1. Quality Education: Taiwanese universities are known for offering high-quality education in various fields, including design. Many universities in Taiwan have well-established design departments with experienced faculty members and state-of-the-art facilities.
2. Creative Environment: Taiwan has a vibrant and dynamic creative environment, with a thriving design industry. Being in such a creative ecosystem can provide students with ample opportunities to collaborate, network, and gain exposure to real-world design projects.
3. Diverse Specializations: Taiwanese universities often offer a wide range of specialization options in M.Des programs, allowing students to focus on their specific areas of interest, such as industrial design, graphic design, interaction design, fashion design, and more.
4. Innovative Design Culture: Taiwan has a rich cultural heritage and a strong commitment to design and innovation. Students can be inspired by the blend of traditional aesthetics and contemporary design trends.
5. Affordability: Compared to some other popular study destinations, the cost of living and tuition fees in Taiwan can be relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for international students seeking quality education without breaking the bank.
6. English-Taught Programs: Many Taiwanese universities offer M.Des programs taught in English, making it accessible to international students who may not be fluent in Mandarin or other Chinese languages.
7. Industry Connections: Taiwan is home to numerous design firms, manufacturers, and tech companies, providing ample internship and job opportunities for M.Des graduates. This industry exposure can be invaluable in launching a successful design career.
8. International Exposure: Taiwan's strategic location in East Asia allows students to experience a diverse cultural and global environment. Moreover, Taiwan hosts various international design events and exhibitions, giving students exposure to the broader design world.
9. Scholarship Opportunities: The Taiwanese government and some universities offer scholarships to attract talented international students, providing financial support and recognition for academic excellence.
10. Quality of Life: Taiwan is renowned for its safety, friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes. It offers a high standard of living, making it an attractive destination for students seeking an enriching and enjoyable study abroad experience.
Specialization |
Universities offering the specialization (Example) |
Course Duration |
Tuition Fees (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Industrial Design |
National Taiwan University of Science and Technology |
2 years |
TWD 80,000 - TWD 160,000 |
|
Graphic Design |
National Taiwan University of Arts |
2 years |
TWD 100,000 - TWD 140,000 |
|
Interaction Design |
National Cheng Kung University |
2 years |
TWD 84,000 - TWD 168,000 |
|
Fashion Design |
Shih Chien University |
2 years |
TWD 80,000 - TWD 150,000 |
|
Visual Communication |
National Yunlin University of Science and Technology |
2 years |
TWD 80,000 - TWD 150,000 |
1. Fall Intake: The Fall intake is the primary and most common intake for M.Des programs in Taiwan. The academic year typically begins in September or August, and the application process usually starts several months in advance, often around January to April. Prospective students are required to submit their application materials during this period.
2. Spring Intake: Some universities may also offer a Spring intake for M.Des programs, which starts in February or March. However, the Spring intake is less common than the Fall intake, and not all universities may offer this option. The application period for the Spring intake is usually a few months before the start of the academic year.
University |
M.Des Specializations |
|---|---|
|
National Taiwan University |
Industrial Design, Interaction Design, Visual Communication |
|
National Cheng Kung University |
Industrial Design, Interaction Design |
|
National Taiwan University of Arts |
Graphic Design, Visual Communication |
|
Shih Chien University |
Fashion Design |
|
National Yunlin University of Science and Technology |
Visual Communication |
|
National Taiwan University of Science and Technology |
Industrial Design, Interaction Design, Visual Communication |
|
National Taipei University of Technology |
Industrial Design, Interaction Design |
|
National Tsing Hua University |
Interaction Design |
|
National Chiao Tung University |
Industrial Design, Interaction Design |
|
Feng Chia University |
Industrial Design, Interaction Design |
Expense |
Approximate Cost (in TWD) |
|---|---|
|
Tuition Fees |
80,000 - 180,000 per year |
|
Accommodation |
10,000 - 25,000 per month |
|
Food |
6,000 - 12,000 per month |
|
Transportation |
1,500 - 3,000 per month |
|
Books and Supplies |
2,000 - 5,000 per semester |
|
Health Insurance |
2,000 - 4,000 per year |
|
Miscellaneous (entertainment, personal expenses, etc.) |
5,000 - 10,000 per month |
1. Educational Qualifications: Applicants should have a relevant bachelor's degree or its equivalent in a related field. For M.Des programs, a bachelor's degree in design, visual arts, fine arts, or a related discipline is typically required.
2. Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the language of instruction is necessary. Many universities in Taiwan offer M.Des programs in both English and Chinese (Mandarin). Applicants applying for English-taught programs may be required to provide English proficiency test scores, such as TOEFL or IELTS. For Chinese-taught programs, proof of proficiency in Chinese may be required.
