MDes Communication Design: Course Fees, Admission 2025, Syllabus, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Updated on Mar 19, 2025 12:04 IST
Akansha Bisht

Akansha BishtSenior Executive

MDes Communication Design is a 2-year-long postgraduate degree program in the field of Communication Design. Some popular job roles for them include Graphic Designer, UI Designer, Textile Designer, Web Designer, Visual Designer Animator, etc. The average salary of a Communication Designer is INR 10.2 LPA in India.

MDes Communication Design Highlights

Check out the course highlights from the table below:

Parameters Course Details
MDes Communication Design Full Form Master of Design in Communication Design
MDes Communication Design Course Level Postgraduate
MDes Communication Design Course Duration 2 Years
MDes Communication Design Admission Criteria Merit and Entrance-based
MDes Communication Design Eligibility Criteria A bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a recognized university.
MDes Communication Design Entrance Exams CEED, NID Entrance, NIFT Entrance, Pearl Academy Entrance, CUET-PG, etc.
MDes Communication Design Top Colleges Symbiosis Institute of Design, Pearl Academy, World University of Design, Maharshi Karve Stree Shikshan Samstha's School of Fashion Technology, NID Ahmedabad, School of Design UPES, MIT-WPU, etc.
MDes Communication Design Course Fee INR 1 Lakh to 30 Lakh
MDes Communication Design Job Profiles Graphic Designer, UI Designer, Textile Designer, Web Designer, Visual Designer Animator, etc.
MDes Communication Design Top Recruiters  Myntra, Nykaa, Netflix, Zee Media, Buttercup Advertising Studio, Mind Digital Group, Genesis Luxury Fashion, Sabyasachi Couture, Ubisoft, EA Sports, etc.
MDes Communication Design Average Salary INR 10.2 LPA

Source: Multiple external sites, hence the info may vary.

Q:   What is the scope of MDes course?
A:

The scope of a Master of Design degree is huge as it opens opportunities in various streams such as Industrial Engineering and Design, Product Research Analyst, Communication Design, Product Design and Engineering, Visual Design, Animation and Automotive Designing.

Several MDes graduates are employed as professionals in the design industries in a variety of sectors, including fashion, interior design, industrial design, graphic design, and more. For customers or employers, they produce tangible or visible goods and experiences. Graduates of MDes programmes can work in these fields, developing digital interfaces that are easy to use and enhancing the general user experience of software, apps, and websites. Check BDes Career Scope.

AskShikshaGPT on App
Q:   What is the scope of communication designing?
A:
A communication designer is responsible for creating design solutions that have a high visual impact. The role involves listening to clients and understanding their needs before making design decisions. Their designs are required for a wide variety of products and activities, such as websites, advertising, posters, computer games, books, magazines, product packaging, exhibitions and displays, corporate communications and corporate identity. A communication designer works to a brief agreed with the client, creative director or account manager. They develop creative ideas and concepts, choosing the appropriate media and style to meet the client's objectives. The work demands creativity, up-to-date knowledge of industry software and a professional approach to time, costs and deadlines. Progression from a junior designer is possible within two to three years, with the first few jobs acting as stepping stones. At this stage, developing a reputation, networking and making contacts are important. Successful designers can apply for a senior designer post after three to five years. In large design partnerships, it may be possible to achieve promotion from designer to management positions, such as studio manager or creative director. In general, career development depends on frequent job movement to widen your experience and develop your portfolio.
AskShikshaGPT on App
Q:   Why should I pursue an MDes in Communication Design?
A:

Here are some reasons why you should prefer to pursue MDes in Communication Design course.

  • The field of communication design is broad and applicable to several sectors. Graduates have a wide range of professional opportunities, including employment in Web Design, Branding, Marketing, Publishing, Advertising, and more.
  • You can develop your creative ability through communication design. It gives you a way to graphically communicate your ideas, feelings, and thoughts, promoting artistic expression as well as self-expression.
  • Designers learn how to communicate ideas and messages effectively through visual elements.
  • Gaining a thorough understanding of user experience (UX) is necessary for many of the projects that designers work on. This expertise ensures a user-friendly interface in a variety of disciplines, including website and app design.
AskShikshaGPT on App
Table of contents
  • MDes Communication Design Eligibility Criteria
  • MDes Communication Design Entrance Exams 2025
  • MDes Communication Design Syllabus
  • Best MDes Communication Design Colleges in India
  • Popular Private MDes Communication Design Colleges in India
  • MDes Communication Design Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
  • Mdes Communication Design FAQs
  • Most Popular Courses
  • Course Cutoffs
View More

MDes Communication Design Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for every MDes Communication Design college may differ depending on their set criteria. However, here's a basic idea of the eligibility conditions every candidate has to fulfil:

MDes Communication Design Eligibility Criteria

Description

MDes in Communication Design Academic Qualifications

The candidates should have completed a bachelor’s degree related to the Design field such as:

·       BDes in any specialisation

·       BFTech

MDes in Communication Design Marks Criteria

They should have secured at least 50% marks in graduation.

