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Merz Akademie Hochschule für Gestaltung, Kunst und Medien, Stuttgart

About the Program

The Illustration Master program places illustration at the intersection of cultural and media theory and interdisciplinary practice, including photography, graphic design, video, and XR. The curriculum encourages students to explore the latest digital illustration tools while developing skills in traditional methods, understanding the craftsmanship of drawing while pushing the boundaries of traditional illustration. The program explores visual language and narratives in philosophical and political contexts, situating projects within current debates and developments. It focuses on emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, interactive media, animation, and AI-supported design while also celebrating the craft of illustration and analog forms of reproduction. Students are encouraged to think in terms of writing, curation and contextualizing their work - with an emphasis on both research and storytelling. Graduates are well-qualified to take on roles as illustrators, art directors, independent artists, commercial designers, or work within academia and cultural institutions.
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The Illustration Master program places illustration at the intersection of cultural and media theory and interdisciplinary practice, including photography, graphic design, video, and XR. The curriculum encourages students to explore the latest digital illustration tools while developing skills in traditional methods, understanding the craftsmanship of drawing while pushing the boundaries of traditional illustration. The program explores visual language and narratives in philosophical and political contexts, situating projects within current debates and developments. It focuses on emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, interactive media, animation, and AI-supported design while also celebrating the craft of illustration and analog forms of reproduction. Students are encouraged to think in terms of writing, curation and contextualizing their work - with an emphasis on both research and storytelling. Graduates are well-qualified to take on roles as illustrators, art directors, independent artists, commercial designers, or work within academia and cultural institutions.

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Illustration

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Illustration at Merz Akademie Hochschule für Gestaltung, Kunst und Medien, Stuttgart

Is Illustration at Merz Akademie Hochschule für Gestaltung, Kunst und Medien, Stuttgart taught in German or English?

This Master programme is taught in English. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the Illustration programme cost?

3.414 EUR / semester. International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Illustration at Merz Akademie Hochschule für Gestaltung, Kunst und Medien, Stuttgart?

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (English), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline?

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying Illustration?

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Merz Akademie Hochschule für Gestaltung, Kunst und Medien, Stuttgart — directly or via uni-assist?

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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