M-DES in Graphic Design at Manipal University Jaipur
Jaipur, Rajasthan
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About the Specialization
What is Graphic Design at Manipal University Jaipur Jaipur?
This Master of Design (M.Des) in Graphic Design program at Manipal University Jaipur focuses on cultivating advanced visual communication skills and critical design thinking. It addresses the evolving demands of the Indian design industry, where graphic design is crucial for branding, digital experiences, and content creation. The program distinguishes itself through a blend of theoretical depth and practical application, preparing students for leadership roles in a competitive market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for design graduates (B.Des./BFA/B.Arch./B.Tech. in relevant disciplines) seeking to specialize and elevate their expertise in visual communication. It also suits working professionals aiming to upskill for senior design roles, or career changers passionate about transitioning into the dynamic Indian design industry. Prerequisites include a strong foundational understanding of design principles and a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in their prior degree.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding India-specific career paths as brand strategists, UX/UI designers, motion graphic artists, art directors, or design consultants. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 4-7 LPA, growing to INR 10-20+ LPA with experience. The comprehensive curriculum prepares students for roles in top Indian and international design studios, advertising agencies, and corporate design departments, enhancing their professional certification potential.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Cultivate Design Research Mindset- (Semester 1)
Embrace design research methodologies from day one, applying them to all initial projects. Practice identifying user problems, conducting ethnographic studies, and synthesizing findings to inform design solutions. Engage actively in critique sessions.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, Google Scholar, Observation tools, Empathy maps, Miro boards for synthesis
Career Connection
Establishes a strategic foundation, making graduates capable of evidence-based design, highly valued in Indian UX/product design roles.
Master Advanced Visual Communication Tools- (Semester 1)
Develop high proficiency in industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and prototyping tools like Figma. Focus on efficient workflows and best practices for print and digital outputs.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Education resources, Figma community files, Online design forums, LinkedIn Learning courses
Career Connection
Essential for immediate productivity in design studios and corporate settings, a prerequisite for almost all graphic design positions in India.
Build Foundational Design Portfolio- (Semester 1)
Begin documenting every project, from concept to final execution, including sketches and iterations. Curate initial projects thoughtfully, emphasizing problem-solving and visual aesthetics, seeking peer and faculty feedback.
Tools & Resources
Behance, Dribbble, Personal website builders, Adobe Portfolio
Career Connection
A strong portfolio is critical for securing internships and future job placements, showcasing core design abilities to potential Indian employers.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Industry-Relevant Projects- (Semesters 2-3)
Actively seek opportunities for live projects, either through college initiatives or independent collaborations. Focus on applying brand identity, UX/UI, and digital publishing skills to real-world briefs, building a diverse portfolio.
Tools & Resources
Local startups, NGOs, Freelance platforms (e.g., Upwork India), Design competitions (e.g., India Design Mark)
Career Connection
Provides practical experience and a robust portfolio of client-facing work, which is highly preferred by Indian design agencies and companies during recruitment.
Develop Specialization & Networking- (Semesters 2-3)
Identify a niche within graphic design (e.g., UI/UX, Motion Graphics, Branding) and pursue electives or self-learning in that area. Attend design workshops, webinars, and conferences in India to network with professionals.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Design Yatra, Industry meetups, Online design communities, Specialized masterclasses
Career Connection
Leads to focused skill development and opens doors to mentorship and job opportunities in specific, high-demand areas of the Indian design industry.
Participate in Design Competitions & Challenges- (Semesters 2-3)
Regularly participate in national and international design challenges (e.g., Adobe Design Achievement Awards, India''''s Best Design Awards). This hones problem-solving skills under pressure and provides valuable portfolio pieces.
Tools & Resources
Design platforms (e.g., 99designs, Creativepool), AIGA, Local design associations
Career Connection
Winning or being shortlisted in competitions boosts credibility and visibility, making graduates stand out to Indian recruiters and potentially leading to direct job offers.
Advanced Stage
Refine Thesis/Project for Impact- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the Master''''s Thesis or Project II, ensuring it''''s a comprehensive, well-researched, and impeccably executed solution to a complex design problem. Focus on impactful outcomes and clear documentation.
Tools & Resources
Research methodologies, Advanced prototyping software (e.g., Principle, Framer), User testing platforms
Career Connection
A strong capstone project demonstrates the ability to lead complex design initiatives, crucial for senior designer or design leadership roles in India.
Strategic Portfolio & Professional Branding- (Semester 4)
Curate a highly professional and tailored portfolio, showcasing best works and emphasizing the design process and impact. Develop a personal brand, including an online presence (LinkedIn, website) and networking skills for job applications.
