

B-DES in Film Video Design at Manipal University Jaipur


Jaipur, Rajasthan
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About the Specialization
What is Film & Video Design at Manipal University Jaipur Jaipur?
This Film & Video Design program at Manipal University Jaipur focuses on cultivating creative professionals skilled in various aspects of filmmaking, video production, and visual storytelling. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, the curriculum addresses the evolving demands of the Indian media and entertainment industry, preparing students for dynamic roles in a rapidly growing sector. The program differentiates itself by blending core design principles with specialized film techniques.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative individuals passionate about visual media, storytelling, and technology. It attracts fresh 10+2 graduates aspiring to launch careers in film, television, advertising, and digital content creation. It also caters to those looking to upskill in specific areas like cinematography, editing, or animation, and potentially career changers from related fields who possess a strong artistic aptitude and a desire to contribute to India''''s vibrant media landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India''''s booming media industry, including roles as cinematographers, film directors, video editors, motion graphics designers, sound designers, and documentary filmmakers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program aligns with industry needs, fostering skills for Bollywood, regional cinema, OTT platforms, advertising agencies, and corporate media houses, positioning graduates for rapid professional growth.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Foundational Design & Visual Language Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus rigorously on core design subjects like Elements of Design, Drawing & Rendering, and Digital Tools I/II. Actively participate in studio sessions, experiment with various materials and software, and build a strong visual vocabulary. This stage is crucial for understanding aesthetic principles and technical basics before specialization.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator), Sketching Pads, Design Books (e.g., Don Norman''''s The Design of Everyday Things), Peer feedback sessions
Career Connection
A solid foundation ensures students can articulate design concepts effectively, a vital skill for any creative role in film and video, enhancing their ability to conceptualize visual storytelling.
Master Principles of Photography- (Semester 2)
Leverage the Principles of Photography course to deeply understand camera mechanics, lighting, and composition. Practice regularly outside of class, documenting campus life, local events, or personal projects. This will build your visual observation skills and technical proficiency, directly translating to cinematography.
Tools & Resources
DSLR/Mirrorless Camera, Basic Lighting Kits, Online tutorials (e.g., Peter McKinnon, AdoramaTV), University photography clubs
Career Connection
Strong photographic skills are the bedrock of good cinematography and visual storytelling, making students valuable assets in film production teams in the Indian media industry.
Cultivate Cross-Disciplinary Thinking- (Semester 1-2)
While in foundation, engage with non-FV specific design subjects like Ergonomics and History of Art & Design with an open mind. Understand how broad design principles influence specific filmic aesthetics and user experience. Participate in university-wide design competitions to collaborate with students from other design streams.
Tools & Resources
Design journals, Cross-departmental workshops, TED Talks on Design, Manipal''''s central library resources
Career Connection
A holistic design perspective helps in creating more impactful and user-centric films, broadening job prospects beyond just technical roles to creative direction or production design in diverse media companies.
Intermediate Stage
Build a Strong Practical Portfolio with Short Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Apply learnings from Moving Image Storytelling, Cinematography I/II, Video Production I/II, and Film & Video Editing by consistently working on small, independent film projects. Collaborate with peers, actively seek feedback, and refine your work. Focus on showcasing a range of skills from pre-production to post-production.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Premiere Pro/DaVinci Resolve, Microphones, Basic Lighting Kit, Online film challenges (e.g., 48 Hour Film Project), Local filmmaking communities
Career Connection
A robust portfolio is paramount for internships and entry-level jobs in the Indian film and media industry. It demonstrates practical competence and creative vision to potential employers effectively.
Network Actively and Attend Industry Events- (Semester 3-5)
Attend film festivals (like MAMI, IFFI, PIFF), workshops, and guest lectures hosted by the university or in Jaipur/Delhi. Connect with visiting faculty, alumni, and industry professionals. Join online filmmaking communities specific to India to learn about opportunities and trends.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Eventbrite for film events, Industry associations (e.g., Producers Guild of India, Indian Documentary Producers'''' Association), Alumni networks
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, mentorships, and future job opportunities. Personal connections are crucial in the Indian media industry for breaking in and advancing your career.
