Best Design Universities In India To Grow Your Career

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India’s design landscape is evolving rapidly, and so is the demand for quality design education.

If you’re looking to shape your future in UX/UI, industrial design, fashion, or communication design, finding the best design universities in India can be the stepping stone to your success.

These universities not only offer world-class faculty and infrastructure but also help students build strong portfolios and industry connections that matter in the real world.

Whether you’re a creative thinker this Design Journal collection will explore visual storytelling or an innovator keen on human-centred design.

Enrolling in the right design school can refine your skills and help you discover your unique design voice in a competitive industry.

Best design universities in India

When it comes to pursuing a career in design, India is home to some of the best universities that offer outstanding programs.

These institutions provide a perfect blend of creativity, technical skills, and industry exposure to prepare students for the dynamic design landscape.

A. Public design universities  in India

Public design universities in India are known for their rigorous curriculum, affordable education, and the prestige they add to your design career.

These institutions produce some of the most respected designers, innovators, and design thinkers in the country, making them an excellent choice if you’re exploring the best design universities in India for your future.

1. National Institute of Design (NID)

The National Institute of Design (NID), with its main campus in Ahmedabad and additional campuses in Gandhinagar and Bengaluru, is regarded as one of the best design universities in India.

NID offers undergraduate (B.Des), postgraduate (M.Des), and doctoral programs in diverse disciplines, including Industrial Design, Communication Design, Textile and Apparel Design, and more.

NID stands out for its industry-linked projects, exposure to real-world problem-solving, and workshops that encourage design thinking from the ground up.

The curriculum is structured to blend hands-on learning, craft-based modules, and technology-driven design, allowing students to build a strong, well-rounded portfolio by the time they graduate.

The institute also hosts national and international collaborations that expose students to global design standards, preparing them to excel in competitive markets.

2. Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IDC School of Design)

The IDC School of Design at IIT Bombay is a premier design institute and a top contender among the best design universities in India.

It offers Master’s (M.Des) and PhD programs in Industrial Design, Visual Communication, Interaction Design, Animation, and Mobility & Vehicle Design. It also offers a B.Des program under UCEED, attracting top-ranking design aspirants across the country.

IDC’s curriculum balances creativity, engineering, and user-centered design approaches, backed by the tech-driven environment of IIT Bombay.

Students work on collaborative projects with industries and research organizations, building real-world experience that adds depth to their learning.

The institute’s labs are equipped with advanced prototyping and testing tools that allow students to transform their ideas into high-fidelity models and functional prototypes.

3. Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (Department of Design)

The Department of Design at IIT Delhi is a growing hub for design innovation and research, quickly gaining recognition among the best design universities in India.

The department offers a B.Des program, an M.Des in Industrial Design, and PhD opportunities in design, focusing on socially relevant, technology-driven design solutions.

Students at IIT Delhi get to work at the intersection of engineering and design, leveraging IIT’s technological infrastructure to prototype ideas that can address complex problems.

The curriculum emphasises human-centred design, research-driven innovation, and system thinking, preparing students to excel in both the design and tech industries.

Regular workshops, design sprints, and industry projects help students refine their skills and build a professional portfolio even before graduation.

4. National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)

The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) is India’s premier fashion design institute, with multiple campuses across the country, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata.

It consistently ranks among the best design universities in India for those pursuing careers in fashion design, textile design, accessory design, and fashion communication.

NIFT is known for its industry-aligned curriculum, cutting-edge labs for fabric testing and garment manufacturing, and an active placement cell that connects students with top brands in India and abroad.

The institute also encourages participation in design competitions, workshops, and internships, providing exposure to the commercial aspects of design.

NIFT’s diverse environment and interdisciplinary approach ensure that students graduate with an understanding of design, business, and sustainability in the fashion ecosystem.

B. Private design universities in India

Private design universities in India have expanded the landscape of quality design education, offering industry-aligned programs, state-of-the-art labs, and global exposure.

If you are looking for the best design universities in India with a focus on contemporary design, practical learning, and global linkages, these universities can be your launchpad into the design industry.

5. MIT Institute of Design (MIT ID), Pune

MIT Institute of Design (MIT ID), Pune is one of the best design universities in India for Industrial Design, Communication Design, and Fashion Design.

MIT ID is known for its user-centred approach and offers both B.Des and M.Des programs with well-structured modules that include workshops, live projects, and internships.

Students benefit from MIT ID’s industry partnerships, exposure to global design trends, and hands-on labs for rapid prototyping and model making.

The curriculum combines creativity, research, and critical thinking, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for careers in design consultancies and product-based companies.

6. Pearl Academy

Pearl Academy has campuses in Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Bengaluru, and is considered among the best design universities in India for fashion design, interior design, and communication design.

Pearl Academy offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional certificate programs that are globally aligned and industry-oriented.

Pearl’s strong placement cell, global partnerships, and focus on entrepreneurship prepare students to launch their brands or enter top design houses.

The curriculum includes industry projects, global exposure through collaborations, and mentoring from experienced faculty and visiting industry experts.

7. Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design, and Technology (Bangalore)

Srishti Manipal is known for its experimental and research-led approach, making it one of the best design universities in India.

It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in areas such as Human-Centred Design, Digital Media Arts, and Public Space Design.

Srishti’s curriculum emphasises transdisciplinary learning, allowing students to explore intersections between design, technology, and social sciences.

The studio-based culture fosters creativity and critical thinking, encouraging students to work on projects addressing real-world challenges.

8. Unitedworld Institute of Design (UID), Karnavati University

Unitedworld Institute of Design (UID), part of Karnavati University in Gandhinagar, offers B.Des and M.Des programs across disciplines such as Fashion Design, Product Design, Animation, and Visual Communication.

