Research Design Schools with a Clear Fit
It’s not always about choosing the best school or the most famous. It is also about choosing the right fit. Every school is different from another.
- On the left, Lasalle Design School in Singapore
Visit multiple schools to understand their general philosophy and approach to design. If a school’s philosophy doesn’t align with yours, cross it off your list and move on to the next one. Try to avoid naïveté by double-checking information with multiple students currently attending.
Do careful Internet research
For online information, you can look at forums, but be aware of biased opinions. Some comments are well-founded, others are not. Focus first on identifying the school’s positive attributes rather than cataloging every flaw. No system is perfect, and every student’s experience varies.
The school I choose (CREAPOLE-ESDI) used to have haters comments on forums. However, when I went to visit the school by myself, I made my own opinion. I had the chance to discuss with the Director of the school M. Leralu who shared with me the current philosophy of a Product Designer.
Look beyond “the best” label
You don’t have to target only the “best” school. This is actually subjective. Apply where you feel you can grow the most. If a school is especially expensive, it deserves extra investigation. Ask about the teachers’ credentials and if they have professional experience.
My design school degree is not certified by the French government by design. The institution chose to forgo formal accreditation to avoid rigid regulatory requirements. Instead, it hires practicing professors who stay current with real-world industry developments.
This approach favors practical, mission-focused education over an overwhelming academic curriculum, aiming to train students to be immediately operable in the industry.
Gather firsthand insights
Get information from current students and alumni. Ask them about the recruitment process and career outcomes. They are your insiders and can provide practical guidance.
Reach out if you’re shy
If you’re too shy to speak in person, contact students and alumni by email. You can often find contact information and profiles on portfolio platforms. Many designers share their portfolios publicly. You can access their contact information and profile at http://www.coroflot.com or www.behance.net.
Related Articles
[…] quick reminder from a previous article is to make sure to do enough research about the school you apply to. It’s not because that school is expensive that means it’s a good place to learn. It may […]