MA in Fashion & Accessory Design

The MA in Fashion and Accessory Design at HEAD – Genève, Geneva University of Art and Design, trains students to become fully-fledged designers capable of offering new aesthetic impulses within their own label or as part of an established design studio. Its programme focuses on reinforcing creative skills and technical expertise, and fosters dialogues between practice and theory. The course combines workshops and individual tutoring and adapts its content to student’s backgrounds (fashion, accessories or jewellery design).

During the first semester, students participate in the “Studio project”, which introduces them to the workings of a design studio. Under the guidance of an artistic director and industry professionals, students collectively develop a collection with industry requirements in mind. Building on their understanding of a label’s DNA, they develop a personal collection through a comprehensive approach to fashion, experimenting with concepts and positioning themselves through product design and image-making. Students are also introduced to ways of thinking about fashion and develop a critical understanding of it through lectures and writing courses. 

The second year of the MA focuses on students’ graduate collection and theoretical essay (MA thesis). Students consolidate their collection project through styling, scenography and storytelling through various workshops. They also get to learn about the industry with inputs from industry insiders such as buyers, fashion journalists and e xperts on sustainability. By the end of the course, students can convincingly translate an idea, concept or universe into a collection and hold a solid knowledge of the industry. 

Throughout the two years, students meet designers, professionals and theorists from the fashion field (but not limited to). Through various conferences and panel talks, students get to confront and exchange ideas, and discuss the need for systemic change on a number of industry issues. 

Geneva’s international profile and prime position at the centre of Europe add to the Master’s broad outlook and reach. Guest tutors come from all over Europe and bring a diverse range of perspectives and practices to the programme. The school also benefits from the lively art and design scene and its many art galleries, museums and festivals.

The Master programme runs over two years and is taught in French and English. English is a requirement. Full-time, 120 ECTS credits

Teaching language: French and English.

General requirement
Applicants must have a Bachelor degree or equivalent. For information about admission requirements and how to apply click here or contact Lise-Marine Ben Hassel (lise-marine.benhassel [​at​] hesge.ch), T +41 (0) 22 388 51 03).

Tuition fees
The Tuition fee amount is CHF 575 per semester. Other study-related expenses (books, course materials, study trips, etc.) should be expected. These vary from one department to the next and amount on average between CHF 1,000 and 2,000 per year, sometimes more for the last semester (end- of-year project).

Visas and residence permits, accommodation
Students who are not resident in Switzerland must apply for a visa and residence permit independently in order to move to Geneva. Details on the procedure are available on the website of HES-SO Genève, under the heading Student Affairs.

A list of student accommodation is available on the website of HES-SO Genève, under the heading Student Affairs.