PIGMENTS international master's programme
Two academic years across four academic institutions in Europe and Canada, focused on sustainable paints and coatings technologies.
Thematic areas of study
Four interconnected domains that shape the curriculum.
Sustainable materials
Low-impact raw materials, biobased coatings, eco-design and LCA
Advanced characterization
Nanostructured materials, surface engineering, experimental methods
Digital tools & AI
Data-driven design, Industry 4.0, modelling and smart experimentation
Innovation & entrepreneurship
Project-based learning, business models, IP, professional skills
How the programme unfolds
Two academic years across academic institutions. Students move between countries, working on project-based challenges across the full life cycle of coatings — from raw materials and manufacturing to application, durability and environmental impact.
Semester-by-semester
Foundations in paints and coatings
Rheology of paints and coatings, surface technology and adhesion, materials design and selection, polymeric and organic chemistry. Project-based unit on product development in industrial contexts.
EIA Atlântica · Lisbon, Portugal
Advanced formulation and sustainable coating technologies
Paints formulation, powder paints, UV-curing coatings, Industry 4.0, sustainable development, life-cycle analysis and eco-conception. Project-based learning connecting classroom knowledge with industrial practice.
ITECH Lyon · Lyon, France
Advanced characterization of paints and coatings
Intensive hands-on training in state-of-the-art characterization and testing methods. Students work in advanced laboratories, interpret complex datasets and link characterization results with performance, durability and environmental impact.
UdeS · Sherbrooke, Canada
Innovation, nanotechnology and sustainable materials
Surface and interface engineering, applied nanotechnology, biopolymers, sustainable process design, data-driven design of bioinspired materials. Capstone project integrating technical, digital and sustainability aspects.
UNIZG FCET · Zagreb, Croatia
Master's thesis
Original research or innovation project in sustainable paints and coatings, preparing graduates for careers across the global coatings ecosystem.
Any partner university · depending on thesis topic and supervision
Common questions answered
Find answers to questions about the programme and admission process.
When does the programme launch?
The first cohort is expected to begin in autumn 2028. Final confirmation will be announced following accreditation approval from all partner institutions.
How does the mobility scheme work?
Students study at different partner institutions across the two years, with defined semesters at each location. The summer school brings all students together for intensive training.
What are the admission requirements?
Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science or a related field. English language proficiency is required.
Is the programme accredited?
The programme is planned to undergo accreditation review by the relevant European higher education bodies. Full details will be available once the process is complete.
Can I work during the programme?
The programme’s intensive curriculum and mobility requirements leave only limited scope for external employment. Students should therefore plan to dedicate most of their time to academic activities, including coursework, project work, and periods of study abroad. Scholarships are expected to be available for future cohorts. For scholarship holders, the financial support is intended to cover living expenses, so external employment should not be necessary.
What career paths does PIGMENTS prepare for?
Graduates are prepared for roles in formulation, research and development, sustainability consulting, quality assurance and technical management within the coatings industry.
How is the thesis conducted?
The fourth semester thesis is an individual research project supervised by faculty at one of the partner institutions, often in collaboration with industry.
What languages are taught?
All instruction is in English. Some partner institutions may offer optional language courses in their local language.
Begin your journey with PIGMENTS
Programme currently in development.
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