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M-DES in Communication Design at Acharya School of Design
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Communication Design at Acharya School of Design Bengaluru?
This Communication Design program at Acharya School of Design focuses on developing strategic and creative solutions for conveying messages across various media. In the dynamic Indian industry, effective communication is paramount for brands, businesses, and social initiatives. This program distinguishes itself by integrating traditional design principles with contemporary digital tools, preparing graduates for a rapidly evolving landscape driven by digital transformation and a diverse consumer base. It addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals who can craft compelling visual narratives and user experiences.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative individuals with a strong aptitude for visual arts, problem-solving, and storytelling, holding a bachelor''''s degree in design, architecture, fine arts, engineering, or science. It targets fresh graduates seeking entry into the thriving communication design sector, working professionals looking to upskill in areas like UI/UX, branding, or digital marketing, and career changers transitioning into the creative industries. Aspirants with a keen eye for aesthetics, an analytical mindset, and an interest in human-centered design principles will find this course particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse and impactful career paths across India''''s booming creative economy. Opportunities range from UX/UI Designer, Brand Strategist, Art Director, and Visualizer to Digital Marketing Specialist. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals commanding upwards of INR 15-25 lakhs annually, depending on skill and industry. The program fosters critical thinking and a portfolio suitable for roles in advertising, media, tech startups, and design consultancies, aligning with industry demand for innovative communication experts.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immerse in Design Thinking Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in workshops and introductory courses on design thinking methodologies. Focus on understanding the five stages: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test. Apply these principles to mini-projects and case studies provided in class.
Tools & Resources
IDEO Design Kit, Stanford d.school resources, Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman
Career Connection
Establishes a foundational problem-solving mindset crucial for any design role, making you a systematic thinker for future projects.
Build a Strong Visual Communication Portfolio (Early Stages)- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time outside of assignments to create personal projects that showcase your understanding of graphic design principles, typography, color theory, and layout. Seek feedback from faculty and peers. Document all your process work, not just the final outcome.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), Behance, Dribbble
Career Connection
An early, diverse portfolio demonstrates proactive learning and core skills, critical for internships and demonstrating potential to future employers.
Cultivate Peer Learning and Collaboration- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with classmates to discuss concepts, critique each other''''s work, and collaborate on non-academic design challenges. Attend design meetups or webinars together to broaden your perspective beyond classroom discussions.
Tools & Resources
Discord, Google Meet for group discussions, Local design communities'''' social media pages
Career Connection
Develops essential teamwork, communication, and feedback-giving skills vital for collaborative design environments in Indian companies.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize and Engage in Industry Projects- (Semester 3)
Identify your niche within Communication Design (e.g., UI/UX, branding, motion graphics) and seek out opportunities for live projects or internships related to that specialization. Actively participate in hackathons or design competitions focused on real-world problems.
Tools & Resources
Figma, Adobe XD for UI/UX, After Effects for motion graphics, LinkedIn for networking with industry professionals
Career Connection
Builds practical experience, a specialized portfolio, and direct industry contacts, significantly boosting employability and opening doors to relevant job roles.
Master Digital Design Tools and Prototyping- (Semester 3)
Go beyond basic software knowledge by mastering advanced features and workflows in industry-standard tools. Practice creating interactive prototypes and user flows for various platforms. Seek out online tutorials and advanced courses to deepen your technical expertise.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Cloud, Figma, Sketch, Miro, Online courses on platforms like Coursera/Udemy/LinkedIn Learning
Career Connection
High proficiency in these tools is a non-negotiable skill for most communication design roles in India''''s tech and creative sectors.
Network Actively and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 3)
Attend industry events, design conferences, and workshops in Bengaluru. Connect with senior designers, alumni, and potential mentors on platforms like LinkedIn. Be prepared to discuss your work and career aspirations respectfully.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Specific industry event websites (e.g., India Design), Behance portfolio
Career Connection
Builds a professional network, provides insights into industry trends, and can lead to referrals for internships and job opportunities within the Indian design community.
Advanced Stage
Develop a Comprehensive Thesis/Capstone Project- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to your final thesis or capstone project, ensuring it addresses a complex problem, showcases your specialized skills, and presents a compelling solution. Document your entire research, design process, and outcomes meticulously.
Tools & Resources
Academic research databases, Design software relevant to your specialization, User testing platforms
Career Connection
This project is often the centerpiece of your portfolio, demonstrating your ability to lead, innovate, and deliver a high-quality design solution to potential employers.
Refine Your Professional Brand and Interview Skills- (Semester 4)
Curate your online portfolio, resume, and LinkedIn profile to reflect your professional brand and target specific job roles. Practice mock interviews, focusing on articulating your design process, defending your choices, and showcasing your problem-solving abilities.
Tools & Resources
Online portfolio platforms (Behance, Adobe Portfolio, custom website), Resume builders, Interview preparation guides, Career services at Acharya
Career Connection
Prepares you for the rigorous Indian recruitment process, ensuring you can effectively present yourself and your work to secure desired placements.
Explore Entrepreneurship or Advanced Specialization- (Semester 4)
Research opportunities for design entrepreneurship or consider pursuing advanced certifications in emerging design fields (e.g., AI in design, AR/VR experiences). Attend workshops on business acumen for designers or startup incubation programs.
Tools & Resources
Startup India resources, NASSCOM reports, Advanced online courses, Incubators like NID-E, Srishti Labs
Career Connection
Positions you for leadership roles, enables you to identify and capitalize on new market opportunities, or to pursue cutting-edge roles in innovation-driven companies.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree of 3/4 years duration or its equivalent in a relevant discipline (B.Des, B.Arch, BFA, B.Tech, B.E., B.A. in Fine Arts/Applied Arts, B.Sc. in Design, or equivalent) from a recognized University/Institution are eligible to apply. Minimum 50% marks in aggregate (45% for reserved categories). Candidates appearing for their final year examination can also apply. Valid scores in design aptitude tests like CEED/NID DAT/NIFT Entrance Exam/Acharya Design Aptitude Test (ADAT) are preferred.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
