Trier University of Applied Sciences
Professors
With its combination of long-standing tradition and innovative academic departments, Trier University of Applied Sciences is one of the leading institutions of higher education in Rhineland-Palatinate. Characterized by practice-oriented learning and forward-looking teaching and research, the university offers a wide range of programs. At Campus Gestaltung, located in Trier and Idar-Oberstein, around 1,200 aspiring designers are enrolled in degree programs including Architecture, Interior Architecture, Intermedia Design, Communication Design, Fashion Design, as well as Gemstones and Jewellery.
Campus of Art and Design
Interdisciplinarity & Sustainability
Teaching at Campus of Art and Design is defined by a highly practice-oriented and creative environment. Interdisciplinary collaboration and close cooperation between study programs foster exchange and the development of individual design approaches. Sustainability plays a central role—ecological, social, and societal responsibility is firmly embedded in the curricula and actively reflected in projects, design processes, and material choices. Students benefit from small class sizes, personal support from instructors, and access to a wide range of well-equipped workshops, studios, and labs where they can bring their design concepts to life using both analog and digital techniques. Regular exhibitions, events, and numerous award-winning projects position the campus as an innovative driver of design within the cultural landscape of Rhineland-Palatinate.
Teaching, Research & Internationalization
As an interdisciplinary catalyst for sustainable design and material research, Campus Gestaltung positions itself as a dynamic space for experimentation, exploration, and creative development.
Innovative, practice-based approaches to design are complemented by academic coursework and advanced in research-driven projects focusing on future-oriented topics such as sustainability, material ecology, and societal transformation. Its strategic location near the borders of Luxembourg, France, and Belgium, along with a strong international network of partner universities, fosters numerous global collaborations. These transnational connections offer students rich opportunities for exchange programs, joint projects, and cross-cultural experiences—making Campus Gestaltung a vibrant hub of internationally engaged and socially responsible design practice.
Study Programmes
Architecture (B.A./M.A.)
Architecture connects art, culture, and technology by addressing the challenges of our time in a form-defining way. In this practice-oriented study, architectural, social, and sustainable spaces are explored. Students learn design and construction, with a focus on curiosity, continuous questioning, change, and the integration of sustainable solutions.
Gemstones and Jewelry (B.F.A. / M.F.A.)
This program combines artistic reflection on jewelry with practical work on gemstones and materials. Strong workshop orientation and an understanding of jewelry as an original form of expression are fundamental. The innovative and international program is unique worldwide and based in the traditional gemstone location of Idar-Oberstein.
Interior Architecture (B.A. / M.A.)
This practice-oriented program teaches interior architecture as a holistic design of spaces, considering ecological, economic, cultural, and social aspects. Students engage with trends, construction techniques, materials, and lighting design. A practical or study-abroad semester in the 6th semester allows students to gain professional experience and deepen their intercultural competencies.
Intermedia Design (B.A. / M.A.)
Intermedia Design is aimed at creative minds who want to shape the digital future. Key areas include game design, virtual and physical spaces, human-computer interaction, video, 3D, web, and app design. The interdisciplinary combination of design and technology makes this program innovative, versatile, and future-oriented.
Communication Design (B.A. / M.A.)
This program covers areas such as illustration, film, and product design, promoting creative expression. Communication design conveys messages through visual and media concepts. The focus is on conceptual thinking, design, and holistic problem-solving. It offers space for personal ideas and interests in the design process.
Fashion Design (B.A. / M.A.)
This practice-oriented program combines design theory, artistic creation, and craft basics. Students develop their creative potential and a sense for colors, shapes, cuts, and fabrics. Collections are showcased in fashion shows or exhibitions. International industry contacts offer valuable career opportunities.