MDes in Communication Design Age Criteria

There is no age limit

MDes in Communication Design Appearing or Passed Criteria

The candidates who are in their final year of graduation as well as graduates can apply for the course.

Note: The MDes in Communication Design eligibility criteria mentioned above may vary depending on the colleges offering the course.

 

MDes Communication Design Admission

Check out the generic admission process for MDes Communication Design courses:

  1. Conduct personal-level research and know the eligibility for the MDes Communication Design courses in your chosen college.
  2. Look out for whether the admission requires appearing in any entrance; if yes, then choose the exam accordingly.
  3. Register, prepare, and appear for the exams accepted/ conducted by the colleges and wait for the results.
  4. Apply to the universities/ colleges by filling out the application/ registration form.
  5. Check out the official websites for your score.
  6. Attend counselling sessions if shortlisted.
  7. Pay the fees and get your documents verified before you start with your classes.
Q:   What is the eligibility for MDes at NIMS University?
A:

To pursue a two-year MDes programme at NIMS University at the postgraduate level, you must have completed a Bachelor's Degree of at least 3 years duration and obtained a minimum of 50% marks (45% marks for candidates belonging to reserved category) in the qualifying examination. The selection process is based on NIMSEE. Below you can find the eligibility criteria for the course as well as the selection criteria:

CourseEligibilitySelection
MDes

Eligibility: Bachelor Degree of minimum 3 years with 50% marks (45% marks in case of candidates)

Selection: NIMSEE
AskShikshaGPT on App
Q:   Is there any age limit for admission to MDes Communication Design?
A:

There's no age limit to pursue an MDes in Communication Design or any other specialization. However, you'll still need to fulfil the eligibility criteria along with clearing entrance exams and GD and PI rounds conducted in most MDes colleges.

AskShikshaGPT on App
Q:   Which documents are required during MDes Communication Design admission process?
A:

Here's the list of some important documents you should carry during an MDes Communication Design admission process to ensure a seamless procedure:

  • A bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline
  • Class 12 mark sheet
  • Valid ID Proof such as Adhaar, Passport, PAN Card, etc.
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • A copy of your application form
  • Migration Certificate
AskShikshaGPT on App

MDes Communication Design Entrance Exams 2025

Admission to the MDes in Communication Design program is based on both merit and entrance exam procedure. While some colleges accept national-level exam scores such as CUET-PG, some conduct their university-level exams such as NID entrance, NIFT entrance, Pearl Academy entrance, etc. 

Candidates can find the details of some popular Design entrance exams conducted for MDes in Communication Design Admission:

Entrance Exams

Exam Dates

Exam Schedule

NIFT Entrance

February 9, 2025

NIFT Entrance Exam Date 2025

NID Entrance

03 Mar ' 25 - 06 Apr ' 25

NID Entrance Exam Date 2025

CEED

January 19, 2025 (Result Declared)

CEED Exam Date 2025

Pearl Academy Entrance

January 17-19, 2025

Pearl Academy Entrance Exam Date 2025

CUET-PG

13 Mar ' 25 - 01 Apr ' 25 CUET-PG Exam Date 2025

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Students also liked topics on M Des in Visual Communication:

7 Reasons Why to Give CUET PG 2025 Exam

Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates
08 Dec ' 25 - 06 Jan ' 26

NIFT 2026 application form OPEN (Regular fees)

ONGOING
21 Dec ' 25

NID DAT 2026 (Prelims) Date: B.Des & M.Des

07 Jan ' 26 - 10 Jan ' 26

NIFT 2026 application form (Late fees)

12 Jan ' 26 - 14 Jan ' 26

NIFT 2026 application form Edit Window

18 Jan ' 26

UCEED 2026 Exam DATE

18 Jan ' 26

CEED 2026 exam date

20 Jan ' 26

UCEED 2026 Release of Draft Answer Key

DatesPast Exam Dates
23 Nov ' 25

TDV Entrance 2026 Online Exam Date

06 Nov ' 25 - 10 Nov ' 25

UCEED 2026 Application DATE (Late Fees)

