Digital Film Design VFX
Why study „Digital Film Design“?
The beauty of moving pictures!
Moving images and visual effects are your passion? You love to create dark creatures, futuristic Cyborgs or fearless androids? Developing epic battles in far-away galaxies is exactly your thing? And you love colorful worlds, exciting stories and heroes traveling the universe? So do we! At the Mediadesign University we will teach you how to visualise storylines and how to bring 3D-animations to life!
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Duration
ECTS points
Degree
Start
Language
Campus
Berlin (EN)
Düsseldorf (DE)
Format
Düsseldorf (On site)
Monthly fees
Your Program
Courses at mdh cover the complete range of film design, including virtual reality, augmented reality, VFX and even 360-degree filming. The theoretical foundation of Design is taught in lectures, but practical know-how is gained in real-life projects. Key qualifications taught over the course of your studies are, amongst others:
- Film design & staging
- Computer graphics, visualisation & typography
- 3D-modeling, animation & drafting
You can look forward to:
VFX & Animation Studies in Berlin and Düsseldorf
If you want to start your Digital Film Design studies at Mediadesign Hochschule, you can choose between two attractive locations. We welcome you in Berlin and Düsseldorf, cities where students from around the world come together to master the art of high-end animation. Build valuable connections for your professional and personal future and learn from passionate lecturers who have already made a name for themselves in the film industry.
At our modern campuses, you’ll find not only a thriving creative community but also state-of-the-art media technology. From editing software and camera equipment to specialized 3D tools – you’ll have everything you need to become a true professional in VFX & Animation. Start your Visual Effects studies at mdh now!
The mdh effect - take off with the Digital Film Design degree programme!
Why study Digital Film Design at mdh?
Because we help you to transform your creativity into true art! We don't do gimmickry, but rather in-depth knowledge of visual effects & animation that will enable you to inspire people and create great things. Our lecturers are passionate about innovative film design and visual effects and can't wait to share their knowledge with you. Together with other students, you will realise creative projects in which you turn your theoretical know-how directly into reality. Our lecturers will be at your side and support you with their experience from everyday life in the film and television industry.
For us, your personality is by far the most important thing. That's why we nurture your talents during your Digital Film Design degree programme and continue to support you after you graduate: In our comprehensive career network, we help you start your career. You can also stay in touch with former students via our alumni community.
You don't need to become an animator, but are already passionate about fantastic visual effects? Start your studies at the Mediadesign Hochschule now and experience the mdh effect - first study, then take off!
Alumnus Markus Frank - Digital Film Design (B.A.)
Head of VFX-Department / VFX-Supervisor, Cine Chromatix, Berlin
"The Mediadesign University is characterized by its practice-oriented teaching concept. The lecturers are experienced professionals from the industry who pass on their expertise with great enthusiasm and commitment. They gave me valuable insights into the different areas of media and helped me develop my own skills."
Alumna Patricia Feldmann - Digital Film Design (B.A.)
Chief Operating Officer, Cine Chromatix, Berlin
"I benefited in many ways from my studies at mdh. Above all, it was important for me to go through each area once. This was possible due to the many different projects. Our student teams were structured like they are in the real working life. That helped me a lot to find my way."
What our partner companies say
Trixter
"The students of the Mediadesign University have a broad range of basic knowledge. Furthermore, their ability to work in a team and adapt quickly allows them to be integrated into ongoing productions. Therefore, we gladly accept mdh students as interns and, following their studies, as junior artists in our team."
Christina Caspers-Roemer, Head of Studio & Business Development
Trickstudio Lutterbeck
"The students of mdh are well qualified. We look forward to hiring more!"
Christian Asmussen, Production Manager
Application requirements
Enrollment Requirements
- Higher Education Entrance Qualification (Abitur) or equivalent diploma, i.e. IB or A-levels (check with our counseling department whether your diploma qualifies)
- English skills. Language proof: TOEFL IPT: 543, TOEFL IBT: 74, IELTS (Academic): 6, Cambridge FCE: B2, PTE Academic: 59, IB Diploma: English A or B at HL or SL, BI 'English Language Proficiency Exam': PASS. We also accept Duolingo.
Information for applicants from abroad: You have the possibility to check your international certificates independently in advance via uni-assist and to inform yourself about the requirements for your admission: TO UNI-ASSIST
>> International applicants who have not met the necessary HZB requirements need to complete the MDH preparatory programme for admission to a higher education programme at MDH.
Personal Requirements
- Creativity and imagination
- A feel for aesthetics and an eye for design quality
- Interest in filming trends and audiovisual media
- Being a team player
Your personality and talents are more important than top grades!
Please apply via e-Mail (or regular mail). This is what we need from you:
- A motivation letter (tell us what inspires you – ca. 1 page)
- Representative work samples (Sketches, pictures, collages or early work, etc…)
- Relevant grade reports as well as a resume with your current photo
- You may apply during the school year (even before secondary school graduation)
- Graduation diploma can be submitted after completion of your secondary school
Tuition Fees
- Campus Berlin: English language program: EU citizens: 3.540,00 EUR/Semester | Non-EU citizens: 6.300,00 EUR/Semester (with foundation programme 6.700,00 EUR/Semester)
- Campus Düsseldorf: German language program: EU-Citizens: 4.110 EUR/Semester | Non-EU citizens: 6.300,00 EUR/Semester
For all courses we charge a one-time registration fee of 490,00 EUR and a one-time examination fee of 1.050,00 EUR.
