B-DES in Interior Design at Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Udupi, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Interior Design at Manipal Academy of Higher Education Udupi?
This Interior Design program at Manipal Academy of Higher Education focuses on nurturing creative professionals capable of transforming spaces into functional, aesthetic, and sustainable environments. With a strong emphasis on design principles, materials, technology, and human psychology, the curriculum prepares students for the dynamic Indian design industry, addressing the rising demand for well-designed residential, commercial, and public spaces. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical studio experiences.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative fresh graduates from a 10+2 background with a passion for art, design, and spatial aesthetics. It also suits individuals who possess an innate flair for sketching, color, and understanding human needs in built environments. Aspiring designers seeking a rigorous, industry-aligned curriculum and hands-on experience in one of India''''s leading design institutions will find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including Interior Designer, Space Planner, Exhibition Designer, Furniture Designer, and Design Consultant. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15+ LPA in design firms, real estate, or as independent consultants. The program fosters critical thinking and problem-solving, aligning graduates for professional certifications and growth trajectories within Indian and international companies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Fundamental Design Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand basic design elements, principles, color theory, and drafting conventions. Practice sketching, model making, and basic CAD daily. Actively participate in all studio exercises, as these form the bedrock of your design thinking.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, Drafting kits, AutoCAD tutorials, Design textbooks, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures you can articulate design ideas clearly and efficiently, making you a competent and confident candidate for initial design roles during internships and placements.
Develop Strong Observational Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a habit of observing designed spaces, materials, and human interaction within environments. Document observations through sketching, photography, and written notes. Visit local markets, heritage sites, and contemporary buildings to broaden your visual vocabulary.
Tools & Resources
Camera, Sketching apps, Architectural magazines, Local design walks
Career Connection
Keen observation helps in understanding client needs, material choices, and spatial dynamics, which are crucial for generating innovative and contextually relevant design solutions sought after by employers.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Utilize open electives to explore subjects like psychology, sociology, or business management. Engage with students from other design specializations or engineering disciplines to foster a broader perspective on problem-solving and collaboration.
Tools & Resources
MAHE open elective catalog, University workshops, Cross-departmental clubs
Career Connection
This broadens your problem-solving approach and communication skills, making you adaptable and valuable in multi-functional project teams, a common scenario in India''''s diverse design industry.
Intermediate Stage
Build a Robust Digital Portfolio- (Semester 3-5)
Start documenting all your design studio projects, CAD drawings, and 3D visualizations from Semester 3 onwards. Regularly update and refine your digital portfolio, focusing on quality renderings and clear project descriptions, ready for internship applications.
Tools & Resources
Behance, Issuu, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign), Personal website/blog
Career Connection
A professionally presented digital portfolio is your primary tool for securing internships and future job opportunities in the competitive Indian design market, showcasing your skills effectively.
Seek Early Industry Exposure & Networking- (Semester 3-5)
Attend design exhibitions, workshops, and seminars in cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, or Delhi. Network with professionals, guest lecturers, and alumni. Consider short-term voluntary work or internships during breaks to gain practical insights into the Indian design ecosystem.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Design India magazine, Local design conferences (e.g., India Design), Alumni network
Career Connection
Early exposure helps you understand industry demands, build valuable contacts for future referrals, and get an edge in securing prime internships and eventual placements.
Specialize in a Niche Software Skill- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond core CAD and 3D modeling, choose one niche software (e.g., Revit for BIM, V-Ray for advanced rendering, or a specific graphic design tool) and aim for mastery. This specialization adds significant value to your profile.
Tools & Resources
Autodesk Revit, V-Ray, Lumion, Grasshopper (parametric design), Online certification courses (Coursera, Udemy)
Career Connection
Specialized software skills are highly sought after in the Indian design industry, enabling you to take on specific roles and command better compensation upon graduation.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Internship & Build Professional Ethics- (Semester 6-8)
Treat your Semester 6 internship as a full-time job. Be proactive, punctual, and take ownership of tasks. Focus on understanding professional workflows, client management, and ethical responsibilities. Seek mentorship from senior designers.
