The Higher Education Review

In recent years, Spain has emerged as a prominent destination for students worldwide, attracting attention not only for its rich culture and history but also for its focus on design. At the heart of this evolving landscape is Barcelona, a city that has become a hub for innovation and the creative industry. One institution that stands out in this dynamic environment is BAU, the university of Arts & Design of Barcelona.

Established over 34 years ago, BAU, Arts and Design College, has etched its place in history as a pioneer in design education in Spain. In 1989, BAU embarked on a journey that would redefine design and creative education.

It pioneered the integration of the Bachelor in Design into the university framework in 2002, developed the first Ph.D. in Design and Communication in Spain, and instituted a Bachelor in Fine Arts offering a holistic approach that integrates humanities, social sciences, and technologies.

This approach, coupled with a focus on problem-solving and a technological perspective, positions BAU at the forefront of global art and design education. The college also boasts a diverse array of master's degrees in Design (in English), of which the Masters in Stop Motion Animation, Fashion Technology, Service Design, and Graphic Communication Design, among others, stand out.

Contributions to Online Education
In an era where online education is gaining prominence, BAU stands as a trailblazer in the integration of technology into its courses. Speaking more about this, Christian Giribets, the Marketing Manager and Business Relations at BAU says, “While the institution underscores the importance of in-person education, we have strategically partnered with prestigious global universities, such as RMIT in Australia, to offer a range of online courses.

These courses, spanning Developing AI Strategy, Design Thinking for Innovation, User Experience Design, User Interface Design, and Customer Experience Strategy and Design, reflect BAU's commitment to providing cutting-edge, internationally recognized education.”

BAU's aim to advance academic research is evident in its Doctorate Programme in Design and Communication. This program plays a pivotal role in fostering high-level research in the fields of design and communication, contributing to the qualitative growth of these disciplines.

The Master’s Degrees offered by BAU are a testament to the institution's passion for providing specialized, career-oriented education. With 22 master's and postgraduate degrees – most of them in the English language, BAU caters to a diverse array of interests in innovation, and technology for the creative industry.

The Master's Degree in Design Research, unique in its recognition as a Ph.D. precursor, opens avenues for research and development careers. Notably, BAU stands as the first institution in Spain to offer a Ph.D. in Design and Communication, thereby completing the trifecta of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.

"With a rich history, diverse course offerings, & a commitment to industry relevance, BAU stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of arts & design education"

Infrastructure & Industry Collaboration
BAU's Campus infrastructure, with 3 buildings, is a testament to its commitment to hands-on training and creativity. Spread across 11,000 square meters in the 22@ Poblenou, the technological and creative district in the heart of Barcelona, BAU's facilities are the perfect space to develop and live within the creative industry in Europe.

The three interconnected buildings house workshops, visual arts spaces, and collaborative areas, providing students with a dynamic environment for project development within the creative industry.

Industry-academia partnerships form the backbone of BAU's pedagogical approach. With an employment rate of 85 percent upon completion of their studies and with internships in companies during training, BAU students are guaranteed a level of professionalization in line with the needs of the innovative and cultural industries. The symbiotic relationship with industry ensures that students are not just job-ready but also contribute meaningfully to the companies they join.

Furthermore, consistency in the quality of faculty members is a cornerstone of effective education. BAU ensures this by having a faculty that comprises 22 current Ph.D. holders, with an additional 26 in the process of obtaining their Ph.D. This ensures that the teaching staff remains at the forefront of their fields, bringing the latest advancements and industry insights into the classroom. The emphasis on faculty development is a testament to BAU's commitment to delivering a world-class education.

Future Roadmap & Innovation
Looking ahead, BAU remains committed to continuous improvement. The institution regularly reviews and revisits its programs, ensuring that they align with the latest industry trends and technological advancements. The addition of new master's programs, such as Designing and Leading Creative Organizations or the Fashion Technology and Innovation masters - among others - reflects BAU's proactive stance in adapting to evolving professional landscapes.

In conclusion, BAU, Arts & Design College of Barcelona, is not just a well-known international reputed institution; it is a hub of creativity and innovation. With a rich history and an international community that brings together more than 50 nationalities, diverse course offerings, and a commitment to industry relevance, BAU stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of arts and design education. As the institution charts its course for the future, it remains dedicated to preparing future professionals for leadership roles in the dynamic intersection of art, design, and technology. In doing so, BAU continues to be a beacon, illuminating the path for aspiring creatives and innovators globally.