Master's in Design Abroad: A Comprehensive Guide to Top Universities & Programs

A Master's in Design abroad course opens doors to a wide range of opportunities. Institutions like the Royal College of Art (RCA) in London, ranked #1 in the QS World University Rankings for Art & Design for 2025, attract students from over 60 countries.

Graduates from such esteemed universities often secure positions in top design firms, with competitive starting salaries around $86,684 (INR 75L). These statistics reflect the value of pursuing a Master’s in Design from top universities abroad.

This guide is designed to provide you with comprehensive information on study abroad Master's programs in Design, helping you plan more effectively.

Master's in Design Abroad: Overview

A Master’s in Design abroad equips you with specialized skills for roles like UX/UI Designer, Product Designer, and Creative Director. Programs typically span 1 to 2 years and focus on subjects like design thinking, user experience, product design, graphic design, and more.

Before you explore the program details, let’s have an overview of Master's in Design abroad:

Now, let’s discuss the benefits of pursuing a Master’s in Design abroad.

Why Pursue a Master's in Design Abroad?

Pursuing a Master's in Design abroad offers a unique opportunity to enhance your design career. Approximately 80% of alumni from arts and design postsecondary programs are employed. That indicates strong job prospects in the field.

Furthermore, institutions such as the Royal College of Art in London and the Parsons School of Design offer specialized programs that connect theory to practice.

Let’s explore some reasons why studying design abroad could be the key to advancing your career:

• Global Recognition of Degrees: Top universities, such as the Royal College of Art and Rhode Island School of Design, offer globally recognized Master’s in Design programs. Graduates from these institutions are highly sought after by leading design firms worldwide.
• Access to International Career Opportunities: Graduates of renowned design programs often secure roles in top global firms, such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft. 
• Exposure to Diverse Design Practices: Studying design abroad exposes you to diverse design thinking and innovation. Universities like UCLA and Politecnico di Milano offer innovative practices and cross-disciplinary projects, enhancing your creative skills.
• Networking Opportunities: Studying abroad connects you with a diverse set of peers, professors, and industry professionals. Universities such as Pratt Institute in New York emphasize building strong professional networks. Graduates often secure jobs through the connections made during their studies.
• Specialization in Emerging Design Areas: Design programs abroad, such as Stanford University’s Master of Science in Product Design, offer specialized courses in UX/UI, interaction design, and sustainable design. These help you carve out niche-specific opportunities.
• Cultural and Academic Enrichment: Students in international programs at institutions develop strong cross-cultural competencies, allowing them to work in multinational design teams and global markets.

After discussing the benefits of a Master's in Design abroad, let’s check out the top universities offering this program.

Top Universities Offering Master's in Design Abroad

A Master's in Design from a prestigious university like Harvard University, MIT can significantly advance your career, offering specialized knowledge and access to global design networks for a duration of 2 years.

When choosing a university, consider factors such as program focus, faculty expertise, and alumni success to align with your career goals. 

Below are some of the top universities offering a Master's in Design abroad, along with their respective tuition fees.

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

In addition to these universities, other reputable institutions offer a Master's in Design abroad.

Popular Universities to Study Master's in Design Abroad

Exploring alternative universities broadens your options and helps you choose the best fit for your personal preferences and career aspirations. For instance, universities like Monash University, Australia, are recognized for their one-year Master’s in Design program.

Here are some more popular universities offering a Master’s in Design abroad:

After exploring the top universities offering a Master's in Design abroad, let’s look at the eligibility criteria for applying.

Eligibility Criteria for Master's in Design Abroad

Knowing the eligibility criteria helps you avoid delays by ensuring all requirements are met in advance. Most universities such as Heriot-Watt University, require a relevant bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA (which varies by institution), and proof of English proficiency (such as the IELTS or TOEFL).

Some institutions, such as the Royal College of Art, also require a portfolio and letters of recommendation, while others may also ask for GRE scores or a statement of purpose.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the standard eligibility criteria to pursue a Master’s in Design abroad:

Having understood the admission requirements to study a Master's in Design abroad, let’s go through the application process.

Application Process for Master's in Design Abroad

Applying for a Master's in Design abroad involves several essential steps with universities. With acceptance rates ranging from as low as 10% for prestigious institutions to above 50% for others, it's vital to understand the specific requirements. 

The process typically includes submitting a portfolio, academic transcripts, and proof of English proficiency. Below are the steps to apply for a Master's in Design abroad:

Step 1: Research Program Requirements

Before you apply, thoroughly research the specific requirements for the program you’re interested in. This includes verifying the prerequisites, such as academic background, language proficiency, and any required standardized tests or portfolios.

• English Proficiency: Most universities require TOEFL or IELTS scores (TOEFL: 90+, IELTS: 7.0).
• Portfolio: A portfolio is often required, showcasing your design skills and creativity.
• Work Experience: Some programs may require 1-2 years of relevant professional experience.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documents, you can begin filling out the online application through the university’s portal. Standard documents required include:

• Academic Transcripts: Proof of your previous qualifications and GPA.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written SOP explaining why you want to pursue a Master’s in Design and your career goals.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Typically, two to three letters from professors or employers.
• Introductory Video: Required by some institutions, such as the Royal College of Art, this video must showcase your past assignments, your motivation for pursuing the program, and other relevant details.

