Likhith · August 20, 2025 
Introduction
Choosing the right degree is crucial for launching a successful career in interior design, a vibrant field blending creativity with functionality. If you’re weighing B.Des vs Interior Design options, understanding the fundamental differences between these educational pathways can significantly impact your professional trajectory and earning potential.
The B.Des vs Interior Design decision involves comparing a broader design education against specialized interior design training. While both degrees prepare you for creative careers, the B.Des vs Interior Design choice ultimately depends on your career aspirations, learning preferences, and long-term professional goals in India’s rapidly expanding design industry.
This comprehensive analysis explores the B.Des vs Interior Design debate in detail, examining curriculum differences, career scope, salary expectations, and industry recognition. Whether you envision yourself working in residential design, commercial spaces, or broader design consulting, understanding the B.Des vs Interior Design comparison will help you make an informed decision that aligns perfectly with your creative ambitions and career objectives.
Table of Contents
What is the Difference Between B.Des Interior Design and Bachelor of Interior Design?
The B Des Interior Design and Bachelor of Interior Design degrees focus on somewhat different aspects of interior design, shaping distinct roles and career prospects.
- B.Des Interior Design (Bachelor of Design in Interior Design) is a comprehensive program emphasizing creativity, aesthetics, and design innovation. Students engage with artistic principles like color theory, space planning, furniture design, and advanced design software. The program often covers broader design disciplines, fostering creative problem-solving skills and artistic expression.
- Bachelor of Interior Design is more oriented towards the practical and technical elements of the field, combining theory with hands-on training in construction methods, material usage, building codes, and environmental considerations. It equips students with the necessary skills to manage technical aspects of interior spaces effectively.
In summary, if you are inclined toward artistic and creative exploration, B Des may appeal more, while those aiming for a technical, practical mastery of interior spaces may prefer the Bachelor of Interior Design.
What is the Scope of B.Des and Bachelor of Interior Design in India?
The scope of interior design in India is expanding rapidly, fueled by evolving architecture trends, urbanization, and increased awareness of design’s role in lifestyle and business.
- B.Des Interior Design graduates find opportunities in diverse fields such as architectural firms, construction, event management, set and exhibition design, and furniture and lighting design. Their creative skills enable them to excel in roles like interior design consultants, set designers, and lighting experts.
- Bachelor of Interior Design holders are sought after for roles requiring strong technical expertise, including project management, space organization, and compliance with safety and environmental standards.
Both degrees offer promising career paths with a growing demand for skilled professionals who can innovate and execute iconic interior spaces. The salary trends reflect this growth, with fresh graduates earning between INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, rapidly increasing with experience.
What Are the Top 5 Colleges for B.Des Interior Design in India, Along with Entrance Exams?
Here are some of the top B Des Interior Design colleges renowned for their curriculum, faculty, and placement records:
| College Name | Location | Entrance Exam(s) | Approx. Fees (INR) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Institute of Design (NID) Ahmedabad | Ahmedabad | NID DAT (Design Aptitude Test) | 18 Lakh (more details) | High average package (up to 14 LPA), prestigious government institute |
| Strate School of Design | Bengaluru | Institute-specific exam + portfolio | 26 Lakh (more details) | High average package (10 LPA) |
| Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology | Bengaluru | SMEAT (Srishti Manipal Entrance) | 30.82 Lakh (more details) | Strong creative focus |
| Pearl Academy | Mumbai/Delhi | Pearl Academy Entrance Exam | 28.89 Lakh (more details) | Good industry connections, placements |
| Amity University, Noida | Noida | Amity University Entrance | 4.5 Lakh (more details) | Private university with solid infrastructure |
Additional government colleges include Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University and Visva Bharati University, which have comparatively lower fees and reputable programs.
