Design education is facing serious criticism from industry professionals who argue that it no longer adequately prepares graduates for the realities of the job market. Andu Masebo, a 2021 graduate from the Royal College of Art, bluntly states, "Design education is fucked." He believes the existing model should be completely overhauled, citing a lack of quality teaching and meaningful industry connections. Tom Lloyd, co-founder of Pearson Lloyd, also points out that design education has deteriorated over the past 25 years and has become more expensive. Jo Barnard, founder of the design agency Morrama, echoes these sentiments, emphasizing that many students graduate without any practical work experience, which hampers their job prospects. A significant issue highlighted is the disconnect between academic programs and industry needs. Barnard notes that many design courses lack a strong sustainability focus, which is increasingly important in the current market. Despite receiving over 200 applications for a junior role, many candidates showed little understanding of sustainability principles. Masebo adds that the financial motivations of educational institutions often overshadow the true purpose of design education, which should be about personal and cultural exploration rather than mere job placement. Both designers agree that university staff are underfunded and overstretched, leading to a lack of quality instruction and real-world engagement. As alternatives to traditional design education emerge, Barnard points out that many skills can now be self-taught through online resources. With platforms like YouTube and free courses available, aspiring designers can learn technical skills without incurring substantial debt from university programs. However, they still need industry experience to secure jobs, highlighting a fundamental gap in the current educational structure. Masebo warns that young people must critically assess which courses are worth their investment, as not all provide the necessary foundation for a successful career in design.