Study design in France - 10 institutions

• Access to some of the world's most famous museums and historical sites.
• Exposure to a different cultural perspective.
• Learning from a faculty of experienced professionals working in the field. 
• An opportunity to develop creative skills and to understand how to build beautiful and functional spaces. 
• One of the valuable assets that French universities have to offer is a strong focus on aesthetics and harmonious spaces created through the field of interior design. That is of particular importance to students interested in residential or commercial design. 
• The technology and materials that are made available for students pursuing design studies are always of a high quality. 
• There is the networking opportunity with other students around the world with similar interests in interior design. 

Institutions that teach creative professions are divided into three types: universities, higher schools and specialized schools. Each can be public or private, all of them have their own specifics of admission of students:

• University: Entrance exams are often not required, but one certificate will not be enough for admission. To enter a university immediately after school, you need to apply through the website of the French State Agency for the Promotion of French Higher Education Abroad. In addition, applicants can apply directly to the university.
• Higher school: to enter it, you need to pass entrance exams, sometimes this procedure is replaced by a competition for applications with a portfolio. Education in such universities in creative specialties is always implemented on a paid basis, and the cost can reach €20,000 per year and more.
• Specialized schools: admission requires passing an application competition (with a portfolio), entrance exams or an interview. Sometimes an applicant needs to go through all three stages. For successful admission, the candidate must have a basic art education, a portfolio of works and a good level of French. Often, a specialized school conducts two-year training courses, after attending which the chances of admission are much higher.

Creative specialties in France are divided into three main areas: design, art and communication, depending on the chosen direction and the number of years of study, students receive different diplomas. For example, the DNAT (diplôme national d'arts et techniques) — a national diploma for those who studied in the field of design or communication — is issued after three years of study. A diploma tells employers that they have a specialist in product design, space design, graphic design, or textile design. With this type of diploma, you can safely start working.

1. École des Beaux-Arts

Globally recognized as a top-tier institution for art and design, École des Beaux-Arts provides diverse design programs, encompassing graphic, fashion, and industrial design. Its rich history and focus on artistic tradition make it a desirable option for aspiring designers. While known for its rigorous academic environment and elevated educational standards, the school attracts students from all over the world, including those from the United States, who go on to shape American architectural history.

2. Strate School of Design (Sèvres)

For nearly three decades, Strate School of Design has cultivated future designers. Graduates emerge as forward-thinking individuals, innovators, and change-makers, shaping future systems and services. A leading design school in France and Europe since 2017, it offers 12 courses, from Bachelor's to integrated Bachelor's/Master's programs in fields like Product and Transportation Design, Communication Design, and Corporate Identity. The school provides a multicultural, interdisciplinary learning environment, emphasizing professional growth and a global perspective. With a strong industry focus, the curriculum ensures graduates meet industry demands and contribute to overall societal progress through innovation.

3. École Nationale Supérieure de Création Industrielle

Established in 1982, the National Higher School of Industrial Creativity, overseen by both the Ministries of Culture and Industry, is France's national institution dedicated to industrial creativity and design. Holding national and international acclaim, it ranks highly among French art and design schools, securing a prominent position in global rankings. The school provides initial training leading to degrees in textile and industrial design, with options to pursue Master's degrees. Additionally, it offers specialized Master's programs in science and research/design for continuing education.

4. Art & Design Life school Paris

Art & Design Life school Paris serves as an international hub for specialized design and arts education, offering advanced training and pre-university preparation. The school employs a distinctive teaching approach, equipping students with essential practical, technical, intellectual, and innovative skills. Beyond fundamental skills, the curriculum integrates knowledge in psychology and other areas to foster comprehensive engagement with the surrounding environment, nurturing innovative ideas for historical heritage preservation, revitalization, and adaptation to modern needs.

5. Ecole Supérieure de Design de Troyes

This private higher school in France consolidates art and design teaching and research. The school provides a degree in project design, fostering a strong creative and technical foundation applicable to product, interior, and visual communication design projects. The Master's program focuses on design management within companies. Additionally, a certified short Graphic Design course equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for performing a certain role or activity in the professional sector.