Summary: After deciding to pursue a career in graphic design, you must start looking for reputable universities to attend. Here is a manual to assist you. 

Are you thinking about pursuing graphic design as a career? You're in the right spot, then! In India, the discipline of graphic design is expanding quickly as more businesses and people realise how crucial excellent design is in the current digital era.

It has developed into a crucial branding, marketing, and commercial strategy component. But how can you start your path to becoming a graphic designer? Fortunately, you may jump-start your career by taking graphic design courses at one of the many colleges in India.

Let's look at which colleges offer Graphic Design courses.

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Which Colleges Offer Graphic Design?

Graphic Design is becoming a lucrative career choice for many people. With many job opportunities offering good salary packages, students must wonder which colleges offer graphic design courses.

In this post, we'll go over a few important topics, like -

• Graphic design courses are offered at the best colleges in India.
• The things to consider when selecting the best institution for your graphic design education.

Top Colleges for Graphic Design in India

Here are some of the top colleges which offer graphic design courses in India -

National Institute of Design (NID)

National Institute of Design, also known as NID, was established in 1961; NID is renowned for its contribution to the design industry in India and has been recognised as an "Institution of National Importance" by the Government of India.

So, what makes NID stand out from other graphic design colleges in India? Let's take a closer look:

Overview of NID:

• NID has campuses in Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, and Bengaluru.
• The college offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various design disciplines.
• NID is known for its rigorous academic curriculum, world-class infrastructure, and experienced faculty.

Courses offered by NID in graphic design:

• Bachelor of Design (B.Des) in Graphic Design
• Master of Design (M.Des) in Graphic Design

Students will get a solid foundation in design concepts, visual communication, typography, and image-making via the graphic design courses offered at NID. Branding, packaging, editorial design, and user experience design are other areas covered in the courses.

Check: How to Become a Graphic Designer 2023?

Admission process for NID:

• NID conducts an entrance exam called the Design Aptitude Test (DAT), which evaluates the candidate's creativity, problem-solving skills, and visual perception.
• Shortlisted candidates are then called for a studio test consisting of hands-on activities and design exercises.
• Finally, a personal interview is conducted to assess the candidate's communication skills and overall suitability for the program.

A few hundred places are available at NID annually, and thousands of applicants compete for them annually. However, a degree from NID may offer fascinating job options in various sectors for people who are enthusiastic about design and prepared to put in the effort.

So, NID is a university worth considering if you're considering studying graphic design in India. There is stiff competition, so be ready to work hard and present yourself in the best possible light throughout the admissions process.

Industrial Design Centre (IDC), IIT Bombay

The Industrial Design Centre (IDC) at IIT Bombay was established in 1969; IDC is one of the premier design schools in India and is known for its strong focus on research and innovation.

So, what makes IDC stand out from other graphic design colleges in India? Here are some key points:

Overview of IDC, IIT Bombay:

• IDC has a strong reputation for producing some of the best design talent in India.
• The college offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various design disciplines.
• IDC has state-of-the-art infrastructure and equipment, including advanced design labs and studios.

Courses offered by IDC in graphic design:

• Bachelor of Design (B.Des) in Communication Design
• Master of Design (M.Des) in Communication Design

The graphic design courses at IDC aim to give students a thorough grasp of design principles, processes, and ideas. The courses include typography, design thinking, visual communication, and research. The use of technology in design is also emphasised in the curriculum, and students are encouraged to explore cutting-edge digital tools.

Check: What Does a Graphic Designer Do?

Admission process for IDC:

• IDC conducts an entrance exam called the Common Entrance Exam for Design (CEED), which evaluates the candidate's creativity, problem-solving skills, and visual perception.
• Shortlisted candidates are then called for a design aptitude test and a personal interview.
• The final selection is based on the candidate's performance in the entrance exam, design aptitude test, and personal interview.

Thousands of applicants compete for a few places in IDC's admissions procedure, which is likewise quite challenging. However, IDC could be the ideal match if you're enthusiastic about design and have an excellent knack for creativity and innovation.

