Berlin. With over 37,000 students, it is one of the largest universities in Germany and offers a dynamic campus environment in the cosmopolitan suburb of Dahlem. The FU is known for its interdisciplinary programs in the humanities and social sciences, natural sciences, and medicine, and teaches numerous courses in English to integrate international students.

As a German government-designated University of Excellence, it regularly achieves high rankings in global assessments. Its alumni include Nobel laureates and leading figures in politics, science, and the arts, highlighting its profound influence. The university promotes social responsibility and sustainability and offers diverse opportunities for international collaborations. This combination of rich history, dedicated research, and excellent location makes FU Berlin a unique place for students worldwide.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : Musicology, Literary Studies, Cultural Studies, Art History, Film Studies, Journalism, Theatre Studies, Art Education, Music Education

Famous alumni : Lisa Eckhart (cabaret), Jonathan Franzen (author), Farin Urlaub (musician), Tim Bendzko (singer-songwriter), Dieter Wedel (director), Inga Humpe (singer-songwriter & music producer)

06 Bauhaus University Weimar

EduRank: #75 (out of 369) in Germany | Humboldt Ranking: #69 |  4.1/5.0 in StudyCheck

Year of foundation: 1860

Students: 3.900

the Bauhaus University Weimar unites art, technology, and craftsmanship in an inspiring environment. With approximately 4,000 students, it offers around 40 degree programs across four faculties: Architecture and Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, Art and Design, and Media.

The campus in historic Weimar fosters creativity and interdisciplinary collaboration. Internationally renowned, the university is among the best for art and design and was home to such luminaries as Paul Klee and Wassily Kandinsky. It carries on the Bauhaus philosophy of openness and experimentation and offers students the opportunity to explore the intersection of art and technology.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : Architecture, Urbanism, Media Architecture, Fine Arts, Art Education, Media Art, Product Design, Visual Communication, Media Culture, Media Studies, Film Cultures, Digital Engineering, Human-Computer Interaction

Famous alumni : Bas Böttcher (poetry slam), Werner Stötzer (sculptor)

07 University of Freiburg

EduRank: #9 (of 369) in Germany | Humboldt Ranking #13 | DFG ranking #7 | Times Higher Education World University Rankings #128

Year of foundation: 1457

Students: 24.000

The University of Freiburg , founded in 1457, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Germany. Located in the picturesque city of Freiburg im Breisgau, it combines historic architecture with a vibrant student life, particularly on its central campus. The university offers a wide range of disciplines, including natural sciences, medicine, and social sciences, and places special emphasis on research and interdisciplinary studies in fields such as renewable energies.

In 2024, it ranked 128th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and was recognized as a “University of Excellence .” Its international collaborations, particularly through the Eucor – The European Campus initiative, strengthen its global appeal to students. Its distinguished alumni include Nobel laureates such as Martin Heidegger and Konrad Adenauer.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : Ancient Studies, British and American Cultural Studies, Classical Cultures, Journalism, Literary Studies, Empirical Cultural Studies, Literary Theory, Ethnography and Cultural Analysis, European Cultures, Media Culture, Art History, Media Culture Research, Media Culture Studies, Musicology, Scandinavian Literary and Cultural History, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Near Eastern Archaeology

Famous alumni : Walter Benjamin (philosopher & cultural critic), Alexandra Elbakyan (programmer & entrepreneur), Jürgen Todenhöfer (writer), Alfred Döblin (writer), Franz Burda Sr. (publisher)

08 Bremen University of the Arts

EduRank: #221 (out of 369) in Germany

Year of foundation: 1873

Students: 1.000

The University of the Arts Bremen (HfK Bremen) , founded in 1873, is a renowned institution for art and music education with approximately 900 students. It is located in a converted historic warehouse, Speicher XI, which provides an inspiring learning environment. HfK Bremen is distinguished by its interdisciplinary approach, which fosters exchange between artistic disciplines.

