Table of content
- Graphic Designer
- UI/UX Designer
- Web Designer
- Product Designer
- Interior Designer
- Fashion Designer
- Industrial Designer
- Motion Graphic Designer
- Game Designer
- Animation Designer
- Illustrator
- Exhibition Designer
- Architectural Designer
- Set Designer
- Landscape Designer
- Furniture Designer
- Textile Designer
- Packaging Designer
- Fashion Stylist
Introduction
Design careers offer some of the most exciting and rewarding opportunities in the job market. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or someone who enjoys combining creativity with technical skills, there’s a design career for you. In this guide, we’ll explore 20 design careers in India, detailing where to learn, salary expectations, requirements, education level, and top companies that pay well.
1. Graphic Designer
Definition: Graphic designers create visual concepts to inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop layouts for advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports.
Usefull Link: How to become a graphic designer.Your journey to creativity
Where to Learn:
- Art Schools: National Institute of Design (NID), Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Universities: Symbiosis Institute of Design, MIT Institute of Design.
- Online Platforms: Coursera, Udemy, Skillshare.
Salary: ₹300,000 to ₹600,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹200,000, with experienced designers earning up to ₹1,000,000.
Top Companies: Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Wipro, Infosys.
Requirements: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, a strong portfolio, and attention to detail.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree often preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Graphic Design, B.F.A. in Visual Arts.
Definition: UI designers focus on the look and feel of digital interfaces, while UX designers focus on the overall user experience. Together, they ensure a product is both aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly.
Usefull Link:What is UI&UX design.
Where to Learn:
- Bootcamps: Springboard, Designerrs Academy.
- Universities: IIT Bombay, NID.
- Online Courses: Interaction Design Foundation, Udacity, Coursera.
Salary: ₹500,000 to ₹1,200,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹400,000, with senior roles exceeding ₹2,000,000.
Top Companies: Google, Microsoft, Flipkart.
Requirements: Understanding of user-centered design principles, proficiency with prototyping tools, and a strong portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Human-Computer Interaction, B.A. in Design.
3. Web Designer
Definition: Web designers create the visual aspects of websites, ensuring they are visually appealing and user-friendly.
Usefull link: How to become a professional web developer
Where to Learn:
- Technical Schools: Arena Animation, MAAC.
- Community Colleges: Local community colleges offering web design certificates.
- Online Courses: Codecademy, Treehouse, Coursera.
Salary: ₹300,000 to ₹600,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹250,000, with experienced designers earning up to ₹800,000.
Top Companies: Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Wipro, Cognizant.
Requirements: Knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, proficiency with design software, and understanding of responsive design.
Education Level: Associate or bachelor’s degree.
Typical Degree: A.A. in Web Design, B.Des in Digital Media.
4. Product Designer
Definition: Product designers oversee the entire design process of a product, from concept to manufacturing, focusing on functionality and aesthetics.
Where to Learn:
- Design Schools: National Institute of Design (NID), MIT Institute of Design.
- Universities: IIT Bombay, Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Online Platforms: Coursera, LinkedIn Learning.
Salary: ₹600,000 to ₹1,500,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹500,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹2,500,000.
Top Companies: Google, Apple, Tata Motors.
Requirements: Skills in prototyping and CAD software, understanding of user research, and a strong portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Industrial Design, B.Des in Product Design.
5. Interior Designer
Definition: Interior designers make indoor spaces functional, safe, and beautiful by determining space requirements and selecting essential and decorative items.
Where to Learn:
- Art and Design Schools: Pearl Academy, National Institute of Design (NID).
- Universities: CEPT University, Arch Academy of Design.
- Online Courses: Interior Design Institute, Udemy.
Salary: ₹300,000 to ₹900,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹250,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,200,000.
Top Companies: Livspace, DesignCafe, Godrej Interio.
Requirements: Knowledge of design principles, CAD software proficiency, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree often required.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Interior Design.
6. Fashion Designer
Definition: Fashion designers create clothing, accessories, and footwear. They sketch designs, select fabrics and patterns, and oversee the production process.
Where to Learn:
- Fashion Schools: National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Pearl Academy.
- Universities: Symbiosis Institute of Design, Amity School of Fashion Technology.
- Online Platforms: Coursera, Fashion Institute Online.
Salary: ₹400,000 to ₹1,000,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹300,000, with top designers earning six figures.
Top Companies: Manish Malhotra, Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Aditya Birla Fashion.