UID’s advanced labs, including VR/AR labs, 3D printing labs, and workshops, ensure students gain practical skills aligned with industry needs.

UID’s curriculum is designed with a focus on hands-on learning, industry projects, and regular masterclasses from industry professionals, making it a top choice among the best design universities in India.

9. Amity University

Amity University offers design programs through its School of Fine Arts and School of Fashion Technology across its campuses in Noida, Mumbai, and other cities.

It offers B.Des and M.Des programs in fashion design, interior design, animation, and product design.

Amity provides exposure through industry tie-ups, design labs, and projects, helping students gain practical knowledge and portfolio-worthy work during their course.

The institution’s wide network and strong alumni base also offer excellent placement support post-graduation.

10. World University of Design (WUD)

World University of Design (WUD) in Sonipat, Haryana, is a dedicated design university offering B.Des, M.Des, BVA, and BBA in Design Strategy.

WUD is one of the best design universities in India focusing on experiential learning, creativity, and innovation.

WUD’s infrastructure includes state-of-the-art labs and workshops, and its curriculum is designed to blend traditional design principles with new-age technology.

Regular industry collaborations and mentorships ensure that students gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry while still studying.

11. Anant National University, Ahmedabad

Anant National University (AnantU) in Ahmedabad offers B.Des and M.Des programs with a focus on sustainable design, urban design, and architecture, establishing its position among the best design universities in India.

It is known for its project-based approach and integration of sustainability into its design curriculum.

AnantU collaborates with design leaders and experts globally, providing opportunities for students to work on live projects with social impact and practical relevance.

Its mentorship-based model ensures personalized guidance for building a career in design.

12. Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD), Delhi

IIAD Delhi, in collaboration with Kingston University, London, offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Communication Design, Fashion Design, and Interior Architecture.

It is rapidly gaining recognition among the best design universities in India due to its international curriculum and studio-based teaching methods.

Students at IIAD work on industry projects, receive mentorship from experienced designers, and have opportunities for internships with leading design studios and brands.

The hands-on learning approach at IIAD ensures that graduates are industry-ready and capable of independent design thinking.

Factors to Pick the Best Design Universities in India

Choosing from the best design universities in India can feel overwhelming with so many options, each offering a unique learning environment. Here are the key factors to consider before finalizing your design school:

Specialization and course structure

Identify your area of interest—be it UX/UI, fashion, industrial, animation, or communication design.

Check whether the university has strong faculty, labs, and industry projects in that domain.

Evaluate the course structure to see if it includes hands-on learning, internships, and exposure to live projects that will build your portfolio.

Faculty and mentorship

Top design universities often have experienced faculty from diverse design backgrounds and industry professionals visiting for workshops.

Faculty mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping your creative thinking and guiding you through your projects and portfolio development.

Infrastructure and labs

Design education is practical and lab-intensive.

Ensure the university has well-equipped labs, prototyping spaces, digital studios, and access to the latest design tools and software to translate your ideas into functional prototypes.

Industry connections and placements

Good design universities have collaborations with industry leaders, agencies, and brands, ensuring students get real-world exposure through internships, competitions, and live projects.

Check placement records and internship opportunities offered by the university to gauge your post-graduation opportunities.

Campus culture and peer learning

Design thrives in collaborative, creative environments.

Visiting the campus, speaking with current students, and attending open days will help you assess whether the university’s culture aligns with your expectations, promoting exploration and creativity.

Alumni network

An active alumni network can be a strong indicator of the university’s reputation in the design industry.

It often helps you find mentorship, internships, and freelance opportunities as you build your design career.

Affordability and location

While many public design universities offer affordable education, private institutions may have higher fees.

Consider your budget, availability of scholarships, and living costs in the city while evaluating your options.

Conclusion

Design education is not just about learning tools; it’s about building a mindset that combines creativity, empathy, and problem-solving.

The best design universities in India will help you develop this mindset while giving you the skills and exposure needed to thrive in a competitive industry.

Whether you aim to become a UX researcher, a product designer, or a fashion innovator, investing time in choosing the right university will shape your path significantly.

From the National Institute of Design’s legacy to the experimental studios of Srishti and the global collaborations at Pearl Academy, India offers world-class design education for every aspirant ready to take their creative journey seriously.

Remember, the right design university will not only give you technical knowledge but also help you discover your unique design voice and build a portfolio that opens doors to the best opportunities in the industry.

Frequently asked questions

Which is India’s No. 1 design college?

The National Institute of Design (NID) Ahmedabad is widely regarded as India’s No. 1 design college, known for its rigorous entrance process, experienced faculty, and industry-focused learning.

It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, making it a top choice among students looking for the best design universities in India to launch their careers.

Which university is best for design?

If you are looking for the best design universities in India, NID Ahmedabad, IDC School of Design at IIT Bombay, and Srishti Manipal are among the top choices.

These institutions are recognized for their academic excellence, infrastructure, and consistent placement records in the design industry.

Which design course is best in India?

The B.Des (Bachelor of Design) program in Industrial Design, Communication Design, and UX/UI Design are currently among the best design courses in India due to their high demand in the market and opportunities for diverse career paths.

Programs at NID, IIT Bombay, and MIT ID Pune are structured to blend creative exploration, human-centred research, and hands-on prototyping, ensuring students are industry-ready upon graduation.

What is the best university to study design?

The National Institute of Design (NID) remains the best university to study design in India, closely followed by IDC School of Design at IIT Bombay and NIFT for fashion design aspirants.

These universities consistently rank at the top for their curriculum, experienced faculty, strong industry connections, and the ability to nurture creative talent, making them the preferred choices for design aspirants across the country.