Their academic programs encompass fields such as Digital Media and Integrated Design, as well as a highly regarded doctoral program. The university boasts a top-tier faculty and successful alumni such as cellist Tanja Tetzlaff. Practical learning and close ties to the art world provide students with numerous presentation opportunities and enrich the creative campus life with events, workshops, and guest lectures by leading artists.

Specializations/Study Programs (Liberal Arts) : Digital Media, Fine Arts ( Painting, Sculpture, Time-Based Media, Spatial and Body Concepts, Performance, Drawing and Intermedial Photography), Integrated Design, Music, Artistic-Pedagogical Training, Historical Church Music, Singing, Early and Contemporary Music, Composition, Jazz, Music Education, Instrumental Music, Musicology, Music Theory, Music Teacher Training

Famous alumni : Ludger Stühlmeyer (cantor, organist & composer), Boris Cepeda (pianist)

09  State Academy of Fine Arts Stuttgart

EduRank: #148 (out of 369) in Germany

Year of foundation: 1761

Students: 900

The State Academy of Fine Arts Stuttgart is one of Germany's largest and most prestigious art academies, boasting a history spanning over 250 years. Founded in 1761, it is home to approximately 900 students enrolled in 20 degree programs, including architecture, design, and fine arts. The Weissenhof Campus in Stuttgart offers a first-class infrastructure with over thirty specialized workshops that foster an interdisciplinary approach. Small class sizes and intensive interaction with professors enhance students' creative abilities.

The Academy is active in contemporary aesthetic discourse and regularly organizes exhibitions and events. It has the right to award doctorates and postdoctoral degrees and offers the postgraduate program "Master Student" . International partnerships enable students to study abroad semesters, which strengthens their intercultural competence.

The academy's alumni include numerous prominent artists, designers, and architects. With its innovative approach, the academy continues to shape the future of art and design education in Germany and beyond.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : Architecture, Industrial Design, Communication Design, Textile Design, Fine Arts, Stage and Costume Design, Body, Theory and Poetics of the Performative (KTPP), Painting Conservation, Art History

Famous alumni : Eric Carle (author, designer & illustrator), Johannes Itten (expressionist painter), Oskar Schlemmer (painter, sculptor & designer), Paul Maar (author)

10  Academy of Fine Arts Leipzig (HGB)

EduRank: #169 (out of 369) in Germany

Year of foundation: 1764

Students: 550

The Leipzig Academy of Visual Arts (HGB) is one of the oldest and most prestigious art academies in Europe, with origins dating back to 1764. With approximately 600 students, the HGB offers degree programs in fields such as book arts, graphic design, photography, painting, and media art, leading to recognized qualifications. Of particular note is the unique Master's program . "

Its library comprises approximately 65,000 titles as well as numerous specialist journals on relevant topics. Among its prominent alumni is Neo Rauch, a representative of the New Leipzig School. The HGB is actively involved in the regional art scene and demonstrates solidarity with affected Ukrainian students, artists, and designers during times of crisis. Thanks to its rich history and strong network, the HGB remains a pioneering institution in the field of art education in Germany and beyond.

Specializations/Study Programs (Liberal Arts) : Painting, Graphic Arts, Photography, Curatorial Cultures, Book Art, Book Design, Graphic Design, Media Art

Famous alumni : Neo Rauch (painting), Jan Tschichold (calligraphy), Hannes Hegen (illustration), Lucia Moholy (photography)

11 University of Cologne

EduRank: #12 (of 369) in Germany | Humboldt Ranking #7 | DFG Ranking #11 | Times Higher Education Ranking #157

Year of foundation: 1388

Students: 45.000

Founded in 1388, the University of Cologne is one of Germany's oldest and largest universities, with over 50,000 students and a broad range of academic programs across six faculties. Its urban campus offers an inspiring blend of historic and modern buildings, situated near major landmarks such as Cologne Cathedral. The university excels in economics, law, and the humanities, and is home to renowned interdisciplinary research centers that enjoy international recognition.

