Escola Superior de Artes e Design

Escola Superior de Artes e Design (ESAD) in Matosinhos, Portugal, is a distinguished institution with a 35-year history, specializing in Design and Digital Arts and Multimedia. It is recognized for its strong faculty, modern facilities, and a commitment to fostering creative professionals. ESAD actively engages in cultural activities and positions itself at the heart of design culture.

Academics

ESAD Matosinhos offers a range of programs including pre-bachelor's degrees, bachelor's degrees, and master's degrees in various areas of arts and humanities, with a strong focus on applied arts, classics, design, fine arts, and visual arts. The curriculum emphasizes blending theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students for contemporary industry demands. Notable programs include Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Fashion Design, Interior Design, and Digital Arts, all designed to equip students with relevant skills for their respective fields. The institution promotes collaborative and interdisciplinary learning, with students often engaging in real-world challenges and industry collaborations.

International Students

ESAD has a strong international presence, boasting partnerships with approximately 180 higher education institutions across five continents, facilitating student, teacher, and staff mobility. The institution welcomes around 50 international students each semester, valuing the diverse perspectives they bring. Support services for international students include assistance with the Erasmus+ exchange program, which offers benefits like personal development, global skill enhancement, and career advantages. International applicants are eligible for enrollment, and ESAD provides administrative services and a general guide to help with cultural integration and academic regulations.

Campus & Location

ESAD Matosinhos is situated in an urban setting, with its main building conveniently located 180 meters from a Metro station, 4 km from the Cruise Terminal, and 9 km from Francisco Sá Carneiro International Airport. Matosinhos itself is a coastal city known for its cultural activity, architectural richness, diverse gastronomy, and sea sports along its 12 km coastline. Students can enjoy city life with easy access to Porto via the metro system or an efficient bus network. Nearby attractions include the expansive Matosinhos Beach, popular for surfing and sunbathing, the historic Castelo do Queijo, and the bustling Mercado Municipal, famous for fresh seafood.

Career Outcomes

ESAD emphasizes developing cross-disciplinary skills to prepare students for the job market. The Students' Career Office provides support by connecting students and alumni with the professional world, helping to identify skills and define career objectives. The institution fosters strategic partnerships to enhance integration into the labor market and offers individualized support for students approaching companies, particularly at the master's level. ESAD alumni have found success in leading design and technology companies such as IDEO and Logitech, and their work has been featured in international exhibitions and collections. The esad-design [cluster], located in the Matosinhos Market, promotes entrepreneurship and innovation, supporting creators and companies with spaces and services, and fostering the creation of sustainable business models.