B. DESIGN – Paving the Way to a Creative Career
- 24/01/2025
- Dr. Rachna Kale
- 0
Introduction:
The Bachelor of Design (B.Des) is a multidisciplinary undergraduate program that merges creativity, technology, and practical knowledge to prepare students for the dynamic world of design. It’s a course tailored for those who are passionate about bringing innovative ideas to life through aesthetics and functionality, offering students the opportunity to explore the impact of design across various industries.
In a B.Des course, you’ll delve into a combination of creative techniques, advanced technology, and real-world insights, all while defining your signature style and vision. It’s not merely about learning design; it’s about embracing how design transforms society and finding your place in that change.
Course:
The Bachelor of Design (B. Des) is a highly regarded undergraduate degree in the design field. This four-year, full-time program offers students the chance to specialize in various areas such as Fashion Design, Interior Design, Accessory Design, Textile Design, Graphic Design, Multimedia Design, VFX Design, Visual Communication, and Game Design.
Eligibility: Bachelor of Design
In terms of academic criteria, here’s what you’ll need to apply for this programme:
- Fluency in English (if the medium of instruction is English).
- Qualify the minimum entry scores set by the institution as well as any other prerequisites for preferred majors.
- Pass 10+2 or an equivalent exam in any stream from a recognised board.
- 50% minimum percentage criteria in the entrance exam are required in some institutions for admission in the B. Des course.
General Fees Structure For B.Design Course In India :
The fees for a Bachelor of Design (B.Des) course in India can vary depending on the institution, the type of course (government or private), and the specialization chosen. On average, the fees for a B.Des course range between:
- Government Institutes: ₹40,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year.
Some top public institutions such as the National Institute of Design (NID), Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) offering design programs, or National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) may have fees on the higher end of the spectrum.
- Private Institutes: ₹2,00,000 to ₹8,00,000 per year.
Prestigious private institutions such as Srishti School of Art, Design, and Technology, Pearl Academy, and UPES have relatively higher fees compared to government colleges.
These fees may include tuition, laboratory fees, infrastructure costs, and other charges. Additionally, students may need to consider extra costs for materials, workshops, or international exposure programs, if applicable. Scholarships or financial aid might also be available depending on the institution.
Specializations in B. Design Courses
The B. Design curriculum often allows students to specialize in their area of interest. Some popular specializations include:
- B.Des. (Interior and Space Design): Craft functional and visually pleasing interior spaces where form seamlessly merges with function.
- B.Des. (Product Design): Designing tangible products for usability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. It concerns creating innovative and user-friendly products, from conception to prototyping.
- B.Des. (User Experience Design): User Experience (UX) Design refers to the process of creating products, systems, or services that provide meaningful and engaging experiences for users.
- B.Des. (Visual Communication Design): Convey messages through visuals, including graphic design, branding, and the art of translating ideas into compelling imagery.
- B.Des. (Fashion and Apparel Design): Exploring the world of textiles, apparel, and haute couture. It covers everything from designing clothing to understanding trends and materials.
6. B.Des. (Animation and VFX Design): Step into a realm where creativity meets technology and learn to breathe life into characters and stories through animation and special effects

Skills Required for Design
While specific skills may vary based on your chosen specialisation, certain fundamental skills are indispensable for any aspiring designer:
- Creativity: Cultivate the ability to think beyond boundaries and infuse your designs with fresh perspectives.
- Problem-Solving: Design is about solving problems in creating functional spaces or user-friendly products.
- Communication: Effectively convey your ideas through visuals, presentations, or written communication.
- Technical Proficiency: Attain proficiency in relevant design tools and technologies based on your specialisation.
- Attention to Detail: Precision is paramount in design, ensuring the correct measurements for a product or achieving the perfect balance of elements in a visual composition.
Some popular BDes colleges in India include:
- NIFT
- Amity University
- Pearl Academy
- Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology
- World University of Design
- JD Institute of Fashion Technology
India
NID DAT (Design Aptitude Test)
- Conducted by: National Institute of Design (NID)
- Features: Preliminary (written) and Mains (studio test/interview)
- Programs: B.Des at NID campuses
- Subjects: Design aptitude, visual perception, creativity, problem-solving, observation, and general awareness.
