Master's Programs in Spain for International Students
- Master's Programs in Spain
- Studying for a Master's Degree in Spain
- Advantages of a Master's Degree in Spain
- Disadvantages of a Master's Degree in Spain
- Top Universities in Spain
- Cost of Master's Programs in Spain
- Scholarships and Grants for Master's Programs in Spain
- How to Apply for a Master's Degree in Spain?
- Working During Studies
- Job Search After Completing a Master's Degree
- Conclusion
Master - International Management
Geneva Business SchoolA Master of International Management can be earned in one and a half years of full-time study, and it will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective manager in today's dynamic global economy. In addition to learning cutting-edge theory in the classroom, you'll have the opportunity…
Master - Management
EU Business SchoolThe world is undergoing rapid political, economic, social, and technical transformation. Adapting to and shaping these intricate shifts will demand novel styles of leadership. This course delves into what it means to be a true leader in the modern period, including topics such as operational and marketing…
Master - Marketing
EU Business SchoolConsumers' level of sophistication is growing alongside the market's volatility. More than ever, businesses need marketing gurus that can think outside the box and apply fresh strategies.
This curriculum examines the latest marketing approaches and theories from a variety of angles, providing…
Master - Finance
EU Business SchoolThere are shifting financial tenets. Understanding and navigating the increasingly complicated world of finance is more crucial than ever in light of recent changes in legislation and attitudes toward ethics. Asset pricing, portfolio management, derivative securities, and the basics of blockchain…
Master - Tourism & Hospitality Management
EU Business SchoolTourism is the fastest expanding industry because of the globalization of the world. Businesses in the modern day need executives who can foresee the future, think creatively, and have an entrepreneurial spirit in order to adapt to rapid technological and customer shifts.
Students in this…
Master - Innovation & Entrepreneurship
EU Business SchoolManagers need an entrepreneurial spirit to adapt and thrive in today's rapidly evolving business environment, driven by fierce competition in global marketplaces. This course looks at what it takes to be an entrepreneur, how to foster an environment conducive to creativity and new venture formation,…
Master - Digital Business
EU Business SchoolThe shift to digital is no longer a theoretical concept, but rather a foundational fact. To keep up with the rapid rate at which the business world is getting digitalized, many organizations are on the lookout for "digital visionaries." This course delves into the conceptual underpinnings, operational…
Master - Fashion & Luxury Business
EU Business SchoolThe fashion and luxury goods sector has been vital to human progress for ages. This curriculum trains students to represent a brand by teaching them how to operate a business and how consumers feel about high-end goods, with an emphasis on design and originality.
Students will gain an in-depth…
Master - Digital Marketing, Transformation & Design Thinking
EU Business SchoolBusinesses are undergoing a rapid digital transition, and customers are becoming more informed, demanding, and discerning as a result.
Students will leave the program with the ability to create successful digital marketing campaigns, apply a strategic approach to planning digital transformation,…
Master - Business Analytics & Data Science
EU Business SchoolBusiness analytics and data science professionals are in high demand because of the profound impact that technological advancements have had on the way companies operate. The curriculum takes a practical approach to teaching students the fundamentals of data science by exposing them to state-of-the-art…
Master's Degree in Spain
Every year, Spain becomes an increasingly popular destination for international students. There are many reasons for this: from the dynamically developing higher education system and tuition fees to the attractive mild climate.
In this article, we will delve into why it is worth choosing Spain for obtaining a master's degree, how to apply for master's programs, how much they cost, and what the employment prospects are after graduation.
Studying for a Master's in Spain
A master’s degree in Spain (Spanish: Máster Universitario) is the second level of higher education, lasting from 1 to 2 years and including 60 to 120 ECTS credits. Spanish master's programs are aimed at in-depth study of a specialty and often include research work, which can become the basis for entering a doctoral program, as well as integrating theoretical knowledge with practice. Programs include internships and projects that allow students to apply their skills in real work environments. Master's programs in Spain are often supported by close ties with businesses, especially in fields such as tourism, IT, engineering, and medicine, providing students with valuable opportunities to establish professional connections.
There are over 2,000 master’s programs in Spain, and about 30% of them are taught in English, making the country attractive for international students looking to deepen their knowledge and gain international experience.
Advantages of Studying for a Master's in Spain
- Prestigious universities and programs. Spanish master's programs are featured in global rankings of the best programs, ensuring high teaching standards and access to international research resources.
- Flexible tuition costs. In public universities, annual tuition can range from 1,000 to 3,500 euros for EU students and from 4,000 to 8,000 euros for non-EU students.
- Programs taught in English and Spanish. Students can choose their language of study and use their time at university to improve their Spanish, which is beneficial for employment in Spanish-speaking countries. Spanish is recognized as the second most widely spoken language in international communication.
- Cultural enrichment and access to European networks. Spain participates in exchange programs such as Erasmus+ and actively promotes intercultural interaction.
- Scholarships and grants. International students can apply for government and private scholarships, such as Becas de Colaboración and Becas de Excelencia, which can cover part or all of the tuition fees.
- Connections with employers. Master’s programs in Spain offer internships organized with university support, helping students integrate into the professional environment and start their careers in Spain or other European countries.
