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Designer

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Designers create visual concepts, using software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports.

Average Salary

₹4,00,000

Growth

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Satisfaction

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Educational Requirements

Educational Path to Becoming a Designer

A career as a designer requires a blend of creativity, technical skills, and formal education. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the educational requirements:

  • 10+2 Education:

    • Complete your 10+2 from a recognized board in any stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts). A strong foundation in mathematics and arts can be beneficial, but is not mandatory.

  • Bachelor's Degree:

    • A bachelor's degree is highly recommended. Common degree choices include:
      • Bachelor of Design (B.Des)
      • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
      • BA in Design
    • These programs typically last for 4 years and provide a comprehensive understanding of design principles, tools, and techniques.

  • Specialization:

    • During your bachelor's degree, specialize in a specific area of design such as:
      • Fashion Design
      • Graphic Design
      • Interior Design
      • Product Design
      • Web Design

  • Master's Degree (Optional):

    • A master's degree can further enhance your skills and career prospects. Options include:
      • Master of Design (M.Des)
      • Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
    • These programs usually last for 2 years and focus on advanced design concepts and research.

  • Essential Skills:

    • Technical Skills: Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, AutoCAD, and Sketch.
    • Creative Skills: Strong visualization, sketching, and model-making abilities.
    • Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management skills.

  • Portfolio Development:

    • Create a strong portfolio showcasing your best design work. This is crucial for internships and job applications.

  • Internships:

    • Gain practical experience through internships at design firms, advertising agencies, or relevant companies.

  • Certifications and Online Courses:

    • Consider certifications or online courses to enhance specific skills or learn new design tools.

By following this educational path and continuously honing your skills, you can build a successful career as a designer.

Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Design Colleges in India

To pursue a successful career in design, choosing the right college is crucial. Here are some of the top design colleges in India, known for their quality education, experienced faculty, and excellent placement opportunities:

  • National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT):

    • Locations: Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and other cities.
    • Courses Offered: B.Des (Fashion Design, Leather Design, Textile Design, Knitwear Design, Accessory Design, Fashion Communication), M.Des, and more.
    • Why: NIFT is the premier design institute in India, known for its industry-oriented curriculum and strong alumni network.

  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs):

    • Locations: IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, IIT Guwahati, IIT Hyderabad.
    • Courses Offered: B.Des (through UCEED), M.Des (through CEED).
    • Why: IITs offer a blend of technology and design, focusing on innovation and problem-solving.

  • Pearl Academy:

    • Locations: Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Bangalore.
    • Courses Offered: Fashion Design, Interior Design, Graphic Design, Product Design, and more.
    • Why: Pearl Academy is known for its industry collaborations and international exposure.

  • Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID):

    • Location: Pune.
    • Courses Offered: B.Des in Communication Design, Industrial Design, Fashion Design, and more.
    • Why: SID offers a holistic design education with a focus on creativity and innovation.

  • National Institute of Design (NID):

    • Locations: Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Bangalore.
    • Courses Offered: B.Des, M.Des in various design disciplines.
    • Why: NID is renowned for its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on design thinking.

  • Arch Academy of Design:

    • Location: Jaipur.
    • Courses Offered: Fashion Design, Interior Design, Jewellery Design, and more.
    • Why: Arch Academy offers a blend of traditional and modern design techniques.

  • Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology:

    • Location: Bangalore.
    • Courses Offered: Various undergraduate and postgraduate programs in art, design, and technology.
    • Why: Srishti focuses on interdisciplinary learning and innovation.

  • World University of Design (WUD):

    • Location: Sonipat, Haryana.
    • Courses Offered: Various design programs across disciplines.
    • Why: WUD offers a comprehensive design education with a global perspective.

When choosing a design college, consider factors such as the course curriculum, faculty expertise, infrastructure, industry connections, and placement opportunities. Visiting the campus and speaking to current students can also provide valuable insights.

Fees

Fee Structure for Design Courses in India

The cost of pursuing a design education in India can vary widely depending on the type of institution (government vs. private), the specific course, and the location. Here’s a detailed overview of the fee structures you can expect:

  • Government Institutions:

    • NIFT (National Institute of Fashion Technology):
      • Undergraduate (B.Des): ₹2,50,000 to ₹3,50,000 per year.
      • Postgraduate (M.Des): ₹1,50,000 to ₹2,50,000 per year.
    • IITs (Indian Institutes of Technology):
      • B.Des (UCEED): ₹2,00,000 to ₹2,50,000 per year.
      • M.Des (CEED): ₹1,00,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year.
    • Other Government Colleges:
      • ₹20,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year.

