Master of Science - Accounting
Aalto University’s Master of Science in Accounting program is de...
Master of Arts and Design - Contemporary Design
Aalto
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The Master of Arts and Design - Contemporary Design program at Aalto University is designed for individuals passionate about exploring innovative and forward-thinking approaches to design. This interdisciplinary program combines a strong foundation in design theory and practice with a focus on contemporary global design trends, sustainability, and creativity. The program encourages students to critically engage with the evolving role of design in society, preparing them to become leaders in both creative industries and academic spheres. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of design as a tool for social change, problem-solving, and enhancing human experiences, all while maintaining a deep commitment to artistic and cultural relevance in contemporary design.
Curriculum: The Master of Arts and Design - Contemporary Design curriculum is structured to provide students with both theoretical and practical insights into the world of modern design. Core courses delve into design history, contemporary design practices, and the relationship between design and culture. Students also explore hands-on methods for producing design solutions, with courses that span design techniques, visual culture, interaction design, and digital fabrication. Elective courses offer further specialization in fields like sustainable design, digital media, and design leadership, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests. The program is project-based, with a strong emphasis on collaborative work, and culminates in a master's thesis project where students are required to demonstrate their independent design research and innovation.
Research Focus: Research within the Master of Arts and Design - Contemporary Design program is deeply rooted in understanding the intersection between design and society. Aalto University encourages students to engage in cutting-edge research that challenges traditional design boundaries. Research themes include design for sustainability, material innovation, digital transformation in design, and the integration of design thinking in solving global challenges. Students work closely with faculty members and industry professionals to conduct research that is both innovative and practical, often collaborating on real-world projects that allow them to test their theories and concepts in real-time environments. The program also emphasizes design ethics, addressing how contemporary design practices can have a positive impact on the world.
Industry Engagement: Industry collaboration is a key aspect of the Master of Arts and Design - Contemporary Design program at Aalto University. The program offers students opportunities to work on live industry projects, collaborate with international design companies, and participate in internships that provide practical experience in the design field. Aalto's strong industry ties with leading global companies allow students to apply their skills to real-world problems, gaining valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by design professionals. The university’s Design Factory and various industry events foster an environment where students can connect with professionals, expand their network, and explore potential career pathways.
Global Perspective: The Master of Arts and Design - Contemporary Design program at Aalto University offers a global perspective on design, with an international student body and faculty that brings diverse viewpoints and expertise. Students engage in cross-cultural learning experiences, participate in exchange programs with partner institutions worldwide, and take part in global design workshops and events. This international exposure helps students understand global design trends, cultural differences, and market needs, making them adaptable and prepared for a career in the global design industry. The program also offers insights into how contemporary design practices can contribute to solving global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and social cohesion, giving students the tools to make a meaningful impact worldwide.
Location
Aalto
Score
Tuition Fee
€ 20000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: €100
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- English language test waiver is applicable if the Bachelor's, Master's, Licentiate, or Doctoral degree is in English language.
Standardized Test Requirements:
- Graduate Record Examinations (GRE): Overall score of 315 or higher is required.
- Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT): Overall score of 600 or higher is required.
Aalto University in Finland offers a variety of scholarships to support international students who wish to study at one of the leading universities in Europe. These scholarships are designed to alleviate the financial burden of tuition fees and help students focus on their studies while living in Finland.
Aalto University Tuition Fee Scholarships: Aalto University offers scholarships specifically for international students who are required to pay tuition fees. The scholarships cover either partial or full tuition fees for master’s degree students from non-EU/EEA countries. The scholarship amounts range from 50% to 100% of the tuition fee, depending on the applicant’s academic achievements. Scholarships are awarded based on the strength of the application and the applicant’s academic background.
Aalto University Scholarship for Living Expenses: While the primary focus of the scholarship program is to assist with tuition fees, some additional financial support is available for students to help cover living expenses. These scholarships are typically awarded to students who already receive a tuition fee scholarship but need further assistance to cover their living costs.
Graduates of the Master of Arts and Design - Contemporary Design program at Aalto University have access to diverse and exciting career paths within the design industry. With a unique focus on contemporary design practices, sustainability, and creative problem-solving, this program equips students with the skills necessary to thrive in various sectors.
Industrial Designer: Work on the creation and development of products that combine functionality, aesthetics, and user-centered design. Industrial designers often collaborate with engineers and manufacturers to bring innovative products to market across a range of industries, including electronics, automotive, furniture, and consumer goods.
Product Designer: Focus on designing products that enhance user experiences and meet market demands. Product designers apply their creativity and technical skills to conceptualize and refine products, ensuring they are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical, safe, and sustainable.
Service Designer: Develop and optimize services by considering the customer journey, user experience, and operational efficiency. Service designers play a critical role in industries like healthcare, banking, and hospitality, working to improve service delivery, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive innovation in service-based businesses.
Experience Designer: Specialize in designing immersive, engaging, and user-friendly experiences across both physical and digital platforms. Experience designers focus on how users interact with products and services, ensuring that the experience is seamless and enjoyable from start to finish.
Design Strategist: Take a holistic approach to design by analyzing market trends, user needs, and business objectives to craft long-term design strategies. Design strategists help companies align their product and service offerings with customer expectations, leading to stronger brand identities and more successful market outcomes.
Creative Director: Lead creative teams to develop and execute visual and design concepts for brands, marketing campaigns, and product lines. Creative directors work in advertising agencies, design studios, or in-house teams at large corporations, ensuring that design work aligns with company goals and resonates with target audiences.
Sustainability Designer: Focus on creating environmentally responsible and sustainable design solutions. Sustainability designers work across industries to minimize the environmental impact of products, services, and systems through the use of renewable materials, energy-efficient processes, and waste reduction strategies.
Design Consultant: Provide expert advice to organizations seeking to enhance their design processes, products, or branding. Design consultants analyze design challenges, recommend solutions, and often guide companies through implementing design strategies that drive innovation and market success.
UX/UI Designer: Work at the intersection of design and technology, focusing on creating intuitive, accessible, and visually appealing digital interfaces. UX/UI designers ensure that users can easily navigate websites, apps, and software while delivering a positive digital experience.
Entrepreneur/Startup Founder: Use their design expertise to launch innovative startups or creative agencies that focus on new products, services, or design solutions. Graduates with an entrepreneurial spirit often go on to create their own businesses, offering design services or developing groundbreaking products.
Design Educator/Academia: Share design knowledge and expertise by teaching at universities or design schools. Design educators mentor the next generation of designers, guiding them in understanding the theoretical and practical aspects of contemporary design.
Interaction Designer: Specialize in the design of user interactions within digital environments, such as websites and mobile applications. Interaction designers ensure that users have a positive, intuitive experience when interacting with technology, optimizing design features for ease of use.
Art Director: Oversee the visual aspects of design projects, ensuring that all creative materials align with the project's goals and visual identity. Art directors typically work in advertising, publishing, media, or entertainment industries, shaping the look and feel of campaigns, publications, or digital content.
Design Researcher: Focus on understanding user behaviors, needs, and experiences through research and data analysis. Design researchers gather insights that inform the design process, helping teams make evidence-based decisions that improve product functionality and user satisfaction.
Corporate Innovation Manager: Lead innovation efforts within a company, using design thinking methodologies to drive new product development and enhance business processes. Corporate innovation managers work to create an environment where design-led solutions contribute to the company's long-term success.