In global rankings, it consistently ranks among the top 200 universities and has been recognized as a University of Excellence. Its alumni, including Nobel laureates such as Karlheinz Stockhausen, have made significant contributions to politics, economics, and the arts. The university actively promotes research and innovation and fosters a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit in Cologne's economic hub, offering numerous career opportunities to its students.

Cologne, the creative and media hub, is considered Germany's media center and an excellent location for students interested in media, communication, and art. The city is home to numerous media companies, broadcasters, and creative agencies, offering exceptional internship and networking opportunities in these sectors.

Subject areas/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : Art for teaching degree, Art History, Musicology, Chinese Studies, Intermedia – Media Education, Media Design, Media Culture, Medieval Studies, Music for teaching degree, Music Education, Ancient Languages ​​and Cultures, African Studies, German Literature, Japanese Culture, Theories and Practices of Professional Writing, Media Aesthetics

Famous alumni : Lena Meyer-Landrut (musician), Stefan Raab (entertainer), Uwe Boll (filmmaker), Anke Engelke (comedian), Heinrich Böll (writer),

12 TUM – Technical University of Munich

EduRank: #3 (of 369) in Germany | Humboldt Ranking: #1 | Times Higher Education Ranking #26

Year of foundation: 1868

Students: 44.000

The Technical University of Munich is one of the world's leading research universities and has produced a total of 162,826 scientific publications, which have been cited in 4,392,069 cases. Its research profile encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, quantum and particle physics, medicine, environmental sciences, as well as humanities and social sciences and biochemistry.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : Human Factors Engineering, Vocational Education and Innovation

Famous alumni : Thomas Mann (literature), Maria Furtwängler (acting), Wilhelm Busch (humorist & poet), Erich Mendelsohn (architect)

13 Academy of Fine Arts in Nuremberg

EduRank: #256 (of 369) in Germany | Humboldt Ranking: #1 | Times Higher Education Ranking #26

Year of foundation: 1662

Students: 350

the Academy of Fine Arts Nuremberg is the oldest art academy in the German-speaking world and offers around 300 students a creative learning environment in the fine and applied arts. Housed in a building designed by Sep Ruf and Hascher Jehle, it fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and individual artistic development.

The range of courses includes foundational and advanced programs such as Fine Arts, Painting, Photography, and Graphic Design, as well as the Master's program in Performative Practices. Small class sizes foster intensive exchange between students and professors, which promotes independent learning.

Participation in the Erasmus+ program promotes international exchange. Prominent alumni include Günther Uecker and Ottmar Hörl. With its history, diverse programs, and clear focus on individual development, the academy remains a leading institution for emerging artists in Germany.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Art Education, Fine Arts, Illustration, Live Art Forms

Famous alumni : Wolfgang Herrndorf (author, painter & illustrator), Herbert Achternbusch (director), Adolf von Hildebrand (sculptor), Friedrich August von Kaulbach (painter)

B. Private universities

In addition to state universities, we would like to list a small but excellent selection of private universities that are state-accredited and that we consider recommendable. Since we could not find reliable and comparable university rankings for private universities, we relied more heavily on student feedback FOCUS and Stern .

01 University of Europe for Applied Sciences

StudyCheck Rating: 3.5 (out of 5.0) based on 351 reviews | Google Rating: 4.7 (out of 5.0) based on 2,064 reviews | Best provider of continuing education at private universities (STERN Ranking 2024/2025) | Top Media School (FOCUS Money 05/2024)

Locations : Berlin, Iserlohn, Potsdam, Hamburg

Students: approx. 2,500

The University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE) is a state-accredited private university offering its students a first-class educational program at several locations in Germany. Our institutes are located in Iserlohn (North Rhine-Westphalia), Berlin, and Hamburg, complemented by our innovative UE Innovation Hub, also situated near Berlin. This strategic location allows us to maintain close ties to the vibrant culture and economy of Germany's major cities.

For over 20 years, UE has been committed to promoting future-oriented skills development and offering its students practical and interdisciplinary teaching formats that meet the highest international standards. Its guiding principles are geared towards the challenges of the digital age. Great emphasis is placed on using innovative teaching methods and integrating relevant topics from research and practice into our curricula.