Tools & Resources
Professional etiquette guides, Company HR policies, Mentor feedback
Career Connection
A strong performance during your internship can often lead to a pre-placement offer or excellent recommendations, significantly streamlining your job search in India.
Develop a Signature Design Philosophy- (Semester 6-8)
Utilize your Major Design Project and Thesis to explore a unique design approach or a problem area you are passionate about. Refine your individual aesthetic and functional philosophy, and articulate it clearly in your design narratives.
Tools & Resources
Design journals, Philosophy of design texts, Peer critiques, Faculty consultations
Career Connection
Having a distinct design philosophy helps you stand out in interviews and client pitches, positioning you as a thought leader and creative force, particularly important for independent practice or leadership roles.
Prepare for Entrepreneurial Ventures- (Semester 6-8)
For those interested in entrepreneurship, use your final year projects to develop a business model for your design services or products. Understand market gaps in India, client acquisition, and basic financial planning. Engage with MAHE''''s entrepreneurship cell.
Tools & Resources
Business plan templates, Startup India resources, MAHE Entrepreneurship Centre, Startup mentorship programs
Career Connection
This practice directly prepares you to launch your own design studio or product line, tapping into India''''s growing startup ecosystem and design market as an independent professional.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10+2 or A Level or IB or an equivalent examination with a minimum of 45% marks in aggregate with English as a compulsory subject. Candidates appearing for the final examination of 10+2 may also apply.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Credits: 192 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE 1101 | Basic Design & Graphics | Core | 5 | Elements and principles of design, Color theory and Gestalt principles, Graphic representation techniques, Form and space compositions, Drawing instruments and techniques |
| B.DE 1102 | Design Process & Methodology | Core | 4 | Introduction to design thinking, Problem identification and analysis, Research methods in design, Conceptualization and ideation, Design presentation techniques |
| B.DE 1103 | History of Art & Design 1 | Core | 3 | Prehistoric to Egyptian art, Greek and Roman periods, Early Christian and Byzantine art, Islamic art and architecture, Traditional Indian art forms |
| B.DE 1104 | Materials and Finishes 1 | Core | 3 | Classification of materials, Wood and wood products, Bricks and masonry, Concrete and its applications, Basic plastering and painting finishes |
| B.DE 1105 | Fundamentals of Structures | Core | 3 | Basic mechanics and forces, Loads and stress-strain concepts, Types of structural systems, Introduction to beams, columns, slabs, Principles of stability |
| B.DE 1106 | Introduction to Drafting | Core | 3 | Drawing instruments and conventions, Orthographic projections, Isometric and axonometric drawings, Scaling, line types, and lettering, Basic plan and elevation drawings |
| B.DE 1107 | Communication Skills | Core | 3 | Verbal and non-verbal communication, Public speaking and presentation skills, Active listening and effective writing, Report writing and documentation, Interpersonal communication in design |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE 1201 | Anthropometry & Ergonomics | Core | 3 | Human body measurements (anthropometry), Static and dynamic ergonomic principles, Design for human comfort and accessibility, Space planning based on human factors, Furniture dimensions and user interaction |
| B.DE 1202 | Visual Communication | Core | 3 | Principles of visual hierarchy, Typography and graphic symbols, Layout design and composition, Photography in design, Digital imaging and editing basics |
| B.DE 1203 | History of Art & Design 2 | Core | 3 | Renaissance art and architecture, Baroque and Rococo periods, Neoclassicism and Romanticism, Industrial Revolution and design, Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau movements |
| B.DE 1204 | Materials and Finishes 2 | Core | 3 | Glass and glazing systems, Metals (ferrous and non-ferrous), Plastics and composites, Textiles and upholstery materials, Natural stones and tiles |
| B.DE 1205 | Basic Construction | Core | 3 | Foundation types and construction, Wall systems (load-bearing and partition), Floor systems and finishes, Roof systems and waterproofing, Doors, windows, and fenestration |
