Creative Design Programs at Leading Universities for Students Passionate About Art

Got a love for art and want to make it your day job? Creative design is a field that blends drawing talent with fresh ideas, opening doors to exciting careers in clothing, digital visuals, architecture, product development, and more. Across India, several well-known institutes offer programs that help shape raw talent, building strong fundamentals in visual arts while teaching practical skills that help you stand out in the job market.

Creative design programs are ideal for learners with an artistic edge who want to excel in visual arts. These courses build abilities across multiple fields such as graphics, spatial design, fashion, animation, and digital content creation. They also strengthen logical reasoning, problem-solving, and hands-on techniques, ensuring graduates are well prepared for industry demands.

Here are some of the leading universities and colleges in India that offer creative design programs:

One of India’s top design institutes, NID offers both bachelor’s and master’s courses in design. Students can specialise in areas such as industrial design, graphic design, animation, and textile design. The curriculum focuses on nurturing creativity, building practical skills, and encouraging real-world learning.

Popular Courses:

Bachelor of Design (B.Des)

Master of Design (M.Des)

IIAD has a strong reputation for high-quality design education. In collaboration with Kingston University in the UK, it offers globally recognised degrees. The institute emphasises creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning so students can solve real-world design problems with confidence.

Popular Courses:

B.Des in Fashion Design

B.Des in Communication Design

One of India’s oldest and most respected design institutions, Sir J.J. School of Applied Art is known for its creative and skill-based training. The programs emphasise graphic design, advertising, and visual communication. Students can pursue undergraduate or master’s degrees depending on their goals.

Popular Courses:

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Applied Art

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Applied Art

Admission Process:

Admission is based on a state-level entrance test that evaluates drawing skills, creativity, and design awareness.

IIT Guwahati’s Design Department blends technical knowledge with creativity through hands-on learning. The focus is on solving real-life problems through thoughtful design exploration. This makes it an excellent choice for students who want to combine innovation, tools, and technology in their design careers.

Popular Courses:

Bachelor of Design (B.Des)

Master of Design (M.Des)

Admission Process:

Admission requires clearing the JEE, followed by a Design Aptitude Test (DAT) and an interview.

BHU offers a well-rounded approach to art and design. Its Visual Arts faculty emphasises practical skill-building supported by theoretical understanding and real-world application. Courses combine classical art techniques with modern approaches.

Popular Courses:

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Painting and Applied Arts

Admission Process:

Students are selected based on an entrance exam followed by an interview.

Graduating from a top design institute opens up numerous career paths. Industries such as advertising, television, fashion, architecture, and digital technology rely heavily on creative thinkers, ensuring plenty of opportunities. Popular job roles include:

Graphic Designer

Fashion Designer

Product Designer

UI/UX Designer

Animator

Art Director

Creative design courses at India’s leading institutes are ideal for anyone seeking a future in the arts. Before applying, take time to check rankings, admission requirements, and course structures to find the program that best matches your interests. With the right training, guidance, and practical experience, your artistic passion can grow into a rewarding design career.