Specialize in Key Software & Technical Skills- (Semester 4-5)
Beyond basic course requirements, dedicate extra time to master industry-standard software like Adobe After Effects (for Motion Graphics/VFX), Pro Tools (for Sound Design), or advanced camera systems. Participate in online courses or certifications to deepen technical expertise in your preferred area.
Tools & Resources
Udemy, Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, Official Adobe/Blackmagic Design tutorials, Industry-specific forums, Certification programs
Career Connection
Specialized technical skills make you highly desirable for specific roles (e.g., VFX Artist, Sound Engineer) and command better pay in the competitive Indian market, enhancing your employability.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Internship & Convert to PPO- (Semester 6)
Treat your Semester 6 internship as an extended job interview. Take initiative, be proactive, and consistently deliver high-quality work. Understand the company''''s culture and contribute beyond assigned tasks. Seek feedback and implement it to demonstrate growth and commitment to your host organization.
Tools & Resources
Professional communication skills, Project management tools used by the company, Self-assessment and feedback mechanisms, Industry mentor advice
Career Connection
A successful internship often leads to a Pre-Placement Offer (PPO), securing your first job in the industry even before graduation, a common and highly valued practice in India.
Develop a Distinct Voice through Final Major Project- (Semester 7-8)
Leverage the Final Major Project (Semesters 7 & 8) to create a standout piece of work that reflects your unique artistic vision and technical proficiency. Focus on a project that aligns with your career aspirations (e.g., a short film for festivals, an ad campaign for a client, an animated piece). Ensure high production value and compelling storytelling.
Tools & Resources
Industry-standard equipment (borrowed/rented), Professional crew collaboration, Mentorship from faculty, Film festival submission platforms
Career Connection
This project serves as the ultimate portfolio piece, critical for showcasing your capabilities to potential employers or for launching your independent career as a filmmaker/designer in India, setting you apart from peers.
Cultivate Entrepreneurial Mindset & Freelance Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Explore opportunities for freelancing on smaller projects during your final year. Understand the business aspects of filmmaking, including client acquisition, budgeting for independent projects, and legal considerations. Attend workshops on media entrepreneurship or start-up incubation programs within or outside the university.
Tools & Resources
Freelancing platforms (e.g., Upwork, Indian freelance groups), Knowledge of GST registration, Basic contract templates, Financial planning tools
Career Connection
Many roles in film and video design, especially in advertising and digital content, are project-based or freelance. Developing these skills early provides career flexibility and independence in India''''s dynamic gig economy, enabling self-employment.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10+2 or A Level or IB or an equivalent examination with English as a compulsory subject and minimum 50% marks in aggregate from any recognized Board. Admission based on Manipal Entrance Test (MET) and Portfolio Review/Online Studio Test.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Credits: 178 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE.101 | Foundation Studio | Core Course | 5 | Design Process, Ideation and Conceptualization, Visual Communication, Spatial Design, Model Making, Presentation Techniques |
| B.DE.102 | Design Methods | Core Course | 3 | Problem Definition, Research Methods, Brainstorming, User-Centred Design, Design Thinking, Evaluation Techniques |
| B.DE.103 | Material and Processes | Core Course | 3 | Material Properties, Fabrication Techniques, Woodworking, Metalworking, Plastics, Sustainable Materials |
