M.Des in Greece

Why Study M.Des (Master of Design) in Greece

1. Cultural Heritage: Greece is a country rich in history, art, and culture. Studying design in Greece provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in a setting that has been a source of inspiration for artists and designers for centuries. The country's architectural wonders, ancient artifacts, and artistic traditions can be a profound influence on your design sensibilities.

2. Diverse Design Landscape: Greece offers a diverse design landscape, from contemporary urban environments to picturesque islands and villages. This diversity can inspire creativity and innovation in design across various fields, including interior design, fashion, graphic design, and more.

3. Renowned Art and Design Schools: Greece is home to reputable universities and art schools that offer high-quality M.Des programs. These institutions provide a supportive learning environment, experienced faculty, and access to state-of-the-art design facilities.

4. Interdisciplinary Opportunities: M.Des programs often encourage interdisciplinary collaboration. Greece's academic environment fosters collaboration between design students and other disciplines such as architecture, fine arts, archaeology, and more. This cross-disciplinary approach can lead to innovative design solutions.

5. Sustainable Design Focus: Greece has a growing emphasis on sustainable design and environmental conservation. Studying M.Des in Greece can provide insights into sustainable design practices, particularly in the context of a country that values its natural resources and cultural heritage.

6. Design Research Opportunities: Greece offers opportunities for design research, particularly in areas related to cultural preservation, tourism, and heritage conservation. These research areas align well with design studies and can lead to meaningful projects and collaborations.

7. Mediterranean Lifestyle: Greece's Mediterranean climate and lifestyle can enhance your overall well-being during your studies. The pleasant weather, Mediterranean diet, and outdoor recreational opportunities contribute to a high quality of life.

8. International Experience: Greece is a gateway to Europe, making it an attractive destination for international students. You can connect with peers from various countries and gain a global perspective on design.

9. Affordable Tuition: Compared to many Western European countries, Greece generally offers more affordable tuition fees for higher education programs. This can make pursuing an M.Des degree in Greece cost-effective.

10. Career Opportunities: Graduates of M.Des programs in Greece can pursue careers in various design-related fields. The country's tourism industry, cultural institutions, and creative sectors offer opportunities for design professionals.

M.Des (Master of Design) Specializations in Greece

University	Location	Course Duration	Specializations
Athens School of Fine Arts (ASFA)	Athens	Typically 2 years	- Visual Communication Design - Industrial Design - Digital Media - Costume Design - Scenography - Interior Design
University of the Aegean	Syros (Cyclades)	Typically 2 years	- Design Studies - Cultural Informatics - Visual Communication and Interactive Media Design - Design and Cultural Informatics in Education - Design and Cultural Informatics in Society
Technical University of Crete	Chania (Crete)	Typically 2 years	- Product Design - Environmental Design - Digital Design - Design and Construction of Interactive Systems
Technological Educational Institute of Western Greece	Patras	Typically 2 years	- Product and System Design - Visual Communication and Multimedia Design
University of the Peloponnese	Tripoli	Typically 2 years	- Design in Mediterranean Space - Design and Culture - Design, Technology, and Society - Design and Cultural Heritage
Democritus University of Thrace	Xanthi	Typically 2 years	- Visual Arts and New Media - Graphic Design - Interactive Multimedia - Communication and New Journalism - Visual and Applied Arts
University of Macedonia	Thessaloniki	Typically 2 years	- Graphic Design - Multimedia and Digital Arts - Communication Design and Marketing - Design and Production of Cultural Content
University of Thessaly	Volos	Typically 2 years	- Industrial Design - Visual Communication Design - Environmental Design - Interaction Design
Ionian University	Corfu	Typically 2 years	- Design and Multimedia - Audiovisual Arts - Cultural Informatics
Harokopio University of Athens	Athens	Typically 2 years	- Design and Multimedia - Interactive Digital Media - Product and Systems Design

Admission Intake for M.Des (Master of Design) in Greece

1. Winter/Spring Intake (February-March): Many universities in Greece offer a winter/spring intake for master's programs, including M.Des programs. The application period for this intake often begins in the fall of the preceding year (around September or October) and closes in December or January. Admitted students typically start their studies in February or March.

2. Fall Intake (September-October): Some universities may also have a fall intake for master's programs, with the application period starting in the spring or early summer (around April or May) and closing in June or July. Students admitted during this intake begin their studies in September or October.

