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BDES in General at SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (Deemed to be University)
Mumbai, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is General at SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (Deemed to be University) Mumbai?
This BDes program at SVKM''''s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies focuses on holistic design thinking, blending aesthetics with functionality and user experience. It prepares students for a dynamic Indian design industry, emphasizing innovation, problem-solving, and socio-cultural relevance. The program differentiates itself through its strong industry linkages, project-based learning, and a comprehensive curriculum designed to foster creative leadership.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative 10+2 graduates with a strong aptitude for innovation, critical thinking, and visual communication. It is also suitable for individuals aspiring to shape products, services, and experiences in India''''s rapidly evolving design and technology sectors. Candidates should possess a keen interest in user-centric design and problem-solving.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse and rewarding career paths as UX/UI designers, product designers, graphic designers, design strategists, or entrepreneurs within India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-8 LPA, with significant growth potential in top Indian companies, MNCs, and burgeoning startups. The program also prepares students for advanced studies and global design opportunities.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Design Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate extensive time to hands-on practice in drawing, sketching, and material exploration. Actively participate in studio sessions, experiment with various mediums, and seek feedback on fundamental techniques to build a robust visual and tactile vocabulary.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, Drawing tools, Art supplies, Online tutorials (e.g., skillshare.com, drawingcourse.com)
Career Connection
A strong foundation in core skills is crucial for effective visual communication and concept development, forming the bedrock for all future design specializations and professional projects.
Cultivate a Design Thinking Mindset- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in design thinking workshops and project-based learning to internalize the iterative process of empathizing, defining, ideating, prototyping, and testing. Practice observing user behavior and framing problems effectively.
Tools & Resources
Miro, Figma (for ideation), Post-it notes, Whiteboards
Career Connection
Developing a robust design thinking approach is highly valued in the Indian industry, enabling graduates to tackle complex problems efficiently and innovate across various sectors.
Build a Habit of Critical Reflection- (Semester 1-2)
Maintain a personal design journal to document inspirations, analyze existing design solutions, and critically reflect on your own project progress and challenges. Regularly engage in peer reviews and proactively seek constructive feedback from faculty.
Tools & Resources
Design journal/blog, Behance, Dribbble (for inspiration and critique)
Career Connection
Self-reflection and continuous improvement are key attributes for successful designers, fostering adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced professional environment.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Interdisciplinary Projects & Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to collaborate with students from diverse academic backgrounds or participate in national design competitions. This expands your perspective, hones teamwork skills, and prepares you for real-world, cross-functional projects.
Tools & Resources
Hackathons, Design Challenges (e.g., India Design Mark), Collaboration platforms
Career Connection
Working in interdisciplinary teams is a common practice in modern Indian companies, enhancing your problem-solving capabilities and showcasing versatility to potential employers.
Develop Digital Proficiency & Software Mastery- (Semester 3-5)
Dedicate extra time beyond coursework to master industry-standard software for 2D, 3D, UI/UX design (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, Rhino, SolidWorks). Utilize online tutorials, practice personal projects, and explore advanced features.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Cloud, Figma, Rhino, SolidWorks, YouTube tutorials, LinkedIn Learning
Career Connection
Expertise in digital tools is non-negotiable for design roles in India, ensuring you can efficiently bring concepts to life and integrate seamlessly into professional design workflows.
Seek Industry Exposure through Internships/Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Proactively look for short-term internships, workshops, or live projects with design studios or companies during semester breaks. This provides invaluable practical experience, helps build a professional network, and exposes you to industry expectations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Internshala, College career services, Industry events and conferences
Career Connection
Early industry exposure through internships significantly boosts employability and provides a competitive edge in the Indian job market, often leading to pre-placement offers.
Advanced Stage
Build a Professional-Grade Portfolio- (Semester 6-8)
Systematically curate your best academic and personal projects, documenting the entire design process from initial research and ideation to final prototypes. Tailor your portfolio to specific job roles and include compelling case studies that highlight your skills.
Tools & Resources
Behance, Dribbble, Adobe Portfolio, Personal Website Builders (e.g., Wix, Squarespace)
Career Connection
A strong, well-articulated portfolio is the most critical tool for securing placements in leading Indian design firms and MNCs, demonstrating your capabilities and creative process.
Focus on Specialization and Advanced Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Leverage elective choices and your final year graduation project to deep-dive into a specific design domain such as UX/UI, Product Design, or Communication Design. Pursue advanced certifications or online courses to hone specialized skills.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, Udemy, NPTEL, Specialized design bootcamps
Career Connection
Specialized skills make you a more targeted and attractive candidate for specific roles in India''''s diverse design industry, enhancing your value proposition and salary potential.
Develop Entrepreneurial Acumen & Business Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Attend workshops on design management, intellectual property, business plan development, and startup ecosystems. Think about the market viability and business model of your design solutions, preparing for roles that require strategic thinking or starting your own venture.