06 Nov ' 25 - 10 Nov ' 25

CEED 2026 Application DATE (Late Fees)

Q:   What is the process to appear for NIFT entrance exam?
A:
The NIFT entrance exam are held in the second week of February every year. The forms are out by the month of November and the last date is usually in the month of January. The exam consist of two levels. The first level consist of CAT (Creative Ability Test) and GAT (General Ability Test) which generally test your IQ and basic drawing skills. It is a written test. After clearing the first level, the second level is the Situation Test where one is given 14-15 materials and is asked to make a 3D model. Clearing all the two level one gets a rank with which he/she can sit for NIFT counselling and get through.
Q:   How much time is needed to prepare for the NID DAT exam?
A:

Candidates need around 6 months to prepare for NID DAT Exam. In this time, focus should be on preparing syllabus given by NID. Candidates should make a plan and divide syllabus to study. 

Q:   What is the frequency of the NID DAT exam?
A:

The NID DAT entrance exam is conducted once every year.

The exam has two sub-exams - DAT Prelims and DAT Mains. Candidates are shortlisted for DAT Mains based on their scores in DAT Prelims. NID DAT Prelims exam is conducted around December/ January. 

MDes Communication Design Syllabus

Here's a generic MDes Communication Design Syllabus:

MDes Communication Design Subjects Semester I

History of Communication Digital Design Tools I
Communication Design Fundamentals Typography
Foundation Generative Al Fundamentals

MDes Communication Design Subjects Semester II

Cultural Studies Digital Design Tools II
Brand Identity UX/UI Design
Portfolio Design Design Thinking and Innovation
Contemporary Design Design History and Criticism

MDes Communication Design Subjects Semester III

Context Setting Audio-Visual Techniques
Game Engines Packaging & Production
Advanced Design Research Data Visualization
Illustration Summer Internship

MDes Communication Design Subjects Semester IV

Advertising & Campaigns Master Thesis/Research Project

Source: Multiple external sites, hence the info may vary.

Popular Specializations

Q:   Are there any good books on Communication Design?
A:

Yes there are many good books related to Communication Design. Some of these are as follows:

Communication Studies Books

Authors

Communication Studies: The Essential Resource

Andrew Beck, Peter Bennett

Introduction to Communication Studies

John Fiske

Communication Studies

Marsen S

An introduction to communication studies

Sheila Steinberg

The Bias of Communication

Harold Innis

Mass Media Research: An Introduction

Roger D. Wimmer

Digital Media Production for Beginners

Julia Griffey

Cultures of Silence: The Power of Untold Narratives

Luísa Santos

Communication Studies: Introductory Reader

Jeremy Hawthorn

Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.

Know more about Communication Design courses

Q:   Which are the non-major subjects in M.Des in Communication Design course?
A:

The major subjects of MDes in Communication Design course cover the core concepts related to the course. The non major subjects such as electives, technology etc. are additional subjects that can be useful for the student especially in terms of career. Some of these are as follows:

Non Major Subjects

Generative AI Fundamentals

Contemporary Design Issues

Life Skills

Data Visualization

Illustration

Q:   What are the elective subjects in MDes Communication Design program?
A:

Elective subjects are the optional subjects offered in a programme that students can choose from, based on their interests. Here are some common elective subjects offered in the MDes Communication Design program:

  • User Interface (UI) Design
  • Web Design
  • Advertising & Marketing
  • Typography and Production
  • Visual Communication
  • Photography and Videography

Best MDes Communication Design Colleges in India

There are around 80 Design colleges in India offering MDes Communication Design programs in different specializations and modes. Among them, around 60 are private and 10 are government entities. Meanwhile, the remaining institutes are government-aided. 

Best MDes Communication Design Government Colleges

Given below are some government colleges that offer MDes in Communication Design courses, along with their respective total tuition fee:

Best Government Colleges Tuition Fee
NID Ahmedabad INR 12.22 Lakh
Delhi Technological University INR 3.02 Lakh
NID Bangalore INR 11.43 Lakh
Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University INR 3.7 Lakh
NID Gandhinagar INR 11.43 Lakh

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Links useful for M Des in Communication Design:

List of NIFTs in India 2025: Ranking, Admission Process, Courses, Fees & Seats Intake

Best MDes Communication Design Private Colleges

Given below are some private colleges that offer MDes in Communication Design courses, along with their respective total tuition fee:

