Looking to pursue a Master’s in Design abroad? Japan and Germany stand out as global leaders in design education, offering a diverse range of cutting-edge programs tailored to today’s creative and technological demands.
In Japan, top universities like the University of Tokyo, Kyoto Institute of Technology, and Keio University Graduate School of Media Design provide specialized Master's programs in areas such as Product Design, Visual Communication Design, Interaction Design, Environmental Design, Human-Centered Design, and Design for Social Innovation. These institutions emphasize interdisciplinary learning and societal impact, making Japan a go-to destination for future design innovators.
Meanwhile, Germany offers an equally expansive spectrum of Master's programs in design, including Communication Design, UX/UI Design, Strategic Design, Generative Design & AI, Game Design, and Sustainable Innovation. Renowned institutions like the University of Europe for Applied Sciences, Pforzheim University, and Technische Hochschule Köln are paving the way for creative minds to thrive in Europe’s dynamic design ecosystem. Whether your passion lies in Media Arts, Design Strategy, or Sustainability in Fashion, both countries provide world-class opportunities to grow your skills and make a global impact.
Innovative Design Culture: Japan is renowned for its innovation and creativity in various design disciplines, offering an environment that values design excellence and encourages "out-of-the-box" thinking.
Renowned Institutions & Expert Faculty: The country is home to prestigious design schools and universities with experienced and skilled faculty members, providing quality education and research. These institutions often have collaborations with industry partners, offering practical exposure.
Access to Japanese Design Industry & Cutting-Edge Technology: Students have ample opportunities for internships, work placements, and collaborations with leading design firms, utilizing latest tools, software, and equipment.
Japanese Aesthetics & Craftsmanship: You can learn from traditional art forms and craftsmanship techniques preserved for centuries.
Networking & Cultural Enrichment: Being part of Japan's design community allows access to various design events, exhibitions, and workshops, helping to build professional networks and stay updated. Living in Japan provides an enriching cultural experience.
Global Career Opportunities: A degree from a reputable Japanese institution is well-regarded worldwide.
Language Barrier: For graphic design, Japanese needs to be almost as good as the locals to be competitive in the job market, especially since the industry is very domestic with few international companies. Even fluent Japanese (N2 level) is recommended for university/vocational school entrance.
Competitive Job Market: The graphic design field is not experiencing a labor shortage in Japan, and there are many native Japanese graphic designers looking for work. Drawing skills from top-tier art universities are remarkable, making competition tough.
Different Design Standards: Graphic design in Japan is described as "way different than in the west," requiring learning new standards and practices.
Freelance Limitations: Engaging in freelance projects while on a student visa or specific employment (like JET program) requires permission from both your employer and immigration.
High-Quality Education: Germany is globally renowned for its high-quality education system and world-class universities and design schools, offering excellent programs and facilities.
Strong Design Tradition: Germany has a rich history and tradition in design, particularly in industrial, graphic, architecture, and automotive design.
Practical Approach & Industry Connections: German design programs often have a practical orientation, emphasizing hands-on learning, project-based work, and internships. Universities maintain strong ties with industries, providing opportunities for collaborations and networking.
Affordability & Funding: Compared to other popular study destinations, Germany can be more affordable. Many public universities offer low or no tuition fees for international students (only administrative fees of €100–€350/semester). Various scholarships are available.
Multicultural Environment: Germany is a welcoming and multicultural country, attracting diverse students and fostering a global network of contacts.
Career Opportunities: Germany has a strong design industry (automotive, industrial, fashion, architecture), and an M.Des from Germany can open excellent career opportunities. The economy is stable, working conditions are good, and the social security system offers protection.
Competitive Job Market for UI/UX: The job market for UI/UX design in Germany is described as "very bad" and "oversaturated," with many qualified designers struggling to find employment.
High Language & Experience Requirements for UI/UX: For most UX jobs, native-level German is required. Candidates typically need 10+ years of experience, a university degree (ideally a Master's) in UX, HCI, or psychology, and an "extremely good portfolio." Self-taught or bootcamp graduates are unlikely to succeed in this specific field.
Difficulty for Non-German Speakers: The job market is "very very bad for non-German speakers" in general design fields.
Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree in design or a related field.
Academic performance (minimum GPA) is usually a factor.
Language proficiency is crucial: Japanese language proficiency for programs taught in Japanese, or English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS) for English-taught programs. For The University of Tokyo's Architecture Master's, TOEFL iBT or TOEFL iBT Home Edition scores are required, valid for examinations taken in October 2022 or later.
A portfolio showcasing design work is often an essential part of the application.
Letters of recommendation from professors or employers may be requested.
A Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining motivation and career goals is usually required.
Some universities may conduct entrance examinations or interviews. For The University of Tokyo's Architecture program, a written examination (Foreign language [TOEFL] and Specialized subjects I & II) and an oral examination (interviews in Japanese or English) are required. Applicants are disqualified if they don't take all parts.
Relevant work experience may be preferred by some programs.
For The University of Tokyo, applicants must select up to three prospective supervisors and describe their desired research theme in the application.
A recognized bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field (design, fine arts, architecture) is generally required.
A portfolio showcasing creative work and design skills is a very important component of the application.
Language proficiency is essential: German (TestDaF or DSH) or English (IELTS or TOEFL) for English-taught programs.
Official academic transcripts of previous qualifications are needed.
Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees may be required.
Other documents include an application form, CV, statement of purpose, passport copy, proof of financial resources, and health insurance.