Requirements: Sewing and pattern-making skills, knowledge of fashion trends, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree usually required.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Fashion Design.
7. Industrial Designer
Definition: Industrial designers develop concepts for manufactured products, combining art, business, and engineering to create everyday items.
Where to Learn:
- Design Schools: National Institute of Design (NID), Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Universities: IIT Bombay, MIT Institute of Design.
- Online Platforms: Coursera, LinkedIn Learning.
Salary: ₹500,000 to ₹1,200,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹400,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,800,000.
Top Companies: Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Godrej.
Requirements: Skills in CAD software, understanding of manufacturing processes, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Industrial Design.
8.Visual Designer
Definition: Visual designers focus on the aesthetics of a product or service, creating engaging designs for websites, apps, and advertisements.
Where to Learn:
- Design Schools: National Institute of Design (NID), Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Universities: Symbiosis Institute of Design, MIT Institute of Design.
- Online Platforms: Coursera, Skillshare.
Salary: ₹400,000 to ₹900,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹300,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,200,000.
Top Companies: Google, Microsoft, Infosys.
Requirements: Proficiency in design software, a strong sense of aesthetics, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Visual Design, B.A. in Graphic Design.
9. Motion Graphic Designer
Definition: Motion graphic designers create animated graphics and visual effects for TV, movies, video games, and other media.
Where to Learn:
- Art and Design Schools: MAAC, Arena Animation.
- Universities: Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology, National Institute of Design (NID).
- Online Platforms: LinkedIn Learning, Coursera.
Salary: ₹500,000 to ₹1,200,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹350,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,800,000.
Top Companies: Prime Focus, Tata Elxsi, Accenture.
Requirements: Proficiency in motion graphics software, understanding of animation principles, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Animation, B.A. in Multimedia Design.
10. Game Designer
Definition: Game designers create concepts, storylines, characters, and game mechanics for video games, working closely with developers and artists.
Where to Learn:
- Game Design Schools: Backstage Pass Institute of Gaming and Technology, ICAT Design and Media College.
- Universities: National Institute of Design (NID), Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Online Platforms: Coursera, Udemy.
Salary: ₹400,000 to ₹1,200,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹350,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,500,000.
Top Companies: Ubisoft, Zynga, Electronic Arts (EA).
Requirements: Understanding of game design principles, proficiency with development software, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Game Design, B.A. in Interactive Media.
11. Animation Designer
Definition: Animation designers create animated sequences for movies, TV shows, video games, and ads, using computer software and traditional techniques.
Where to Learn:
- Art and Design Schools: MAAC, Arena Animation.
- Universities: National Institute of Design (NID), Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Online Platforms: LinkedIn Learning, Coursera.
Salary: ₹400,000 to ₹1,200,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹350,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,500,000.
Top Companies: Prime Focus, Technicolor, DreamWorks.
Requirements: Proficiency in animation software, understanding of animation principles, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Animation, B.A. in Multimedia Design.
12. Illustrator
Definition: Illustrators create original artwork for books, magazines, advertisements, and digital platforms, working in both traditional and digital mediums.
Where to Learn:
- Art Schools: National Institute of Design (NID), Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Universities: Symbiosis Institute of Design, MIT Institute of Design.
- Online Platforms: Skillshare, Udemy.
Salary: ₹300,000 to ₹800,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹250,000, with experienced illustrators earning over ₹1,000,000.
Top Companies: Penguin Random House, Adobe, Google.
Requirements: Strong drawing skills, proficiency with illustration software, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.F.A. in Illustration, B.Des in Visual Arts.
13. Exhibition Designer
Definition: Exhibition designers create displays for exhibitions, shows, museums, and galleries, ensuring the environments effectively communicate the client’s message.
Where to Learn:
- Design Schools: National Institute of Design (NID), Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Universities: CEPT University, Symbiosis Institute of Design.
- Online Platforms: Coursera, LinkedIn Learning.
Salary: ₹400,000 to ₹900,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹300,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,200,000.
Top Companies: Godrej Interio, Landmark Group, DLF.
Requirements: Skills in CAD software, understanding of spatial design, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Exhibition Design, B.Arch in Architecture.
14. Architectural Designer
Definition: Architectural designers plan and design buildings and structures, focusing on functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability.
Where to Learn:
- Architecture Schools: School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), IIT Roorkee.
- Universities: CEPT University, JJ School of Architecture.
- Online Platforms: LinkedIn Learning, Coursera.
Salary: ₹500,000 to ₹1,200,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹400,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹2,000,000.
