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Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding

Bridge the gap between creativity and management.
duration10 months
languageEnglish
locationMadrid
intakeSeptember*
Mode of studyFull-time
Format In Person

UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVE POTENTIAL FOR BUSINESS IMPACT

In today’s world, we are constantly bombarded by branding, messages and content. The ability to merge creativity with management is more crucial than ever. We know content is king, but how can you help your brand stand out? The Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding is an intensive 10-month program that will help you conceive, drive and implement creative projects from the beginning to the end, helping you to understand the full creative process. The program equips you with the tools to craft compelling content and visual projects that resonate with audiences.

Along the way, you have several additional opportunities to deepen your professional skills:

  • Jumpstart your academic journey with the Common Core Period, where you’ll study alongside your peers in other Marketing, Communication & Sales programs. You’ll build the necessary foundational skills while networking and creating professional connections with a diverse group of classmates.
  • Enhance your expertise with additional certificates from prestigious organizations such as Salesforce, AWS and Google, or earn the coveted IE University Sustainability Certificate.
  • Participate in Global Immersion Week or Social Impact Week, with trips to London, Ghana, Amsterdam or South Africa, seeing the work of major industry players up close.
  • Sharpen your skills further during an additional three-month Career Sector Track. This phase is tailored to deepen your industry-specific knowledge in areas such as Marketing and Tech or Marketing for Consumer Goods, Luxury and Fashion.

*The 2025-2026 intake starts on September 8th.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE?

YOUR PROGRAM, PART OF THE STAGE EXPERIENCE

By studying a program in Marketing, Branding & Sales, you’ll be a part of something bigger than just your studies, something we call The Stage. All programs will benefit from The Stage experience, which includes a Common Core Period with fundamental courses and optional program ad-ons such as: certifications, international experiences, career sector track extension. The Stage ensures that you not only create lifetime friendships and professional networks but will also have a well-rounded education that prepares you for the next stage: a successful career after graduation.

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Master in Creative Direction, content & Branding overview

WHO IS THE MASTER IN CREATIVE DIRECTION, CONTENT & BRANDING FOR?

  • It´s for individuals who...

    ...want to harness their creative powers to produce powerful visual and digital media projects.

  • ARE LOOKING FOR...

    ...a program that will enhance their creative skills, allowing them to develop content from idea to execution. They will understand and leverage the power of storytelling, produce innovative and compelling content and align their creative skills to a brand’s communication needs. Students will go on to work in roles such as advertising manager, creative content manager, digital media entrepreneur, video editor, web/app designer, brand manager and much more.

KEY AREAS OF THE MASTER IN CREATIVE DIRECTION, CONTENT & BRANDING

  • COMMON CORE PERIOD

  • DIGITAL MEDIA AND TECHNOLOGY

  • VISUAL MEDIA AND CREATIVITY

  • BUSINESS, BRANDING AND MANAGEMENT

FROM THE ACADEMIC DIRECTOR

Beatriz Hernandez-Canut, explains in-depth the Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding.

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REASONS TO STUDY THE MASTER IN CREATIVE DIRECTION, CONTENT & BRANDING

IE University molds students into future-forward and well-rounded professionals, using methodologies that put innovation and employability at the forefront.

  • 01.

    HARNESS YOUR CREATIVE POWER

    Learn by working on real, hands-on content production projects employing the latest technologies in a teamwork-driven international environment.

  • 02.

    CAREER-FOCUSED PROGRAM

    Guided by industry leaders, you’ll start designing and managing visual and digital media projects from the get-go and be prepared to work in a variety of creative industries as soon as you graduate.

  • 03.

    UNLOCK YOUR HIGH-IMPACT STRATEGIC CAREER

    The program combines training in visual and digital media content production with a strategic outlook on business and communication to put you in the forefront of some of the most exciting and creative career opportunities in today’s job market.

  • 04.

    LEARN FROM TOP PROFESSIONALS OF THE NEW DIGITAL ECONOMY

    Our faculty is made up of a diverse group of academics and professionals who bring pedagogical rigor and real-world expertise into the classroom.

    FLexibility in your Career Path

    Choosing the right program for you can be difficult. We are here to guide you in your Marketing, Communication & Sales career journey from the start with the support of our Recruiting & Admissions team who will closely review your background, skills and future goals to ensure you choose the right program. All our full-time programs begin with a two-month Common Core Period, designed to give you the key foundations to succeed in this career path.

    However, if after starting the program and completing this Common Core Period you are interested in changing to another Marketing, Communication & Sales program, you may switch programs after having a meeting with the Academic Program Direction team to validate this change and understand how it may affect your future career. Please be aware that program changes are dependent on availability.

