List of Design Courses Offered at IGNOU: Eligibility, Application Process, Syllabus

Sukriti Vajpayee

Updated On: September 26, 2025 05:31 PM

IGNOU offers design courses through distance learning, including Certificate in Fashion Design and Diploma in Fashion Design & Retail. With affordable fees, flexible schedules, and practical training, these programs cater to students and professionals aiming to build careers in fashion and retail design.

IGNOU Design Courses

List of Design Courses Offered at IGNOU: A variety of IGNOU design courses are available via distance learning if you have a strong interest in design but are not yet prepared to join a traditional college. Design enthusiasts who desire flexible study alternatives to improve their talents will enjoy these courses. The Indira Gandhi National Open University , or IGNOU, was established in 1985 and is a central university committed to providing quality education through open and distance learning.

With over 4 million active students, IGNOU is one of the largest universities globally, catering not just to students but also to working professionals. Its diverse offerings span multiple disciplines across various levels. Recognizing the growing demand for design education, IGNOU introduced multiple design courses in January 2018. These programs are designed to accommodate learners from different backgrounds. Explore the available design courses at IGNOU, along with important details about eligibility criteria, application processes, syllabus, and more, to find the right program for you.

List of Design Courses Offered at IGNOU

Since the field of design is relatively new and belongs to the category of up-and-coming streams in the country, IGNOU has started including design programmes in its curriculum only recently. As of now, the university offers just one course in design, but it will soon add more programmes at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The table given below provides the basic information on the design courses provided at IGNOU.

Parameter

Detail

Name of the Course

  • Certificate in Fashion Design

  • Diploma in Fashion Design and Retail

Level of the Course

Certificate and Diploma level

Course Duration

6-12 months

Medium of Instruction

English and Hindi

Mode of the Course

Distance Mode

Course Fee

INR 5,000

Evaluation Method

Credit System

Total Credits

16

Curriculum

Theory and Practical

Eligibility Criteria of Design Courses at IGNOU

Candidates planning to pursue a Certificate in Fashion Design course at IGNOU must check the eligibility criteria before filling out the application form. It must be noted that only candidates who meet all the eligibility requirements will be granted admission. Check out the CFDE eligibility criteria mentioned below:

  • Applicants must have completed their higher secondary education or class 12th.
  • However, the student doesn't need to clear class 12th in the regular mode. The ones with degrees through distance education are also eligible to apply.
  • The candidate must have secured passing marks in all the subjects at the 10+2 level.
  • It permits students from all disciplines and streams to take the course.

IGNOU Design Courses Application Process

If you are thinking of applying for the IGNOU design courses, here is the step-by-step process to fill out an online application for the course. The candidate would have to apply through the official portal at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.

  • Go to the IGNOU’s official website to begin your application.

  • Provide your name, email ID, and mobile number to complete the registration. Once registered, you will receive your username and password via SMS and email.

  • Use the credentials (username and password) you received to log in to the system.

  • Fill out the required details in the online admission form accurately.

  • Upload the necessary documents for the application process:

    • Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (up to 100KB in JPG format).

    • Signature: Specimen signature (up to 100KB in JPG format).

    • Supporting Documents: Scanned copies of relevant documents, such as academic certificates (up to 200KB per document in JPG/PDF format).

  • Carefully read the instructions and the declaration. Tick the box to confirm your agreement.

  • Double-check all the details entered. Make corrections if needed.

  • Pay the course fee using a credit/debit card or through net banking.

  • You will receive a payment confirmation via SMS and email.

  • After completing all steps, press the “Next” button to preview the final form.

  • Submit the application form and download a copy for your records. Keep a printout for future reference.

Note: After submitting the form, the eligibility criteria of your application will be verified by the authorities. If everything goes well, an admission confirmation in respect of your registered email ID will be mailed to you. If IGNOU finds any discrepancy in some details of your submitted application for IGNOU design courses, they will surely let you know about it. Once the application is processed successfully, the university shall send further details in due course, regarding confirmation of admission, assignment of a study centre, and other induction-related information.

IGNOU Design Courses Admission Selection Criteria

If you are planning to apply for the diploma and certificate design courses at IGNOU, here's how the selection works:

  • First Come, First Served: Once applications are received, they go through a process on a first-come, first-served basis. The earlier, the better.

  • No Merit List Requirement: As long as you fulfil all the eligibility requirements and apply before the deadline, you do not need to worry about competing for a spot.

  • No Interview Needed: No selection round or interview process is involved; hence, the process remains very simple for applicants.

Syllabus, Course Structure and Credits of IGNOU Design Courses

The table given below provides the list of design courses at IGNOU, course duration, course type and course description that will help you pick the right design course for yourself.