Srishti Institute of Art, Design, and Technology

Srishti Institute of Art, Design, and Technology was established in 1996. It is a private college known for its interdisciplinary approach to design education.

So, what makes Srishti Institute stand out from other graphic design colleges in India? Here are some key points:

Overview of Srishti Institute:

• Srishti Institute's unique curriculum emphasises collaboration, experimentation, and innovation.
• The college offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programs in various design disciplines.

Srishti Institute strongly focuses on sustainability and social impact and encourages students to create environmentally friendly and socially responsible designs.

Courses offered by Srishti in graphic design:

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Creative and Applied Computation (Graphic Design)
• Master of Arts (MA) in Design (Graphic Arts)
• Diploma in Visual Communication Design

The graphic design courses at Srishti Institute are designed to provide students with a strong foundation in design principles, visual communication, and creative problem-solving. The courses cover typography, branding, packaging, and user experience design. The curriculum also includes opportunities for students to collaborate with industry professionals and work on real-world design projects.

Admission process for Srishti Institute:

• Srishti Institute conducts an entrance exam evaluating the candidate's creativity, analytical skills, and visual perception.
• Shortlisted candidates are then called for a design aptitude test and a personal interview.
• The final selection is based on the candidate's performance in the entrance exam, design aptitude test, personal interview, and portfolio review.

Srishti Institute's admission process is highly competitive, with thousands of students applying for limited seats. However, if you're passionate about design and want to create designs that positively impact society and the environment, Srishti Institute could be your perfect college.

Check: What do Graphic Designers do?

MIT Institute of Design

MIT Institute of Design is another great answer to the question of which colleges offer graphic design courses in India. Established in 2006, it has quickly become a popular choice for students pursuing a career in design.

So, what sets the MIT Institute of Design apart from other graphic design colleges in India? Here are some key points:

Overview of MIT Institute of Design:

• The MIT Institute of Design is known for its innovative and practical approach to design education.
• The college offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programs in various design disciplines.
• MIT Institute of Design strongly focuses on entrepreneurship and encourages students to think creatively and develop their own design solutions.

Courses offered by MIT Institute of Design:

• Bachelor of Design (B.Des) in Graphic Design
• Master of Design (M.Des) in Graphic Design

The MIT Institute of Design's graphic design courses are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in design concepts, visual communication, and problem-solving. The courses cover typography, branding, packaging, and user experience design. The program also allows students to cooperate with experts in the field on real-world design projects.

Check: How To Learn Graphic Design At Home?

Admission Process for MIT Institute of Design:

• The MIT Institute of Design conducts an entrance exam that evaluates candidates' creativity, problem-solving skills, and visual perception.
• Shortlisted candidates are then called for a design aptitude test and a personal interview.
• The final selection is based on the candidate's performance in the entrance exam, design aptitude test, personal interview, and portfolio review.

Thousands of applicants compete for a few places in the challenging admissions process at the MIT Institute of Design. However, the MIT Institute of Design can be ideal if you have a strong interest in design and want to study from knowledgeable professors and business experts.

For students seeking a practical and cutting-edge approach to design education, the MIT Institute of Design is a fantastic option. By emphasising entrepreneurship and cooperation, the MIT Institute of Design can assist you in acquiring the abilities and knowledge required to succeed in a graphic design career.

According to Linkedin, there are over 4,000 graphic designer jobs in India as of April 2023, with an average salary of ₹4.5 lakhs per annum. Some popular companies that hire graphic designers in India are Deloitte, BharatPe, WeWork, EY, BookMyShow, Capgemini, Noise, etc.

Check: MIT Institute of Design Admission Process 2024

Pearl Academy

Founded in 1993, the Pearl Academy has campuses in Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Chennai and is known for its industry-focused design education.