Top Companies: Larsen & Toubro, Hafeez Contractor, CP Kukreja Associates.
Requirements: Proficiency in architectural software, understanding of building codes, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree required.
Typical Degree: B.Arch in Architecture.
15. Set Designer
Definition: Set designers create the physical settings for plays, movies, and TV shows, working closely with directors to ensure the set supports the story.
Where to Learn:
- Art Schools: National School of Drama (NSD), Film and Television Institute of India (FTII).
- Universities: Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Online Platforms: LinkedIn Learning, Coursera.
Salary: ₹300,000 to ₹900,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹250,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,200,000.
Top Companies: Yash Raj Films, Dharma Productions, Balaji Telefilms.
Requirements: Skills in set design software, understanding of spatial design, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Set Design, B.A. in Theatre Arts.
16. Landscape Designer
Definition: Landscape designers plan and design outdoor spaces, including parks and gardens, combining art and science to create functional and beautiful environments.
Where to Learn:
- Design Schools: National Institute of Design (NID), CEPT University.
- Universities: School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), IIT Kharagpur.
- Online Platforms: Coursera, LinkedIn Learning.
Salary: ₹400,000 to ₹1,000,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹300,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,500,000.
Top Companies: Godrej Properties, L&T Realty, DLF.
Requirements: Skills in landscape design software, understanding of horticulture, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Landscape Design, B.Arch in Landscape Architecture.
17. Furniture Designer
Definition: Furniture designers create and develop furniture that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, working with various materials and processes.
Where to Learn:
- Design Schools: National Institute of Design (NID), Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Universities: Symbiosis Institute of Design, MIT Institute of Design.
- Online Platforms: LinkedIn Learning, Coursera.
Salary: ₹400,000 to ₹1,000,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹300,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,500,000.
Top Companies: Godrej Interio, IKEA, Urban Ladder.
Requirements: Skills in furniture design software, understanding of materials, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Furniture Design, B.A. in Industrial Design.
18. Textile Designer
Definition: Textile designers create patterns and designs for fabrics used in clothing and home furnishings, working with various techniques like weaving and printing.
Where to Learn:
- Design Schools: National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Universities: Symbiosis Institute of Design, Pearl Academy.
- Online Platforms: LinkedIn Learning, Coursera.
Salary: ₹300,000 to ₹800,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹250,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,000,000.
Top Companies: Raymond, Arvind Mills, Fabindia.
Requirements: Skills in textile design software, understanding of production techniques, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Textile Design, B.A. in Fashion Design.
19. Packaging Designer
Definition: Packaging designers create the visual design and structure of product packaging, ensuring it is functional, visually appealing, and aligned with the brand.
Where to Learn:
- Design Schools: National Institute of Design (NID), MIT Institute of Design.
- Universities: Symbiosis Institute of Design, Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
- Online Platforms: LinkedIn Learning, Coursera.
Salary: ₹400,000 to ₹900,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹300,000, with experienced designers earning over ₹1,200,000.
Top Companies: ITC Limited, Nestlé, Tata Consumer Products.
Requirements: Skills in packaging design software, understanding of materials, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Packaging Design, B.Des in Industrial Design.
20. Fashion Stylist
Definition: Fashion stylists work with individuals or fashion houses to select clothing and accessories that fit the client’s needs and preferences, often working on photo shoots and fashion shows.
Where to Learn:
- Fashion Schools: National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Pearl Academy.
- Universities: Symbiosis Institute of Design, Amity School of Fashion Technology.
- Online Platforms: Coursera, Udemy.
Salary: ₹400,000 to ₹1,000,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around ₹300,000, with top stylists earning over ₹1,500,000.
Top Companies: Vogue India, Elle India, Myntra.
Requirements: Knowledge of fashion trends, strong communication skills, and a portfolio.
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Typical Degree: B.Des in Fashion Design, B.A. in Fashion Styling.
Conclusion
Pursuing a design career in India offers a blend of creativity, innovation, and rewarding financial opportunities. With the right education and skills, you can excel in fields such as animation design, illustration, exhibition design, architectural design, set design, landscape design, and furniture design. The demand for skilled designers is high, and top companies in various industries offer competitive salaries and growth potential. Whether you aim to create captivating animations, design functional and aesthetic spaces, or craft beautiful illustrations, a career in design can be fulfilling and prosperous. Start by choosing the right educational path, building a strong portfolio, and honing your skills to embark on a successful design career in India.
