M.Des vs MBA in Design Management: What’s the Better Career Path?

Published by Shikha Kumari on Jul 14, 2025

Choosing the right postgraduate degree is a big decision, especially if you are passionate about design and want to build a successful career. Two popular options are the Master of Design (M.Des) and the MBA in Design Management. Both courses can lead to great career opportunities, however these two courses offer different skills, experiences, and career paths. In this blog, we’ll compare M.Des and MBA in Design Management in simple language, so you can decide which is the better career path for you.

What is M.Des?

M.Des stands for Master of Design. It is a two-year postgraduate course focused on advanced design skills, creativity, and practical experience. M.Des programmes are available in specialisations such as:

• Product Design
  
• Communication Design
  
• Interaction Design
  
• Fashion Design
  
• Industrial Design
  
• Graphic Design
  

The main aim of M.Des is to help students become expert designers who can create innovative and useful products, graphics, or experiences.

What is MBA in Design Management?

An MBA in Design Management is a business degree that combines design thinking with business strategy and leadership. This course teaches you how to manage design teams, projects, and brands. You’ll learn about:

• Business Strategy
  
• Marketing and Branding
  
• Innovation Management
  
• Project Management
  
• Leadership in Creative Industries
  

This programme is perfect for those who want to bridge the gap between design and business, and lead organisations that value creativity and innovation.

Key Differences Between M.Des and MBA in Design Management

Advantages of M.Des

1. Deep Creative Skills

M.Des programs allow you to develop strong design skills. You’ll learn how to turn creative ideas into real products or solutions, using the latest tools and techniques.

2. Hands-On Experience

Most M.Des courses include practical projects, internships, and industry collaborations. This helps you build a strong portfolio and gain real-world experience before you graduate.

3. Wide Range of Specialisations

You can choose from many areas like product design, communication design, or fashion design, depending on your interests and career goals.

4. Career Opportunities

After M.Des, you can work as:

• Product Designer
  
• UI/UX Designer
  
• Industrial Designer
  
• Graphic Designer
  
• Fashion Designer
  
• Design Researcher
  
• Art Director
  
• Animator
  

You can also go into teaching or research, or start your own design studio.

5. Creative Freedom

If you love creativity and want a career where you can express your ideas, M.Des is a great choice. You get to work on projects that challenge your imagination and problem-solving skills.

Advantages of MBA in Design Management

1. Business and Leadership Skills

An MBA in Design Management teaches you how to lead teams, manage projects, and make business decisions. You’ll learn about marketing, finance, and business strategy, along with design thinking.

2. Versatile Career Options

With this degree, you can work in many industries, such as technology, retail, advertising, and consulting. You can take up roles like:

• Design Manager
  
• Brand Manager
  
• Project Manager
  
• Marketing Manager
  
• Product Manager
  
• Innovation Lead
  

You’ll be able to manage both creative and business aspects of a company.

3. Higher Salary Potential

MBA graduates often start with higher salaries, especially if they move into management or leadership positions. The average salary for MBA in Design Management graduates in India ranges from INR 5-20 LPA, depending on experience and industry.

4. Strong Professional Network

MBA programs usually have strong alumni networks and connections with industry leaders. This can help you find better job opportunities and grow your career faster..

5. Strategic Thinking

You’ll learn how to use design as a tool for business growth and innovation. This is valuable for companies that want to stand out in the market.

Which Course Should You Choose?

Choose M.Des If:

• You are passionate about creativity, design, and hands-on work.
  
• You want to become an expert designer or creative professional.
  
• You enjoy working on design projects and building a portfolio.
  
• You want to specialize in a particular area of design (e.g., product, graphic, fashion).
  

Choose MBA in Design Management If:

• You want to combine design with business strategy and leadership.
  
• You are interested in managing teams, projects, or brands.
  
• You want to work in management roles in creative industries.
  
• You are looking for higher salary and faster career growth.
  
• You want to build a strong network in the business world.
  

Career Growth and Future Prospects

Both M.Des and MBA in Design Management offer great career opportunities. The design industry is growing rapidly, and companies are looking for professionals who can bring creativity and innovation to their business.

• M.Des graduates often start as designers and can move up to senior designer, art director, or creative head roles. Some also become entrepreneurs or educators.
  
• MBA in Design Management graduates can quickly move into management positions, lead design teams, or become heads of design departments. They can also work as consultants or start their own businesses.
  

Conclusion: Which is the Better Career Path?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The better career path depends on your interests, strengths, and career goals.

• If you love creativity and want to master design, choose M.Des.
  
• If you want to lead, manage, and use design for business growth, choose MBA in Design Management.
  

Both degrees are respected and can lead to a successful and fulfilling career. Think about your passion, skills, and where you see yourself in the future. Whichever path you choose, the world of design is full of exciting opportunities!