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M-TECH in Product Design And Management Pdm at International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad
Hyderabad, Telangana
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About the Specialization
What is Product Design and Management (PDM) at International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad Hyderabad?
This Product Design and Management (PDM) program at IIIT Hyderabad focuses on merging technology, design, and business strategy to create impactful products. It addresses the growing need in the Indian market for professionals who can navigate complex product lifecycles, from ideation to launch and beyond. The program distinguishes itself by its emphasis on research, user-centered design, and the management of technology products in a dynamic industry landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh engineering or design graduates seeking entry into product management, UX design, or product strategy roles. It also suits working professionals looking to upskill in product leadership or career changers transitioning to the thriving Indian product ecosystem. Candidates with backgrounds in engineering, design, or applied sciences with a strong analytical and creative aptitude are particularly well-suited for this challenging curriculum.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding India-specific career paths as Product Managers, UX Designers, Design Researchers, or Product Strategists in leading tech companies and startups. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 8-15 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program fosters growth trajectories into leadership roles and aligns with industry demand for professionals who can drive innovation and user satisfaction in the Indian market effectively.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Design & Product Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly understand the foundational concepts of Design Thinking, Technology Product Management, and Human-Centered Design. Actively participate in class discussions, case studies, and hands-on exercises. Utilize online platforms for supplementary learning in product management frameworks and design tools. Engage with PDM alumni for early career guidance and mentorship opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Figma, Miro, Jira, Coursera, NPTEL, Alumni Mentorship Platform
Career Connection
A strong grasp of these fundamentals is critical for cracking entry-level interviews for Product Manager or UX Designer roles in India. It builds the vocabulary and conceptual understanding necessary for practical application in real-world scenarios.
Develop Robust Research Methodologies- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing strong qualitative and quantitative research skills acquired in Research Methods for Design. Practice designing surveys, conducting user interviews, and analyzing data using statistical tools. Seek opportunities for small research projects or volunteering with faculty on ongoing research to gain practical experience. Document your findings meticulously to build a strong portfolio.
Tools & Resources
Google Forms, Qualtrics, R/Python for data analysis, Academic Journals
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is highly valued for Design Researcher and UX Researcher positions, enabling data-driven product decisions essential in the Indian startup and corporate landscape, leading to better user-centric products.
Build a Portfolio of Mini-Projects- (Semester 1-2)
Proactively start building a portfolio by applying concepts learned to small, personal or group projects. These could involve redesigning an existing app, conceptualizing a new product feature, or solving a local problem using design thinking. Document the design process, research findings, and prototypes comprehensively. Participate in hackathons or design challenges to gain recognition.
Tools & Resources
Adobe XD, Figma, Sketch, Behance, Dribbble, Hackathon platforms
Career Connection
A compelling portfolio is non-negotiable for design and product roles in India, showcasing practical skills and a problem-solving mindset to potential employers. It helps demonstrate your capabilities beyond academic scores.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Industry Internships & Projects- (Semester 2-3)
Actively seek and participate in internships with tech companies, design agencies, or startups in India. Prioritize roles that allow hands-on experience in product development, UX research, or design. If an internship isn''''t immediately available, engage in industry-sponsored capstone projects or collaborate with startups to solve real-world problems. Document learnings and impact thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Jobs, Internshala, College Placement Cell, Industry Connect Events
Career Connection
Practical experience through internships is crucial for securing full-time placements, providing invaluable industry exposure and network-building opportunities within the Indian job market. It bridges the gap between academics and professional work.
Specialize in a Product Domain or Technology- (Semester 2-3)
Leverage elective courses to specialize in areas like AI/ML in Product, FinTech, EdTech, or specific design methodologies (e.g., Service Design). Deepen knowledge in a chosen domain by reading industry reports, attending webinars, and networking with professionals. This niche expertise makes you more attractive to specialized roles in growing sectors.
Tools & Resources
Product School Courses, Medium Articles on Product, Industry Whitepapers, Domain-specific communities
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge helps you stand out in competitive Indian job markets for specific product verticals or tech-focused roles, potentially leading to higher compensation and more tailored career opportunities.
Cultivate Communication & Presentation Skills- (Semester 2-3)
Regularly practice presenting your design concepts, research findings, and product strategies. Participate in workshops on public speaking and storytelling. Seek feedback from peers and faculty. Effective communication is vital for influencing stakeholders and articulating product vision, especially in cross-functional Indian teams. Join Toastmasters or similar clubs for structured practice.
