Why Choose UMN Visual Communication Design (DKV)? Get to Know the Curriculum and Major Options

Choosing a Visual Communication Design (DKV) Study Program is no longer just about learning to create graphic designs or produce visual works. Developments in technology and the creative industry have broadened the role of designers, from designing brand identities and user experiences to games and immersive experiences.

Therefore, prospective students need to consider whether the curriculum offered by a university can keep up with industry developments while also providing opportunities to explore their interests. The Visual Communication Design (DKV) Study Program at Universitas Multimedia Nusantara (UMN) addresses these needs through a modern educational approach with the tagline “Evolving Experience.”

DKV UMN does not only focus on visual design

One of the reasons to choose DKV UMN is its learning approach, which expands the role of designers from visual design to experience design.

Through a multisensory and multidisciplinary approach, students are not only required to produce visually appealing work, but also to understand how a design can create relevant and empathetic experiences for people.

The DKV UMN curriculum is also designed to be adaptive, so it not only responds to current creative industry trends but also prepares students to meet future needs.

Using the M-shaped approach

DKV UMN applies an M-shaped approach, in which students first build broad competencies as generalists during the first two years. After establishing a sufficient foundation, students can begin deepening their expertise as specialists through their choice of major and minor expertise in the third year.

This approach provides a balance between the ability to understand various areas of design and the opportunity to develop more specific expertise. In this way, students can build their professional identity while developing a competitive advantage aligned with their career interests.

Six major options relevant to the creative industry

Starting in the third year, students can deepen the areas they want to develop through various major options.

Illustration & Publishing focuses on visual storytelling, character development, visual styles, and media such as visual novels, comics, interactive web storytelling, and illustration books.

Photography & Moving Image combines photography, videography, and motion design, including commercial photography production and exploration of moving visuals through both analog and digital media.

For those interested in the world of brands, Brand Experience covers brand communication strategy, creative direction, copywriting, content development, and transmedia-based brand activation through real-client projects.

Meanwhile, Digital Experience focuses on UX, UI, interaction design, and service design to develop digital products and services.

For students interested in the game industry, Game Design covers gameplay, game mechanics, game art, characters, environments, interfaces, as well as the development process of board games and digital games.

There is also Immersive Design, which explores AR, VR, projection mapping, interactive installations, and immersive media with the support of visual programming logic.

Continuing to develop human skills and technology

Interestingly, technology in the DKV UMN curriculum is not positioned as a replacement for human creativity. Instead, students are equipped with human skills such as empathy, integrity, creative thinking, and critical thinking.

At the same time, students are developed to have technology adaptability, including the ability to utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) adaptively while continuing to follow academic and professional ethical standards.

Conclusion

Why choose DKV UMN? Because students are not only prepared to become visual designers, but also experience designers who are able to understand people, develop cross-disciplinary expertise, and adapt to technology.

Through the M-shaped approach, students build a broad foundation before choosing a specialization through six major options: Illustration & Publishing, Photography & Moving Image, Brand Experience, Digital Experience, Game Design, and Immersive Design. If you want to explore the works of DKV UMN students further, click here [DKV UMN Student Portfolio]

With the “Evolving Experience” curriculum, DKV UMN prepares students to face the ever-changing creative industry while building a professional identity that aligns with their individual interests and career directions.

If you would like to learn more about the major options, curriculum, facilities, or admission process at DKV UMN, UMN Education Consultants (EC) are ready to provide information and consultation based on your interests and career plans. [Contact Us Now]

How Does the UMN DKV Admission Process Work? Here Are the Admission Paths and Requirements

For prospective students interested in the world of design, one of the important questions to consider before choosing a university is “How does the UMN DKV admission process work?” In addition to understanding tuition fees and admission schedules, prospective students also need to understand the admission paths, selection process, and specific requirements that need to be prepared.

The Visual Communication Design (DKV) Study Program at Universitas Multimedia Nusantara (UMN) provides several admission paths for prospective students. The process can be completed through UMN’s new student admission system, with admission options tailored to the prospective student’s circumstances and achievements.

What are the admission paths for UMN DKV?

In general, prospective UMN DKV students can choose the Academic Admission Path, Regular Test Admission Path, Scholarship Test Admission Path, or scholarship paths based on specific achievements.

For the Academic Admission Path, the selection considers academic grades from school. Meanwhile, the Regular Test Admission Path uses tests covering English, Mathematics, Psychological Testing, and a Drawing Test.

For prospective students who wish to receive a scholarship, the Scholarship Test Admission Path is available. In addition, UMN also provides scholarship paths based on achievements, such as the Academic Achievement Scholarship, Sports and Arts Achievement Scholarship, Science Olympiad Scholarship, as well as scholarships for children of teachers, principals, employees, or school staff.

