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B-DES in General at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University)
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is General at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University) Chengalpattu?
This Bachelor of Design (B.Des) program at Sri Ramaswamy Memorial Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) focuses on cultivating creative problem-solvers and innovative thinkers for India''''s rapidly evolving design industry. It covers a broad spectrum of design disciplines, from communication and product design to fashion and environmental design, preparing students for diverse roles. The curriculum emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and design thinking methodologies relevant to contemporary Indian market demands and global trends.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative fresh graduates from various streams (Science, Commerce, Arts) who possess a keen eye for aesthetics, an aptitude for innovation, and a desire to shape the world around them through thoughtful design. It also caters to individuals seeking a foundational yet comprehensive understanding of design principles and applications, aiming for entry into India''''s booming design sector, including IT, manufacturing, fashion, and retail. Prerequisites include a 10+2 qualification with a minimum aggregate of 50%.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to embark on India-specific career paths such as UX/UI Designer, Product Designer, Graphic Designer, Fashion Designer, Interior Designer, or Design Consultant. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing to INR 8-15 LPA with experience in leading design studios, tech companies, or e-commerce firms. The curriculum also prepares students for entrepreneurial ventures and higher studies in specialized design fields, aligning with certifications in digital design tools and project management.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Design Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus rigorously on foundational subjects like Elements and Principles of Design, Freehand Drawing, and Visual Thinking. Attend all studio sessions, practice sketching daily, and actively participate in critiques to build a strong artistic and conceptual base.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, charcoal, pencils, online tutorials (Skillshare, YouTube for drawing), design theory books
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for excelling in any design specialization and demonstrating core skills during portfolio reviews and job interviews.
Cultivate Digital Proficiency Early- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond lab hours, dedicate time to self-learn and practice digital tools such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Explore their functionalities through personal projects and online challenges. This early mastery ensures smooth progression to advanced software and complex design tasks.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Cloud, online courses (Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning), official Adobe tutorials
Career Connection
Digital literacy is non-negotiable in modern design roles, and early expertise can significantly boost internship and job prospects, especially in graphic and UI/UX design.
Engage in Observational & Contextual Studies- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a habit of observing your surroundings—products, advertisements, architecture, user interactions. Document these observations through sketches, photographs, and notes. Analyze design successes and failures in everyday Indian contexts to develop a critical design perspective.
Tools & Resources
Smartphone camera, journal, sketchpad, local markets, public spaces, design blogs
Career Connection
This practice hones problem-identification skills and empathy, vital for user-centric design and understanding market needs in the Indian context.
Intermediate Stage
Build a Diverse Portfolio with Personal Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively work on personal design projects outside coursework, showcasing a range of skills from graphic design to product prototypes. Document your process meticulously, from ideation to final execution. Seek feedback from faculty and peers to refine your work.
Tools & Resources
Behance, Dribbble, Figma, Adobe XD, 3D modeling software, design communities, mentor critiques
Career Connection
A strong, diverse portfolio is the most critical asset for design placements and internships, demonstrating initiative and practical application of learned skills.
Seek Industry Internships & Workshops- (Semester 4-5)
Actively pursue summer internships with design studios, advertising agencies, or product companies in India. Attend industry workshops, guest lectures, and design conferences (e.g., India Design ID, Kyoorius Designyatra) to network, gain practical exposure, and understand industry best practices.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, company career pages, university placement cell, eventbrite, design communities
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable real-world experience, build industry contacts, and often lead to pre-placement offers in top Indian companies.
Specialise and Deepen Specific Design Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Identify your area of interest (e.g., UX/UI, Product, Fashion, Communication Design) and take elective subjects to deepen your knowledge. Engage in advanced tutorials, online courses, and specialized projects to develop expert-level skills in your chosen domain.
Tools & Resources
Specialized software for your chosen domain, advanced online courses, professional certifications, design books
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a valuable asset to specific industries and roles, enhancing your employability and potential salary in competitive Indian markets.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Design Thesis/Project- (Semester 7-8)
Dedicate significant effort to your final year Design Thesis, choosing a complex problem relevant to Indian society or industry. Conduct thorough research, innovative ideation, rigorous prototyping, and user testing. Ensure your thesis is well-documented and presented professionally.
