Master of Design [M.Des]

Explore Your Creative Interests With an M.design Course

About

A Master of Design (M.Des) is a postgraduate degree program that focuses on advanced studies and specialisation in the field of design. The program is typically designed for individuals who already possess a foundational understanding of design principles and techniques and wish to deepen their knowledge, skills as well as expertise in a specific area of design.

The M.Des course goes beyond the basics of design and encourages students to engage in critical thinking, innovation and research within their chosen design discipline. The curriculum often encompasses a combination of theoretical coursework, practical projects, research assignments and sometimes internships or industry collaborations. 

The goal of this course is to equip students with the tools and insights necessary to become highly skilled and creative designers who can address complex challenges in their field.  Also, the duration of this course usually varies from one to two years, depending on the institution and the structure of the program. 

Admission requirements typically include a bachelor's degree (in design or a related field), a portfolio showcasing your design work, letters of recommendation and sometimes a statement of purpose explaining your motivations and goals for pursuing the M.Des degree.

Overall, an M.Des program offers a platform for design enthusiasts to refine their skills, deepen their understanding of design theory and become experts in their chosen design discipline.

Subject

The core subjects of an M.Des (Master of Design) course can vary based on the specific specialisation or focus of the program, as different design disciplines have their own unique core subjects. Here is a general overview of some common core subjects that you might encounter in an M.Des program:

  • Design Theory and Practice
  • Design Research Methods
  • History of Design
  • User-Centred Design (UCD)
  • Design Ethics and Sustainability
  • Advanced Studio Projects
  • Typography and Visual Communication
  • Materials and Manufacturing(For Industrial/Product Design)
  • Digital Design and Interaction
  • Fashion Design Techniques
  • Animation and Visual Effects
  • Design Entrepreneurship and Business
  • Design Critique and Analysis
  • Thesis or Capstone Project

Moreover, it is important to review the curriculum of the program you're interested in to get a detailed understanding of the core subjects offered.

Practical Learning

As you all know, design is all about doing things and practical experience helps students get better at the skills, creativity and problem-solving they need for their chosen area of design. Here's how practical learning usually works in an M.Des program:

  • Studio Projects
  • Collaborative Work
  • Industry Partnerships and Internships
  • Workshops and Labs
  • Field Studies and Research
  • Critiques and Presentations
  • Exhibitions and Showcases
  • Capstone Projects
  • Digital Tools and Software 

The practical learning component of an M.Des program is designed to equip students with the skills, confidence and practical experience needed to thrive in the dynamic and competitive world of design. 

Course Curriculum

The course curriculum for an M.Des (Master of Design) program can vary based on the institution, the specific specialisation within the design and the evolving trends in the field.

First Year 

  • Design Theory and Practice
  • Design Research Methods
  • History of Design
  • Studio Project 1: Introduction to Specialization
  • Elective 1: Interdisciplinary Course
  • User-Centred Design
  • Materials and Manufacturing Techniques (if applicable)
  • Typography and Visual Communication (if applicable)
  • Studio Project 2: Advanced Specialization Project
  • Elective 2: Related Area of Study

Second Year 

  • Advanced Studio Project 3: Complex Design Challenge
  • Design Ethics and Sustainability
  • Interaction Design (if applicable)
  • Elective 3: Specialised Topic
  • Design Entrepreneurship and Business
  • Thesis or Capstone Project Preparation
  • Elective 4: Advanced Design Techniques
  • Elective 5: Industry Workshop or Internship (optional) 

Top Institutes

India offers several esteemed institutes that offer M.Des (Master of Design) courses known for their quality education and design programs. Here are some of the top institutes for M.Des courses in India: 

  • National Institute of Design(NID), Ahmedabad 
  • Indian Institute of Science(IISC), Bangalore 
  • Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur 
  • Industrial Design Centre(IDC), Mumbai 
  • Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad 
  • Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi 
  • National Institute of Fashion Technology 
  • School of Design Studies, UPES

The above-listed institutes have gained recognition for their faculty expertise, industry connections and quality of education. For more information such as various courses, fee structure and admission requirements, you are recommended to visit the official websites of the institutions.

Career Growth

Here are various career growth options for students who have completed an M.Des (Master of Design) course:

  • Specialisation Advancement
  • Leadership Roles
  • Entrepreneurship 
  • Teaching and Education 
  • Industry Consulting 
  • Global Opportunities 
  • Research and Development 
  • Continuous Learning 
  • Design Strategy 
  • Public Speaking and Thought Leadership 
  • Industry Shifts 

According to great experts, career growth is often a result of a combination of factors, including your skills, networking efforts, willingness to learn and the demand for your particular expertise in the job market.

Scope

The Master of Design course offers a wide range of possibilities for career advancement and professional growth. Here are some key points to consider such as:

  • Diverse Specialisations
  • Industry Demand 
  • Creative Problem Solving 
  • Leadership Roles 
  • Academic Pursuits 
  • Global Opportunities 
  • Multidisciplinary Collaboration 
  • Networking with Experienced Candidates

Pros & Cons

Pros of pursuing a Master of Design(M.Des):

  • Expertise and Specialisation
  • Career Advancement
  • Portfolio Development
  • Networking
  • Research Opportunities
  • Global Opportunities
  • Academic Pathways
  • Creative Work Environment 
  • Good Salary Package 

Cons of pursuing a Master of Design(M.Des):

  • Time and Investment
  • Competitive Admissions
  • Career Delay
  • Changing Trends
  • Portfolio Pressure
  • Subjective Evaluation