Brand University Of Applied Sciences: On a Mission to Empower Future Brand Experts
By PROF. DR. H.C. SHAN FAN, FOUNDING PRESIDENT
Arenowned educational institution, based out of Hamburg, Germany, Brand University of Applied Sciences originated as a spin-off of one of Hamburg's prominent advertising and design schools. In 2009, the concept emerged to develop a contemporary approach to design and future narratives within the realm of leading brands. Today, Brand University stands out as one of the globally recognized universities with a distinct focus on brands as it provides practical and industry-relevant education to its students. The institute's range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs is targeted at branding, design, marketing, communication, and entrepreneurship. The university places a strong emphasis on the practical application of knowledge and encourages students to develop their creative and innovative thinking skills. To add to it, the training courses at Brand University of Applied Sciences are also designed to create added value through brands. This approach enables graduates to embark on successful careers and achieve substantial progress.
"œStudents at Brand University are skilled by an international team of experienced professors, lecturers, experts, and practitioners, who guide them in the art of designing, communicating, presenting, and managing brands. At Brand University, our fundamental belief is that brands play a pivotal role in business success. Hence, the university adheres to the principle of 'Brand Thinking'. Students at Brand University acquire comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary to excel as brand designers, brand managers, or brand strategists", says Shan Fan, President.
The academic offerings at Brand University are constantly challenged and evaluated to keep pace with an ever-changing industry. Recently, the Bachelor Programs have been adapted in a trans-disciplinary manner, integrating the unique "˜Brand Thinking' approach into the curricula. Additionally, starting in October 2023, Design and Marketing students will learn to- gether, gaining a better understanding of their counterpart's workflow and perspectives. This approach empowers graduates to build superior brands and enhance the brand experiences of future customers. Simultaneously, the Master Program has been updated, with the new title 'Brand Strategy' emphasizing the fundamental knowledge acquired by graduates during their studies.
The Marketing, Design, and Strategy courses offered at Brand University possess distinct qualities that set them apart. As a small yet highly connected institution, students and faculty engage on an equal footing, bringing together diverse talents and interests.
The teaching approach is competence-oriented, emphasizing practicality, interactivity, and interdisciplinary learning. "œAt Brand University, we emphasize three areas of learning. Methodical Skills where students are equipped with the ability to delve deeply into subjects, evaluate information critically, and apply their newfound knowledge to become adept problem solvers. Through numerous practical projects, students gain firsthand experience in performing convincingly in the professional realm", says the President.
Brand University campus is located in the picturesque area of Hamburg Altona, boasting a stunning view of the Elbe River, all rooms are thoughtfully equipped to facilitate Eand Hybrid Learning experiences. The 'Brand Lab' stands as a dedicated space where students can engage in market research and evaluate the efficacy of brand communication using advanced tools such as Eye tracking. For design students, the college provides the flexibility to convert rooms into fully functional photo studios, enabling them to explore their creative potential.
The campus itself is situated within an exceptional and distinctive building, affording students a direct view of the bustling harbor and its terminal. This unique setting cultivates a sense of identity and purpose, where individuals from various cultural and social backgrounds converge as learning personalities.
This convergence fosters a discourse that expands the understanding of the future requirements in brand design and communication within the dynamic and fast-paced market. At this institution, brand design and brand communication are perceived as lifelong learning processes, promoting continuous growth and development among students.
Preparing students for the demands of the industry remains a significant challenge faced by higher education institutes worldwide. "œAt our institution, we have taken deliberate steps to address this issue.
Central to our approach is our strong and symbiotic relationship with the industry and companies. Our programs and courses are meticulously designed to equip our graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for their future careers", states Shan. As a university of applied sciences, Brand University leverages academic research and knowledge to educate students on the most pertinent business challenges.
Drawing upon its proximity to the latest developments in industries, communication, and design, the academic body actively engages in designing future scenarios and pioneering holistic approaches for leading brands. This allows Brand University students to work on real-time projects with prominent international brands like Adidas, Airbus, Hi Sense, Maserati, and many others, where they develop unique and research-based solutions tailored to the ever-evolving market landscape. Brand University has collaborated with some universities in China such as Zhejiang Wanli University, China Academy of Art in Hangzhou, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU) in Xi An, and others.
Brand University recognizes and embraces the growing trend of digitalization in the education sector. To cater to the diverse demands of potential students, Brand University offers a range of digital study courses, including certificates and an MBA program. This approach allows it to provide a variety of study experiences that align with the evolving preferences of learners.
As a relatively young university, Brand University embraces change as an inherent part of its DNA. This adaptability is crucial in the face of rapid market transformations, societal changes, and the pressing issues the planet faces. Guided by its vision as an integrated innovation-centered design partner for global brand communication, Brand University constantly evolves as a university. "œOur teaching approach is founded on the principle of "˜learning through understanding'. We emphasize research, data science, and digital methodologies, enabling our students to gain a deep comprehension of their subject matter", concludes the President.
Shan Fan is the Founding President of the Brand University of Applied Sciences in Hamburg, Germany, and the School of Communication Design, Beijing Normal University Zhuhai, China. His approach to teaching relates to the interdisciplinary and intercultural aspects of art, design, and cultural studies. In 2006 Shan Fan was awarded the Medal for Art and Science by the Senate of the City of Hamburg and he is a member of "œFreie Akademie der Kunste"œ in Hamburg since 2014. Shan Fan studied Art in China and Hamburg. His central area of research is the transformation from tradition to modernity - up to innovation in contemporary art. His art was shown in more than 30 solo exhibitions and 15 group exhibitions in museums and galleries in over 10 countries.
