1. Design Diversity: Brazil is known for its rich cultural diversity and artistic heritage. Studying design in Brazil provides exposure to a wide range of design styles, influenced by various cultural elements, including indigenous, African, European, and contemporary Brazilian design.
2. Innovative Design Practices: Brazil is home to a vibrant and dynamic design scene with a focus on innovation. Studying in Brazil allows students to engage with innovative design practices, explore new design concepts, and understand how cultural influences shape design solutions.
3. Sustainability and Environmental Design: Brazil has a growing emphasis on sustainable design practices. Studying M.Des in Brazil provides an opportunity to explore environmentally conscious design solutions and contribute to the global conversation on sustainable design.
4. Cultural Immersion: Brazil offers a unique cultural experience with diverse traditions, festivals, and artistic expressions. Immersing yourself in Brazilian culture can inspire creativity and influence your design perspectives.
5. Global Networking: Brazil attracts students and professionals from around the world. Studying M.Des in Brazil provides an opportunity to build a global network, collaborate with international peers, and engage with diverse perspectives in the field of design.
6. Language Learning: While some M.Des programs in Brazil may be offered in English, many are conducted in Portuguese. Learning the Portuguese language can enhance your communication skills and broaden your ability to work in international design settings.
7. Affordability: Compared to some other countries, the cost of living and tuition fees in Brazil may be more affordable. This makes it an attractive option for international students seeking quality design education without substantial financial burden.
8. Design Research Opportunities: Brazilian universities often engage in design research and contribute to global design scholarship. Pursuing an M.Des in Brazil allows students to participate in research projects, collaborate with faculty members, and contribute to the advancement of design knowledge.
9. Natural Beauty and Inspiration: Brazil is renowned for its natural beauty, including the Amazon rainforest, stunning beaches, and diverse ecosystems. The country's landscapes can serve as a source of inspiration for design projects.
10. Multidisciplinary Approach: Brazilian design education often embraces a multidisciplinary approach. M.Des programs in Brazil may provide opportunities to collaborate with students from various design disciplines, fostering a holistic understanding of design.
University Name |
M.Des Specialization |
Course Duration |
Fees (Annual) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Universidade de São Paulo (USP) |
Product Design, Visual Communication, Fashion Design, and others |
2 years |
Free for local students; fees apply for international students |
|
Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) |
Product Design, Graphic Design, and others |
2 years |
Free for local students; fees apply for international students |
|
Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP) |
Industrial Design, Ergonomics, and others |
2 years |
Free for local students; fees apply for international students |
|
Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC) |
Product Design, Visual Design, and others |
2 years |
Free for local students; fees apply for international students |
|
Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR) |
Design & Technology, Design Process, and others |
2 years |
Free for local students; fees apply for international students |
|
Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio) |
Graphic Design, Product Design, and others |
2 years |
(private institution) |
|
Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC) |
Design, Culture, and Art, and others |
2 years |
Free for local students; fees apply for international students |
|
Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) |
Interaction Design, Design Theory, and others |
2 years |
Free for local students; fees apply for international students |
|
Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) |
Product Design, Visual Communication, and others |
2 years |
Free for local students; fees apply for international students |
|
Universidade Federal do Pernambuco (UFPE) |
Design and Technology, Interaction Design, and others |
2 years |
Free for local students; fees apply for international students |
Main Intake
Secondary Intake
Graduate Programs
International Students
University Name |
M.Des Specializations |
QS World Ranking (2023 or nearest) |
|---|---|---|
|
Universidade de São Paulo (USP) |
Product Design, Visual Communication, Fashion Design, and more |
#121 |
|
Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) |
Product Design, Graphic Design, and more |
#477 |
|
Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP) |
Industrial Design, Ergonomics, and more |
#214 |
|
Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC) |
Product Design, Visual Design, and more |
#801-1000 |
|
Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR) |
Design & Technology, Design Process, and more |
#801-1000 |
|
Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio) |
Graphic Design, Product Design, and more |
#501-510 |
|
Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC) |
Design, Culture, and Art, and more |
Not Ranked |
|
Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) |
Interaction Design, Design Theory, and more |
#601-650 |
|
Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) |
Product Design, Visual Communication, and more |
#801-1000 |
|
Universidade Federal do Pernambuco (UFPE) |
Design and Technology, Interaction Design, and more |
Not Ranked |
Expense Category |
Cost (in Brazilian Reais - BRL) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Tuition Fees (Private Universities) |
20,000 - 50,000 BRL/year |
Fees vary among institutions. Public universities may have lower or no fees for local students. |
|
Accommodation |
800 - 2,500 BRL/month |
Costs vary based on the city and type of accommodation. |
|
Food |
400 - 800 BRL/month |
University canteens or cooking at home can be economical. |
|
Transport |
150 - 300 BRL/month |
Public transportation costs; varies by city. Student discounts may be available. |
|
Personal Expenses |
200 - 500 BRL/month |
Includes leisure, clothes, and other personal expenses. |
|
Books and Supplies |
500 - 1,000 BRL/year |
Depends on the course requirements. |
Total Estimated Monthly Cost (Excluding Tuition for Private Universities): Approximately 1,550 - 4,100 BRL per month.