  • Private Institutions:

    • Pearl Academy:
      • Undergraduate: ₹4,00,000 to ₹6,00,000 per year.
      • Postgraduate: ₹3,50,000 to ₹5,00,000 per year.
    • Symbiosis Institute of Design:
      • Undergraduate: ₹3,50,000 to ₹5,00,000 per year.
    • Arch Academy of Design:
      • Undergraduate: ₹3,00,000 to ₹4,50,000 per year.
    • Other Private Colleges:
      • ₹1,50,000 to ₹5,00,000 per year.

  • Additional Costs:

    • Hostel Fees: ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year.
    • Study Materials: ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per year.
    • Miscellaneous Expenses: ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 per year (including travel, project costs, and personal expenses).

  • Scholarships and Financial Aid:

    • Many institutions offer scholarships based on merit, financial need, or category. Check the specific college's website for details.
    • National and state government scholarships are also available for eligible students.

  • Payment Structure:

    • Fees are usually paid semester-wise or annually. Some colleges offer installment options.

It's important to check the latest fee structure on the official website of the respective institutions as fees are subject to change.

Related Exams

Exams to Pursue a Career in Design

To pursue a career in design in India, several entrance exams can help you secure admission into top design colleges. Here’s a detailed description of some key exams:

  • National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Entrance Exam:

    • Description: NIFT conducts a national-level entrance exam for admission to its undergraduate (B.Des) and postgraduate (M.Des) programs.
    • Exam Structure: The exam consists of a General Ability Test (GAT), Creative Ability Test (CAT), and Situation Test (for B.Des).
    • Focus: Tests candidates on their aptitude, creativity, general knowledge, and design sensitivity.

  • National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA):

    • Description: NATA is conducted by the Council of Architecture (CoA) for admission to undergraduate architecture programs (B.Arch).
    • Exam Structure: The exam assesses drawing and observation skills, sense of proportion, aesthetic sensitivity, and basic knowledge of physics, chemistry, and mathematics.
    • Focus: Evaluates aptitude for architecture and design.

  • Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design (UCEED):

    • Description: UCEED is conducted by IIT Bombay for admission to the B.Des program at IITs (Bombay, Delhi, Guwahati, Hyderabad) and other participating institutes.
    • Exam Structure: The exam tests visual and spatial reasoning, observation and design sensitivity, environmental and social awareness, analytical and logical reasoning, and language skills.
    • Focus: Assesses design aptitude and problem-solving skills.

  • Common Entrance Examination for Design (CEED):

    • Description: CEED is conducted by IIT Bombay for admission to postgraduate design programs (M.Des) at IITs and other participating institutes.
    • Exam Structure: The exam consists of two parts: Part A (objective type) and Part B (subjective type), testing visual aptitude, design thinking, and problem-solving skills.
    • Focus: Evaluates advanced design skills and knowledge.

  • Other Design Entrance Exams:

    • Pearl Academy Entrance Exam: Conducted by Pearl Academy for admission to its design programs.
    • Symbiosis Institute of Design Aptitude Test (SEED): Conducted by Symbiosis Institute of Design for its B.Des programs.
    • Arch Academy of Design Entrance Exam: Conducted by Arch Academy of Design for various design courses.

Preparing for these exams typically involves practicing drawing, improving creative thinking, staying updated on current affairs, and solving previous years' question papers. Coaching classes and online resources can also be beneficial.

Exam NameExam Date
Related Courses
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. High creative satisfaction.
  2. Diverse career opportunities.
  3. Potential for high income.
  4. Opportunity for innovation.
  5. Flexible work environment.
  6. Constant learning and growth.
  7. Ability to impact society.
  8. Personal expression outlet.
  9. Global career prospects.
  10. Entrepreneurial opportunities.

Cons

  1. Intense competition.
  2. Long and irregular hours.
  3. Subjective feedback.
  4. Project-based income.
  5. Market demand fluctuations.
  6. Need for constant upskilling.
  7. Risk of creative burnout.
  8. Client management challenges.
  9. Pressure to meet deadlines.
  10. Initial low pay.