| B.DE 1206 | Computer Applications 1 | Core | 3 | Introduction to CAD software (AutoCAD), Basic 2D drafting commands, Layer management and dimensioning, Plotting and printing techniques, Introduction to architectural drawing standards |
| B.DE 1207 | Design Studio 1 | Studio/Project/Internship | 6 | Basic design exercises and explorations, Form development and spatial organization, Understanding scale and proportion, Model making and physical representation, Conceptual design and presentation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE 2301 | Interior Design Studio 1 | Studio/Project/Internship | 6 | Residential interior design principles, Space planning for residences, Furniture layouts and circulation, Material and color palette selection, Design for various room types |
| B.DE 2302 | Building Services 1 | Core | 3 | Water supply systems, Sanitation and drainage systems, Rainwater harvesting, Solid waste management, Basic plumbing fixtures and fittings |
| B.DE 2303 | Building Construction & Details 1 | Core | 3 | Advanced masonry construction, Timber construction details, Staircase types and construction, Ramps and accessibility design, Basic joinery details |
| B.DE 2304 | CAD & Digital Prototyping | Core | 3 | Advanced CAD techniques (AutoCAD), Introduction to 3D modeling software (SketchUp/Rhino), Parametric design concepts, Digital fabrication principles, Basic rendering and visualization |
| B.DE 2305 | History of Interior Design 1 | Core | 3 | Ancient civilizations interiors, Medieval and Gothic interiors, Renaissance and Baroque interiors, Colonial interior styles in India, Traditional Indian interior elements |
| B.DE 2306 | Furniture Design 1 | Core | 3 | History of furniture styles, Furniture design principles, Materials for furniture (wood, metal, plastic), Joinery techniques and construction, Ergonomics in furniture design |
| B.DE 2307 | Open Elective 1 | Elective | 3 | Topics offered from a diverse pool of disciplines, Cross-disciplinary learning, Skill enhancement beyond core curriculum, Personal interest exploration, Introduction to new domains |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE 2401 | Interior Design Studio 2 | Studio/Project/Internship | 6 | Commercial interior design principles, Office and retail space planning, Restaurant and hospitality design, Brand identity and user experience, Lighting and acoustical considerations |
| B.DE 2402 | Building Services 2 | Core | 3 | Electrical systems and wiring, Lighting design calculations, Acoustic treatment and sound insulation, Vertical transportation systems (lifts, escalators), Telecommunication and data cabling |
| B.DE 2403 | Building Construction & Details 2 | Core | 3 | Advanced concrete construction, Steel structures for interiors, Drywall and partition systems, False ceiling details, Window and door detailing |
| B.DE 2404 | 3D Visualization & Rendering | Core | 3 | Advanced 3D modeling software (3ds Max/Revit), Realistic material and texture application, Lighting setups and camera views, Rendering engines and techniques (V-Ray), Post-production in Photoshop |
| B.DE 2405 | History of Interior Design 2 | Core | 3 | Modern movements in interior design, Art Deco, Bauhaus, Mid-Century Modern, Contemporary global design trends, Impact of technology on interiors, Sustainable interior design history |
| B.DE 2406 | Furniture Design 2 | Core | 3 | Modular furniture design, Custom furniture detailing, Prototype development and testing, Mass production considerations, Contemporary furniture trends |
| B.DE 2407 | Open Elective 2 | Elective | 3 | Interdisciplinary subject choices, Broadening academic horizons, Developing complementary skills, Exploring new interests, Enrichment through varied learning |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE 3501 | Interior Design Studio 3 | Studio/Project/Internship | 6 | Institutional interior design, Healthcare and educational facility design, Museums and exhibition design, Accessibility and universal design, Public space and circulation design |
| B.DE 3502 | Specification & Estimation | Core | 3 | Material specifications and standards, Quantity surveying for interior works, Cost estimation methods, Tendering and contract documents, Budgeting and cost control |
| B.DE 3503 | Professional Practice & Ethics | Core | 3 | Role of an interior designer, Professional fees and agreements, Project management in interiors, Legal aspects and intellectual property, Ethical considerations in design practice |