What Are the Top 5 Colleges for a Bachelor of Interior Design in India, Along with Entrance Exams?
| College Name | Location | Entrance Exam(s) | Approx. Fees (INR) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) | Delhi | NIFT Entrance Exam | 13.06 Lakhs (more details) | Strong industry ties, good placements |
| Chandigarh University | Chandigarh | University-specific exam | 8.30 Lakhs (more details) | High package offers (up to 36 LPA) |
| Lovely Professional University (LPU) | Jalandhar | LPU Entrance Exam | 9.6 Lakhs (more details) | Best package recorded (up to 30 LPA) |
| SRM Institute of Science and Technology | Chennai | SRM Entrance Exam | 6 Lakhs (more details) | Notable high salary offers (up to 27 LPA) |
| Symbiosis Institute of Design | Pune | Symbiosis Entrance Test | 19.5 Lakhs (more details) | Consistent placement record |
What is the Salary Outlook for B.Des Interior Design and Bachelor of Interior Design Graduates in India?
Salary depends on experience, expertise, and the institution attended:
- Entry-level interior designers can expect salaries in the range of INR 3-5 LPA.
- Mid-level professionals earn between INR 6-10 LPA.
- With experience, skilled interior designers can command anywhere from INR 8 LPA to upwards of INR 20 LPA.
- Graduates from top institutions have earned packages as high as INR 300 LPA (Lovely Professional University) and INR 100 LPA (SRM Institute of Science and Technology).
- Independent designers can earn INR 10-12 LPA or more, depending on reputation and projects.
On average, Bachelor of Interior Design holders tend to have slightly higher starting technical salaries, whereas B Des graduates lean towards creative and consultant roles with competitive packages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which bachelor’s degree should an interior designer pursue?
It depends on your focus:
B.Des (Bachelor of Design): Ideal for those with a strong creative/artistic inclination.
Bachelor of Interior Design: Best suited for those interested in technical, structural, and practical aspects of interior spaces.
2. Can I switch between these degrees during the course?
Some universities allow program changes, depending on academic performance, seat availability, and the student’s evolving interests.
3. How is a B.Arch different from a Bachelor’s in Interior Design?
B.Arch: Emphasizes building design, structure, and architecture.
Bachelor’s in Interior Design: Focuses on interior aesthetics, space functionality, and user experience.
Your choice should align with your long-term career goals.
4. What are the career prospects in Interior Designing in India?
Strong prospects exist in residential, commercial, hospitality, and retail design. Graduates from top institutions often secure well-paying jobs, aided by strong industry connections and portfolio development during the course.
5. Is spending ₹26 lakhs on a B.Des worth it?
Only if the institution offers:
Excellent placements and alumni network
Strong industry partnerships
High brand value
Otherwise, ROI may be low, as similar skills and portfolios can be built at public colleges or through cost-effective learning paths.
Choosing between B.Des vs. Bachelor of Interior Design is just the first step toward a fulfilling career. At Career Plan B, we specialize in personalized career counseling and assessments tailored to your skills, interests, and goals.
Our expert services include:
- Personalized career counseling to help you choose the right interior design path.
- Psycheintel and career assessment tests to identify your strengths and best-fit options.
- Academic and admission profile guidance for securing placements in top colleges.
- Comprehensive career roadmapping ensures you stay on track from education to employment.
- Up-to-date information on the latest job openings related to your course.
With our guidance, you can confidently navigate your education and career journey, ensuring maximum return on your degree investment.
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Conclusion
The B.Des vs Interior Design decision ultimately comes down to your specific career goals, creative interests, and preferred learning approach. Both degrees offer valuable pathways into the design industry, but with different focuses and opportunities for specialization.
Consider your long-term vision when evaluating B.Des vs Interior Design options. If you prefer broader design exposure with flexibility to explore various creative fields, B.Des might be ideal. For focused interior design expertise and faster entry into the profession, a specialized Bachelor of Interior Design could be perfect.
Make your B.Des vs Interior Design choice based on thorough research of colleges, curriculum, faculty expertise, and placement records. Remember that success in interior design depends more on your creativity, dedication, and practical skills than just the degree title. Choose the path that excites you most and aligns with your career aspirations.