| B.DE.104 | Elements of Design | Core Course | 3 | Point, Line, Plane, Volume, Form and Space, Texture, Color Theory, Visual Hierarchy, Composition |
| B.DE.105 | History of Art & Design | Core Course | 3 | Prehistoric Art, Ancient Civilizations, Renaissance to Modernism, Indian Art History, Contemporary Design Movements, Cultural Influences |
| B.DE.106 | Digital Tools for Design I | Core Course | 3 | Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Digital Image Manipulation, Vector Graphics, Raster Graphics, Layout Design Fundamentals |
| B.DE.107 | English/Communication Skills | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Grammar and Vocabulary, Public Speaking, Presentation Skills, Report Writing, Email Etiquette, Interpersonal Communication |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE.108 | Drawing & Rendering | Core Course | 4 | Observational Drawing, Perspective Drawing, Anatomy and Figure Drawing, Still Life Studies, Digital Rendering Techniques, Material Representation |
| B.DE.109 | Ergonomics | Core Course | 3 | Anthropometry, Human Factors, Workplace Design, Usability Principles, Cognitive Ergonomics, Biomechanics |
| B.DE.110 | Design Theory | Core Course | 3 | Semiotics in Design, Aesthetics and Form, Design Philosophy, Post-Modernism in Design, Cultural Influences on Design, Contemporary Design Debates |
| B.DE.111 | Principles of Photography | Core Course | 3 | Camera Operation and Controls, Exposure Triangle, Composition Techniques, Lighting Principles, Digital Imaging Workflows, Image Editing Basics |
| B.DE.112 | Graphic Design Fundamentals | Core Course | 3 | Typography and Layout, Branding and Identity, Logo Design, Packaging Design, Print Production Basics, Visual Communication Design |
| B.DE.113 | Digital Tools for Design II | Core Course | 3 | CAD Software Introduction, 3D Modeling Techniques, Rendering Principles, Digital Prototyping, Software like Rhino/SketchUp, Parametric Design Concepts |
| B.DE.114 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Climate Change Impacts, Sustainable Development Goals, Environmental Ethics, Conservation Strategies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE.201 | Moving Image Storytelling | Core Course | 5 | Narrative Structures, Character Development, Dialogue Writing, Storyboarding Techniques, Visual Scripting, Filmmaking Genres |
| B.DE.202 | Cinematography I | Core Course | 5 | Camera Operation and Settings, Lenses and Optics, Basic Lighting Techniques, Exposure Control, Shot Composition, Camera Movement Fundamentals |
| B.DE.203 | Video Production I | Core Course | 5 | Pre-production Planning, Crew Roles and Responsibilities, Set Etiquette, Basic Video Editing, Production Workflow, Shooting Exercises |
| B.DE.204 | Design Research | Core Course | 3 | Qualitative Research Methods, Quantitative Research Methods, Literature Review, Data Collection Techniques, Data Analysis, Research Report Writing |
| B.DE.205 | Basic Audio Techniques | Core Course | 3 | Sound Principles, Microphone Types and Usage, Audio Recording Techniques, Basic Audio Mixing, Sound Editing, Digital Audio Workstations Introduction |
| OE-1 | Open Elective I | Elective Course | 3 | Examples include Introduction to UI/UX, Product Design Basics, Textile Design |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE.207 | Direction and Screenplay | Core Course | 5 | Director''''s Vision, Script Analysis and Interpretation, Scene Breakdown and Blocking, Actor Direction Techniques, Screenwriting Format, Genre-Specific Directing |
| B.DE.208 | Cinematography II | Core Course | 5 | Advanced Lighting Setups, Color Grading Fundamentals, Camera Rigs and Stabilization, Visual Storytelling through Camera, Digital Cinema Workflows, Drone Cinematography |
| B.DE.209 | Video Production II | Core Course | 5 | Multi-camera Production, Live Streaming Techniques, Broadcast Production, Advanced Post-production Workflow, Video Distribution Strategies, Marketing for Video Content |
| B.DE.210 | Visual Effects | Core Course | 3 | Compositing Techniques, Rotoscoping, Chroma Keying, Tracking and Stabilization, 3D Integration in VFX, Digital Matte Painting |