| B.DE 3504 | Acoustics & Lighting Design | Core | 3 | Principles of architectural acoustics, Sound absorption and insulation, Types of lighting (natural, artificial), Lighting fixtures and controls, Design for visual comfort and ambiance |
| B.DE 3505 | Research Methods in Design | Core | 3 | Qualitative and quantitative research, Data collection methods (surveys, interviews), Literature review and case studies, Analysis and interpretation of data, Report writing for design research |
| B.DE 3506 | Landscape Design | Core | 3 | Principles of landscape architecture, Softscape and hardscape elements, Site analysis and planning, Urban greenspaces and public plazas, Sustainable landscape practices |
| B.DE 3507 | Program Elective 1 | Elective | 3 | Specialized topics in Interior Design, Advanced material studies, Specific software applications, Thematic design approaches, Emerging trends in interiors |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE 3601 | Interior Design Studio 4 | Studio/Project/Internship | 6 | Retail interior design strategies, Exhibition and display design, Pop-up stores and temporary installations, Brand experience and customer journey, Visual merchandising techniques |
| B.DE 3602 | Internship | Studio/Project/Internship | 6 | Practical application in design firm, On-site project exposure, Client interaction and communication, Professional environment experience, Industry standard practices |
| B.DE 3603 | Design Management & Entrepreneurship | Core | 3 | Design project management, Marketing and branding for designers, Business plan development for design studio, Intellectual property rights, Financial management for small businesses |
| B.DE 3604 | HVAC & Fire Safety | Core | 3 | Principles of HVAC systems, Ventilation and air conditioning, Active and passive fire protection systems, Building codes and regulations for fire safety, Emergency egress design |
| B.DE 3605 | Design Project Formulation | Core | 3 | Identification of design problems, Developing a project brief, Research and literature review for thesis, Methodology and scope definition, Project proposal writing |
| B.DE 3606 | Program Elective 2 | Elective | 3 | Advanced interior detailing, Sustainability in interior materials, Design for specific user groups, Cultural context in interior design, Digital fabrication in furniture |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE 4701 | Major Design Project | Studio/Project/Internship | 12 | Comprehensive design project execution, Advanced conceptualization and development, Detailed technical drawings and specifications, Material selection and cost analysis, Professional presentation and documentation |
| B.DE 4702 | Minor Design Project | Studio/Project/Internship | 6 | Focused design problem solving, Application of specific design skills, Exploration of new materials or techniques, Rapid prototyping and testing, Presentation of innovative solutions |
| B.DE 4703 | Smart Building Technologies | Core | 3 | Home automation systems, Integrated building management systems, IoT in interior spaces, Smart lighting and climate control, Security and surveillance technologies |
| B.DE 4704 | Program Elective 3 | Elective | 3 | Adaptive reuse and heritage interiors, Experiential design for events, Healthcare interior design advanced topics, Product design for interiors, Advanced visualization techniques |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE 4801 | Thesis | Studio/Project/Internship | 12 | Independent research and design inquiry, In-depth exploration of a chosen topic, Methodological framework and data analysis, Development of a comprehensive design solution, Final thesis report and viva-voce |
| B.DE 4802 | Professional Training / Apprenticeship | Studio/Project/Internship | 6 | Extended professional practice in industry, Real-world project execution and management, Mentorship from experienced professionals, Networking and industry connections, Application of academic knowledge in practice |
| B.DE 4803 | Design Portfolio | Studio/Project/Internship | 3 | Curating and organizing design projects, Visual communication of design skills, Storytelling through design work, Digital and physical portfolio creation, Presentation for professional opportunities |
| B.DE 4804 | Program Elective 4 | Elective | 3 | Parametric design applications in interiors, Virtual reality and augmented reality in design, Retail psychology and consumer behavior, Biophilic design principles, Advanced professional practice topics |