Tools & Resources
Research papers, academic databases, specialized software, user testing platforms, mentorship from faculty/industry experts
Career Connection
The thesis is a culmination of all your learning, a major portfolio piece that demonstrates your ability to solve real-world problems and leads to potential job offers or startup ideas.
Develop a Professional Portfolio & Personal Brand- (Semester 6-8)
Curate your best work into a polished online portfolio (website/Behance) and a concise physical portfolio. Craft a compelling resume and LinkedIn profile. Practice interview skills, including presenting your portfolio and articulating your design process effectively for Indian recruiters.
Tools & Resources
Personal website builder (Wix, Squarespace), Behance, LinkedIn, mock interviews, design mentors
Career Connection
A professional portfolio and strong personal brand are essential for securing desired placements and making a lasting impression on potential employers in India''''s design sector.
Explore Entrepreneurship & Advanced Studies- (Semester 7-8)
Consider developing your thesis project into a startup venture or exploring options for master''''s degrees in specialized design fields, both in India and abroad. Engage with entrepreneurship cells, design incubators, and alumni networks to explore post-graduation avenues.
Tools & Resources
Startup incubators (e.g., NASSCOM 10K Startups), venture capitalists, GRE/IELTS/TOEFL preparation, university counseling
Career Connection
This expands your career horizons beyond traditional jobs, offering pathways to leadership, innovation, and academic contributions in the global and Indian design landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10+2 / HSC / CBSE / ICSE or equivalent examination from a recognized Board with a minimum aggregate of 50%
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters
Credits: 167 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CD2101 | History of Art & Design | Core | 3 | Introduction to Art & Design History, Prehistoric Art, Ancient Civilizations, Medieval Art & Architecture, Renaissance, Baroque & Rococo |
| CD2102 | Elements of Design | Core | 3 | Line, Shape, Form, Space, Color, Texture, Principles of Design, Visual Communication, Composition |
| CD2103 | Visual Thinking & Perception | Core | 3 | Perception Psychology, Visual Communication, Problem-solving, Creative Thinking, Observation & Interpretation |
| CD2104 | Freehand Drawing – I | Core | 3 | Basic Drawing Techniques, Line Drawing, Shading & Rendering, Perspective Drawing, Still Life |
| CD2105 | Design Process & Research | Core | 3 | Introduction to Design Process, Research Methods, Problem Definition, Ideation & Brainstorming, User Research |
| CD2106 | Introduction to Materials & Manufacturing | Core | 3 | Properties of Materials, Wood, Metal, Plastics, Manufacturing Processes, Sustainable Materials, Material Selection |
| CD2107 | Communication Skills – I (English) | Core | 2 | Grammar & Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Effective Listening, Public Speaking, Presentation Skills |
| CD21L1 | Digital Tools for Design – I (Lab) | Lab | 2 | Introduction to Adobe Photoshop, Image Manipulation, Basic Digital Illustration, Layering & Masks, Color Correction |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CD2108 | History of Design - II | Core | 3 | Industrial Revolution & Design, Arts & Crafts Movement, Art Nouveau & Art Deco, Bauhaus Movement, Modernism & Postmodernism |
| CD2109 | Principles of Design | Core | 3 | Balance & Harmony, Emphasis & Contrast, Rhythm & Movement, Proportion & Scale, Unity & Variety |
| CD2110 | Basic Photography | Core | 3 | Camera Basics & Controls, Exposure Triangle (ISO, Aperture, Shutter Speed), Composition Techniques, Lighting Principles, Digital Image Editing |
| CD2111 | Freehand Drawing – II | Core | 3 | Advanced Sketching Techniques, Figure Drawing, Complex Perspective, Outdoor Sketching, Material Rendering |
| CD2112 | Design Thinking & Innovation | Core | 3 | Design Thinking Process (Empathize, Define), Ideation & Prototyping, Testing & Iteration, Innovation Strategies, Creative Problem Solving |