So, what makes the Pearl Academy stand out from other graphic design colleges in India? Here are some key points:

Overview of Pearl Academy:

• The Pearl Academy strongly focuses on industry partnerships and collaborations, which help students gain real-world experience and exposure.
• The college offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programs in various design disciplines.
• Pearl Academy has a strong reputation for producing top-notch design talent that's highly sought after by employers.

Courses offered by Pearl Academy:

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communication Design
• Master of Arts (MA) in Design (Graphic Design)
• Diploma in Graphic Design

The graphic design courses at Pearl Academy are designed to provide students with a strong foundation in design principles, visual communication, and creative problem-solving. The courses cover typography, branding, packaging, and user experience design. The curriculum also includes opportunities for students to work on real-world design projects and internships with leading companies.

Admission process for Pearl Academy:

• Pearl Academy conducts an entrance exam evaluating the candidate's creativity, analytical skills, and visual perception.
• Shortlisted candidates are then called for a design aptitude test and a personal interview.
• The final selection is based on the candidate's performance in the entrance exam, design aptitude test, personal interview, and portfolio review.

The Pearl Academy's admissions process is very competitive, with thousands of students vying for a few available places. However, the Pearl Academy can be ideal if you love the design and want to study from knowledgeable professors and business experts.

Students who wish to pursue their love for graphic design while gaining experience and exposure in the real world may choose Pearl Academy. The Pearl Academy can assist you in achieving the skills and information required to excel in a career in graphic design by placing a heavy emphasis on industry partnerships and collaborations.

"Design transcends agenda. It speaks to the politics of optimism." - Paul Bennett, Design Lead, IDEO

Check: What is Typography in Graphic Design?

Delhi College of Art

Are you interested in pursuing a career in art and design? Look no further than Delhi College of Art, established in 1942, one of India's premier institutions for art education.

Let's take a look at what this college has to offer.

Overview of Delhi College of Art:

• Located in Tilak Marg, New Delhi, Delhi College of Art is affiliated with the University of Delhi.
• The college offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various fields of art and design.
• It has highly qualified and experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields.
• The college provides state-of-the-art facilities like a well-equipped library, modern classrooms, and studios.

Courses offered by Delhi College of Art:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Applied Art, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, and Visual Communication.
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Applied Art, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, and Visual Communication.

Admission process for Delhi College of Art:

• The college conducts an entrance exam for admission to its undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
• The entrance exam consists of a written test and a practical test.
• The written test evaluates your knowledge of art history, general knowledge, and aptitude for art and design.
• The practical test assesses your skills in drawing, painting, and other art forms.
• The college also interviews to evaluate your overall suitability for the course.
• The admission process is highly competitive, and the selection is based on your performance in the entrance exam, practical test, and interview.

Check:  Top Design Colleges in India

Eligibility Criteria for Design Courses

We have looked at which colleges offer design courses, and now let us look at the common eligibility criteria for these courses.

The eligibility criteria for admissions to design programs varies depending on the university to which you are applying, but most colleges have some common criteria for the admissions -

Course	Eligibility
Diploma in Graphic Design	Passed 10+2 with an aggregate of 45&-50% from a recognized board or university
B.Des Graphic Design	10+2 or diploma from a recognized board with a minimum aggregate of 45 - 50%. Admission is based on entrance exams like SEED(for SID) and NID DAT, UCEED, etc.
M.Des Graphic Design	Graduation in design or any other relevant stream from a recognized board with a minimum aggregate score as required by the university. Admission is based on entrance exams like UCEED, CEED, etc.
Graphic Design Online Courses/Certifications	There are no eligibility criteria; anyone interested can apply directly for these courses.

Conclusion

It is easy to answer which colleges offer design courses in India, as many reputable universities have design programs. The National Institute of Design, Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology, and Delhi College of Art are some of the best colleges in India for graphic design.

Consider location, professors, facilities, curriculum, and placement prospects while selecting the best college for your graphic design studies. With thorough research and consideration, you can choose the ideal college to foster your interest and equip you for a lucrative career in graphic design.