Design is one of the most dynamic and interdisciplinary fields today. From fashion and product design to UX, animation, architecture, and branding, design influences almost every industry.
For students aspiring to become global designers, studying at a top design university can open doors to prestigious creative careers.
According to the QS World University Rankings by Subject (Art & Design), the following institutions consistently rank among the best globally.
Key Takeaways
- The QS World University Rankings for Art & Design evaluate institutions based on academic reputation, employer reputation, and research impact.
- The Royal College of Art has ranked #1 globally for 11 consecutive years.
- London is one of the world’s largest creative hubs, hosting multiple top design institutions.
- Most top design universities require a strong portfolio, creative statement, and interview.
Design graduates work in industries such as fashion, UX/UI, product design, architecture, animation, and branding.
Top 5 Design Schools in the World
Rank | University | Country | Known For |
1 | Royal College of Art | UK | Postgraduate design programs |
2 | University of the Arts London | UK | Fashion, communication design |
3 | Rhode Island School of Design | USA | Industrial design & illustration |
4 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | USA | Technology + design innovation |
5 | Politecnico di Milano | Italy | Architecture & industrial design |
Top 5 Design Schools in the World
Here are the top 5 design schools in the world as per the QS world university rankings by subject:
1. Royal College of Art
Location: London, United Kingdom
The Royal College of Art is a public research university with campuses in South Kensington, Battersea, and White City in London, United Kingdom. It is the only university in the UK that only offers postgraduate degrees in art and design. Students from more than 60 nations attend this college for their postgraduate degrees in art and design. The Royal College of Art is known for its architecture and contemporary art courses.
Key strengths
- Architecture and urban design
- Product design
- Innovation design engineering
- Service design
Why students choose RCA
- Industry collaborations
- Strong alumni network
- London creative ecosystem
Many RCA graduates become global designers, entrepreneurs, and creative directors.
2. University of Arts London
Location: London, United Kingdom
A wide variety of courses in performing arts, fashion, communication, and design are available through the University of the Arts London. Worldwide, graduates from the University of Arts London work in and help to influence the creative industries. Design and fine arts students should definitely target this university.
UAL includes six famous colleges:
- Central Saint Martins
- London College of Fashion
- Chelsea College of Arts
- Camberwell College of Arts
- Wimbledon College of Arts
- London College of Communication
Popular programs
- Fashion design
- Graphic design
- Creative direction
- Film and photography
UAL graduates play a major role in the global fashion and media industries.
3. Rhode Island School of Design
Location: Rhode Island, United States
Founded in 1877, RISD is one of the most prestigious art and design colleges in the United States. If you are willing to study design in the United States, then the Rhode Island School of Design is the best university you can apply to. The students take challenging, studio-based classes in a liberal arts environment. It provides both graduate and undergraduate programs. It is known for its film, videography, and animation courses.
Famous programs
- Industrial design
- Illustration
- Animation
- Architecture
RISD collaborates closely with Brown University, allowing students to take interdisciplinary courses.
4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Location: Cambridge, United States
Students can major in the Bachelor of Science in Art and Design (BSAD) at MIT, which combines studio-based learning with seminars and lecture-based courses. In this curriculum, they learn the fundamental concepts of art and design, which they can use in a variety of careers, from information design to 3D art. The school also provides post graduate programs in art and design.
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Art and Design (BSAD) program combine:
- Technology
- Design thinking
- Engineering
- Digital media
MIT is ideal for students interested in interactive design, AI design, and computational creativity.
5. Politecnico di Milano
Location: Milan, Italy
With around 42,000 students, Politecnico di Milano is the largest technical institution in Italy. The institution offers courses in Engineering, Architecture, and Design at the undergraduate, graduate, and higher education levels. It is considered as on of the finest universities for architectural and civil engineering studies.
Popular design fields
- Industrial design
- Product design
- Architecture
- Fashion design
Milan’s status as a global fashion capital gives students valuable exposure to industry networks.
Popular Design Programs Worldwide
Students studying design can specialize in areas such as:
Design Field | Career Opportunities |
Fashion Design | Fashion designer, stylist |
Product Design | Industrial designer |
UX/UI Design | Product designer, UX researcher |
Graphic Design | Branding specialist |
Animation | Film and gaming industry |
Interior Design | Spatial designer |
How can Rostrum Education help?
We at Rostrum encourage students to pursue what they are truly passionate about. Design is a dream for many, and we help you get into your dream university by helping you build your portfolio for over a year. We help you prepare for entrance exams and interviews if required. Contact us for a free consultation today!
Summary
The top design schools in the world according to QS rankings include the Royal College of Art, University of the Arts London, Rhode Island School of Design, MIT, and Politecnico di Milano.
These universities are globally recognized for programs in fashion design, product design, architecture, animation, and UX design. Admission typically requires a strong creative portfolio, academic transcripts, and interviews.
Graduates from these institutions often work in the creative industries, technology companies, fashion houses, and global design firms.
FAQs
What is the best design school in the world?
The Royal College of Art in London is widely ranked as the best design school in the world according to QS World University Rankings for Art & Design.
Which country is best for studying design?
Top countries for design education include:
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Italy
- Netherlands
- Germany
Do design schools require a portfolio?
Yes. Most top design schools require a creative portfolio demonstrating artistic skills, creativity, and project thinking.
Is a design degree worth it?
Yes. Design graduates can work in high-demand industries including:
- UX/UI design
- Product design
- Fashion
- Animation
- Branding
What careers can you pursue after studying design?
Common design careers include:
- Product designer
- UX designer
- Fashion designer
- Graphic designer
- Creative director