| CD2113 | Ergonomics & Human Factors | Core | 3 | Anthropometry & Biomechanics, Cognitive Ergonomics, Environmental Ergonomics, User Interface Design Principles, Human-Centered Design |
| CD2114 | Communication Skills – II (English) | Core | 2 | Report Writing & Documentation, Email Etiquette & Professional Communication, Interview Skills, Group Discussions, Business Presentation |
| CD21L2 | Digital Tools for Design – II (Lab) | Lab | 2 | Advanced Adobe Illustrator, Vector Graphics & Logo Design, Adobe InDesign for Layout, Typography & Print Media Design, Magazine & Brochure Design |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CD2115 | Indian Art & Design Traditions | Core | 3 | Ancient Indian Art & Architecture, Mughal & Rajput Art, Traditional Indian Crafts, Folk Art Forms, Indian Textiles & Patterns |
| CD2116 | Colour Theory & Application | Core | 3 | Color Wheel & Harmonies, Psychology of Color, Digital Color Systems (RGB, CMYK), Color in Branding & Marketing, Lighting & Color Effects |
| CD2117 | Graphic Design Fundamentals | Core | 3 | Typography & Font Selection, Layout & Grid Systems, Branding & Visual Identity, Logo Design Principles, Poster & Advertisement Design |
| CD2118 | Model Making & Prototyping | Core | 3 | Materials for Model Making, Scale Models & Mock-ups, Rapid Prototyping Technologies, 3D Printing Fundamentals, Clay & Foam Modeling Techniques |
| CD2119 | Design for Social Impact | Core | 3 | Design for Sustainability, Social Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Community-Centered Design, Inclusive Design Principles, Ethical Design Practices |
| CD2120 | Craft & Culture Studies | Core | 3 | Traditional Indian Crafts, Craft Revival & Modernization, Artisan Communities & Livelihoods, Cultural Heritage & Design, Craft Documentation & Preservation |
| CD21L3 | Digital Tools for Design – III (Lab) | Lab | 2 | Introduction to 3D Modeling (SketchUp/Rhino), Basic Rendering Techniques, Architectural Visualization, Product Modeling for Visualization, Texturing & Lighting Basics |
| CD21G1 | Generic Elective - I (Example: Introduction to Psychology) | Elective | 3 | Basics of Psychology, Cognitive Processes, Personality Theories, Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CD2121 | Communication Design | Core | 3 | Advertising Design Strategies, Branding & Identity Systems, Integrated Marketing Communications, Digital Marketing Fundamentals, UX/UI Principles in Communication |
| CD2122 | Product Design | Core | 3 | Product Lifecycle Management, Industrial Design Processes, Form, Function & Aesthetics, Materials & Manufacturing for Products, User-Centered Product Development |
| CD2123 | Fashion & Textile Design | Core | 3 | History of Fashion & Textiles, Textile Materials & Techniques, Apparel Design & Construction, Pattern Making & Draping, Fashion Illustration |
| CD2124 | Environmental Design | Core | 3 | Sustainable Architecture, Landscape Design Principles, Urban Planning & Design, Green Building Concepts, Public Space Design |
| CD2125 | Digital Storytelling & Animation | Core | 3 | Storyboarding & Scriptwriting, Character Design & Development, 2D Animation Principles, Motion Graphics & Effects, Video Editing & Post-production |
| CD21L4 | Digital Tools for Design – IV (Lab) | Lab | 2 | Advanced 3D Modeling Techniques, Rendering with V-Ray/Keyshot, Texturing & Lighting for Realism, Digital Portfolio Presentation, Animation Software Basics |
| CD21E1 | Program Elective - I (Example: Calligraphy) | Elective | 3 | History of Calligraphy, Tools & Materials for Calligraphy, Basic Strokes & Letterforms, Script Styles (e.g., Copperplate, Italic), Composition & Layout in Calligraphy |
| CD21G2 | Generic Elective - II (Example: Professional Ethics) | Elective | 3 | Ethical Theories & Frameworks, Professional Conduct & Responsibility, Intellectual Property Rights & Plagiarism, Workplace Values & Diversity, Decision Making in Ethical Dilemmas |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CD2126 | Interaction Design (UX/UI) | Core | 3 | User Experience (UX) Principles, User Interface (UI) Design, Wireframing & Prototyping, Usability Testing & Evaluation, Information Architecture |
