B.Des Course: Full Form, Admission 2024, Eligibility, Exams, Top Colleges, Fees, Syllabus

BDes course full form is Bachelor of Design. As the name suggests, it is a four-year undergraduate course in the field of design. The course enables students to work in dedicated studio spaces, gather design skills, and learn a wide spectrum of methods and techniques that help refine their expertise. The eligibility criteria for the BDes course is to complete higher secondary education with at least 50% aggregate marks. Offered by top colleges like NIFT, IITs, and NID, among others, the BDes syllabus and subjects equip students with design skills and techniques required to evolve in the field of design. 

BDes advances unmatched global opportunities today, with new specialisations dominating the realm such as Game Design, User Experience and Interaction Design, Animation & VFX and so on. BDes admissions are based either on merit or entrance exams like NID DAT, NIFT Entrance Exam, CUET-UG, etc. In India, some top BDes course colleges are Chandigarh University, Parul University, NIFT Hyderabad, NID Ahmedabad, etc. with an average course fee of INR 2-7 LPA. After completing the course, students can take BDes jobs such as Interior Designer, Art Director, Fashion Designer, Graphic Designer, etc. Companies like eBay, Oracle, H&M, Myntra, and Walt Disney are the top recruiters that hire graduates of this course. The average annual salary offered to freshers ranges from INR 3-6 LPA. This page discusses everything students need to know about the BDes course, its eligibility criteria, specialisations offered, top colleges, and so on.

Students can check out the key highlights of the Bachelor of Design course below:

Anyone with a passion for design, fashion and fashion technology can opt for the BDes course. However, there are a few reasons that set the BDes course aside from other similar courses. As outlined in the following infographic and explained subsequently, the following are a few reasons to choose a BDes course:

Theory and Practical Knowledge

The BDes course is an innovative programme based not only on theoretical knowledge but also on project and studio-based learning along with live projects where students are pushed to work with tools for designing, creative practice and innovation.

Exposure to the Real World

The BDes course spans eight semesters wherein students get the opportunity to participate in intensive workshops, trade fairs, and museum exhibitions. Further, they get to network with visiting professionals from the industry who familiarise students with various markets. 

Vast Range of Specialisations

Given how popular and in-demand the BDes course is, it can be customised to suit one’s needs. From fashion design to game design, one can choose from a wide spectrum of specialisations that help one make their marks in their respective fields.

High-Paying Career Options

While the starting salary can be low, those with experience can expect to earn a monthly income as high as INR 80,000 or even higher. BDes course lets one grab opportunities at A-list companies like Wipro Technologies, VIP Industries Ltd, Whirlpool of India Ltd., and Philips, to name a few. 

Launch Own Business

Some BDes courses integrate business-related courses like entrepreneurship or design management. They held to build a strong portfolio, get market insights, create prototypes and refine designs.

Suppose an individual cannot attend full-time classes or even part-time on-campus courses. In that case, several educational institutions in India offer an online B Des course that gives them the freedom to complete their degrees at their convenience. Furthermore, the online learning B Des syllabus is nearly identical to the traditional course syllabus. The online learning programme is more cost-effective than the regular course. It is affordable for every prospective student, with an annual tuition fee ranging from INR 30,000 to 1,60,000.

It is beneficial for them because the coursework is career-oriented and graduates can find jobs promptly after graduating. Applicants can get employment with national and international companies that pay well. Fashion, industrial, and product design are just a few specialisations available through B Des via distance learning. Moreover, graduates of the online B Des degrees can work in a variety of fields, including design engineering, consumer interface design, and information development. Several well-known universities such as Annamalai University, Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning, IGNOU, and others provide an online B Des course degree.

BDes is often confused with other similar courses like BArch (Bachelor of Architecture), BFTech (Bachelor of Fashion Technology) and BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts). Here is a comparison between all the four:

One of the most prognosticated design programmes after 12th grade is the one in the Bachelor of Design course. These programmes are provided to prospective applicants at all three academic levels and are offered in different modes of learning: full-time, part-time and online/distance schooling. The following is a discussion about the various types of BDes courses.