3. Portfolio: A strong portfolio of design work is often required to demonstrate the applicant's creative and design abilities. The portfolio should showcase previous projects, artworks, and designs that highlight the applicant's skills and creativity.
4. Letters of Recommendation: Applicants may be asked to submit letters of recommendation from professors or employers who can attest to their academic and creative capabilities.
5. Statement of Purpose: A statement of purpose or personal statement outlining the applicant's motivation for pursuing an M.Des and their future career goals is usually required.
6. Entrance Examinations: Some universities in Taiwan may require applicants to take entrance examinations to assess their design skills and knowledge.
7. Interview: Applicants may be required to participate in an interview, either in person or through video conferencing, to discuss their motivation and suitability for the M.Des program.
1. Application Form: The university's official application form for the M.Des program, which can usually be completed online or downloaded from the university's website.
2. Educational Transcripts: Official transcripts or academic records from all previous educational institutions attended, including the bachelor's degree and any relevant design-related courses.
3. Bachelor's Degree Certificate: A copy of the bachelor's degree certificate or diploma.
4. Language Proficiency Test Scores: If the M.Des program is taught in English, applicants may need to provide English proficiency test scores such as TOEFL or IELTS. For Chinese-taught programs, proof of Chinese language proficiency may be required.
5. Portfolio: A portfolio showcasing the applicant's design work, creative projects, and artworks. The portfolio should demonstrate the applicant's design skills, creativity, and potential.
6. Letters of Recommendation: Usually, two or three letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or professionals familiar with the applicant's academic and design abilities.
7. Statement of Purpose: A statement of purpose or personal statement explaining the applicant's motivations for pursuing the M.Des program, career goals, and how the program aligns with their interests.
8. CV/Resume: A detailed curriculum vitae (CV) or resume outlining the applicant's educational background, work experience, and design-related achievements.
9. Entrance Examination Results: If the university requires an entrance examination, applicants must provide the results.
10. Passport Copy: A copy of the applicant's passport or other valid identification.
11. Application Fee: Some universities may require an application fee to process the application.
1. Taiwan Scholarship: The Taiwan Scholarship is a government-funded scholarship awarded to outstanding international students. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and round-trip airfare. The scholarship is available for students pursuing master's programs, including M.Des, in Taiwan.
2. TaiwanICDF Scholarship: The TaiwanICDF Scholarship is provided by the International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF). It offers financial support to students from partner countries to pursue master's programs, including M.Des, in Taiwan. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances.
3. Taipei Tech International Scholarship: Taipei Tech (National Taipei University of Technology) offers scholarships to outstanding international students enrolling in their M.Des and other programs. The scholarship may cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other related costs.
4. Shih Chien University Scholarship: Shih Chien University offers scholarships to international students pursuing master's programs, including M.Des. The scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and may cover tuition fees or living expenses.
5. National Taiwan University Scholarships: NTU and other universities in Taiwan often provide scholarships to international students based on academic excellence and achievements. These scholarships may support M.Des students with partial or full tuition fee waivers.
6. College/Departmental Scholarships: Some universities offer scholarships specifically for students enrolled in M.Des programs within specific colleges or departments. These scholarships may have varying eligibility criteria and benefits.
7. Country-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships may be available to students from specific countries through bilateral agreements or partnerships between Taiwan and their home countries.
1. Graphic Designer: Graphic designers create visual concepts and designs for various media, including print and digital platforms. Salary for entry-level graphic designers in Taiwan can range from TWD 25,000 to TWD 40,000 per month.
2. Industrial Designer: Industrial designers work on the design and development of consumer products, electronics, furniture, and other industrial goods. Entry-level industrial designers may earn a monthly salary of TWD 30,000 to TWD 45,000.
3. UX/UI Designer: UX/UI designers focus on creating user-friendly interfaces and experiences for websites, mobile apps, and software. Salaries for UX/UI designers in Taiwan typically start at around TWD 35,000 to TWD 50,000 per month.
4. Fashion Designer: Fashion designers design clothing, footwear, and accessories. Salaries for entry-level fashion designers can range from TWD 25,000 to TWD 40,000 per month.
5. Interior Designer: Interior designers plan and design interior spaces for residential and commercial properties. Entry-level interior designers may earn a monthly salary of TWD 25,000 to TWD 40,000.
6. Web Designer/Developer: Web designers and developers create and maintain websites. Entry-level web designers/developers may earn around TWD 25,000 to TWD 40,000 per month.
7. Product Designer: Product designers focus on designing and developing new products or improving existing ones. Salaries for entry-level product designers can start at TWD 30,000 to TWD 45,000 per month.