Course Name

Course Type

Course Duration

Course Description

CFDE: Certificate In Fashion Design

Certificate

6 months

The overall objective of this design course at IGNOU is to provide students with a sufficient foundation for employability in the Indian apparel industry. The course will establish basic knowledge and skills in pattern-making and sewing techniques. The course will cater to the needs of people who aspire to make careers as assistant designers in the apparel sector/export sector/want to become entrepreneurs/would like to update their existing knowledge and skills, especially in pattern making and sewing.

DFDR: Diploma in Fashion Design and Retail

Diploma

12 months

You can apply for this IGNOU design course that helps you to build a successful career in fashion retail. The course is concentrated on very important areas like retail buying and merchandising, supply chain and store operations, and also some components on visual merchandising, advertising, garment construction, sales, and marketing. It offers hands-on learning along with process guidance from finding the inspiration in designs to creating new prototypes, guided throughout with deep knowledge of the fashion industry and how it works.

IGNOU Design Courses Syllabus

Check out the latest and updated syllabus for the different IGNOU design courses below:

CFDE: Certificate In Fashion Design

Course Code

Title of the Course

Credits

BFDI-71

BFDI-71 (P)

Fundamentals of Fashion Design

4

BFDI-72

BFDI-72 (P)

Basics of Pattern Making and Sewing

4

BFDI-73

BFDI-73 (P)

Introduction to Fashion Industry

4

BFD-74

Communication and Entrepreneurship

4

Total Credits

16

DFDR: Diploma in Fashion Design and Retail

Course Code

Title of Course

Type of Course

Credits

BFDI-071

Fundamentals of Fashion Design

Integrated assignment-based practical

4

BFDI-072

Basics of Pattern Making and Sewing

Integrated assignment-based practical

4

BFDI-073

Introduction to Fashion Industry

Theory

4

BFD-074

Communication and Entrepreneurship

Theory

4

BFDL-075

Designing and Product Development

Practical

4

BFD-076

Textile and Fashion Retailing

Theory

4

BFD-077

Fashion Retail Marketing, Operations and Store Management

Theory

4

BFD-078

Visual Merchandising and IT Application in Retailing

Theory

4

BFDP-079

Project

Project

8

Total Credits

40

IGNOU Design Courses Exam Pattern

The IGNOU design courses review your performance based on the assignments and term-end exams. Here are all the details about both these components:

Assignments (30% of Total Marks)

  • It includes the submission of assignments per each course.
  • IGNOU determines the submission dates, which will be followed strictly.

End-Term Exams (70% of Total Marks)

  • Both take place twice a year during June and December only
  • The format consists of objective-type questions and questions answered in short.
  • The tests cover your information from all courses taken in the program.

IGNOU Design Courses Evaluation System

If you are pursuing the design courses at IGNOU, here's how your progress will be assessed:

  • Ongoing Assessments: Your assignments and practical tasks will be reviewed to monitor your understanding and application of concepts regularly.
  • Final Written Test: Term-end, you are going to sit for the written examination that focuses on your theoretical knowledge.
  • Hands-on or Practical Test: This deals with your practical skills in pattern making and sewing, to allow you to demonstrate creativity and craftsmanship.
  • Passing Criterion: You have to attain at least 40% in both the assignments and the term-end written exam.
  • Final Grade: An overall grade is given, taking into account all the components.

Placement Prospects After IGNOU Design Courses

If you are enrolling for the IGNOU design courses, then you should note that the university does not offer direct placement services. However, you will be able to take benefits from the placement cell support of IGNOU to seek possible job opportunities and get a job in the fashion industry. There are some possible jobs one can look for after completing this course:

  • Junior Designer: Earn a monthly salary ranging from INR 15,000 to INR 25,000.

  • Fashion Retail Associate: Earns a salary between INR 12,000 and INR 20,000 per month.

  • Freelance Pattern Maker: Payment varies, typically INR 500 to INR 2,000 per pattern, depending on complexity.

  • Fashion Blogger: Your income will depend on how large your market is and the sponsorships you bring in.

  • Design Assistant: Starting salary begins at INR 10,000 per month to INR 18,000.

Why Choose to Pursue IGNOU Design Courses?

If you are interested in fashion and want to explore the industry, pursuing IGNOU’s Certificate in Fashion Design and Diploma in Fashion Design and Retail courses are a great opportunity to start. Here is why this program stands out:

  • Fast Pace of Completion: Complete the course in six months.

  • Flexible Schedule: Learn at your own pace, with up to two years to finish.

  • Budget-Friendly: At INR 5,000, it is highly affordable for most learners.

  • Open for All: There’s no age restriction, making it accessible to anyone interested.

  • Applied Skills: Hands-on experience with making patterns, sewing, and understanding the basics of design.

Stay tuned to CollegeDekho to get more information about design admissions in India. Candidates who aspire to make a career in design can find all the details of the stream, top design colleges in India , its courses, and design entrance exams here. In case you have any doubts, you can write to us on the CollegeDekho QnA Portal ..