Step 3: Attend an Interview (If Required)

Some universities may require an interview as part of the selection process. Interviews help assess your motivation, interpersonal communication skills, and alignment with the program.

• Interview Preparation: Be ready to discuss your academic background, portfolio, and career aspirations.

Step 4: Monitor Your Application Status

After submitting your application, regularly check your application status through the university portal. Make sure that any additional documents requested by the university are submitted on time.

Step 5: Apply for a Student Visa

Once you receive an offer of admission, the next step is to apply for a student visa. Visa requirements vary by country, but generally include proof of admission and sufficient financial support.

• Visa Types:
  • U.S.: F-1 Student Visa
  • U.K.: Student Visa
  • Germany: Student Visa (Schengen Visa)
• Required Documents:
  • Proof of admission
  • Financial support documents
  • Health insurance
  • Visa application form

Note: The UK government provides a specific list of documents required, such as a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

Following these steps carefully will ensure a smooth application process, helping you take the next step toward your Master’s in Design abroad.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the program's details.

Master's in Design Abroad: Course Details

A Master's in Design abroad offers specialized programs that blend creativity with practical application. For instance, the University of Melbourne provides a Master of Design and Production, focusing on areas such as stage design, costume design, and production design for various performance arts. 

Similarly, Lancaster University's Design Management MA focuses on the strategic deployment of design to address global challenges, including sustainability and data privacy. 

Below are the course details of a Master's in Design abroad.

Having explored the courses and specializations, it's time to consider the financial aspects of pursuing a Master's in Design abroad.

Cost of Pursuing a Master's in Design Abroad

The cost of studying abroad for a Master's in Design includes tuition fees, accommodation, food, and other living expenses such as internet access and study materials. These costs can vary significantly depending on the country and university. 

For instance, in the United States, the estimated annual fee for a Master's in Design ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 (INR 43.3L-86.7L), including tuition and living expenses. In the United Kingdom, tuition fees for international students can range from £9,000 to £30,000 (INR 10.5L-34.9L) per year.

Here is an overview of the estimated annual costs for pursuing a Master's in Design abroad:

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

Studying abroad can be financially challenging. However, you can apply for both internal and external scholarships to make your journey more affordable. Let’s explore the details.

Master's in Design Abroad: Scholarships for Students

Master's in Design abroad can be costly that costs around $25,000-$35,000 (INR 21.7L-30.4L; however, numerous scholarships are available to help reduce the financial burden. 

Scholarships can cover up to 100% of your tuition fees and living expenses, making studying abroad more accessible. 

For instance, Chevening Scholarships offer full funding for international students, and the Royal College of Art provides merit-based scholarships for outstanding design students.

Below, you’ll explore some of the top internal and external scholarships available for Master's in Design students.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are typically awarded by universities to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, creative potential, or financial need. For example, Parsons School of Design awards scholarships worth up to $20,000 (INR 17.4L) for incoming students.

Here are some internal scholarships:

These internal scholarships can significantly reduce tuition fees, allowing you to focus more easily on your studies and pursue your creative interests. 

Apart from these, you also have external scholarships to reduce your expenses further. Let’s find out more about those.

External Scholarships

Governments, international organizations, and foundations fund external scholarships. They are often available to students from specific regions or pursuing specialized fields in design.

For example, the Erasmus Mundus program offers full tuition coverage and a monthly stipend, while the Fulbright Program provides full funding for graduate studies in the U.S.

Here are some external scholarships:

These external scholarships are an excellent way to reduce the financial burden of studying abroad, while also gaining access to a global network of professionals and potential employers.

Let’s now shift focus to the job opportunities available after completing a Master’s in Design abroad.

Job Opportunities After Master's in Design Abroad

The global design industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in technology and an increasing emphasis on user-centered experiences. 

In the United States, the average annual salary for a UX Designer is approximately $127,145 (INR 1.19 Cr), while a Product Designer earns about $125,170 (INR 1.1 Cr). These figures highlight the lucrative opportunities available for design professionals worldwide.

Here’s a breakdown of the various job roles along with their average annual salaries:

Source: Indeed

These roles are in high demand across various industries, including technology, automotive, consumer goods, and entertainment. Let’s look at the top recruiters.

Top Recruiters

Design professionals are sought after by a wide range of companies globally. Leading tech firms, design agencies, and manufacturing companies are among the top recruiters for Master's in Design graduates.

Here’s a list of the companies that you can expect a placement from after completing your Master’s in Design abroad.

Source: Indeed

These companies offer competitive salaries and opportunities for career advancement in the design field. 

With a solid understanding of the job opportunities available, let's now explore how upGrad can help you pursue your Master's in Design abroad.

How upGrad Can Help You Study a Master's in Design Abroad?

A Master’s in Design abroad can be an exciting yet challenging journey. You have multiple factors to consider, including selecting the right program, securing financial aid, and completing each step of the complex application process diligently. 

upGrad simplifies this experience by offering comprehensive support throughout your journey.

We also provide personalized mentorship and career counseling to ensure you overcome any hurdles before and during your studies.

Ready to take the next step in your design career? Book a 1:1 session with upGrad experts, apply with confidence, and start your Master’s in Design journey at a top university abroad!