UCEED (Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design)
- Conducted by: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT Bombay)
- Features: Computer-based test
- Programs: B.Des at IITs and other participating institutes
- Subjects: Visualization, environmental awareness, analytical ability, observation, and design sensitivity.
SEED (Symbiosis Entrance Exam for Design)
- Conducted by: Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID)
- Features: Online exam
- Programs: B.Des at SID, Pune
- Subjects: Creative thinking, observational skills, and visual sensitivity.
Pearl Academy Entrance Exam
- Conducted by: Pearl Academy
- Features: Written test and personal interview
- Programs: Various design courses at Pearl Academy
- Subjects: Creativity, logical reasoning, general proficiency, and portfolio evaluation (optional).
MITID DAT (MIT Institute of Design – Design Aptitude Test)
- Conducted by: MIT Institute of Design, Pune
- Features: Written test, studio test, and personal interview
- Programs: B.Des in various design disciplines.
United States
- SAT/ACT + Design Portfolio
- Many U.S. institutions require SAT/ACT scores along with a design portfolio.
- Institutions: Parsons School of Design, Pratt Institute, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), etc.
- Specific College Applications
- Schools like RISD require submitting a “Home Test” in addition to portfolios and standard tests.
- Portfolios emphasize creativity, visual skills, and problem-solving.
United Kingdom
- UCAS Application + Portfolio
- No specific design entrance exams; students apply through UCAS and submit a portfolio.
- Institutions: Royal College of Art, University of the Arts London (UAL), Glasgow School of Art.
Canada
- Portfolio Submission
- Institutions like OCAD University or Emily Carr University of Art + Design require a strong portfolio, sometimes followed by an interview or test.
- Other Global Exams
- Aptitude/Creative Tests for International Universities
- Test formats include interviews, creative tests, and design briefs as part of the application process.
- Check with the desired institution for specific details.
Salary Offered to BDes Graduates in India
The average placements for a Bachelor of Design (B.Des) course in India can vary based on the institution, specialization, and the individual’s skills and experience. However, some general trends can be observed:
Salary Range
Entry-Level Salary:
For fresh graduates, the starting salary typically ranges between ₹3,00,000 to ₹8,00,000 per annum. This can vary depending on the specialization (e.g., Product Design, Graphic Design, UX/UI Design) and the company.
Mid-Level Salary (with a few years of experience):
After gaining some work experience, professionals in the design field can expect salaries ranging from ₹8,00,000 to ₹15,00,000 per annum, depending on the industry, company, and skillset.
Top Companies and Roles:
Top companies in design-related fields include Samsung, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Accenture, Wipro, Mahindra & Mahindra, Zynga, Adobe, and prominent design firms or fashion labels.
Common roles for B.Des graduates include Product Designers, Graphic Designers, UI/UX Designers, Fashion Designers, Interior Designers, Animation Artists, VFX Artists, and Brand Managers.
FAQ’s
- What are the criteria for B. Des?
The criteria for B. Des. admission vary but typically include a qualifying examination, portfolio submission, and possibly an entrance test or interview.
- What is the scope of B. Des in India?
The scope of B. Des. in India is expansive, with opportunities in fashion, product design, interior design, and more. The dynamic design industry offers a plethora of career paths for skilled designers.
- What are the job profiles of a student who completes a bachelor of design course?
After completing a degree in Bachelor of Design degree candidates can get job profiles such as Industrial design/Product design, Communication/graphic design, software designer and game designer, Fashion Designer, as a Fresher/Creative Designer, Research Specialist, Innovator, Design team lead, Design Manager, Creative Director as well as leading startups in various capacity.
- What are some common subjects in B.Des Course?
Common subjects in a Bachelor of Design (B.Des) course may include Design Fundamentals, Visual Communication, User Experience (UX) Design, Design Thinking, Fashion Design, Product Design, Digital Design, Design History and Theory, and Professional Practice. These subjects provide students with a comprehensive understanding of design principles, processes, and practices, preparing them for successful careers in the field of design.
- What is the B.Des entrance exam syllabus ?
The general sections in these entrance exams will be general knowledge, current affairs, problem solving, logical reasoning and more.