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    STUDENT BACKGROUNDS

    • by ACADEMIC BACKGROUND (%)
      Business
      Economics
      Social Sciences
      Humanities
    • BY REGION (%)
      Middle East & Africa
      Europe
      Latin America
      North America
      Asia Pacific
      Spain
    • BY INDUSTRY (%)
      Marketing /Media/ Technology
      Consumer Products & Retail
      Banking / Consulting / NGO
      Tourism & Hospitality
      Healthcare & Education
      Automotive & Sports
      Luxury goods & Fashion
      Other
    • 70%
      Female
    • 95%
      International Students
    • 14
      nationalities represented in class
    PROGRAM STRUCTURE

    PROGRAM STRUCTURE OF THE MASTER IN CREATIVE DIRECTION, CONTENT & BRANDING

    Program Structure
    10 Months
    Description
      PREPROGRAM
        COMMON CORE PERIOD
        TERMS
        FINAL PROJECTS
          BEYOND THE PROGRAM
          VISUAL COMMUNICATION
          BRANDING
          WELL-BEING IN PRACTICE
          STORYTELLING AND PUBLIC SPEAKING
          DIGITAL MARKETING
          PROJECT MANAGEMENT
          CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
          FINANCE FOR MARKETEERS AND COMMUNICATORS
          DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION
          ENTREPRENEURSHIP
          CONSUMER BEHAVIOR AND INSIGHTS
          NEGOTIATION SKILLS
          MANAGING HIGH PERFORMANCE TEAMS
          CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION
          BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND SALES
          Photography and Video Production
          Graphic Design I
          Creative and Critical Thinking
          Creative Work in the Cultural Industries
          Advertising and Branded Content Creation
          Graphic Design II
          Entertainment Media Production I
          Web Design and Development
          Workshop on Managing Creative Projects
          Workshop on Portfolio
          CREATIVITY BOOSTERS I
          BRAND STRATEGY
          BRAND STRATEGY
          CREATIVE PROJECT MANAGEMENT
          DATA VISUALIZATION & INFOGRAPHICS
          STORYTELLING AND OTHER STORIES
          Entertainment Media Production II
          Digital Copywriting
          VR Workshop
          Intercreativity and Emerging Media
          Creativity and Ethics
          Business Strategy
          Goods & Services
          Content Marketing
          Creativity Boosters II
          CREATIVE WORK IN THE CULTURAL INDUSTRIES
          WEB DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT
          WORKSHOP ON PORTFOLIO
          Electives
          MENTOR PROGRAM
          Introduction to Media Lab
          INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCES
          MARCOM SPEAKER SERIES
          ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATIONS
          Description
          MARCOM FOR CONSUMER GOODS, LUXURY AND FASHION
          MARCOM FOR TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES
          WHERE IS OUR FACULTY WORKING?
          Program Structure
          10 Months

          *Please note that our program content is continually updated to remain in sync with market demands. Therefore, we advise you that the content is subject to change and it can be dependent on student demand.

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          UNIVERSITY PRIVATE DEGREE

          This is a University Private Degree from IE University*. More Information on what earning a University Private Degree from IE University entails.

          *IE University is a university officially recognized by the Spanish education authorities, allowed to grant both University Official Degrees (bachelor’s, master’s and PhD degrees), which are specifically regulated and accredited by the Spanish Ministry of Education, and University Private Degrees (master’s) that are specifically designed by the university toward the professional application of their studies and the constant update of higher education, preserving the educational standards of excellence of IE University. Both types of degrees are equally backed by the rigor and prestige of IE University.

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          Open House at Madrid: Don't miss the opportunity to engage with top faculty & connect with a powerful alumni network

          A HOLISTIC JOURNEY TO THE NEXT BEST YOU

          The Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding shows you how to leverage your creativity and unique vision and complement them with fundamental business skills to engage consumers and other stakeholders alike. It’s also expertly designed to unveil what’s next for you and what’s best for you, giving you what you need to realize your full potential. This unique journey of self-discovery and inner transformation will help you unlock your authentic self so you can become the most impactful professional you can be. We’ll help you learn about the current you—your interests, talents, blind spots and aspirations. Then, we’ll guide you, challenge you and provide the right environment to nurture your pursuit of the next best you.

          • YOUR CAREER 

            What does your dream career look like? The Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding is a transformative process that helps you define your end goals and explore the best options to get you there. Incorporating new insights resulting from our expert analysis of the latest labor market data and our continuous engagement with the global business community, the program delivers a unique fusion of creativity, strategy and practical experience to equip you with the dynamic skill set you’ll need to succeed in the creative sector, now and in the future.