Specializations/Study Programs (Liberal Arts) : Innovation Design Management, Game Design, Design Leadership, Digital Content Creation, Film + Motion Design, Photography, New Media, Generative Design & AI, Illustration, Communication Design, New Media Design, UX/UI Design, Visual & Experience Design

Famous alumni : Carolina Drüten (journalist)

02 Essen University of Fine Arts

StudyCheck Rating: 4.2 (51 ratings) | Google Rating: 4.3 (16 reviews)

Locations : Essen

Students: approx. 350

The Academy of Fine Arts (HBK) Essen is a state-recognized, private art academy located in the vibrant heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, with its campuses in Essen and Wuppertal making a significant contribution to the art and cultural landscape of this region.

The HBK Essen is characterized by its young and dynamic institution, which fosters an open and welcoming learning environment. It consciously focuses on innovative teaching concepts that aim not only to support students theoretically but also to equip them with practical skills. Through interactive seminars, workshops, and projects, students are able to translate their ideas into real-world projects and work closely with experienced artists and designers.

Another key aspect of the program is internationalization. Therefore, the HBK promotes active international networking and offers diverse opportunities for study abroad and collaborations with universities and institutions worldwide.

Specializations/Study Programs (Liberal Arts) : Design and Collaboration, Digital Fabrication Design, Digital Media Design, Photography/Media Art, Game Art and Design, Art and Collaboration, Painting/Graphics, Sculpture/Installation

Famous alumni : NV

03 Alanus University of Arts and Social Sciences

StudyCheck Rating: 4.3 (312 ratings) | Google Rating: 4.2 (54 reviews)

Locations : Alfter (near Bonn)

Students: approx. 1,500

The Alanus University of Arts and Social Sciences , located in Alfter near Bonn, is a private, state-accredited institution for art studies. Students here earn a degree equivalent to that of a state university. The Alanus University offers a diverse range of study programs, including architecture, fine arts, eurythmy, art therapy, education, philosophy, business administration, and drama.

The focus is on the connection and exploration of art and science. Students are encouraged to actively shape the development of their own personalities and society, and to contribute personally. For this reason, Alanus University places great emphasis on comprehensive student support and promotes interdisciplinary educational approaches.

The interdisciplinary and cross-year general studies program brings all students together. Long-standing partnerships and a growing network support the university in achieving its goals.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : Architecture, Fine Arts, Eurythmy, Art Therapy, Acting, Art / Education / Therapy, Art Education, Music Education, Performing Arts, Music Therapy

Famous alumni : NV

04  IU International University of Applied Sciences

StudyCheck Rating: 4.0 (1,731 ratings) | Google Rating: 3.2 (1,047 reviews)

Locations : over 35 locations in Germany

Students: approx. 130,000

IU International University of Applied Sciences offers innovative Bachelor's, Master's, and MBA programs that can be completed both on campus and online. Students have the opportunity to personalize their studies and choose from a wide range of specializations to develop relevant skills for an international career.

With over 130,000 students from more than 150 countries, you'll enjoy a global learning environment and benefit from an internationally recognized degree. 94% of graduates find a job within three months, while 80% are promoted to management positions within the first two years.

The programs have been officially accredited for over 20 years and meet the latest academic standards, confirming IU's position as a flexible provider in the education market.

Fields of study/degree programs (Liberal Arts) : Game Design, Media Design, Media Management, Architecture,

Famous Alumni : Taj Ashraf (Content Creator)

05 SRH University Berlin

StudyCheck Rating: 3.7 (537 ratings) | Google Rating: 3.5 (228 reviews)

Locations : 18 locations in Germany

Students: approx. 2,000

SRH University emphasizes two key aspects: the highest quality standards and personalized support. As part of one of the largest providers in the education and healthcare sectors in Germany, this private university boasts an extensive network. This network is not limited to a single location: with 18 modern campuses, SRH offers one of the most diverse ranges of study programs in Germany.