"œStudents at Brand University are skilled by an international team of experienced professors, lecturers, experts, and practitioners, who guide them in the art of designing, communicating, presenting, and managing brands. At Brand University, our fundamental belief is that brands play a pivotal role in business success. Hence, the university adheres to the principle of 'Brand Thinking'. Students at Brand University acquire comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary to excel as brand designers, brand managers, or brand strategists", says Shan Fan, President.
The academic offerings at Brand University are constantly challenged and evaluated to keep pace with an ever-changing industry. Recently, the Bachelor Programs have been adapted in a trans-disciplinary manner, integrating the unique "˜Brand Thinking' approach into the curricula. Additionally, starting in October 2023, Design and Marketing students will learn to- gether, gaining a better understanding of their counterpart's workflow and perspectives. This approach empowers graduates to build superior brands and enhance the brand experiences of future customers. Simultaneously, the Master Program has been updated, with the new title 'Brand Strategy' emphasizing the fundamental knowledge acquired by graduates during their studies.
Developing Competence for a Successful Caree
The Marketing, Design, and Strategy courses offered at Brand University possess distinct qualities that set them apart. As a small yet highly connected institution, students and faculty engage on an equal footing, bringing together diverse talents and interests.
The teaching approach is competence-oriented, emphasizing practicality, interactivity, and interdisciplinary learning. "œAt Brand University, we emphasize three areas of learning. Methodical Skills where students are equipped with the ability to delve deeply into subjects, evaluate information critically, and apply their newfound knowledge to become adept problem solvers. Through numerous practical projects, students gain firsthand experience in performing convincingly in the professional realm", says the President.
Inspiring Environment for Holistic Development
Brand University campus is located in the picturesque area of Hamburg Altona, boasting a stunning view of the Elbe River, all rooms are thoughtfully equipped to facilitate Eand Hybrid Learning experiences. The 'Brand Lab' stands as a dedicated space where students can engage in market research and evaluate the efficacy of brand communication using advanced tools such as Eye tracking. For design students, the college provides the flexibility to convert rooms into fully functional photo studios, enabling them to explore their creative potential.
"Brand University follows a transdisciplinary & transcultural approach, with a focus on China through its collaboration with universities such as Zhejiang Wanli University & the Beijing Normal University"
The campus itself is situated within an exceptional and distinctive building, affording students a direct view of the bustling harbor and its terminal. This unique setting cultivates a sense of identity and purpose, where individuals from various cultural and social backgrounds converge as learning personalities.
This convergence fosters a discourse that expands the understanding of the future requirements in brand design and communication within the dynamic and fast-paced market. At this institution, brand design and brand communication are perceived as lifelong learning processes, promoting continuous growth and development among students.
Fostering Industry Connections for Career Readiness
Preparing students for the demands of the industry remains a significant challenge faced by higher education institutes worldwide. "œAt our institution, we have taken deliberate steps to address this issue.
Central to our approach is our strong and symbiotic relationship with the industry and companies. Our programs and courses are meticulously designed to equip our graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for their future careers", states Shan. As a university of applied sciences, Brand University leverages academic research and knowledge to educate students on the most pertinent business challenges.
Drawing upon its proximity to the latest developments in industries, communication, and design, the academic body actively engages in designing future scenarios and pioneering holistic approaches for leading brands. This allows Brand University students to work on real-time projects with prominent international brands like Adidas, Airbus, Hi Sense, Maserati, and many others, where they develop unique and research-based solutions tailored to the ever-evolving market landscape. Brand University has collaborated with some universities in China such as Zhejiang Wanli University, China Academy of Art in Hangzhou, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU) in Xi An, and others.
Roadmap Ahead
Brand University recognizes and embraces the growing trend of digitalization in the education sector. To cater to the diverse demands of potential students, Brand University offers a range of digital study courses, including certificates and an MBA program. This approach allows it to provide a variety of study experiences that align with the evolving preferences of learners.
As a relatively young university, Brand University embraces change as an inherent part of its DNA. This adaptability is crucial in the face of rapid market transformations, societal changes, and the pressing issues the planet faces. Guided by its vision as an integrated innovation-centered design partner for global brand communication, Brand University constantly evolves as a university. "œOur teaching approach is founded on the principle of "˜learning through understanding'. We emphasize research, data science, and digital methodologies, enabling our students to gain a deep comprehension of their subject matter", concludes the President.
Brand University of Applied Sciences, Prof. Dr. H.C. Shan Fan, Founding President
Shan Fan is the Founding President of the Brand University of Applied Sciences in Hamburg, Germany, and the School of Communication Design, Beijing Normal University Zhuhai, China. His approach to teaching relates to the interdisciplinary and intercultural aspects of art, design, and cultural studies. In 2006 Shan Fan was awarded the Medal for Art and Science by the Senate of the City of Hamburg and he is a member of "œFreie Akademie der Kunste"œ in Hamburg since 2014. Shan Fan studied Art in China and Hamburg. His central area of research is the transformation from tradition to modernity - up to innovation in contemporary art. His art was shown in more than 30 solo exhibitions and 15 group exhibitions in museums and galleries in over 10 countries.