Best Private Colleges Tuition Fee
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj University INR 1.9 Lakh
DIT University INR 1.07 Lakh
Maharshi Karve Stree Shikshan Samstha's School of Fashion Technology INR 5 Lakh
MIT WPU INR 8.5 Lakh
Pearl Academy Mumbai INR 11.85 Lakh
Pearl Academy New Delhi INR 11.85 Lakh
Symbiosis Institute of Design INR 7.5 Lakh
Unitedworld Institute of Design INR 11 Lakh
UPES School of Design INR 12.52 Lakh
World University of Design INR 8.05 Lakh

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Suggested Links for M Des in Visual Communication:

Top 10 Private Design Colleges in India 2025: Fees, Admission, Courses, Exams

94.4 K - 12.96 L
4.5
2.88 L - 16.72 L
3.8

Design Applications open. Apply Now

15 Courses
47.2 K - 12.96 L
3.1
16 Courses
5.86 L - 12.34 L
3.8
6.07 L - 12.96 L
3.5
Q:   Which colleges offer M.Des in Communication Design with low fee?
A:

MDes in Communication Design is usually considered to be an expensive course. However, there are some colleges that will offer the course with a comparatively affordable fee structure. Some of these are as follows:

MDes in Communication Design Colleges

Average Fees (in INR)

Inframe College of Art, Design and Business

1.4 L

Pearl Academy

1.4 L

International School of Design, Andheri West

1.63 L

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj University

1.9 L

Indus University

2 L

RIMT University

2.2 L

Jagran Lakecity University

2.6 L

Q:   Do students of M.Des in Communication Design courses get good placements?
A:

There are several colleges that offer lucrative packages to students and fresh graduates of MDes in Communication Design courses. Some of these are as follows:

MDes in Communication Design Colleges

Average Salary (in INR)

Symbiosis School of Planning, Architecture and Design, Symbiosis International, Nagpur

17 LPA

Industrial Design Centre - IIT Bombay

15 LPA

Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design And Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education

11.68 LPA

Universal AI University

10.42 LPA

DTU - Delhi Technological University

10 LPA

Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information and Communication Technology

8.8 LPA

DIT University - Admission Office

7.5 LPA

Popular Private MDes Communication Design Colleges in India

25 K - 13 L
3.9

Design Applications open. Apply Now

2.88 L - 16.72 L
3.8

Design Applications open. Apply Now

10 Courses
11.6 L - 23.2 L
4.6

Design Applications open. Apply Now

38 Courses
1.65 L - 40 L
2.9

Design Applications open. Apply Now

6 L - 17.8 L
3.6
12.08 L
3.0

Design Applications open. Apply Now

MDes Communication Design Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

MDes in Communication Design course allows students to use their creativity and expand their career growth. The process of communication and information has changed swiftly, causing a wave of change in the academic sector as well. The field of communication design has developed swiftly because it operates in fields such as media, software, games, publishing, advertising and public relations, all of which are needed in our everyday lives, whether they are real or virtual.

MDes in Communication Design Job Profiles and Salary

The communication design programme has a wide range of professional opportunities with an original approach, and many startups hire communication designers for their online websites, designs, and other projects.  Other job titles include design thinking expert, industrial designer, interior designer, and user experience designer.

The salary package drawn by candidates depends on the sector, job profile, skill level, and academic record of the candidate. The average base salary for some of the popular communication design jobs is given in the table below. They can earn between INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA at the start and increase their pay with experience.

Job Profile

 Job Description

Average Salary

Graphic Designer

A Graphic Designer is a professional who creates visual concepts whose primary aim is to communicate information. 

INR 3 LPA

Multimedia Artist

A Multimedia Artist is a [professional who creates models and sketches using modelling software and computer animation.

INR 5.8 LPA

Art Director

An Art Director is a professional who develops conceptual ideation to communicate a visual message.

INR 6.7 LPA

Web Designer

A Web Designer is a software professional who creates and designs websites using programming and scripting languages.

INR 2.8 LPA

Visual Designer

A Visual Designer is a professional who is responsible for designing the layout of a company's social media handles.

INR 5.4 LPA

Animator

An Animator is a professional who creates motion pictures through images using software tools.

INR 3.2 LPA

Creative Director

A Creative Director is a professional who typically works in media and related fields. S/he is responsible for the advertisement and marketing strategies of a company.

INR 12.24 LPA

Brand Manager

A Brand Manager is a professional whose primary responsibility is to maintain the company's brand value enabling better marketing and sales.

INR 8.8 LPA

Advertising Manager

An Advertising Manager is a professional who looks after the promotion of the company and its products.

