Communication Design for Cybersecurity
Micro-DegreeOnline

Communication Design for Cybersecurity

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Program Details

  • Language: English
  • Fees: €900
  • Study Mode: Full-time / Part-time
  • Registration Deadline: 30th September 2027
  • Entry requirements:
    • High school diploma or equivalent
    • Basic computer literacy
    • English Level B1 (CEFR) or equivalent

Study Access

Pay for one quarter and have access to the learning materials for 6 months, with the option to extend access if needed.

Program Coordinator

Prof. Dr. Julia von Thienen
Prof. Dr. Julia von Thienen

About This Course

A captivating exploration into the human side of cybersecurity, blending design, psychology, and communication techniques. Discover the full spectrum of communication, extending beyond words to include multi-sensory design and innovative security solutions.

Program Outcomes

Analyse human biases exploited in attack scenarios; participate in role-plays to practise listening and effective outreach; examine communication in case studies of security incidents; and innovate an organisation’s cybersecurity repertoire.

Learning Objectives

Bu the end of the course students will:

  • Acquire and demonstrate advanced knowledge of communication and design concepts to significantly enhance cybersecurity.
  • Analyse human psychology as exploited in cyberattacks and develop multi-level counter-measures to strengthen organisational resilience.
  • Apply design thinking, implication design, and multi-sensory approaches in projects to deliver immediate, practical impact in cybersecurity.

Micro Degree

  • This course is offered as a micro degree.
  • German UDS Micro Degrees are compatible with the European MOOC Consortiums Common Micro Credentials Framework.
  • Micro Degrees will be rewarded with an equivalent of 5 ECTS.
  • Micro Degrees are offered to non-regular students and require a fee of €900.

Requirements

None

Course Staff

Prof. Dr. Julia von Thienen holds a PhD in psychology with a focus on neuroscience, computer science, and research methodology. At the German UDS, she leads the Chair of Design Thinking Research, developing a scientific understanding of how and why creativity, collaboration, and innovation work – and where they encounter challenges. The field of Neurodesign adds a further emphasis on physiological insights in this context. From 2008-2024, Julia worked at the Hasso Plattner Institute (Digital Engineering Department) at Potsdam University, where she headed the Neurodesign team. She was also closely involved in the Stanford-HPI Design Thinking Research Programme and the MIT-HPI Designing for Sustainability Programme.

Frequently Asked Questions

German UDS offers a range of cutting-edge digital programs in MBA, Master’s Programs and Micro-Degree Programs. Please refer to our University’s Study program page for further details.

Micro-Degree Programs:
- No specific requirements
Master’s Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum grade of 2.5 (German system) or equivalent
- English: Minimum B2
Additional requirements may apply (e.g., work experience for MBA & M.A. programs). Visit our admissions page for full details.

For our study programs you can apply as follows:

  • Micro-Degree Programs:
    Micro-Degree programs can be booked directly on our Micro-Degree page. Simply browse our available Micro-Degrees and enroll immediately without any application process.
  • MBA and Master’s Programs:
    01 Register/Login
    Begin by creating an account.
    After creating a new account, you’ll receive an email with a verification link. Click the link to verify your email address before proceeding.
    If you already have an account, simply log in to continue.
    02 Start Your Application
    After filling out the form, be sure to check your email. You will receive a message from us containing a direct link to start your application.
    Go to the “Start your Application!” and begin your application journey.
    Note: This option becomes available only after completing the registration and login.

MBA programs: €7,500 per year
Master’s programs: €7,500 per year
Micro-Degrees: €900 per program
For full details, visit the official admissions page.

Reliable high-speed internet connection
Computer (Windows or Mac) with webcam and microphone

Student life at German UDS is designed for maximum flexibility, enabling learners to study anytime, anywhere, and at their own pace. Whether enrolling in a free course or a full degree program, students have full access to online course materials and complete assignments within set deadlines, making it easy to balance education with personal and professional commitments. In addition to academic flexibility, students also enjoy a vibrant virtual campus experience through COVE – our Campus of Virtual Education. COVE provides an immersive digital environment where students can hang out in virtual spaces like the cafeteria, lounge, or library. It’s a place to connect, chat, and build friendships beyond the classroom. Regular online events, social gatherings, and themed meetups offer students opportunities to network, collaborate, and be part of a supportive international community.