Choosing the right design college is a crucial step for anyone passionate about creativity and innovation. Pune, known as an educational hub, offers some of the best design institutes in India. Whether you want to pursue fashion, graphic, interior, or product design, Pune has options that combine quality education with practical exposure.

In this article, we list the top design colleges in Pune for 2026. You’ll find detailed insights on their specialties, locations, fees, and what makes each one unique. This guide aims to help you make an informed decision for your design career.

1. MIT Institute of Design

MIT Institute of Design is one of Pune’s premier design schools, known for its comprehensive programs and industry connections. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various design fields, emphasizing innovation and practical skills.

• Location:

  Located in Pune’s Rajbaug area, easily accessible from the city center and connected by public transport.

• Specialty:

  Strong focus on product design, communication design, and user experience design.

• Experience:

  Students benefit from workshops, internships, and collaborations with leading design firms.

• Price Range:

  Approximate fees range from INR 3 to 5 lakhs per year depending on the course.

• Why Visit:

  Known for its modern infrastructure and industry-oriented curriculum.

Ideal for students seeking a well-rounded education with exposure to real-world projects and a campus culture that fosters creativity.

2. Symbiosis Institute of Design

Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID) is part of the reputed Symbiosis International University, offering a blend of academic rigor and creative freedom. SID is popular for its design thinking approach and strong alumni network.

• Location:

  Situated in Viman Nagar, Pune, close to IT parks and residential areas.

• Specialty:

  Offers courses in communication design, industrial design, and fashion design.

• Experience:

  Emphasizes research, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning.

• Price Range:

  Fees typically range between INR 4 to 6 lakhs annually.

• Why Visit:

  Great for students looking for a reputed university environment with diverse design disciplines.

Best suited for those who want a mix of academic excellence and practical exposure in a vibrant campus setting.

3. MIT Art, Design and Technology University

This university offers specialized design programs with a focus on technology integration. It is known for its cutting-edge labs and emphasis on digital design and multimedia.

• Location:

  Located in Loni Kalbhor, on Pune’s outskirts, with good transport links.

• Specialty:

  Focus on digital media, animation, and interaction design.

• Experience:

  Offers hands-on training with industry-standard software and tools.

• Price Range:

  Annual fees range from INR 3.5 to 5 lakhs.

• Why Visit:

  Ideal for students interested in the intersection of design and technology.

Perfect for tech-savvy students aiming for careers in animation, UX/UI, and multimedia design.

4. Vishwakarma University – School of Design

Vishwakarma University’s School of Design provides a broad spectrum of design courses with an emphasis on sustainability and innovation. The institute encourages creative problem-solving through design.

• Location:

  Situated in Kondhwa, Pune, easily reachable by road and public transport.

• Specialty:

  Known for interior design, product design, and fashion design programs.

• Experience:

  Strong focus on workshops, industry visits, and collaborative projects.

• Price Range:

  Fees generally range from INR 2.5 to 4 lakhs per year.

• Why Visit:

  Offers a balanced curriculum with a focus on eco-friendly design practices.

Great for students passionate about sustainable design and hands-on learning experiences.

5. Pune Institute of Computer Technology (PICT) – Design Department

PICT is well-known for engineering but also offers quality design courses focusing on user experience and interface design. It integrates design with technology effectively.

• Location:

  Located in Dhankawadi, Pune, near major transport routes.

• Specialty:

  Focus on UX/UI design, human-computer interaction, and product design.

• Experience:

  Students work on live projects and internships with tech companies.

• Price Range:

  Fees range around INR 2 to 3.5 lakhs annually.

• Why Visit:

  Ideal for students wanting to blend design with technology and engineering.

Perfect for tech-oriented students aiming to enter the digital design and product development sectors.

6. Flame University – School of Design

Flame University offers design courses with an emphasis on liberal arts and creative thinking. The curriculum encourages innovation and interdisciplinary learning.

• Location:

  Located in Pune’s Lavale area, surrounded by a serene campus environment.

• Specialty:

  Focus on communication design, branding, and visual storytelling.

• Experience:

  Provides a flexible curriculum with opportunities for research and internships.

• Price Range:

  Fees typically range from INR 4 to 6 lakhs per year.

• Why Visit:

  Suitable for students seeking a holistic education with creative freedom.

Great for those who want to explore design alongside other arts and humanities disciplines.

7. Symbiosis Centre for Media & Communication (SCMC)

SCMC is renowned for media studies but also offers design-related courses focusing on visual communication and media design. It combines theory with practical media skills.

• Location:

  Located in Viman Nagar, Pune, close to major commercial hubs.

• Specialty:

  Known for visual communication, media design, and advertising.

• Experience:

  Students get hands-on experience with media projects and internships.

• Price Range:

  Fees range between INR 3.5 to 5 lakhs annually.

• Why Visit:

  Ideal for students interested in media and communication design careers.

Perfect for creative individuals aiming to work in advertising, media, and digital content creation.

8. D Y Patil College of Architecture and Design

This college offers design courses with a strong focus on architecture and spatial design. It is known for its practical approach and industry collaborations.

• Location:

  Located in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune, well connected by public transport.

• Specialty:

  Focus on architectural design, interior design, and urban planning.

• Experience:

  Students participate in real-world projects and site visits.

• Price Range:

  Fees range from INR 2 to 3.5 lakhs per year.

• Why Visit:

  Recommended for students interested in architecture and spatial design fields.

Best suited for those who want hands-on experience in architecture combined with design principles.

When to Visit or Use These Best Design Colleges in Pune

Choosing the right time to apply or visit design colleges can enhance your chances of admission and help you plan better.

• Apply during the admission season, typically between March and July, to secure seats in top colleges.

• Visit campuses during open days or education fairs to get a feel of the environment and facilities.

• Consider starting your application early if you want scholarships or financial aid.

• Plan visits during weekdays to attend demo classes or meet faculty for detailed queries.

How to Choose the Best Design College in Pune

Picking the right design college depends on your career goals, budget, and preferred design discipline.

• Check the college’s accreditation and affiliation to ensure recognized degrees.

• Evaluate the curriculum to see if it matches your interests, such as fashion, product, or digital design.

• Consider location and accessibility to balance convenience and lifestyle.

• Look for colleges with strong industry connections for internships and placements.

• Compare fee structures and available scholarships to fit your budget.

• Read student reviews and alumni success stories to gauge reputation and quality.

By comparing these factors, you can select a college that aligns with your aspirations and offers the best learning environment.

Conclusion

Pune offers a diverse range of design colleges catering to various creative fields and interests. From technology-driven institutes to liberal arts-focused universities, there is something for every aspiring designer.

Use this guide to explore your options, understand what each college offers, and choose the one that fits your goals and budget. With the right college, you can build a strong foundation for a successful design career in 2026 and beyond.

FAQs

Which is the most reputed design college in Pune?

MIT Institute of Design and Symbiosis Institute of Design are among the most reputed, known for quality education and strong industry links.

What is the average fee for design courses in Pune?

Fees generally range from INR 2 lakhs to 6 lakhs per year depending on the college and course specialization.

Are there good internship opportunities in Pune design colleges?

Yes, most top colleges have tie-ups with design firms and offer internships to provide practical exposure.

Can I pursue fashion design in Pune?

Absolutely, institutes like Symbiosis Institute of Design and Vishwakarma University offer specialized fashion design programs.

Do Pune design colleges offer digital design courses?

Yes, many colleges such as MIT Art, Design and Technology University focus on digital media, UX/UI, and multimedia design.