With these various options, prospective students can choose the admission path that best suits their profile and achievements.

Do I have to take a drawing test to enter UMN DKV?

For admission paths that require a test, there is a Drawing Test. This is one of the aspects that prospective students who wish to enter UMN DKV need to pay attention to.

However, prospective students also need to prepare a drawing for administrative purposes. According to UMN DKV admission information, the required work is an A4-sized drawing that can be created manually or using a computer.

The work must be the student’s own creation and accompanied by a statement of originality. The drawing must also not contain elements of SARA (ethnicity, religion, race, and intergroup relations) or pornography.

Therefore, preparing for admission to UMN DKV is not only about academic grades, but also about demonstrating visual skills through creative work.

How do I start the registration process?

The first step is to register through the UMN New Student Admission (PMB) system. In the registration form, prospective students need to fill in their personal information and school information, select an admission path, and choose their intended study program. The UMN PMB system also provides sections for uploading report cards and relevant certificates or proof of achievements.

After selecting an admission path and completing the requirements, prospective students will proceed with the selection process according to the chosen path. The selection results will then serve as the basis for the new student admission process.

What about scholarships for UMN DKV?

Scholarship opportunities are also available during the new student admission process. Prospective students can take the scholarship test or apply through scholarship paths based on their achievements.

For DKV, official UMN information lists several options, including the Academic Achievement Scholarship, Sports and Arts Scholarship, Science Olympiad Scholarship, as well as scholarship paths for children of teachers, principals, employees, and school staff.

Since the requirements for each admission path may differ, prospective students are advised to check the latest requirements before choosing an admission path.

What should I prepare before registering?

Before registering, prospective DKV students should prepare their report cards, identification documents, supporting documents for achievements if applicable, as well as a drawing for their portfolio. For the artwork, make sure the drawing is entirely your own work and complies with the requirements set by UMN DKV.

In addition, it is important to understand the selected admission path so that you can prepare for the required tests or complete the necessary documents.

Conclusion

The UMN DKV admission process can be completed through the UMN PMB system with several admission options, ranging from the Academic Admission Path, Regular Test, Scholarship Test, to scholarship paths based on achievements. For the DKV test admission path, prospective students need to prepare for English, Mathematics, Psychological Testing, and the Drawing Test.

In addition, prospective students need to prepare an A4-sized drawing that is their own work and complies with UMN DKV requirements. By understanding the admission paths and preparing the required documents and artwork in advance, the registration process can be completed in a more structured manner.

If you are still unsure which admission path is most suitable or would like to learn about the latest requirements, UMN Education Consultants (EC) can provide information about the admission process, selection schedules, and DKV scholarship options. Contact EC Now!

What Is the Difference Between DKV UMN’s Regular Program and International Program?

When choosing a Visual Communication Design (DKV) Study Program, prospective students may come across the Regular Program and International Program at Universitas Multimedia Nusantara (UMN). So, what exactly is the difference between the two? Do they have different curricula, or do students in the International Program study different areas of design?

In general, the differences lie in the admission pathway and learning experience, while the field of Visual Communication Design remains within the DKV UMN learning ecosystem.

What Do Students Learn in DKV UMN?

DKV UMN currently develops its curriculum through the “Evolving Experience” approach, which expands the role of designers from simply creating visuals to designing experiences. Students not only learn to produce visual works, but also understand how design can create relevant experiences for people.

The curriculum uses an M-shaped approach. During the first two years, students build broad competencies as generalists. After establishing this foundation, students can deepen their expertise as specialists through their choice of major and minor expertise.

The available majors include Illustration & Publishing, Photography & Moving Image, Brand Experience, Digital Experience, Game Design, and Immersive Design. Through these options, students can direct their learning according to their interests and career plans, ranging from illustration, photography, branding, and UX/UI to games and immersive technologies such as AR and VR.

In addition to design skills, students are also equipped with critical thinking, creativity, empathy, and the ability to adapt to technology, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) while continuing to uphold academic and professional ethics.

So, What Is the Difference Between the Regular Program and International Program?

The Regular Program and International Program both offer the field of Visual Communication Design. Therefore, prospective students do not need to consider the International Program as a different DKV major.

The difference is more related to the admission pathway and the learning environment and experience offered.

The Regular Program is intended for prospective students who follow UMN’s general new student admission pathway. Meanwhile, the International Program provides an option for students who wish to pursue their DKV education through an international pathway and gain a learning experience in a more global environment.

With students from diverse backgrounds, an international learning environment can provide opportunities to interact with a wider range of perspectives and cultures. This experience can be an added value for DKV students who aspire to work in an increasingly globally connected creative industry.

Does the Learning Quality Differ?

The difference between the programs does not mean that one offers a higher quality of education than the other.