Tools & Resources
Professional portfolio platforms, LinkedIn profile optimization, Resume builders, Mock interview platforms
Career Connection
Direct preparation for job interviews and placements, ensuring graduates present themselves as highly capable and desirable candidates in the Indian job market.
Prepare for Industry Transition- (Semester 4)
Engage in mock interviews, workshops on negotiation, and legal aspects of freelancing/contracts. Understand salary expectations and company cultures within the Indian design ecosystem. Leverage alumni networks for insights.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Alumni network, Professional mentors, Industry reports on design salaries in India
Career Connection
Equips students with the soft skills and industry knowledge necessary for a smooth and successful transition into their professional careers in India, whether as employees or entrepreneurs.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Des./BFA/B.Arch./B.Tech. in relevant disciplines / any equivalent degree with a minimum 50% aggregate marks.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 66 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDGD 5001 | Design Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Research paradigms and approaches, Qualitative and quantitative research methods, Literature review and data collection techniques, Data analysis and interpretation in design, Ethical considerations in design research |
| MDGD 5003 | Advanced Typography | Core | 3 | Type classification and anatomy, Legibility, readability, and hierarchy, Grid systems and layout principles, Type pairing and experimental typography, Variable fonts and advanced type usage |
| MDGD 5005 | Visual Communication & Semiotics | Core | 3 | Semiotics theories in visual communication, Signs, symbols, and visual metaphors, Visual narrative and storytelling, Cultural context in communication design, Perception, cognition, and visual rhetoric |
| MDGD 5007 | Advanced Digital Media I | Lab | 2 | Advanced Adobe Photoshop techniques, Adobe Illustrator for complex vector graphics, Adobe InDesign for publication layouts, Digital illustration and image manipulation, Workflow optimization for digital assets |
| MDGD 5009 | Design History & Theory | Core | 2 | Modernism and Post-modernism in design, Key design movements and manifestos, Bauhaus, Swiss Style, and their impact, Contemporary design trends and influences, Indian design history and cultural context |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDGD 5002 | Brand Identity Design | Core | 4 | Brand strategy and positioning, Logo design and identity systems, Visual language development and guidelines, Corporate identity applications, Brand experience and touchpoints |
| MDGD 5004 | Digital Publishing & Layout Design | Core | 3 | Editorial design principles, Grid systems for digital publications, Interactive PDF creation, E-book design and formatting, Responsive layouts for various devices |
| MDGD 5006 | User Experience Design | Core | 4 | User research methods and analysis, Personas, user journeys, and empathy maps, Information architecture and content strategy, Wireframing, prototyping, and usability testing, Interaction design principles and heuristics |
| MDGD 5008 | Advanced Digital Media II | Lab | 2 | Introduction to motion graphics, Adobe After Effects fundamentals, Kinetic typography and animation principles, Explainer video production, Basic 3D elements in motion design |
| MDGD 5010 | Elective I | Elective | 3 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDGD 6001 | Interaction Design | Core | 4 | Advanced UI patterns and components, Responsive and adaptive design, Mobile app design principles, Design systems and style guides, Accessibility in digital product design |
| MDGD 6003 | Design Management & Entrepreneurship | Core | 3 | Design project management methodologies, Design thinking for business innovation, Intellectual property rights for designers, Client management and pitching strategies, Building and scaling a design practice |
| MDGD 6005 | Project I | Project | 6 | Problem identification and definition, Extensive design research and analysis, Concept generation and iteration, User testing and feedback integration, Preliminary prototype development and documentation |
| MDGD 6007 | Elective II | Elective | 3 | |
| MDGD 6009 | Internship | Internship | 5 | Industry exposure and professional environment, Practical application of design skills, Real-world project contribution, Professional networking and collaboration, Internship report and presentation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDGD 6002 | Advanced Design Research | Core | 3 | Advanced qualitative research techniques, Quantitative data interpretation and visualization, Design ethnography and cultural studies, Future forecasting and trend analysis in design, Presenting and publishing research findings |
| MDGD 6004 | Professional Practices & Portfolio Development | Core | 3 | Portfolio curation and presentation strategies, Resume/CV writing and interview preparation, Client communication and project proposals, Freelancing best practices and contracts, Networking and personal branding for designers |
| MDGD 6006 | Project II | Project | 10 | Final design solution development and refinement, Comprehensive implementation and production, Detailed testing, validation, and evaluation, Extensive documentation of the design process, Professional presentation and defense of the project |