          • YOUR IMPACT 

            Do you have what it takes to make things happen? In today’s world of work, this requires a well-honed set of cognitive, behavioral and digital skills. Companies are now looking for competent professionals who can bring about meaningful change, capable of harnessing the power of branding and creativity to communicate with consumers and really build connections. The Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding is designed to maximize your potential for impact, equipping you to become a powerful and boundary-breaking creative professional.

          • YOUR PURPOSE 

            In today’s landscape, it’s no longer enough for businesses to be driven by the profit motive alone. The new world places a new set of responsibilities on business professionals, calling on you to leverage your skill set and work toward a better future. A sense of purpose also breathes new life into your career, stoking the embers of satisfaction and motivation that will serve you well throughout your professional journey. That’s why we are committed to helping you discover, define and align your unique purpose with your career. Through the Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding, you will join a new era of global visionaries determined to change the world.

          DUAL DEGREES

          Customize your education based on your specific interests and passions through a dual degree that gives your career a multidisciplinary boost to spearhead change in the new world of work. The combination of this program with a Master in Management (if you have zero to two years of experience) or an International MBA (if you have three or more years of experience) will position you on the threshold of two exciting worlds, allowing you to acquire a broader skill set and competitive differentiation with a sharp focus. Select your dual degree based on your years of experience:

          MVDM | IE Business School

          combine with a master in management

          0-2 years

          combine it with an international MBA

          0-3 years

          FACULTY
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          OUR CREATIVE DIRECTION, CONTENT & BRANDING MASTER ACADEMIC DIRECTOR

          Beatriz Hernandez-Canut - Assistant Professor, Master In Creative Direction, Content & Branding And Bachelor In Communication & Digital Media.

          Academic Director Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding, IE University



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          MEET OUR MARKETING, COMMUNICATION & SALES PROFESSORS

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          STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES

          At IE Business School, one of our core goals is to blend expert teaching with practical learning, equipping students for real-world success. Our current students in the Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding program are making remarkable strides in their careers, securing prestigious internships and positions at leading global companies.

          Learn more about their journeys here:

          EXPERIENCE MADRID

          Madrid is one of the most popular cities in Europe for Gen Z travelers and one of the most student-friendly cities in Spain, with a great, affordable public transport network, cool underground culture and fabulous nightlife. But Spain’s capital is also home to international companies of stature, including Google, Microsoft and Apple, creating a myriad of opportunities for professional experience.

          Madrid is in a league of its own and provides the perfect backdrop for rounding off a unique educational experience.

          Experience Madrid | IE Business School
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            FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

            • In today’s total experience economy, it’s more important than ever to bridge the gap between creativity and management so that we can engage users and leverage the power of storytelling to adhere to a brand’s needs. The Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding gives you the necessary tools to create and lead content and visual projects that engage users.

            • IE University’s Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding is a unique program that enables you to understand and leverage the power of storytelling, produce innovative and compelling content and align your creative skills to a brand’s communication needs.

            • The Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding combines training in visual and digital media content production with a strategic outlook on business and communication to put you at the forefront of some of the most exciting and creative career opportunities in today’s job market.

            • The Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding is a full-time, in-person program lasting ten months. You'll be studying in Madrid's bustling business hub.

            • The Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding will be a distinct advantage if you’re aiming for a career as a creative director. It’s a career-focused program guided by industry leaders. You’ll start designing and managing visual and digital media projects from the get-go and be prepared to work in a variety of creative industries as soon as you graduate.

            • The Master in Creative Direction, Content & Branding has three main areas of focus: Digital Media and Technology; Visual Media and Creativity; and Business, Branding and Management.

            • The first term lasts three months: during this time you’ll study the core subjects, followed by specialist subjects including graphic design and creative and critical thinking. The second term, also lasting three months, builds upon previously acquired knowledge of digital and visual media, giving you the chance to explore the specific techniques and tools used in the industry by accomplished professionals. The third term, which lasts four months, introduces abstract modern concepts of the creative industry’s place in the corporate world and further examines the industry from a business point of view. This culminates in the final project, where you’ll work in teams to focus on specific practical areas and phases of the development of a visual and digital media strategy, creating narrative content for social impact.

            • This is an intense full-time program with classes from Monday to Friday in our Maria de Molina Campus. You can expect aproximately 3 or 4 hours of classes per day, which may be scheduled in the morning or the afternoon. In addition, you will also be required to complete individual and team work, for which we recommend spending around 2 hours per day. We don't recommend that you work while you study this program.