Both remain within the DKV UMN ecosystem, which develops competencies in design, creativity, technology, and understanding human needs. Students also have opportunities to develop their specializations according to their interests through the available major options.

Therefore, prospective students should not choose solely based on the assumption that the International Program is “better” than the Regular Program. More important considerations include the admission pathway, preferred learning environment, and educational and career goals.

Which Program Is Suitable for Prospective Students?

If you want to follow UMN’s new student admission pathway and study in a university environment generally attended by Indonesian students, the Regular Program can be an option.

Meanwhile, if you are looking for a learning experience with international perspectives and a more multicultural environment, the International Program can be considered.

Most importantly, both programs provide opportunities to develop skills in DKV through a learning approach that follows the development of the creative industry.

If you want to explore the works and creative explorations of DKV UMN students further, you can see them here. [View the Works Here]

Conclusion

The main differences between DKV UMN’s Regular Program and International Program lie in the admission pathway and learning experience, rather than the field of DKV that is studied.

Through the “Evolving Experience” approach and the M-shaped curriculum, DKV UMN students build a broad foundation in design before deepening their interests through six major options: Illustration & Publishing, Photography & Moving Image, Brand Experience, Digital Experience, Game Design, and Immersive Design.

Therefore, the choice between the Regular Program and International Program should be tailored to each student’s profile, needs, and desired learning experience throughout their education in DKV UMN.

If you are still unsure about which option to choose, UMN Education Consultants (EC) are ready to provide information about program options, the admission process, and the learning experiences available in DKV UMN. [Contact EC Now!]

What Do Students Learn in DKV UMN?

Choosing a Visual Communication Design (DKV) Study Program is often associated with questions about drawing, graphic design, or creating visual works. However, developments in the creative industry have made the field of DKV increasingly broad. Designers can now be involved in branding, digital products, games, photography, and the development of immersive experiences.

So, what do students actually learn in DKV UMN?

The Visual Communication Design (DKV) Study Program at Universitas Multimedia Nusantara (UMN) develops its curriculum through the “Evolving Experience” approach. Through this approach, students are not only directed to produce visual works, but also to understand how design can create relevant experiences for people.

Building a foundation in design skills first

During the first two years, DKV UMN students build broad competencies as generalists. This stage provides opportunities to explore various areas of design before determining the focus they want to develop further.

This approach uses the M-shaped concept, in which students gain a broad understanding of various fields while also being able to develop more specific expertise. After establishing a sufficient foundation, students can deepen their competencies through their choice of major and minor expertise.

With this approach, students do not have to determine their specialization from the beginning of their studies. They first gain experience in various areas of design to help them discover the field that best matches their interests and career goals.

Six major options are available

After building their foundation, students can choose one of the six majors available at DKV UMN.

Illustration & Publishing focuses on illustration and visual storytelling. Students can explore character development, visual styles, comics, visual novels, interactive web storytelling, and illustration books.

For those interested in photography and moving visual works, Photography & Moving Image is available. This field combines photography, videography, and motion design, including commercial photography production and exploration of analog and digital media.

Brand Experience is intended for students interested in branding and communication. Its learning covers brand communication strategy, creative direction, copywriting, content development, and transmedia-based brand activation through real-client projects.

Meanwhile, Digital Experience focuses on UX, UI, interaction design, and service design. Students learn to design digital products and services while considering user needs and experiences.

Students interested in the game industry can choose Game Design. This area covers gameplay, game mechanics, game art, character, environment, and interface, both for board game and digital game development.

Another option is Immersive Design, which explores AR, VR, projection mapping, interactive installations, and various immersive media. Students are also introduced to visual programming logic to support the design process.

More than just technical skills

DKV UMN’s learning also places human skills as an important part of students’ competencies. Creativity, critical thinking, empathy, and integrity are developed alongside design skills.

On the technology side, students are also equipped with technology adaptability so they can keep up with continuously evolving technologies, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

However, the use of AI in the learning process continues to follow the academic and professional ethics established by the faculty. Thus, technology is used as part of the creative process without eliminating the role of humans in thinking, creating, and making design decisions.

From learning design to building expertise

The DKV UMN curriculum provides students with opportunities to develop from a broad understanding toward more specific expertise. This process allows students to explore various areas of design before determining the focus they want to develop.

This approach also ensures that DKV learning does not stop at the ability to create visuals. Students are encouraged to understand people, technology, and context, as well as how a design can create meaningful experiences.

If you want to explore the works and creative explorations of DKV UMN students further, you can see them here. [View the Works Here]

Conclusion

What do students learn in DKV UMN? Students study various areas of design, ranging from illustration, photography, and branding to digital experience, games, and immersive design. Learning begins by building broad competencies as generalists, followed by deeper specialization through the choice of major and minor expertise.

