Master of Lighting Design

Aalborg University
Lighting Design
Masters
Arts & Humanities
Public University
Denmark

The MSc in Lighting Design explores natural and artificial light by combining architecture, media technology and engineering. It is a two-year programme taught in English at the Copenhagen campus, starting in September. Teaching is problem-based and project-oriented, so students learn by designing and testing lighting solutions in groups. The programme covers lighting fundamentals, human perception, digital light simulation and the psychological effects of light, preparing students to create physical and virtual lighting environments in buildings, urban spaces and landscapes. The mix of artistic, technical and human-centred perspectives distinguishes it from purely engineering or design degrees.

Course Details

Category	Details
Time	Full Time
Campus	Copenhagen
Duration	2
Deadline-Date	23-November,15-june,
Fee Per Year	114400
Application Fee	780
Currency	dkk
Intake Link	https://www.en.aau.dk/education/apply/master/how-and-when-to-apply
Deadline Link	https://www.en.aau.dk/education/apply/master/how-and-when-to-apply
Intakes	February
Program language requirement	All applicants applying for a Master's programme offered in English must prove that their English level is equivalent to level B (Danish level) in English. Danish level B in English compares to: New English requirements from the September 2025 intake: IELTS (including IELTS Online) (academic test): 6.5 overall band score with a minimum score of 6.0 in each section, TOEFL iBT (internet-based + Home Edition): 85 with a minimum score of 20 in each section, C2 Proficiency (CPE): 180/ level C1, C1 Advanced (CAE): 180/ grade C, ECPE: Passed test including certificate,

Who can Choose this program?

4-year Bachelor’s degree (16 years of education) in Architecture, Design, Architectural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Lighting Design, Theatre/Stage Design, or a related field from a HEC-recognized university.