Tools & Resources
NMIMS Entrepreneurship Cell, Startup India initiatives, Business Model Canvas
Career Connection
Understanding the business side of design is crucial for leadership roles and for successful entrepreneurship in India, allowing designers to create impact beyond aesthetics and functionality.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 or equivalent examination including IB Diploma (IB certificate awarded is not eligible) with 50% aggregate marks and English as compulsory subject from a recognized Board/University. Candidates appearing for 10+2 or equivalent examination can also apply. Decision will be based on NMAT (NMIMS Aptitude Test for Design) followed by Personal Interview/Portfolio Review.
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters
Credits: 180 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Varies by course (e.g., 40-60% or 50-50%), External: Varies by course (e.g., 40-60% or 50-50%)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SD101 | Drawing & Sketching I | Core | 3 | Fundamentals of Drawing, Perspective Drawing, Still Life Composition, Form and Structure, Line and Tonal Values |
| SD102 | Material & Processes I | Core | 3 | Basic Materials (Wood, Metal, Plastic), Hand Tools and Safety, Material Properties, Basic Fabrication Techniques, Model Making Basics |
| SD103 | Elements & Principles of Design | Core | 3 | Point, Line, Plane, Volume, Form and Space, Balance and Rhythm, Unity and Contrast, Hierarchy and Proportion |
| SD104 | History of Art & Design | Core | 3 | Prehistoric and Ancient Art, Medieval and Renaissance Periods, Industrial Revolution and Design, Modern Art Movements, Indian Art and Craft Traditions |
| SD105 | Communication & Presentation Skills | Core | 3 | Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication, Public Speaking Techniques, Visual Aids and Storytelling, Effective Presentation Structure, Interpersonal Communication |
| SD106 | Workshop I | Core | 4 | Basic Craft Skills, Tool Handling and Safety, Material Exploration Exercises, Prototyping Simple Forms, Studio Practices |
| SD107 | Design Thinking & Problem Solving | Core | 3 | Design Thinking Process (Empathize, Define), Problem Framing and Analysis, Ideation Techniques, User Centric Approach, Creative Problem Solving |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SD201 | Drawing & Sketching II | Core | 3 | Advanced Perspective, Human Anatomy Drawing, Expressive Sketching, Concept Sketching, Rendering Techniques |
| SD202 | Material & Processes II | Core | 3 | Advanced Materials (Composites, Textiles), Manufacturing Processes, Surface Finishes and Treatments, Material Testing and Selection, Sustainable Materials |
| SD203 | Applied Ergonomics | Core | 3 | Anthropometry and Biomechanics, Human Factors in Design, User Comfort and Safety, Workspace and Product Design, Usability Principles |
| SD204 | Digital Design Tools I | Core | 3 | Adobe Photoshop for Image Editing, Adobe Illustrator for Vector Graphics, Basic 2D CAD Software, Digital Illustration, Introduction to Graphic Design Software |
| SD205 | Photography & Videography | Core | 3 | Camera Functionality and Settings, Composition and Lighting, Digital Image Editing, Basic Video Production, Storytelling through Visual Media |
| SD206 | Workshop II | Core | 4 | Advanced Model Making Techniques, Prototyping with Digital Fabrication, Complex Joinery, Surface Finishing, Project Implementation |
| SD207 | Design Research & Methodology | Core | 3 | Qualitative and Quantitative Research, User Interviews and Surveys, Ethnographic Research, Data Analysis and Synthesis, Research Ethics and Reporting |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SD301 | Drawing & Sketching III | Core | 3 | Life Drawing and Anatomy, Architectural Sketching, Product Rendering, Illustration Techniques, Digital Drawing Applications |
| SD302 | Introduction to Branding | Core | 3 | Brand Identity and Strategy, Logo Design and Visual Systems, Brand Communication, Market Positioning, Corporate Identity |
| SD303 | Design Psychology | Core | 3 | Perception and Cognition, Emotion and Motivation in Design, User Behavior Analysis, Human-Computer Interaction Principles, Cognitive Load |
| SD304 | Digital Design Tools II | Core | 3 | 3D Modeling Software (Rhino/SolidWorks), Basic Rendering Techniques, Introduction to Animation, Parametric Design Basics, Digital Prototyping Tools |
| SD305 | Visual Communication Design | Core | 3 | Typography and Layout Design, Color Theory and Application, Grids and Information Hierarchy, Print and Digital Media Design, Poster and Brochure Design |
| SD306 | Workshop III | Core | 4 | Fabrication with Power Tools, Advanced Woodworking Joinery, Metal Forming Techniques, Prototyping Complex Forms, Finishing and Assembly |
| SD307 | Design Project I | Core | 5 | Problem Identification and Brief, Concept Generation and Selection, Iteration and Refinement, User Feedback and Testing, Project Documentation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SD401 | Design for Sustainability | Core | 3 | Eco-design Principles, Life Cycle Assessment, Circular Economy Concepts, Sustainable Materials and Processes, Green Technologies |