Top 10 Universities in Greece for M.Des (Master of Design)

University	Location	Notable Specializations
Athens School of Fine Arts (ASFA)	Athens	- Visual Communication Design - Industrial Design - Digital Media - Costume Design - Scenography - Interior Design
University of the Aegean	Syros (Cyclades)	- Design Studies - Cultural Informatics - Visual Communication and Interactive Media Design - Design and Cultural Informatics in Education - Design and Cultural Informatics in Society
Technical University of Crete	Chania (Crete)	- Product Design - Environmental Design - Digital Design - Design and Construction of Interactive Systems
Technological Educational Institute of Western Greece	Patras	- Product and System Design - Visual Communication and Multimedia Design
University of the Peloponnese	Tripoli	- Design in Mediterranean Space - Design and Culture - Design, Technology, and Society - Design and Cultural Heritage
Democritus University of Thrace	Xanthi	- Visual Arts and New Media - Graphic Design - Interactive Multimedia - Communication and New Journalism - Visual and Applied Arts
University of Macedonia	Thessaloniki	- Graphic Design - Multimedia and Digital Arts - Communication Design and Marketing - Design and Production of Cultural Content
University of Thessaly	Volos	- Industrial Design - Visual Communication Design - Environmental Design - Interaction Design
Ionian University	Corfu	- Design and Multimedia - Audiovisual Arts - Cultural Informatics
Harokopio University of Athens	Athens	- Design and Multimedia - Interactive Digital Media - Product and Systems Design

Tuition Fees for M.Des (Master of Design) in Greece

1. EU/EEA Students:

   • For EU/EEA citizens, tuition fees for M.Des programs in Greece are typically more affordable compared to fees for international students.
   • Tuition fees for EU/EEA students can range from approximately €1,000 to €5,000 per year, depending on the university and program. Some universities may offer lower fees for Greek nationals and slightly higher fees for other EU/EEA citizens.

2. International Students:

   • Tuition fees for international students (non-EU/EEA) are generally higher than those for EU/EEA students.
   • The annual tuition fees for international students pursuing M.Des programs in Greece can vary widely, ranging from approximately €3,000 to €10,000 or more, depending on the university and the program's prestige.
   • Some prestigious universities or specialized M.Des programs may have higher tuition fees for international students.

Cost of Studying M.Des (Master of Design) in Greece

Expense Category	Estimated Annual Cost (EUR)
Tuition Fees (EU/EEA Students)	€1,000 - €5,000
Tuition Fees (International Students)	€3,000 - €10,000 or more
Accommodation (Rent and Utilities)	€3,000 - €7,200
Food and Groceries	€2,400 - €3,600
Transportation (Local Public Transport)	€360 - €720
Health Insurance	€300 - €600 (for international students)
Study Materials and Books	€200 - €500
Personal Expenses	€1,200 - €2,400
Visa and Residence Permit (International Students)	€150 - €400
Total Estimated Annual Cost (EU/EEA Students)	€7,460 - €19,720
Total Estimated Annual Cost (International Students)	€9,210 - €22,620 or more

Eligibility for doing M.Des (Master of Design) in Greece

1. Bachelor's Degree: Typically, you must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized university or institution. The bachelor's degree should be in a related field, such as design, fine arts, architecture, or a relevant discipline.

2. Academic Transcripts: You may be required to provide academic transcripts from your undergraduate studies. These transcripts should demonstrate your academic performance and the courses you completed.

3. Portfolio: Many M.Des programs require applicants to submit a portfolio showcasing their design work. The portfolio is a critical component of the application and should demonstrate your creativity, design skills, and potential as a graduate student.

4. Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may request letters of recommendation from professors, mentors, or employers who can speak to your qualifications and readiness for graduate-level design studies.

5. Statement of Purpose: A statement of purpose (SOP) is often required, explaining your motivation for pursuing an M.Des, your career goals, and how the program aligns with your aspirations.

6. Language Proficiency: Depending on the language of instruction, you may need to provide proof of your proficiency in the language (usually Greek or English). This may involve standardized language tests such as TOEFL or IELTS for English proficiency.

7. Entrance Exams: Some universities may require applicants to take entrance exams or interviews as part of the admission process. These exams may assess your design skills, analytical abilities, or general knowledge.

8. Work Experience (Optional): While not always mandatory, some M.Des programs may prefer or require applicants to have relevant work experience in the field of design or a related area. This can strengthen your application.

9. Visa Requirements (International Students): If you are an international student, you will need to meet visa requirements set by the Greek government, including proof of financial support and health insurance.

10. Interview (Possibly): Some programs may conduct interviews as part of the admission process to assess your suitability for the program.

Documents Required for M.Des (Master of Design) in Greece

1. Application Form: Most universities in Greece provide an online application form that you will need to complete and submit through their official application portal. Follow the university's instructions for the application process.

