In the Bachelor course, the Compass serves as every student’s basic programme. It has been set up around the eight design departments and contains the four directions Atelier, Forum, Lab and Market. Each of these directions takes into consideration the designer and the meaning of design in society from its own perspective. Boasting different accents and orientations, they form a basic well of knowledge and skills, a breeding ground allowing the future designer to constantly develop his or her talent. Together, the range of different focuses and goals of the four Compass directions provide a complete professional framework.

The Compass is not centred on the design process itself, but rather on the knowledge, skills and insights needed in the process. Moreover, it is based on an approach, an attitude. During the first two years at the academy, students will attend a compulsory program. In the third year, students will specialize and choose one of the four directions.