Additional Information

Category	Details
Scope of the program	Graduates can work with consulting engineers, designers, architects, developers, media production companies and event companies. The page lists potential employers in Denmark and abroad, including Arup, Louis Poulsen, Tivoli and Henning Larsen Architects. Students can complete an internship in Denmark or abroad with a company, public institution or professional organisation, and they can spend a semester abroad, with AAU helping with placement. Past students have studied in the US, Australia, Spain, Italy, Germany, England, Sweden and France. These experiences help graduates build an international network in the lighting field.
Program entry requirement	The following Bachelor’s degrees are deemed qualified for admission to this Master’s programme: Architecture and Design, Aalborg University Art and Technology, Aalborg University Sustainable Design, Aalborg University Medialogy, Aalborg University Architecture, Royal Danish Academy - Architecture, Design, Conservation Design Education, Royal Danish Academy- Architecture, Design, Conservation Architecture, Aarhus School of Architecture Landscape Architecture, KU Architectural Engineering, Technical University of Denmark Industrial Design, Design School Kolding Humanities and Technology, Roskilde University Please note that the following bachelor's degree is no longer deemed qualified for admission from the intake 2026: Architectural Technology and Construction Management, KEA/VIA Even though your bachelor’s degree is deemed qualified for admission, please note that this master’s programme has restricted admission and therefore your application will be prioritized based on the selection criteria stated below. Is your bachelor's degree not listed as qualifying? If your bachelor’s degree is not listed as a direct qualifying programme, you can still apply for admission. When you apply, the study board of the specific Master’s programme will make an individual academic assessment of your bachelor’s degree according to the admission requirements in ECTS mentioned below. If your bachelor’s degree is not listed as a direct qualifying programme you can still apply for admission. When you apply, the study board of the specific master’s programme will make an individual academic assessment of your bachelor’s degree according to the admission requirements in ECTS as stated below: Minimum of 30 ECTS within the area of Design or 30 ECTS within the area of Architecture or 30 ECTS within the area of Media Technology/Engineering. Please note that it is not possible to take supplementary courses in order to meet the requirements. Even though your bachelor’s degree is deemed qualified for admission, please note that this master’s programme has restricted admission and therefore your application will be prioritized based on the selection criteria stated below. Pre-assessments Aalborg University does not pre-assess applications for admission. This means that academic assessments are carried out only when an application for admission is submitted.
Required GPA	Bachelor’s: CGPA of 2.5 or equivalent (may vary by program).
GRE Required	No. GRE scores are not required for admission to this programme; admission is based on a relevant bachelor's degree, programme-specific requirements and proof of English proficiency.
GMAT Required	No. GMAT scores are not required for admission to this programme.
Application Process	Application Process: University Application Documents • Completed university application form • All academic transcripts (officially translated into English or Danish) • Passport/Travel document • ID Photo • CV • LoM / SOP (Letter of Motivation / Statement of Purpose) • Proof of English/Danish language proficiency • Proof of financial support • Any other required documents depending on the University (e.g., references, medical certificates) 2. Attestation & Legalization (For Visa ONLY – Not for University Application) • Legalization of educational documents is a must for Visa Apply not for applying in University. (Depends case to case) • Attestation from IBCC, HEC and MOFA is also mandatory for Visa application but not for applying in university. (Depends case to case) 3. Visa Fee & Financial Requirements • Visa fee: 334 Euros • Bank Statement: 11k Euros • Bank statement age: 6 months old • Sponsor: Self or Parents
Available Scholarships	https://studyabroadupdates.com/aalborg-university-phd-scholarship/
Program accreditation	Aalborg University holds positive institutional accreditation from the Danish Accreditation Institution (Akkrediteringsinstitutionen), which means its degree programmes are quality-assured and state-recognised under the Danish higher education system. The programme page does not list a separate programme-specific or international accreditation.
Living expenses	Living Expenses in Denmark • Monthly Budget: Generally ranges from DKK 6,000 to DKK 10,000 (~€800 to €1,350). Copenhagen is significantly more expensive than regional cities. • Upfront Costs: Expect a heavy initial cash layout—landlords frequently require 3 months of rent as a deposit plus the first month's rent upfront. • Visa Proof of Funds: You must show access to roughly €11,000 to €13,000 in a bank account under your name to satisfy SIRI visa requirements for the first year. • Perk: Public healthcare is 100% free once you receive your CPR number.
Visa Process Details	Visa Checklist 1. Paper/Online Application Form (Online Preferred) 2. SIRI Processing Fee Receipt 3. Travel Document / Passport 4. Previous Visa History Documents (if any) 5. Recent ID Photos (recent, white background, no headwear) 6. All Academic Transcripts 7. Previous Work Experience (if any) 8. Original CNIC & Family Registration Certificate issued by NADRA (in English) 9. Police Character Certificate 10. Medical and Travel Insurance (covers €30,000 in Schengen Area) 11. Proof of English/Danish Language Proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL) 12. Verification of payment for studies provided by the educational establishment 13. Proof of Accommodation and Flight Reservation (both ways) 14. LOM / SOP 15. Financial Means Proof: Bank statement for the last six months in your own name or your guardian's name, containing funds to support your stay – €914 per month. You must multiply the amount by the number of months you will be studying in a higher educational program in Denmark (for a maximum of 12 months, approximately €11,000). However, the bank statement must not be older than 30 days. 16. The Consular might ask for additional documents if found necessary.
Part timework	Part-Time Work in Denmark • Hours: Non-EU students can work up to 90 hours per month during semesters and full-time in June, July, and August. • Average Pay: High hourly wages, typically DKK 130 to DKK 200 (~€17 to €27) depending on the sector. • Essentials: Requires a CPR number (residence registration), a NemKonto (bank account), and a Tax Card (Skattekort) to avoid a default 55% tax rate.
Post-study work opportunity	Post-Study Work Opportunities • 3-Year Job-Seeking Permit: Automatically granted or easily accessible upon graduating from an accredited Danish higher education program. • Work Rights: You can continue working part-time (90 hours/month) while searching for a career-level role. • Switching to a Full Work Visa: Once you find a full-time professional job, you can transition smoothly into a regular work permit via fast-track systems like the Pay Limit Scheme (minimum salary requirement applies) or the Positive List (shortage occupations).

What are the entry requirements for the MSc in Lighting Design at Aalborg University?

To be eligible for the MSc in Lighting Design, applicants must hold a 4-year Bachelor's degree (16 years of education) in fields such as Architecture, Design, Architectural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Lighting Design, or Theatre/Stage Design. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of English proficiency equivalent to Danish level B in English.

How long does the MSc in Lighting Design program last?

The MSc in Lighting Design program has a duration of 2 years and is offered as a full-time course at the Copenhagen campus, starting in September.

What is the tuition fee for the MSc in Lighting Design at Aalborg University?

The tuition fee for the MSc in Lighting Design is DKK 114,400 per year, with an application fee of DKK 780 required upon submission of the application.

Can I work while studying for the MSc in Lighting Design in Denmark?

Yes, non-EU students can work up to 90 hours per month during the semesters and full-time during June, July, and August. Students are required to obtain a CPR number, a NemKonto (bank account), and a Tax Card to work legally.

Are there post-study work opportunities available after completing the MSc in Lighting Design?

Yes, graduates automatically receive a 3-year job-seeking permit upon graduating from an accredited Danish higher education program. They can also work part-time while searching for a full-time career-level role, and transition to a full work visa easily upon securing a job.