Through the “Evolving Experience” approach and M-shaped curriculum, DKV UMN prepares students not only to become visual creators, but also designers who can understand human needs, adapt to technology, and develop expertise according to their career direction.

If you would like to learn more about the curriculum, major options, facilities, or admission process at DKV UMN, UMN Education Consultants (EC) are ready to provide information and consultation before you choose a study program. [Contact EC Now]

What Are the Career Prospects for DKV UMN Graduates?

Choosing a Visual Communication Design (DKV) Study Program is not only about learning how to create appealing works. For prospective students, another equally important question is, “What are the career prospects for DKV UMN graduates?”

The answer is quite broad. Developments in the creative industry and technology have created opportunities for DKV graduates to work in various fields, ranging from design, branding, and advertising to digital products, the game industry, and interactive media.

What Careers Can DKV UMN Graduates Pursue?

Career options for DKV UMN graduates are not limited to becoming Graphic Designers. The official DKV UMN website lists various career opportunities that can develop according to students’ areas of expertise.

In the fields of visual design and branding, graduates can pursue careers as Graphic Designers, Art Directors, Creative Directors, Illustrators, Photographers, Publishing Designers, and Web Designers. Meanwhile, students who specialize in interaction and technology have opportunities to work as UI Designers, UX Designers, UX Researchers, UX Writers, Game Designers, Game Artists, Character Designers, Environment Artists, Immersive Media Artists, and Game Producers.

This means that the career prospects of DKV graduates can develop according to the expertise they build during their studies.

A Curriculum That Follows Creative Industry Developments

One factor that influences career readiness is how well university learning follows industry needs.

DKV UMN develops learning that combines design skills, technology, creativity, analysis, and problem-solving. Graduates are also prepared to use design-related tools and technologies, think critically, work in teams, and develop entrepreneurial skills in the field of design.

This approach is relevant to the development of the creative industry, which increasingly requires designers with cross-disciplinary abilities rather than solely visual skills.

Internship Experience Before Graduation

DKV UMN students also have the opportunity to gain work experience through the Career Acceleration Program. This program provides students with real-world experience through internships at partner companies.

The process includes submitting applications, screening and interview stages, and preparation before students begin their internships. Throughout the program, students also receive guidance from supervisors and advisors.

This experience can serve as valuable preparation, as students gain an understanding of the professional work environment before completing their education.

Student Works Can Become a Bridge to the Industry

In the creative field, a portfolio is an important part of demonstrating skills. Therefore, DKV UMN also has IMAGO, a series of activities that connects students’ final projects with industry professionals.

IMAGO is designed as a platform that brings academia and industry together while opening opportunities for collaboration. Since it was first held in 2015, dozens of student final projects have been published and reached the public through relevant industries, while hundreds of students have benefited from the connections built through the program.

Therefore, the works produced during university do not simply remain academic assignments, but can become part of a professional portfolio.

If you want to explore the works and creative explorations of DKV UMN students further, you can see them here. [View the Works Here]

Examples of Alumni Building Careers in the Creative Industry

The career prospects of DKV UMN graduates can also be seen through the career journeys of its alumni.

One example is Ovita Pattari, a DKV UMN alumna who has built a career in the creative industry and gained experience at several companies, including Hakuhodo, Leo Burnett, Goodstuph, and Grow in Asia. She has also been involved in various projects, including One Piece and Extraction 2.

Another example is Theodore Stephen, a DKV UMN alumnus who is currently pursuing a career as a Senior Product Designer at Gojek Indonesia. His experience demonstrates that DKV competencies can also be directed toward digital product and user experience fields.

Career Paths Do Not Have to Stop at Employment

In addition to working for companies, DKV graduates also have opportunities to build businesses or work independently as creative professionals. Entrepreneurial skills are also among the competencies developed through DKV UMN’s learning.

Therefore, graduates can choose a path that suits their interests: working at a creative company, entering the technology industry, developing a career as an independent professional, or building their own business.

Conclusion

The career prospects for DKV UMN graduates are quite diverse, as the competencies they acquire can be applied across various sectors of the creative and technology industries. Graduates can pursue careers as Graphic Designers, Art Directors, Illustrators, UI/UX Designers, Game Designers, Creative Directors, Photographers, and Immersive Media Artists, depending on the areas they specialize in during their studies.

Supported by industry-relevant learning, internship experience through the Career Acceleration Program, portfolio development opportunities through IMAGO, and examples of alumni pursuing careers in various fields, DKV UMN provides an ecosystem that can help students prepare for their professional journey.

If you would like to learn more about the major options, internship experiences, facilities, student portfolios, and career prospects for each field of DKV UMN, UMN Education Consultants (EC) are ready to provide information and consultation according to your interests and career plans. [Contact EC Now!]