For non-EU citizens, the one-time examination fee of 1.050,00 EUR is included in the tuition price.
Your study content
Enhancing your skills and abilities
Apply your new skills and know-how directly in practical exercises. Just like in real-world projects, you will develop genuine film material with your team, combining it with digital elements. This way you not only learn the craft of cinematography, but everything you need to know about the design, planning and execution of film projects.
Intuitively you will become familiar with increasingly complex technology and tools. We begin with Autodesk Maya. In Compositing you will learn After Effects and Nuke. At a later stage, we add designing with the 3D-software Houdini.
At the end of the program, all our students will have accumulated sufficient material to produce their own demoreel, which all graduates need for their application portfolio before entering the job market.
Request info material Send application Visit info event Contact student advisor
Insights
Exhibition Hall
"Pink Pals" (Digital Film Design)
This bachelor film was created within only 12 weeks.
"Pink Pals" (Digital Film Design)
Bachelor thesis in the form of a group work.
Odysseus (Digital Film Design)
Science Fiction Film in Space
Home (Digital Film Design)
"Home" calls for better protection of our planet and all its inhabitants.
Hoverbike (Digital Film Design)
Tech Project from the 4th semester.
Viral (Digtial Film Design)
This graduation film takes a critical look at our social media consumption.
Still Life (Digital Film Design)
Still life from the 1st semester.
Still Life (Digital Film Design)
Digital still life, 1st semester
Our showreel
Your Career
Target group - Who should study "Digital Film Design"?
- Creative talents, who like to draw, paint and make movies
- Computer nerds who have an interest in learning Design techniques
- Storytellers who can develop ideas and write
The film industry is booming. Netflix & the like have set new standards. Films und tv series are more popular than ever. Other industries, too, make more and more use of animated visuals, as for example in cinematic game trailers or commercials.
Lecturers Showreel
Your career prospects
Your future employers are studios from the film and television industry, such as Trixter, Scanline, Pixomondo or Rise FX. But also "classic" companies, such as BMW or Bosch/Siemens.
Possible professions after graduation are:
- 3D Generalist
- 3D Animator
- VFX Artist
- VFX Coordinator
- FX Artist
- ...
Your career prospects after graduating from Mediadesign University are promising, both creatively and financially. Our graduates have already achieved financial success, including one former student who joined as a VFX Coordinator after graduation and achieved an annual salary of €43,000.
Invest in your creative passion and gain not only professional fulfillment, but also the opportunity to succeed financially! The Mediadesign University prepares you optimally.
FAQ
1. What is Digital Film Design – Animation & VFX?
In the Digital Film Design program, you learn how digital films, animations, and visual effects (VFX) are created – from the initial idea and storyboard to the final film scene. You’ll work creatively with software like Maya, Houdini, or After Effects on projects such as commercials, series, games, and feature film animations.
2. What do you learn in the VFX and Animation program at mdh?
You’ll develop skills in 2D/3D animation, compositing, modeling, texturing, lighting, and visual storytelling. Beyond technical tools, you’ll learn to conceptualize and professionally execute creative content – hands-on and project-based.
3. Do I need prior knowledge for the program?
No, you don’t need any previous experience in animation or VFX. What matters is that you’re creative, interested in visual media, and motivated to learn professional software. All the essential skills are taught step by step during your studies.
4. Is the VFX program more technical or creative?
Both. You need a strong sense of image, movement, and storytelling – but also a willingness to work with digital tools and effects. The program combines creative work with technical expertise.
5. Why study Animation & VFX in Berlin?
Berlin is a hotspot for animation, film, and digital media. The city is home to numerous studios, post-production companies, and creative agencies – perfect for internships, part-time work, and networking. At mdh Berlin, you study in the heart of the capital, close to film festivals, industry events, and innovative projects. You benefit from hands-on learning and instructors with direct connections to the film and VFX scene.
6. Why study Animation & VFX in Düsseldorf?
Düsseldorf is a growing media hub with strong potential for creative careers. The city offers exciting opportunities, particularly in advertising, motion design, and digital production. mdh is located directly in the MedienHafen, one of Düsseldorf’s most creative areas – surrounded by agencies, studios, and start-ups. This provides ideal conditions for hands-on learning and building your first professional contacts in the region.
7. What jobs can I get after studying Animation/VFX?
After completing a Digital Film Design degree, you can work as a 3D artist, animator, VFX artist, motion designer, or compositor – in film studios, advertising agencies, game studios, or social media teams.
Our graduates have contributed to productions such as Cloud Atlas and All Quiet on the Western Front.
Even outside the film industry, your skills are in demand – for example, in automotive, architecture, advertising, or e-learning. Animation and VFX are essential in nearly all areas of digital communication today.
8. How can I finance my studies at mdh – and why is it worth it?
mdh is privately funded, but there are many support options, such as government grants (BAföG), student loans, installment plans, or bonus programs. The investment pays off because you work hands-on with modern technology and professional software, build a strong portfolio, and gain direct access to the media and film industry. Personalized guidance, a strong career network, small learning groups, and industry contacts prepare you specifically for your career entry.
You can get individual advice from our student counseling team anytime!
