Master of Design (M.Design)

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 90

1. Academic Qualifications:

• Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA equivalent to 65% or above is required.
   

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System) with an overall score of 6.5 or higher. No individual band score should be less than 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language) with an overall score of 80 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test) with a score of 105 or higher.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English) with a score of 53 or higher.

The University of Massachusetts, Amherst (UMass Amherst), offers various scholarships and financial aid options to international students to help make their education more affordable. 

1. International Students Scholarships: UMass Amherst provides several merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria. The exact eligibility requirements and award amounts may vary, so it's essential for students to check with the university's financial aid office for the most up-to-date information.

2. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students can explore opportunities for assistantships, which may include research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or administrative roles. These positions often provide a stipend, tuition remission, and valuable professional experience.

3. Fulbright Scholarships: UMass Amherst participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students pursuing graduate studies, research, or teaching at U.S. universities.

4. Global Scholars Program: This program is designed for academically talented undergraduate international students. It provides partial tuition waivers and is competitive based on academic achievement.

5. External Scholarships: UMass Amherst encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by governments, foundations, and organizations in their home countries.

6. Research and Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments and research centers at UMass Amherst offer scholarships and funding opportunities for international students engaged in specific research projects or academic programs.

7. Athletic Scholarships: International students who excel in sports may have opportunities to receive athletic scholarships if they join UMass Amherst's athletic teams and meet the eligibility criteria.

8. Private Scholarships: UMass Amherst encourages students to search for private scholarships that align with their interests, background, or field of study. These scholarships may be available from non-profit organizations, corporations, and foundations.

It's crucial for international students to research scholarship opportunities, meet application deadlines, and fulfill any specific requirements for each scholarship program.

The Master of Design (M.Design) program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) is a transformative program that equips students with the skills and knowledge to excel in various design-related fields. Graduates of this program have access to a wide range of career opportunities and are well-prepared to make significant contributions in the design industry.  

1. Graphic Designer: M.Design graduates often pursue careers as graphic designers. They create visual content for print, digital media, advertising, and branding. They work for design agencies, in-house creative teams, or as freelance designers.

2. User Experience (UX) Designer: UX designers focus on enhancing user satisfaction by improving the usability and accessibility of products and services. They are in high demand in industries such as tech, e-commerce, and software development.

3. User Interface (UI) Designer: UI designers specialize in creating the visual elements and interactive features of digital products, including websites and mobile applications. They collaborate closely with UX designers and developers.

4. Industrial Designer: Industrial designers develop concepts and designs for consumer products, such as furniture, electronics, and appliances. They consider both aesthetics and functionality in their work.

5. Interior Designer: Interior designers plan and design interior spaces for homes, offices, restaurants, and other environments. They select furnishings, colors, and layouts to create visually appealing and functional spaces.

6. Fashion Designer: Some M.Design graduates choose careers in fashion design, creating clothing, accessories, and footwear. They may work for fashion houses, retail companies, or establish their own fashion brands.

7. Art Director: Art directors oversee the visual style and artistic elements of creative projects. They lead design teams in advertising agencies, publishing houses, and multimedia production companies.

8. Creative Director: Creative directors are responsible for the overall creative vision of a project or organization. They manage creative teams and ensure that the brand's identity is maintained.

9. Digital Marketing Manager: M.Design graduates with strong digital skills can pursue careers in digital marketing. They create visual content for online marketing campaigns and social media, helping companies reach their target audience effectively.

10. Educators: Some graduates choose to become design educators, teaching design principles and techniques at educational institutions. They inspire the next generation of designers.

11. Entrepreneurs: M.Design graduates with an entrepreneurial spirit may start their design studios or consulting firms, offering design services to clients in various industries.

12. Multidisciplinary Designers: In today's dynamic job market, many designers work across multiple design disciplines. They possess a diverse skill set that allows them to tackle a wide range of design challenges.