INR 4.9 LPA

Game Designer

A Game Designer is a professional is creates online games and gaming apps using scripting and programming languages.

INR 4 LPA

Note: The salary information is sourced from Ambitionbox.com.

Suggested Links for M Des in Visual Communication:

10 tips to crack interviews for design courses at NID, NIFT & IIT

Top Recruiters in Communication Design

Communication Design graduates can find employment in several sectors including Fashion, Hospitality, Boutiques, Advertising, and e-commerce. Some of the popular Communication Design companies in India that hire skilled graduates include:

MDes Communication Design Top Recruiters

Wells and Fargo

Sabyasachi Couture

9Dzine

Webisdom

V Brand Developers

Zee Media

Netflix

EA Sports

Ubisoft

Mind Digital Group

Nykaa

Buttercup Advertising Studio

Source: Multiple external sites, hence the info may vary.
Q:   Is Communication design a good career option?
A:

Yes, Communication design has a promising career. The scope of Communication design career is enormous, whether it is in the field of print or public design, or advertising and event design, and thus the academic course has expanded and will soon be one of the most important courses in any country. 

Students after passing out from their respective undergraduate or postgraduate programmes can apply for jobs in industries such as Advertising, Animation, Publishing, Web Design, and movies. People are able to showcase their artistic abilities and inventiveness through communication design. It offers a forum for individual expression as well as the chance to produce eye-catching and powerful designs.

Q:   What skills are important to have for a communication designer?
A:

In order to ace the industry it is essential to have some must-have skills for Communication Design. The basic Communication Design skillset that anyone planning to pursue a career in the field should have been mentioned below.

  • Creativity
  • Aesthetic sense
  • Communication skills
  • Commercial mindset
  • Knowledge of various software
  • Attention to detail
  • Team player
  • Ability to adhere to strict deadlines

Mdes Communication Design FAQs

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions related MDes in Communication Design:

Q:   What is Communication Design course all about?
A:

The demand for communication designers are increasing day-by-day. A communication designer's job is to create a connection between the spectator and the visuals. A communication designer would evaluate the message they want to transmit and how to effectively engage the viewer before they know what the graphics will look like.

A communication design course will teach students everything they need to know to become expert communication designers. Some of the popular specializations in communication design include - Film and Video communication, Exhibition Design, Animation Film Design, and Graphic Design. 

Most Popular Courses

Following are the most popular MDes Communication Design courses, based on alumni reviews. Explore these reviews to choose the best course in MDes Communication Design.

Course Cutoffs

The cutoffs of popular MDes Communication Design colleges is given below:
M.Des. in Textile Design : NID Entrance Exam 2021 Overall Percentile (General-All India)Accordion Icon V3
qna

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered Yesterday

The eligibility critria for SOFT M.Des is

  • Full-time Degree of minimum 4 year duration in Design/Fine Arts/Applied Arts/Architecture
  • Three Year Bachelor Degree from any recognised University, In B Design/ Fashion Technology, B Tech. / 3 years Diploma of Government Polytechnic + Any Bachelor's Degree &

...Read more

S

Sayeba Naushad

Contributor-Level 10

Answered Yesterday

SOFT CET exams will be on January 09, 2026 and January 10, 2026.  The exam will include three tests: 1) General Ability Test, 2) Studio Test, and 3) Personal Interview + Portfolio Statement of Purpose. The applications are open for UG and PG programmes.

S

Sayeba Naushad

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

NID 2026 Application correction Window for B.Des and M.Des will open on December 02, 2025 till December 04, 2025. 

S

Sayeba Naushad

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

Yes, MDes course is available at UID-NCR (GD Goenka University). The institute offers this course at the UG level. Candidates must meet the eligibility criteria set by the university. Candidates must complete their graduation.

I

Indrani Choudhury

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

Yes, ATLAS SkillTech University does offer internships for MDes course. As per the information gathered from the new brochure of the course presented on the official website, the university provides an internship between the first and second years of the course, which means after second semester.

 

 

 

V

Vishakha

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

Yes, ATLAS SkillTech University offers MDes course through ATLAS ISDI (School of Design and Innovation). The school offers only one specialisation in MDes course, i.e., Design Futures.  Students can enrol in the course by completing the eligibility criteria. 

 

 

 

C

Chanchal Gaurav

Contributor-Level 10

Find insights & recommendations on colleges and exams that you won't find anywhere else

On Shiksha, get access to

  • 66k Colleges
  • 1k Exams
  • 680k Reviews
  • 1800k Answers