Design Intelligence Rankings 2020: A Comprehensive Overview
The design intelligence rankings 2020 provide valuable insights into the top design schools and programs around the world. Compiled by DesignIntelligence, a leading design research and consulting firm, this annual ranking is based on surveys of leading designers and design firms. The rankings are a benchmark for design students and professionals to gauge the quality of design programs and identify areas of excellence.
Top Design Schools in the United States
The top 10 design schools in the United States, according to the design intelligence rankings 2020, are:
- Yale University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- University of Michigan
- Stanford University
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- University of Washington
- Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
These schools are consistently ranked high in various design disciplines, including industrial design, graphic design, and interior design. They offer rigorous academic programs, world-class faculty, and opportunities for students to engage in design research and projects.

Top Design Schools in Europe
The top 5 design schools in Europe, according to the design intelligence rankings 2020, are:
- London College of Communication (UK)
- Central Saint Martins (UK)
- Design Academy Eindhoven (Netherlands)
- Politecnico di Milano (Italy)
- Escola Superior de Disseny (Spain)
These schools offer a unique blend of design education and cultural immersion, with many programs taught in English and featuring international faculty and students. They are well-regarded for their emphasis on innovation, creativity, and social responsibility.
Top Design Schools in Asia
The top 5 design schools in Asia, according to the design intelligence rankings 2020, are:

- National University of Singapore (Singapore)
- University of Tokyo (Japan)
- Seoul National University (South Korea)
- National Taiwan University (Taiwan)
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) - Bombay (India)
These schools offer high-quality design education, often with a focus on technology and innovation. They are well-connected to industry partners and provide opportunities for students to engage in design projects and research collaborations.
Key Takeaways from the Rankings
The design intelligence rankings 2020 offer several key takeaways for design students and professionals:
- The importance of a well-rounded design education, encompassing both technical skills and creative thinking.
- The value of internships, research projects, and industry collaborations in gaining practical experience and building professional networks.
- The growing demand for designers with expertise in areas such as sustainability, user experience, and data visualization.
- The need for design schools to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that their programs are accessible and welcoming to students from all backgrounds.
The design intelligence rankings 2020 provide a valuable snapshot of the design education landscape. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of top design schools, students and professionals can make informed decisions about their educational and career paths.