Tools & Resources
PowerPoint/Keynote/Google Slides, Recording Yourself, Peer Feedback Sessions, Toastmasters
Career Connection
Strong communication skills are essential for career progression in product management, enabling effective collaboration and leadership in any Indian organization. It helps you articulate value and build consensus.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Thesis Research & Implementation- (Semester 3-4)
Focus intensely on your M.Tech thesis, treating it as a significant product development or design research project. Aim for high-quality research, rigorous methodology, and impactful outcomes. Seek regular feedback from your advisor and present your progress at conferences or internal reviews. Consider publishing your work in reputable journals or presenting at design conferences for wider recognition.
Tools & Resources
Research Databases (IEEE, ACM), Zotero/Mendeley, LaTeX/Word for Thesis, Conference Submission Platforms
Career Connection
A strong thesis demonstrates advanced problem-solving, research, and project management capabilities, highly valued by top-tier Indian companies and for future academic or R&D roles. It is a testament to your in-depth expertise.
Master Interview & Negotiation Techniques- (Semester 3-4)
Prepare thoroughly for placement interviews by practicing product case studies, behavioral questions, and technical assessments. Utilize platforms like Pramp or InterviewBit for mock interviews. Understand salary negotiation strategies specific to the Indian market, researching average compensation for your target roles and location. Network actively with recruiters and industry contacts.
Tools & Resources
Product Management Interview books, Glassdoor India, LinkedIn Recruiter Outreach, Mock Interview Platforms
Career Connection
Effective interview and negotiation skills are paramount for securing your desired placement with competitive compensation in India''''s job market. It ensures you receive appropriate recognition for your skills and experience.
Build a Personal Brand & Network- (Semester 3-4)
Establish a strong online presence through LinkedIn, showcasing your projects, skills, and thought leadership. Attend industry events, workshops, and webinars to expand your professional network with product leaders and hiring managers. Contribute to product communities or write articles on relevant topics to enhance visibility. Actively seek mentorship from industry veterans for career guidance.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Medium/Substack for writing, Product Management communities (e.g., GLG, Reforge), Industry Meetups
Career Connection
A robust professional network and personal brand significantly improve career opportunities, opening doors to unadvertised roles and leadership positions in the Indian product industry. It positions you as an expert in your field.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Tech/BE in any Engineering branch, Master of Design (MDes), B.Arch, B.Planning, or M.Sc in Applied Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Electronics, etc.) with a strong aptitude for product design and management.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DP | Design Processes | Core | 4 | Design Thinking Framework, User Research, Ideation Techniques, Prototyping, Validation & Testing, Design Methods |
| TPM | Technology Product Management | Core | 4 | Product Lifecycle Management, Market Analysis, Product Strategy, Roadmapping, Feature Prioritization, Product Analytics |
| RMD | Research Methods for Design | Core | 4 | Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research, Data Collection Techniques, Experimental Design, Survey Methods, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| IPD | Introduction to Product Design | Elective | 4 | Product Lifecycle, Market Research, Concept Generation, Prototyping, Design Principles, Go-to-Market Strategy |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HCD | Human Centered Design | Core | 4 | User Needs Analysis, Usability Principles, Interaction Design, Information Architecture, User Experience (UX), Evaluation Methods |
| UID | User Interface Design | Elective | 4 | UI Principles, Visual Hierarchy, Interaction Patterns, Accessibility Standards, Prototyping Tools, Design Systems |
| DFS | Design for Sustainability | Elective | 4 | Sustainable Design Principles, Eco-Design Strategies, Circular Economy, Life Cycle Assessment, Material Selection, Social Impact |
| SD | Service Design | Elective | 4 | Service Design Thinking, Customer Journey Mapping, Service Blueprints, Touchpoint Design, Co-creation Workshops, Service Innovation |
| THESIS Y1 | M.Tech Thesis - Year 1 Work | Project | 12 | Literature Review, Problem Definition, Research Design, Methodology Development, Preliminary Data Collection, Thesis Proposal |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| THESIS Y2 P1 | M.Tech Thesis - Year 2 Part 1 | Project | 18 | Advanced Data Analysis, Iterative Design & Prototyping, Solution Refinement, Intermediate Report Preparation, Mentorship & Review Sessions, Experimental Validation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| THESIS Y2 P2 | M.Tech Thesis - Year 2 Part 2 | Project | 18 | Final Product Development, Comprehensive Documentation, Thesis Writing & Formatting, Defense Preparation, Public Presentation Skills, Potential Publication Strategy |
