Study Fee: Click here to view the t(/study-fee)uition and subscription options.(/study-fee)(/study-fee) Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal.(/apply)(/apply) Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: • Europe: Switzerland • GCC: Dubai (UAE) • Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: • A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level • A copy of passport or national ID • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume • Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in Visual Communications

Feb 20
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a 100% research-based academic pathway designed for advanced scholars, creative leaders, and media professionals who aim to generate original knowledge and strategic innovation within the field of visual communications. Positioned at a level equal to EQF Level 8, the program corresponds to the third European cycle and emphasizes independent research, critical inquiry, and high-level conceptual development.

Visual communications has become a transformative force in global media, branding, digital ecosystems, political discourse, and cultural production. This doctorate study program enables candidates to investigate complex visual systems, communication theories, digital environments, design strategies, and emerging technologies shaping contemporary visual culture. It supports advanced exploration of areas such as visual semiotics, digital storytelling, brand identity systems, media innovation, visual analytics, and cross-cultural communication frameworks.

The academic structure consists of seven modules, carefully designed to ensure methodological excellence and deep field specialization:

Four research-related modules focusing on advanced research design, qualitative and quantitative methodologies, visual data analysis, academic publishing, and research leadership
Two general modules addressing global communication systems, digital transformation, interdisciplinary integration, and strategic innovation
One specialized module dedicated specifically to visual communication theory, digital design systems, multimedia strategies, branding architectures, and emerging media technologies

In addition, candidates complete a substantial thesis and engage in structured research activities that demonstrate their ability to contribute original theoretical or applied advancements to the discipline of visual communications.

The duration of the program is minimum 18 months, with flexibility to extend according to research development and professional commitments. This doctorate study program prepares graduates for leadership roles in academia, global media organizations, creative industries, research institutions, strategic communication consultancy, and innovation-driven enterprises.

Through rigorous research engagement and critical analysis, participants are equipped to shape the future of visual communication in an era defined by digital transformation, global connectivity, and evolving visual cultures.