Academic calendars and application timelines differ significantly between the two countries.
Japan:
Many universities have their main M.Des intake in the Spring semester (starting in April), with applications typically in late summer/early fall of the previous year.
Some offer a smaller intake in the Fall semester (starting in October), with applications around late winter/early spring of the same year.
Specific deadlines vary by university.
For the 2025 Master's Program Entrance Examination at The University of Tokyo's Department of Architecture, the English language test scores (TOEFL) must be submitted by August 8, 2024 (JST). The written examination is on August 27 and 28, and the oral examination is on August 30.
Germany:
The winter semester intake (starting September/October) is the main intake period, with application deadlines typically between April and July.
The summer semester intake (starting March/April) has application deadlines usually between November and January, but not all programs offer a summer intake.
It's advisable to start the application process well in advance.
How: Costs, Funding, and Post-Graduation Prospects
Understanding the financial commitment and career outlook is crucial for your decision.
Costs:
Japan:
Estimated monthly living costs (excluding study/research):
▸ ¥105,000 (approx. ₹58,000) nationally
▸ In Tokyo, monthly housing:
¥57,000 (approx. ₹31,500) vs national avg ¥41,000 (approx. ₹22,700)
Total annual cost (including tuition) for M.Des:
▸ ¥1,890,000 to ¥3,670,000 (approx. ₹10.5 lakh to ₹20.4 lakh)
Tuition fees for M.Des programs (per year):
▸ ¥700,000 to ¥1,500,000 (approx. ₹3.9 lakh to ₹8.3 lakh)
Germany:
Estimated monthly living costs:
▸ €830 to €1,500 (approx. ₹74,000 to ₹1,33,000)
▸ Includes:
Accommodation: €300–€600 (₹27,000–₹53,000)
Food: €200–€300 (₹18,000–₹27,000)
Transportation: €50–€100 (₹4,500–₹9,000)
Health insurance: €80–€100 (₹7,000–₹9,000)
Personal expenses
For Cologne specifically:
▸ Recommended minimum: €992/month (approx. ₹88,000, incl. insurance)
Tuition fees:
▸ Public universities: No tuition; administrative fees of €100 to €350/semester (₹9,000 to ₹31,000)
▸ Private universities: €10,000 to €20,000+/year (₹9 lakh to ₹18 lakh+)
Total annual cost (including tuition and living):
▸ €9,960 to €38,000/year (approx. ₹9 lakh to ₹34 lakh)
Funding Opportunities:
Japan:
Various scholarships are available, including MEXT Scholarships (covering tuition, living expenses, airfare), JASSO Scholarships, Japanese Government (Monbukagakusho) Scholarships, University Scholarships, and scholarships from private foundations, organizations, and corporations.
Germany:
Offers numerous scholarships such as DAAD Scholarships (covering tuition, living expenses, travel), Deutschlandstipendium, Erasmus+ Program, and scholarships from foundations like Heinrich Böll Foundation, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, and Friedrich Ebert Foundation.
Designers Salaries and Visas:
Japan:
Upon graduation, you can pursue careers such as:
Product Designer (¥3.5–7M/year)
Graphic Designer (¥3–5M/year)
UX Designer (¥4–7M/year)
Industrial Designer (¥3.5–6M/year)
Interior Designer (¥3–6M/year)
Fashion Designer (¥3–6M/year)
Design Manager (¥5–10M/year)
Creative Director (¥8–15M/year)
However, the graphic design job market is highly competitive and requires very strong Japanese language skills. Getting a work visa after an M.Des would depend on securing employment.
The JET program can help individuals get a foot in the door and establish connections, but freelance work during the program needs permission from both employer and immigration.
Student visas ("Student" status of residence) can be granted for up to 4 years and 3 months.
For entrance exams, a "Temporary Visitor" visa (15, 30, or 90 days) is typically used, after which students must return to their home country to obtain a Student status of residence once accepted.
Germany:
Germany is an attractive country to work in, with a stable economy and good working conditions.
After graduation, students from non-EU countries can apply for a residence permit valid for up to 18 months to look for a job related to their studies. During this period, you are allowed to take up any type of job, provided you prove successfully completed studies, health insurance, and ability to secure livelihood.
The average salary for an Industrial Designer in Germany is €44,365 per year.
For UX/UI Designers, salaries can range from €40,000 to €70,000 per year. However, the UX/UI job market is currently described as very bad and highly competitive, often requiring native-level German, 10+ years of experience, a Master's degree in UX/HCI/psychology, and an exceptional portfolio.
Both Japan and Germany offer exceptional opportunities for M.Des students, each with its unique flavor.
Choose Japan if:
You are fascinated by Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship, eager to immerse yourself in a cutting-edge yet culturally rich environment, and are highly motivated to achieve near-native Japanese proficiency to navigate the competitive local design industry. The chance to engage with Japan's thriving design industry and innovative culture is a significant draw.
Choose Germany if:
You are seeking a high-quality, practically oriented design education with potential for very low tuition fees at public universities. Germany provides a clear post-study work search visa and has a strong industrial design sector. However, be aware of the highly challenging UI/UX job market if that's your chosen specialization, as it often demands extensive experience and native German language skills.
Ultimately, your decision should align with your specific design interests, career aspirations, language abilities, and financial considerations. Thoroughly researching specific university programs and their faculty will be key to finding the perfect fit for your M.Des journey.