Full-Time BDes Courses

Candidates must attend full-time in-person classes, complete regular assignments, and take semester-by-semester offline exams on campus. They must also present projects and perform practicals as part of the course curriculum. Further, they gain practical experience in the subject as well as in-depth learning through actively engaging with their instructors and other students.

Part-Time BDes Courses

For students who cannot commit to the full-time programme or who are working in their professions full-time, there is a part-time course available. The part-time BDes programme lasts nearly between three and five years.

Distance/Online BDes Courses

The online course is designed for students or researchers who are working professionals and who cannot attend full-time or even part-time courses. Colleges like IGNOU, Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning, Annamalai University, etc. provide this course.

Students must have a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in their 12th grade, from any stream, to be admitted to the B Des programme. To be assessed for admission to the B Des course, candidates must also achieve the necessary cutoff scores in a few entrance tests, which vary based on the prerequisites of the institutions. There are multiple steps in the B Des admissions process, including a written entrance test, group discussions, and other exercises. Certain colleges may also provide admissions based on merit. As long as they fulfil the B Des eligibility requirements, which are outlined below, candidates may apply to this programme.

• Applicants with a passing grade in class 12 or an equivalent qualifying exam may apply for the programme.
• Based on the respective type of institution at the time of admission, a student must be either 19 or 20 years old to enrol in a B Des course.
• Prospective candidates can study almost any subject they want at the 10+2 level, including those in commerce, sciences, humanities, arts, etc. as there are no stream restrictions.

Required Skill Set for B Des Course

The B Des programme is best suited to candidates with limited skill sets. To succeed, students need to have a creative writing style, self-assurance, and writing aptitude. Some of the skills required for a B Des degree are as follows:

• Attention to Detail
• Communication Skills
• Creativity
• Design Skills
• Drawing Skills
• Innovative Mindset

As mentioned above, students interested in studying B.Des should clear the required entrance exam to be considered for admission. Some of the top and most popular BDes entrance exams are as follows:

NIFT Entrance Exam: The NIFT entrance exam, conducted by the National Institute of Fashion Technology, is a Computer Based Test (CBT) comprising the Creative Ability Test (CAT) and a General Ability Test (GAT). After the CBT, one’s result determines if they will be shortlisted for the Situation Test and enrol in BDes at NIFT.

UCEED: Admission to the Bachelor of Design courses at IIT Bombay, IIT Guwahati, IIT Delhi, IIT Hyderabad, and IIITDM Jabalpur are done through the Undergraduate Common Entrance Exam for Design. Apart from these institutes, the UCEED exam scorecard is recognized by many other institutes as well. 

UPES DAT: The UPES DAT exam is organised by the University Of Petroleum And Energy Studies, Dehradun in online mode. It is a one-hour test that determines one’s admission to UPES’ BDes course.

AIEED: The All India Entrance Examination for Design is the BDes (Bachelor of Design) entrance exam for admission to the UGC-approved ARCH College Design & Business. It is nothing but screening held in multiple sessions in online mode.

NID DAT: NID Design Aptitude Test, another top BDes entrance exam, is divided into two stages: Prelims and Mains. While the Prelims test is a paper-and-pencil/pen test, the Mains exam comprises tests in several formats such as in a studio set-up. 

CUET-UG: Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), CUET UG is a national-level entrance exam for admission to all UG programmes including BDes.

With every year passing, a new set of BDes specialisations is being introduced depending on the needs of the generation. However, there are certain sought-after Bachelor of Design specialisations that most students apply for, which are as follows:

The admission process for BDes in India may not be the same for every college since every college would have a different set of eligibility criteria, entrance exam acceptance and selection process. However, in general, BDes admission in India is done through an entrance exam or basis merit in 10+2 as shown in the infographic below.

The following is a discussion of the BDes course admission process in India.

Direct BDes Admission

For direct admission to a BDes course, one does not have to appear for any entrance exam. However, they would be admitted based on their prior academic record. Candidates might also have to participate in a GD or PI round post-selection basis their 12th standard aggregate. 