| B.DE.211 | Sound Design | Core Course | 3 | Foley Recording, Sound Effects Creation, Music Scoring for Film, Dialogue Editing, Mixing and Mastering Audio, Immersive Audio Concepts |
| OE-2 | Open Elective II | Elective Course | 3 | Examples include Photography Portfolio, Web Design, Craft Studies |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE.301 | Film & Video Editing | Core Course | 5 | Editing Principles and Theory, Non-linear Editing Software (e.g., Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve), Rough Cut and Fine Cut, Sound Sync and Mixing for Edit, Color Correction Basics, Pacing and Rhythm in Editing |
| B.DE.302 | Animation Fundamentals | Core Course | 5 | Principles of Animation, 2D Animation Techniques, Stop Motion Animation, Character Design for Animation, Storyboarding for Animation, Introduction to 3D Animation |
| B.DE.303 | Documentary Production | Core Course | 5 | Documentary Genres, Research and Interview Techniques, Ethical Considerations in Documentary, Narrative Structure for Documentary, Editing for Documentary, Distribution Strategies |
| B.DE.304 | Motion Graphics | Core Course | 3 | Adobe After Effects, Kinetic Typography, Explainer Videos, Broadcast Graphics, Visual Effects Integration, Motion Graphic Project Workflow |
| B.DE.305 | Portfolio Development | Core Course | 3 | Portfolio Strategy and Curation, Project Selection and Presentation, Resume and CV Writing, Personal Branding, Interview Preparation, Online Portfolio Platforms |
| PE-1 | Professional Elective I | Elective Course | 3 | Examples include Advanced Cinematography, Broadcast Journalism, Digital Archiving |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE.307 | Ad Film Production | Core Course | 5 | Advertising Concepts and Briefs, Scripting for Commercials, Ad Production Pipeline, Client Management, Post-production for Advertisements, Campaign Integration |
| B.DE.308 | Short Film Production | Core Course | 5 | Short Film Genres, Script to Screen Process, Budgeting for Short Films, Film Festival Strategy, Crew and Talent Management, Post-production Workflow |
| B.DE.309 | Broadcast Design | Core Course | 5 | Channel Branding, Title Sequences Design, Lower Thirds and Graphics, On-air Visual Elements, News Package Design, Live Event Graphics |
| B.DE.310 | Digital Photography | Core Course | 3 | Advanced Camera Techniques, Lighting for Portraits and Products, Landscape and Street Photography, Advanced Post-processing, Photojournalism Basics, Studio Photography |
| PE-2 | Professional Elective II | Elective Course | 3 | Examples include Character Animation, VR/AR in Film, Advanced Sound Mixing |
| B.DE.312 | Internship | Project/ Internship (PR) | 6 | Industry Exposure, Practical Application of Skills, Professional Networking, Project Execution and Deadlines, Workplace Etiquette, Internship Report Writing |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE.401 | Project Management for Films | Core Course | 3 | Production Scheduling, Budgeting and Financial Planning, Resource Allocation, Legal Aspects of Film Production, Team Management, Risk Assessment and Mitigation |
| B.DE.402 | Dissertation | Core Course | 3 | Research Methodology, Literature Review, Hypothesis Formulation, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Structure, Academic Presentation Skills |
| B.DE.403 | Final Major Project Pre-Production | Project/ Internship (PR) | 6 | Concept Development, Scripting and Storyboarding, Detailed Budgeting, Location Scouting and Permissions, Casting and Crew Selection, Comprehensive Production Planning |
| PE-3 | Professional Elective III | Elective Course | 3 | Examples include Experimental Cinema, Game Cinematics, Advanced Post-Production Techniques |
| OE-3 | Open Elective III | Elective Course | 3 | Examples include Entrepreneurship, Social Media Marketing, Art Appreciation |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.DE.406 | Final Major Project | Project/ Internship (PR) | 18 | Independent Production Execution, Direction and Cinematography, Editing and Post-production, Sound Design and Mixing, Final Output and Deliverables, Project Presentation and Portfolio Integration |