| CD2127 | Design Management & Entrepreneurship | Core | 3 | Design Business Models, Project Management for Design, Marketing & Branding for Design Services, Legal Aspects for Designers, Entrepreneurial Strategies in Design |
| CD2128 | Research Methodology for Design | Core | 3 | Qualitative & Quantitative Research Methods, Survey Design & Interview Techniques, Data Collection & Analysis, Research Ethics in Design, Literature Review & Report Writing |
| CD21E2 | Program Elective - II (Example: Furniture Design) | Elective | 3 | History of Furniture Design, Materials & Joinery Techniques, Ergonomics in Furniture, Furniture Sketching & Prototyping, Contemporary Furniture Trends |
| CD21E3 | Program Elective - III (Example: Ceramic Design) | Elective | 3 | Clay Properties & Preparation, Hand Building Techniques, Wheel Throwing Basics, Glazing & Decoration Techniques, Kiln Firing & Ceramic Forms |
| CD21P1 | Industrial Internship / Professional Project – I | Project | 6 | Industry Exposure & Immersion, Project Planning & Execution, Research & Data Collection, Report Writing & Documentation, Presentation & Feedback |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CD2129 | Service Design | Core | 3 | Service Blueprinting, Customer Journey Mapping, Touchpoint Design, Stakeholder Mapping, Service Innovation Strategies |
| CD2130 | Portfolio & Professional Practice | Core | 3 | Portfolio Development & Curation, Resume & Cover Letter Writing, Interview Preparation & Mock Sessions, Freelancing & Design Ethics, Personal Branding for Designers |
| CD2131 | Intellectual Property Rights & Design Law | Core | 3 | Copyright & Trademarks, Patents & Industrial Designs, Geographical Indications, Plagiarism & Infringement, Design Law in India |
| CD21E4 | Program Elective - IV (Example: Game Design) | Elective | 3 | Game Mechanics & Systems, Level Design Principles, Character Design for Games, Storytelling in Games, Game Development Process |
| CD21E5 | Program Elective - V (Example: Product Packaging) | Elective | 3 | Packaging Materials & Properties, Structural Design of Packaging, Graphic Design for Packaging, Sustainable Packaging Solutions, Branding & Marketing through Packaging |
| CD21P2 | Industrial Internship / Professional Project – II | Project | 6 | Advanced Project Management, Real-world Problem Solving, Team Collaboration & Client Interaction, Final Deliverables & Prototyping, Industrial Best Practices |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CD2132 | Design Thesis / Project – I | Project | 6 | Problem Identification & Scoping, Literature Review & Contextual Study, Research Methodology & Data Collection, Analysis & Synthesis, Initial Concept Development |
| CD2133 | Advanced Design Software | Core | 3 | Advanced CAD Software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360), Animation & Motion Graphics Software, Simulation & Analysis Tools, VR/AR in Design, Parametric Design |
| CD21E6 | Program Elective - VI (Example: Design for AI/Machine Learning) | Elective | 3 | AI/ML Fundamentals for Designers, Data Visualization & Interface Design, Human-AI Interaction Principles, Ethical AI Design, AI in Creative Fields |
| CD21E7 | Program Elective - VII (Example: Bio Design) | Elective | 3 | Biodesign Principles & Ethics, Biometric Materials & Applications, Biomimicry in Design, Sustainable Bio-fabrication, Design for Life Sciences |
| CD21G3 | Generic Elective - III (Example: Digital Marketing) | Elective | 3 | Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Search Engine Marketing (SEM), Social Media Marketing, Content Marketing Strategy, Email Marketing & Analytics |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CD2134 | Design Thesis / Project – II | Project | 12 | Final Design Development & Refinement, Prototyping & Fabrication, User Testing & Validation, Comprehensive Documentation, Final Presentation & Viva Voce |