Are you feeling lost and unsure about what career path to take after completing 12th standard?

Say goodbye to confusion and hello to a bright future!

news_cta

FAQs

What career opportunities are available after completing IGNOU design courses?

Graduates can work as Junior Designers, Fashion Retail Associates, Design Assistants, Freelance Pattern Makers, or even explore roles in fashion blogging and entrepreneurship.

How can I apply for IGNOU design courses?

Candidates can apply online through the IGNOU admission portal (ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in) by registering, filling out the form, uploading documents, and paying the course fee.

What is the course fee for IGNOU design programs?

The fee for IGNOU design courses is around INR 5,000, making them highly affordable compared to traditional design programs.

What is the eligibility for IGNOU design courses?

Candidates must have passed Class 12 (in any stream) from a recognised board. Students from both regular and distance education backgrounds are eligible to apply.

What are the design courses offered by IGNOU in 2026?

IGNOU currently offers the Certificate in Fashion Design (CFDE) and the Diploma in Fashion Design and Retail (DFDR) through distance learning.

What is the course fee for IGNOU design courses?

The course fees for the IGNOU design courses are as follows:

  • CFDE Certificate In Fashion Design: INR 5,000 for full course + Registration fee of INR 300
  • DFDR Diploma in Fashion Design and Retail: INR 10000 for the full course (Registration Fee and Development Fee as applicable)

Is the IGNOU design course certificate valid?

Yes, certificates/diplomas that are issued after IGNOU design courses are valid. IGNOU is a recognized central university established by an Act of Parliament. Degrees and certificates issued by IGNOU are accepted by the University Grants Commission (UGC), and they are allowed for higher studies, jobs, and government posts.

Are there any practical assignments in IGNOU design courses?

Yes, most of the design courses under IGNOU involve practical assignments. These are essential for hands-on learning and skill building. The exercises may range from design projects, portfolios, model-making, or even digital design activities, depending on which course. These are meant to strengthen how students learn theoretical activities.

Does IGNOU provide fashion design?

Yes, IGNOU provides fashion design courses to skill the design candidates for the professional fashion industry. Students will acquire basic knowledge and skills in this field.

What is the IGNOU fashion design course syllabus?

The IGNOU fashion design course syllabus includes the basics of pattern making & sewing, fundamentals of fashion design, introduction to the fashion industry, communication and entrepreneurship.

Do IGNOU certificate courses have value?

Yes, IGNOU certificate courses have value as they are recognised and authorised by the University Grants Commission (UGC). So, the ones who want to pursue any course from IGNOU are advised to research and then start with the course.

Can we do interior designing at a distance?

Yes, interior designing can be pursued at a distance. The MBA in interior design is offered as a distance learning course in India at different universities.

What is the duration of the IGNOU design course?

Candidates can complete a design course from IGNOU within a minimum period of six months to a maximum of two years. It must be noted that the credit system is followed at IGNOU.

View More
/articles/ignou-design-courses/
View All Questions

Related Questions

Are LPU Online courses good? How can I take admission?

-Sumukhi DiwanUpdated on September 02, 2025 11:57 PM
  • 38 Answers
Aston, Student / Alumni

Yes, LPU's online courses are well-regarded for their industry-aligned curriculum and flexible learning format. To take admission, you can visit the official LPU Online website, choose your desired program, check the eligibility criteria, and complete the online application process. The university provides comprehensive support throughout your academic journey.

READ MORE...

I need to apply for LPU certificate. Please help!

-NikitaUpdated on September 18, 2025 11:12 AM
  • 33 Answers
vridhi, Student / Alumni

If you wish to apply for a certificate at LPU, the process is straightforward and student-friendly. You can submit your request online through the UMS portal or reach out to the Registrar’s Office for assistance. LPU ensures prompt support, making it convenient for students to receive their certificates on time without any hassle.

READ MORE...

My name is K. Tejakshaya, my category is SC, and my rank is 57,537.

-kukkala tejakshayaUpdated on August 22, 2025 05:51 PM
  • 1 Answer
Aarushi Jain, Content Team

Dear Student, 

Could you please confirm which entrance exam you are referring to? Since your details mention a rank of 57,537 under the SC category with the name K. Tejakshaya, it could belong to different examinations. Knowing the exact exam will help me provide accurate guidance on the counselling process, admission opportunities, and the possibilities available for your specific rank and category. This will ensure that the information I share with you is precise and truly useful for your situation.

READ MORE...

Do you have a question? Ask us.

  • Typical response between 24-48 hours

  • Get personalized response

  • Free of Cost

  • Access to community

Subscribe to CollegeDekho News

By proceeding ahead you expressly agree to the CollegeDekho terms of use and privacy policy

Top 10 Design Colleges in India

View All