Disadvantages of Studying for a Master's in Spain
- Competition in the job market. While a master's degree provides opportunities to work in Spain, knowledge of Spanish is often a key requirement for employment, and job market competition is high due to the persistently high unemployment rate in the country.
- Cost of living in major cities. Living in cities like Barcelona and Madrid can be expensive compared to other regions.
- Bureaucratic procedures. Applying for a visa, admission, and credential recognition can require time and patience.
- Limited number of programs in English. Although their number is growing, the choice of English-taught programs is still limited compared to those taught in Spanish. National languages like Catalan, Galician, and Basque may also be used in the educational process.
- Traditional approach to learning. Some universities emphasize lectures and theoretical education, which may not suit students who prefer more interactive and practical teaching methods.
Top Universities in Spain
Master’s programs in Spain are strongest in the humanities, social sciences, business, and tourism fields. Spain boasts strong MBA programs taught at business schools featured in the QS rankings, such as IE Business School.
| University | QS Ranking 2024 | THE Ranking 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| University of Barcelona | 178 | 201-250 |
| Autonomous University of Barcelona | 209 | 186 |
| Autonomous University of Madrid | 215 | 251-300 |
| Complutense University of Madrid | 226 | 401-500 |
| Polytechnic University of Catalonia | 343 | 501-600 |
| University of Navarra | 251-300 | 251-300 |
| Pompeu Fabra University (Barcelona) | 248 | 201-250 |
| University of Zaragoza | 601-650 | 801-1000 |
Cost of Master's Programs in Spain
The cost of a master's degree in Spain depends on several factors: the type of university (public or private), the study program, and the region. Programs taught in English may be more expensive, especially specialized or international programs.
Average Cost of Master's Programs by Field
| Field | Public Universities (€ per year) | Private Universities (€ per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Business and Management | 1,200 - 4,000 | 8,000 - 15,000 |
| Engineering and Technology | 1,500 - 4,500 | 9,000 - 16,000 |
| Information Technology | 1,800 - 5,000 | 10,000 - 14,000 |
| Medicine and Healthcare | 2,000 - 6,000 | 12,000 - 18,000 |
| Hospitality and Tourism | 1,500 - 4,000 | 9,000 - 12,000 |
| Law | 1,500 - 4,500 | 8,000 - 13,000 |
| Social and Humanities | 1,000 - 3,500 | 7,000 - 10,000 |
Scholarships and Grants for Master's Studies in Spain
Spain is not widely known for a vast variety of scholarship programs, especially for students who do not speak Spanish. However, there are scholarships and grants available for international students offered by universities, the Spanish government, as well as international and private organizations.
Spanish Government Scholarships
Becas de Colaboración — a scholarship program offered by the Spanish Ministry of Education, supporting students completing their bachelor's or starting their master's degree. It encourages student participation in research or academic activities through collaboration with professors and departments. The scholarship is about 2,000-2,500 euros per academic year.
General Scholarships for Studies of Post-Secondary Level (Becas Generales para estudios postobligatorios) — a program for students in post-secondary education, including bachelor's and master's levels, supporting students with limited financial resources.
University Scholarships
- Universidad de Salamanca: Scholarships for undergraduate and master's students.
- Universidad de Barcelona: Several programs, including research scholarships for master's students.
- Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM): Funding for international students.
Erasmus+ Scholarships
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) — a program offering students the opportunity to study in joint international master's programs at various European universities, including Spain.
Scholarships for Specific Programs
Many master's and postgraduate programs offer scholarships or grants, such as for MBA or technical specialty students.
How to Apply for a Master's in Spain?
Applying for a master's degree in Spain requires several steps, including choosing a program, preparing documents, and meeting application deadlines. Specific requirements are set by universities.
- Choosing a Program and University
- Entry Requirements
- Degree Recognition (Homologación)
- Required Documents
- Application form
- Diploma and transcript
- Motivation letter
- Recommendations
- Resume (CV)
- Language certificate
- Copy of passport
- Exam results (GMAT/GRE)
- Submitting the Application
- Interview/Internal University Exam
- Receiving the Decision
Research programs and select a master's program that matches your interests.
Academic qualification: A bachelor's degree recognized in Spain.
Language requirements: DELE certificate (B2+) or TOEFL/IELTS (B2+) for English-taught programs.
Degrees obtained abroad may need recognition (homologación).
Deadlines: January to May.
Application fee: Around 150 euros.
Working While Studying
International students can work in Spain, but there are restrictions that must be followed to comply with the law.
Work Permit
A permit is required, which must be arranged by the employer. This is a formal process, but without it, the student may be in violation of the law.
Work Hour Restrictions
Up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, full-time during holidays.
Types of Work for Students
- Part-time work
- Internships
Minimum Wage
Approximately 1,100 euros per month for full-time work. If working 20 hours per week, earnings will be proportionally lower.
Taxes and Social Contributions
Taxes are withheld from wages, which must be taken into account.
Obtaining an NIE
Required for work and opening a bank account.
Job Search After Completing a Master's Degree
The high unemployment rate makes job hunting challenging. Knowledge of Spanish, recommendations, and professional experience increase the chances of employment. Students can apply for a job search visa valid for up to 24 months.
Conclusion
Studying for a master's in Spain is an excellent opportunity to gain quality education and develop international connections while keeping tuition and living costs reasonable.