1. Educational Qualifications: Applicants are typically required to have completed a relevant undergraduate degree in design or a closely related field. The undergraduate degree should be from a recognized institution.
2. Design Portfolio: Many M.Des programs require applicants to submit a portfolio showcasing their previous work, design projects, and any relevant experience in the field of design. The portfolio is often a crucial component of the application and helps demonstrate the applicant's design skills and creativity.
3. Academic Transcripts: Submission of official academic transcripts from the undergraduate design program, demonstrating a strong academic record.
4. Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can speak to the applicant's qualifications, capabilities, and potential for success in the M.Des program.
5. Statement of Purpose: A written statement outlining the applicant's academic and career goals, reasons for pursuing an M.Des in Brazil, and how the program aligns with their aspirations. This statement should provide insights into the applicant's motivations and what they hope to achieve through the program.
6. Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the Portuguese language is often required, especially if the M.Des program is offered in Portuguese. Some programs may be offered in English, and in such cases, proof of proficiency in English (such as IELTS or TOEFL scores) may be necessary.
7. Entrance Examinations or Interviews: Some universities may conduct entrance examinations or interviews to assess the applicant's design skills, knowledge, and motivations for pursuing an M.Des. These assessments may vary by program.
8. Professional Experience (Optional): While not always mandatory, some M.Des programs may prefer or require applicants to have relevant professional experience in the field of design.
9. Research Proposal (if required): If the M.Des program is research-focused, applicants may be required to submit a research proposal outlining the intended focus of their research. This may include the research questions, methodology, and objectives of the proposed study.
10. Visa Requirements: International students will need to comply with visa requirements to study in Brazil. This may include providing proof of acceptance into a recognized M.Des program, proof of financial capability, and other relevant documents.
Application Form: Complete the university's M.Des program application form with accurate and up-to-date information.
Educational Documents:
Design Portfolio: A portfolio showcasing your previous work, design projects, and any relevant experience in the field of design. The portfolio is a critical component of the application and helps demonstrate your design skills and creativity.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can speak to your qualifications, capabilities, and potential for success in the M.Des program.
Statement of Purpose: A written statement outlining your academic and career goals, reasons for pursuing an M.Des in Brazil, and how the program aligns with your aspirations. This statement should provide insights into your motivations and what you hope to achieve through the program.
Language Proficiency: Proof of Language Proficiency: If the M.Des program is offered in Portuguese, provide proof of proficiency in the Portuguese language. This can be demonstrated through language proficiency exams or other recognized language qualifications. If the program is in English, proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores) may be required.
Entrance Examinations or Interviews: If the university conducts entrance examinations or interviews, be prepared to participate in these assessments to demonstrate your design skills, knowledge, and motivations for pursuing an M.Des.
Professional Experience (if applicable): If relevant, documentation of any professional experience in the field of design. Some M.Des programs may prefer or require applicants to have practical experience.
Research Proposal (if required): If the M.Des program is research-focused, you may need to submit a research proposal outlining the intended focus of your research. This may include the research questions, methodology, and objectives of your proposed study.
Passport: A copy of your passport or other official identification.
Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of your studies in Brazil.
Visa Documents: Once accepted, you will need to provide the necessary documents for the student visa application. This may include the acceptance letter, proof of accommodation, and a valid passport.
Passport-sized Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs for identification purposes.
1. CAPES (Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel): CAPES is a Brazilian government agency that offers scholarships for graduate students, including those pursuing master's degrees in design. Explore the CAPES website for information on available programs and eligibility criteria.
2. CNPq (National Council for Scientific and Technological Development): Similar to CAPES, CNPq is another Brazilian government agency that may provide scholarships for graduate students in design. Check the CNPq website for details on available programs and application procedures.
3. University Scholarships: Many Brazilian universities offer scholarships to graduate students, including those in M.Des programs. Check with the financial aid or graduate studies office of the university you are interested in for information on available scholarships.
4. Science Without Borders Program: The Science Without Borders program, launched by the Brazilian government, may offer scholarships for international students, including those in design. While primarily focused on undergraduate studies, it's worth checking for available opportunities for graduate studies.
5. Private Organizations and Foundations: Some private organizations and foundations in Brazil may provide scholarships for graduate students in design. Research and inquire about opportunities from relevant organizations in the design and educational sectors.
6. International Scholarships: Explore scholarships offered by international organizations that support students studying abroad. Organizations such as Fulbright, Chevening, or international foundations may provide opportunities for Brazilian and international students pursuing M.Des programs in Brazil.
7. Design Associations and Professional Organizations: Design associations and professional organizations in Brazil may offer scholarships or financial support for graduate students in design. Check with relevant design associations for potential opportunities.
8. Online Scholarship Platforms: Utilize online scholarship databases and platforms that aggregate information on scholarships for graduate students. Websites like ScholarshipPortal, EduBrazil, or study portals specific to Brazil may list available opportunities.
Graphic Designer (Designer Gráfico):
Product Designer (Designer de Produto):
User Experience (UX) Designer (Designer de Experiência do Usuário):
Interior Designer (Designer de Interiores):
Branding and Communication Designer (Designer de Marca e Comunicação):
Digital Media Designer (Designer de Mídia Digital):
Design Researcher or Academician:
