Design is a constantly evolving field. The way we interact with the world and those around us has changed dramatically in recent years, as technologies push boundaries and redefine what it means to be human.
As such, design education needs to keep up with these changes or risk being obsolete.
There are many options for students interested in studying design, but what are the best universities?
1. Konstfack, University College of Arts Crafts and Design
If you are looking for a combination of theoretical studies and practical, hands-on work, then Konstfack in Stockholm is the obvious choice.
With its roots in traditional handicrafts, this art school has recently expanded to include design courses such as fashion, textile, and furniture design. Konstfack’s students have a reputation as the most incredible people in Sweden.
Famous alumni include actor Max Minghella and artist Amanda Bergman
2. Musashino Art University, Tokyo
A top-ranked art school located in the heart of Tokyo, Japan, is an excellent choice for design students. It’s one of the most prestigious colleges in the country, with over 300 years of history and award-winning faculty.
The university offers courses in traditional Japanese arts, but it also has several design programs, including interior design, graphic design, industrial design, and fine art.
Famous alumni include fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto.
3. Rhode Island School of Design, United States
It is famed for its excellent art and design programs, and the RISD is located in Providence, Rhode Island. The school has produced many talented designers since it was established over 200 years ago.
Well-known alumni include actor Seth MacFarlane and fashion designer Anna Sui.
The school is ranked as one of the top colleges in America.
4. Parsons The New School for Design
Parsons is located in New York City and was founded in 1896. It has been the starting point of several successful designers such as Diane Von Furstenberg, Jonathan Adler, and Vera Wang.
As a leading art college, it prepares students for fashion, interior design, 2D/3D art, and horticulture.
5. Carnegie Mellon University, United States
CMU is a leading Industrial Design school in the US and has been helping design students since 1893 – making it one of the oldest design schools in America.
Graduates work at places such as Apple, Google, and Lockheed Martin. The university’s degree programs include art and technology, industrial design, and fashion design.
Famous alumni include fashion designer and TV presenter Nick Verreos.
6. University of the Arts London, United Kingdom
The UAL has a long history as one of the best art colleges in Europe.
The school offers students courses in all fields of visual art, including graphic design, fashion design, and industrial design. Famous alumni include fashion designer Rifat.
7. Royal College of Art, United Kingdom
Founded in 1837, the RCA is one of the oldest art schools globally and offers students a broad range of courses in art and design.
The school also has several programs, including automotive design, graphic design, and industrial design.
Famous alumni include fashion designer Alexander McQueen.
8. Pratt Institute
Pratt Institute is located in Brooklyn, New York, and was founded in 1887. The university offers several undergraduate and graduate programs for students wishing to study design and other similar fields.
Some of the alumni from Pratt include the famous architect Philip Johnson and former United States Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice.
Conclusion
Design is a vast field with many different paths to take. Some designers are more focused on graphics, while others are more interested in the user experience.
There are also many aspects of design that you can study, such as typography, art history, or motion design.
It’s a great field of study for those with creative minds. However, don’t let the academic aspect scare you away – with resources such as tutors and essay writers, you can still excel in the world of design.
