International School of Photography and Media Vienna
Full-Time Vocational Training (Including Work Placement)
Professional Photography, Film & Media Design
The LIK Academy for Photo and Design offers a full-time, two-semester vocational training program designed for those who want to turn their passion for photography, film, and media design into a professional career. Training follows a classic daily school routine from Monday to Thursday, combining theoretical knowledge with extensive practical experience.
Since 2017, the LIK Academy has been WienCert and ÖCert certified. For younger students, this full-time program can also be recognized as part of compulsory education where applicable.
Program Overview
The training includes lessons in the following modules:
Photography
Filmmaking
Graphic & Media Design
You will benefit from:
Workshop days with hands-on training
Permanent support from lecturers and mentors
Technical and professional theory
Specialised, in-depth content
Preparation for optional apprenticeship completion
Development of future skills:
Social & personal skills
Digital skills
International skills
Training Venue
LIK Academy for Photo and Design GmbH
Seidengasse 17, 1070 Vienna, Austria
Training Formats
Full-time, on-site in Vienna – 32 units per week, approx. 1,000 hours total
Blended learning – Distance learning with required attendance periods in Vienna, same time commitment
Duration
Year 29: 15 September 2025 – 19 June 2026 (Mon–Thu, excluding school & public holidays)
Year 31: 14 September 2026 – 20 June 2027 (Mon–Thu, excluding school & public holidays)
Daily schedule: Monday–Thursday, 09:00–17:00
Course Content
Photography & Audiovisual Media
Camera technology fundamentals
Image composition & design
Portrait, fashion, and people photography
Reportage photography
Architectural & industrial photography
Product & advertising photography
Studio photography & lighting
Graphic & Media Design
Professional image editing
Printing & image presentation
Desktop publishing
Web design
Film & Multimedia
Digital filming & video editing
Sound engineering
Multimedia project work
Additional Modules
Social media management
Independent photographic & media projects
Total: 1,000 hours of theory and practice
Program Structure
Lectures – Core theoretical instruction
Workshops – Hands-on skill training
Practical Exercises – Applied learning projects
Internship – Supervised professional work placement
Portfolio Reviews – Individual feedback and assessment
Seminars – Expert-led deep-dives into specialised topics
Media Lab – Digital editing and design workstations
Photography Lab – Fully equipped studio environment
Excursions – On-location shoots and field experience
Final Exams – Theoretical and practical assessments
Degree
The LIK Academy’s program is closely aligned with the demands of both the Austrian and international photography and graphic design markets.
Upon successful completion, graduates are awarded the LIK Academy Certificate in Professional Photography, Film & Media Design.
You can continue to the LIK Master Class in Digital Photography or progress to the one-year BA Creative Media top-up program.
Practice
The LIK Academy offers intensive, high-level technical and didactic training, ensuring a smooth transition into the professional field. Students complete internships and gain practical industry experience during the course.
A highlight of the program is the inclusion of practical training days in Spain, offering creative opportunities in inspiring real-world environments.
Reputation
The LIK Academy enjoys an outstanding reputation in the creative industries. Our graduates are highly valued by employers and clients for their technical skills, creativity, and professional readiness.
Careers After Graduation
Photographer / Photo Designer
Graphic Designer / Visual Media Designer
Photo Editor / Image Editor
Cameraperson
Advertising Assistant
Desktop Publisher
Program Dates:
LIK Academy Year 29 starts on 15 September 2025. Course Code / Kurs Nr. (12119)
Schedule: Monday – Thursday, 09:00 – 17:00
How to enroll in the Full-time Vocational Training Program
Professional Photography, Filmmaking & Media Design (including work placement)
Step 1 – Start Your Application & Document Screening
You can begin by clicking the “Start Your Application Process Here” button.
To initiate your application, please send us the following documents in PDF format by e-mail to our admissions office:
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Letter of Motivation
Copy of Passport
High School Diploma or School Leaving Certificate
Documents can be in English or German; if they are in another language, please include a certified translation. This will help us get to know you and process your application quickly.
Optional: You are welcome to arrange a personal consultation to discuss the details of the training or attend one of our Info Sessions. These sessions are non-binding and free of charge.
Step 2 – Register
If your application is approved, you will contact you via E-Mail and ask to register online: REGISTRATION FORM
Step 3 - Agreement & Payment
After your registraion we will provide you with a Study Agreement outlining the terms of enrollment and a Your invoice by e-mail.
To secure your place, you must:
Sign the Study Agreement
Pay the tuition fee in full according to the payment plan (at liest Deposit: €4,800 upon registration is requiert)
Tuition Fee: €9,800 for 2 semesters
Deposit: €4,800 upon registration
Final Payment: €5,000 at the beginning of September
Non-refundable Registration Fee: €500 (included in the total tuition fee)
Refund Policy: If your visa application is denied, your tuition fee will be refunded in full, excluding the non-refundable registration fee. This policy is clearly stated in the Study Agreement.
You can register for the LIK Academy for Photography and Design online at any time.
After registering, you will receive:
An automatic confirmation of registration (proof of registration)
Step 4 – Confirmation of Registration / Admission Letter
Once your payment has been received, we will issue your official Confirmation of Registration / Admission Letter.
This document will be required for your visa or residence permit application and will include:
Program details
Start date
Confirmation of full tuition payment
Step 5 – Visa Coordination
We are available to assist the Austrian embassy or immigration authorities with any additional documents or verifications required for your visa application.
Visa Eligibility Notice:
Only enrollment in the Full-Time Diploma Program in Photography, Film and Media Design at LIK Academy – Private International School Vienna qualifies international students from non-EU/EEA countries to apply for an Austrian student residence permit. Part-time courses, workshops, or online-only programs do not meet the visa requirements.