This allows you to tailor your studies to perfectly fit your lifestyle – whether you're a recent school graduate, studying while working, or changing career paths. Study coaches are there to support you and help you achieve your goals and learn effectively.

Specializations/Courses of Study (Liberal Arts) : Brand Design, Architecture, Audio Design, Artificial Intelligence, Creative Industries Management, Film + Motion Design, Film and Television, Film + Television + Digital Narratives, Photography, Illustration, Communication Design, Creative Writing and Copywriting, Management of the Creative Industries – Event and Music Management, Media Communication and Media Production, Music Production, Music Therapy, Dance and Movement Therapy, User Experience Design and Content Creation, Virtual Reality & Game Development

Famous alumni : NV

06 Merz Academy, University of Design, Art and Media Stuttgart

StudyCheck Rating: 4.0 (23 ratings) | Google Rating: 4.3 (12 reviews)

Locations : Stuttgart

Students: approx. 250

The Merz Academy , a renowned university for design, art, and media, is state-recognized and holds comprehensive institutional accreditation. In the Bachelor's program in Design, Art, and Media, students have the unique opportunity to flexibly combine the four specializations of Crossmedia Publishing, Film and Video, New Media, and Visual Communication, or to specialize in a specific area, such as photography.

The small, manageable class sizes at Merz Academy foster intensive exchange between students and lecturers. This not only allows for individualized support but also underscores the university's commitment to addressing the needs and goals of its students. A particularly valuable insight into the professional world is provided to students through a practice-oriented semester.

After successfully completing seven semesters, graduates receive a Bachelor of Arts degree. 

Specializations/Study Programs (Liberal Arts) : Film and Video, New Media, Visual Communication, Art Theory, Research in Design Art and Media, Crossmedia Publishing

Famous alumni : Dragan Espenschied (musician), Wolfgang Weingart (graphic designer), Alvar Freude (programmer), Dorothee Ziegler (painter)

07 Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI)

StudyCheck Rating: N/A | Google Rating: 4.7 (2,042 reviews)

Locations : Berlin

Students: 15.000

The Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI) aims to educate and develop the next generation of business leaders who are passionate about making a positive impact on the world. BSBI is designed with entrepreneurship, leadership, and success at its core. The school's focus is on providing students with a comprehensive education.

By combining theoretical knowledge, practical experience and the latest concepts from the fields of economics and art in the Bachelor's, Master's and PhD programs, students have the opportunity to develop their full potential as influential players in the field of economics and leadership in their chosen subject area.

The main campus of the business school is located in the Alte Post building in Berlin. BSBI also has campuses in Hamburg, Paris, Athens, and Barcelona.

Specializations/Study Programs (Liberal Arts) : Photography, Game Design, Graphic Design, User Experience Design, Comic and Concept Art

Famous alumni : Dragan Espenschied (musician), Wolfgang Weingart (graphic designer), Alvar Freude (programmer), Dorothee Ziegler (painter)

08 CODE University of Applied Sciences

StudyCheck Rating: 4.3 (11 ratings) | Google Rating: 4.9 (54 reviews)

Locations : Berlin

Students: 500

CODE is a private, state-accredited university of applied sciences in vibrant Berlin, supported by Germany's leading startup founders – a place where enthusiasm for digital innovations meets practical education.

Founded in 2017, CODE is based on a bold vision: to revolutionize technology education by bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and the rapidly growing demands of the tech industry. At CODE, you're not just a student, but a digital pioneer who helps shape the future with your projects.

The campus functions as a kind of playground – an ecosystem teeming with technical innovators and creative changemakers. Its founders are committed to an education characterized by curiosity, hands-on experience, and the constant drive to challenge existing norms. This learning approach empowers students to develop essential skills that will help them thrive in a rapidly changing world – even in fields that may not yet exist.

C❮❯DE stands for Curiosity-Driven Education.

Specializations/Study Programs (Liberal Arts) : Digital Design & Innovation, Software Engineering, Design Research, Digital Media, User Experience

Famous Alumni : Behnaz Derakhshani (Software Engineer), Chalida Asawakanjanakit (Interaction Design)