2. Academic Transcripts: You will need to provide official transcripts from your undergraduate studies. These transcripts should detail the courses you completed and your grades. If your transcripts are not in Greek or English, you may need to provide certified translations.

3. Bachelor's Degree Certificate: A copy of your bachelor's degree certificate or diploma is usually required as proof of your completed undergraduate education.

4. Portfolio: Prepare a portfolio showcasing your design work and creative projects. The portfolio should demonstrate your skills, creativity, and your ability to work in a design field. Follow any specific guidelines provided by the university regarding portfolio format and content.

5. Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may require letters of recommendation from professors, mentors, or employers who can speak to your qualifications, character, and readiness for graduate-level design studies. Follow the university's guidelines for the number of recommendations required.

6. Statement of Purpose (SOP): Write a statement of purpose that explains your motivation for pursuing an M.Des, your career goals, and how the program aligns with your aspirations. The SOP should be well-written and convey your enthusiasm for the field of design.

7. Language Proficiency Test Scores: If the language of instruction for the program is not your native language (usually Greek or English), you may need to provide proof of your language proficiency. This may involve standardized language test scores such as TOEFL or IELTS for English proficiency.

8. CV/Resume: Prepare a curriculum vitae (CV) or resume that highlights your educational background, work experience (if applicable), and any relevant skills or achievements.

9. Photocopy of Passport: If you are an international student, provide a photocopy of your passport to verify your identity.

10. Application Fee: Some universities may require an application fee, which varies from one institution to another. Check the specific application fee requirements and payment methods.

11. Additional Documents: Depending on the university and program, you may be asked to submit additional documents such as entrance exam results or other specific requirements.

Scholarships for M.Des (Master of Design) in Greece

1. Greek Government Scholarships: The Greek government, through various ministries and agencies, may offer scholarships to international students, including those pursuing M.Des programs. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. Check the official website of the Greek Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs for information on available scholarships for international students.

2. University Scholarships: Many universities in Greece have their scholarship programs for international students. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of factors. Be sure to visit the official websites of the universities where you plan to apply for M.Des programs and look for scholarship opportunities.

3. Erasmus+ Scholarships: If your M.Des program is part of the Erasmus+ program, you may be eligible for Erasmus+ scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international mobility and cooperation in higher education. Check with your university or program coordinator to see if Erasmus+ opportunities are available.

4. Greek Foundations and Organizations: Some Greek foundations, non-governmental organizations, and private entities offer scholarships to international students. These scholarships may be specific to certain fields of study, including design. Research organizations and foundations that align with your field of study and inquire about available scholarships.

5. Embassy Scholarships: The Greek embassy or consulates in your home country may offer scholarships or have information on scholarships available to international students studying in Greece. Contact your nearest Greek embassy or consulate for details.

6. Bilateral Agreements: Some countries have bilateral agreements with Greece that include provisions for scholarships and student exchanges. Check with the relevant government agencies in your home country to see if such agreements exist.

7. External Scholarship Programs: Explore scholarship programs offered by international organizations, foundations, and non-profit organizations that support education. Examples include Fulbright scholarships and scholarships from organizations like the Rotary Foundation.

Jobs and Salary after M.Des (Master of Design) in Greece

1. Graphic Designer: Graphic designers create visual content for various media, including print and digital. They work on projects such as branding, advertising, web design, and more. Entry-level graphic designers in Greece can expect a salary ranging from €12,000 to €20,000 per year, while experienced designers may earn significantly more.

2. Product Designer: Product designers create and develop physical products, ranging from consumer goods to industrial equipment. Salaries for product designers in Greece can vary widely depending on the industry and level of experience. Entry-level salaries might start at around €12,000 to €18,000 annually, but experienced product designers may earn more.

3. Interior Designer: Interior designers plan and design interior spaces for homes, offices, and commercial buildings. Entry-level interior designers may earn between €12,000 and €18,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning higher salaries.

4. UI/UX Designer: User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) designers focus on designing digital interfaces and improving the overall user experience of websites and applications. Salaries for UI/UX designers can vary, but entry-level positions might offer salaries between €12,000 and €20,000 per year, while experienced designers can earn more.

5. Fashion Designer: Fashion designers create clothing, footwear, and accessories. Salaries in the fashion industry can be competitive, and they often depend on the brand, level of experience, and success. Entry-level fashion designers may earn between €12,000 and €20,000 annually, but established designers can earn significantly more.

6. Art Director: Art directors oversee the visual elements of creative projects, including advertising campaigns, magazines, and films. Salaries for art directors can vary widely, with entry-level positions offering around €15,000 to €25,000 per year, and experienced art directors earning more.