BDes Admission through Entrance Exam

Meeting the Eligibility Criteria

One must make sure to meet the eligibility criteria for BDes to be considered for admission. If found ineligible after taking the entrance exam, the candidature shall be rejected. 

Application Process

Once eligibility has been determined, students can move ahead with the online/offline application process depending on the college(s) they are targeting.

Entrance Exam

Each college accepts scores of a different set of BDes entrance exams. Students must ensure that they are taking the entrance exam approved or recognised by the institute they are applying to. 

Studio Test/Personal Interview

After the BDes course entrance exam, institutes may conduct a round of Situation Test (for NIFT) or Personal Interviews (PI), clearing which is crucial for successful admission.

Verification of Documents

Once a call letter has been issued by the institute, students need to get the required documents verified at the BDes institute in person.

Candidates may visit directly in person at the university campus, fill out the application form, and then submit it with the necessary paperwork to apply for admission. On the other hand, if applicants choose to apply online, they must go to the official university website, complete the application, and attach the necessary files (scanned). In all situations, applicants do not need to take an entrance exam since the college will consider their 10+2 exam results. Applicants must adhere to the guidelines set forth by their particular institution whether they are applying for admission offline or online. After that, to receive the final admissions decision, students could have to take part in the PI + GD rounds.

The BDes course fee varies from one college or university to another as it depends on numerous factors such as the type of institution (whether government or private), location, amenities, reputation, placement support, and so on. However, there are not many seats available in government colleges, so applicants must apply with diligence and prepare well for the entrance exam (if any). The following table highlights the course fee for BDes in India:

The BDes course syllabus is structured to help students gain both the subject knowledge and critical skills they will need for their professional lives afterwards. However, each BDes specialisation has a different course curriculum, but all follow a similar format that includes fundamental courses, learning strategies, and projects with real-world applications. The following is a brief overview of the BDes subjects:

• Communication Studies in Design
• Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing
• Connectivity And Mobility
• Control System in Design
• Creative Visualisation Techniques
• Design Research methodology
• Display and Control Design 
• Geometry
• Humanities & Social Studies
• Material Science
• Materials and Processes in Design
• Physical Ergonomics 
• Sustainable Design

The names of a few well-known private design schools in India that are well-known for their facilities and exposure to the business world are included in the table below. These private universities are now as well-known as government universities and have grown in popularity over time. The following are the top private BDes colleges in India:

Note: The BDes course fees mentioned above have been sourced from the official websites of the respective institutions.

Since there are not many seats available in government colleges, applicants must apply with diligence. Additionally, they can easily enrol in government colleges because the average fee is lower compared to private institutes. The following are the top government BDes colleges in India:

Note: The BDes course fees mentioned above have been sourced from the official websites of the respective institutions.

A BDes course accelerates one’s career and allows one to bag a top salary in the field of design. Moreover, it lets graduates occupy top positions in advertising agencies, design studios, corporate houses, etc. A career in this field is certainly fulfilling but it also provides a lucrative earning potential. Given below are the top industries and sectors, recruiters, job profiles and salary after BDes.

Top BDes Job Profiles

The following table outlines some popular BDes job profiles that prospective students may consider opting for after graduation:

Top BDes Recruiters

Given below are some top recruiters that hire BDes course graduates in India as well as abroad:

BDes Salary in India

The BDes salary differs for every job role depending on several factors such as location, prior experience, job description and so on. However, the average annual salary after the BDes programme for some top jobs is given below:

Source: glassdoor.com

This field offers great opportunities for higher education both domestically and internationally. For further education and experience, candidates might consider pursuing Master of Design (MDes) courses. College-level courses in this field are offered by several respectable educational institutions. Following the BDes course, certain possibilities for further education are as follows:

• MDes in Ceramic Design
• MDes in Fashion Design
• MDes in Game Design
• MDes in Graphic Design
• MDes in Interior Design
• MDes in Jewellery & Metal Design
• MDes in Communication Design
• MDes in Multimedia Design
• MDes in Textile Design