About the course
The GD-Course is designed for future students of design and art at universities of applied sciences. It provides design and artistic foundations with a strong focus on practical applications and prepares you specifically for the application-oriented approach of universities of applied sciences.
In addition to practical skills, you'll also develop a solid understanding of design theory and contemporary design. You'll learn various design techniques and practice developing your own creative projects.
This course fits you if...
Quick check to match your study goal.
Study goals
- Communication Design
- Media Design
- Product Design
Main subjects
- Art
- Design
- Media Design
Outcome
Assessment Test (FSP)
Degree
Main subjects and content
Art
Drawing, painting, composition, artistic techniques
Design
Design principles, typography, layout, color theory
Media Design
Digital media, image editing, web design basics
German
Design terminology, presentation techniques, concept development
Art History
Design history, style studies, contemporary art
Course structure
Introductory Phase (1st Semester)
Design fundamentals and artistic techniques
Main Phase (2nd Semester)
Deepening knowledge and specific preparation for the assessment test
Typical degree programs
The GD-Course subjects in detail
The GD-Course combines practical design work with theory. Art covers drawing, painting and composition; design covers design principles, typography, layout and colour theory. Media design adds the digital tools: image editing, digital media and the basics of web design.
Art and design history supplies the vocabulary to place and justify your own work. German lessons are tuned to that: formulating concepts, presenting drafts, and understanding and giving critique — skills used constantly in a design degree.
What a typical week looks like
The GD-Course is full-time study in a fixed class group, offered by Studienkollegs that prepare students for design programmes at universities of applied sciences. A large part of the week goes into practical work on assignments and projects, alongside theory, German and presentations.
The typical rhythm is brief, own execution, then joint review in class. Taking the feedback of teachers and fellow students seriously and reworking your drafts also builds exactly the material a portfolio is later made of.
What the Feststellungsprüfung tests in the GD-Course
The two semesters end with the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP). It covers German plus the core subjects of your course, and in the design field a practical component may be added. Each Studienkolleg decides which subjects are examined and in what form.
The certificate entitles you to study in the design field group at universities of applied sciences. Importantly, design programmes usually also require a portfolio or an artistic aptitude test — the Feststellungsprüfung does not replace that, it comes in addition.
Which degree programmes the GD-Course opens up
The GD-Course leads to design programmes at universities of applied sciences: communication design, media design, graphic design, product design, fashion design, interior architecture, game design and interface design. These programmes are project-based, with workshops, studios and presentations.
The GD-Course is offered by only a handful of Studienkollegs, making it one of the rarest course types. Check our overview to see which institutions currently run it, and start work on your portfolio early — for design programmes it often weighs more in admission than your final grade.
Frequently asked questions about this course
Do I need a portfolio for the GD-Course?
Some Studienkollegs require a work sample or portfolio for admission to the design course, others only test German and basic knowledge. What applies is set out in each Studienkolleg's admission notice.
What level of German do I need for the GD-Course?
Studienkollegs usually require German at B1 to B2 level for the entrance exam. All teaching is in German, including the vocabulary for concepts and presentations. The exact requirement is stated in the admission notice.
Do I already have to draw well?
Not perfectly, but basic skills and visible interest in design help considerably. The course builds on craft fundamentals and develops them; with no prior experience at all the pace becomes demanding.
Does the Feststellungsprüfung replace the artistic aptitude test?
No. The FSP proves your general and language-based readiness to study. Most universities additionally require a portfolio or aptitude test for design programmes.
How many Studienkollegs offer the GD-Course?
Only a handful. It belongs to the Studienkollegs attached to universities of applied sciences and is the rarest course type on offer. Our overview shows which Studienkollegs currently run it.
How long does the GD-Course take?
Two semesters, roughly one year. Preparatory or language courses offered by some Studienkollegs before the course itself extend the overall timeline.