Design Courses in UK - Top Colleges, Ranking, Eligibility

The UK is a hub of the top Art and Design universities in the world with 8 of its universities ranked in the top 50 arts and design universities in the world. Apart from that, the UK is renowned for its teaching pedagogy, facilities and inspiration for the students. This article is a comprehensive guide to study design courses in the UK.

The Royal College of Art and the University of Arts London are ranked in the 1st and 2nd positions by QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Art & Design. Hence, once again proving why the UK is at the centre of the higher education dynamics of the world. This article provides an overview of design courses available at top UK universities, including admission requirements, fees, and application processes as of early 2025.

Check: 

• Top Interior Design Schools in the World

• Top Interior Design Universities in the UK

Types of Design Courses Available in UK

Students can expect to study either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in design in the UK. The different types of design courses available in the UK are:

Popular Specialisation in Design Colleges in UK

Students can choose from a wide range of specialisations available in the arts and design field. Some of the most popular arts & design specialisations available in UK universities are given below. 

Top 10 Design Colleges in the UK 2025

Check out the list of the best design colleges in the UK in 2025:

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Design Colleges in UK in 2025

Here are the general eligibility criteria for studying design courses in the UK:

• Academic Qualifications:
• • Undergraduate: Completion of senior secondary school (e.g., A-levels, International Baccalaureate, or equivalent) with a strong academic record, often requiring specific grades in relevant subjects like art, design, or related fields. Some universities might consider vocational qualifications in art and design.

• • Postgraduate: A good undergraduate degree (usually a bachelor's degree with honours) in a relevant field such as design, fine arts, architecture, or a related discipline. Some institutions may consider applicants with degrees in other fields if they can demonstrate relevant experience and a strong portfolio. 

• Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing your design skills, creativity, technical abilities, and understanding of design principles is almost always a crucial requirement. The specific requirements for the portfolio (e.g., format, content, number of pieces) will vary between institutions and courses.

• English Language Proficiency: If English is not your first language, you will need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL or PTE. The minimum scores required in these tests vary depending on the university and course. Typically, an IELTS score of 6.0 to 7.0 overall, with a minimum 6.5 score in each component, is expected.   

• Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose: A personal written statement, or SOP, outlining your motivations for studying a design course, your interests, relevant experiences, career aspirations, and why you have chosen a particular course and university is required by the university.

• Letters of Recommendation: Typically required for postgraduate applications, letters of reference/recommendation are written by academic or professional referees who can comment on your abilities and suitability for the program.
• Visa Requirements: International students will need to meet the UK student visa requirements, including providing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the university and demonstrating sufficient funds for tuition fees and living expenses.

This was all about the Design Courses in UK. If you seek higher education abroad, get in touch with Shiksha's counselling services for free.