| SD402 | Information Design | Core | 3 | Data Visualization, Infographics and Diagrams, Wayfinding and Signage Systems, Narrative Design for Information, Information Architecture |
| SD403 | User Experience Design I | Core | 3 | UX Principles and Process, User Research Methods, Wireframing and Prototyping, Usability Testing, Information Architecture |
| SD404 | Digital Design Tools III | Core | 3 | Advanced 3D Modeling Techniques, Rendering Engines and Animation, CAD/CAM Integration, Virtual and Augmented Reality Tools, Generative Design Principles |
| SD405 | Professional Practice I | Core | 3 | Design Ethics and Professional Conduct, Intellectual Property Rights, Contract Law for Designers, Client Management and Communication, Project Planning and Management |
| SD406 | Workshop IV | Core | 4 | Digital Fabrication (3D Printing, Laser Cutting), CNC Machining Basics, Advanced Prototyping, Tool Maintenance and Calibration, Integrated Manufacturing |
| SD407 | Design Project II | Core | 5 | Detailed Design Development, Material and Manufacturing Considerations, Technical Drawings and Specifications, Costing and Feasibility Analysis, Design Presentation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SD501 | Design Management | Core | 3 | Design Strategy and Innovation, Brand Management, Team Leadership and Collaboration, Design Thinking in Business, Design Metrics and Evaluation |
| SD502 | Service Design | Core | 3 | Service Blueprinting, Customer Journey Mapping, Touchpoint Design, Stakeholder Engagement, Value Co-creation |
| SD503 | User Interface Design | Core | 3 | UI Principles and Best Practices, Interface Elements and Components, Visual Hierarchy and Layout, Responsive Design, Design Systems |
| SD504 | Interaction Design | Core | 3 | Human-Computer Interaction, Interaction Patterns and Gestures, Feedback and Affordances, Usability Heuristics, Prototyping Interactive Experiences |
| SD505 | Professional Practice II | Core | 3 | Design Entrepreneurship, Business Plan Development, Funding and Investment Strategies, Marketing and Branding for Designers, Networking and Relationship Building |
| SD506 | Workshop V | Core | 4 | Advanced Prototyping Materials, Electronics for Design, Sensor Integration, Internet of Things (IoT) Product Development, Wearable Technology Basics |
| SD507 | Design Project III | Core | 5 | User-Centric Design Process, Concept Validation, Functional Prototyping, Testing and Evaluation Protocols, Refined Design Solutions |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SD601 | Retail Design | Core | 3 | Store Layout and Planning, Visual Merchandising, Customer Flow and Experience, Fixture and Display Design, Brand Integration in Retail Space |
| SD602 | Packaging Design | Core | 3 | Structural Packaging Design, Graphics for Packaging, Sustainable Packaging Solutions, Brand Expression on Packaging, Material Selection for Packaging |
| SD603 | Design for Social Impact | Core | 3 | Community Engagement, Social Innovation, Participatory Design, Design for Development Challenges, Ethical Considerations in Design |
| SD604 | Digital Prototyping | Core | 3 | Rapid Prototyping Technologies, Virtual Prototyping and Simulation, Digital Manufacturing Processes, CAD/CAM Integration, Advanced Fabrication Techniques |
| SD605 | Professional Practice III | Core | 3 | Legal Aspects of Design Business, Freelancing and Agency Operations, Team Collaboration Strategies, Mentorship and Networking, Building Design Portfolios |
| SD606 | Workshop VI | Core | 4 | Advanced Digital Fabrication, Robotics in Design, AI in Design Workflows, Immersive Technology Prototyping, Smart Materials Application |
| SD607 | Design Project IV | Core | 5 | Advanced Problem Solving, In-depth User Research, Prototype Refinement, Manufacturing Feasibility, Comprehensive Project Presentation |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SD701 | Universal Design | Core | 3 | Accessibility Principles, Inclusive Design Methodologies, Design for Diverse Abilities, Ergonomics for All, Regulatory Standards for Accessibility |
| SD702 | Design Entrepreneurship | Core | 3 | Startup Ecosystem and Business Models, Funding Rounds and Investment, Pitching Ideas to Investors, Intellectual Property Protection, Market Entry Strategies |
| SD703 | Advanced Digital Design | Core | 3 | Generative Design, AI-powered Design Tools, Data-driven Design, Computational Design, Immersive Experiences Design |
| SD704 | Design Futures | Core | 3 | Trend Forecasting, Scenario Planning, Speculative Design, Futures Thinking Methodologies, Emerging Technologies and Society |
| SD705 | Design Project V | Core | 8 | Capstone Project Development, Comprehensive Design Solution, Market Research Integration, Business Case Formulation, Detailed Project Documentation |
| SD706 | Internship | Core | 4 | Industry Exposure and Experience, Professional Workplace Ethics, Application of Design Skills, Project Execution under Mentorship, Real-world Problem Solving |
| DE701 | Exhibition Design | Elective | 4 | Exhibition Space Planning, Visual Storytelling in Exhibitions, Lighting and Materiality, Visitor Experience Design, Temporary Structure Design |
| DE702 | Transdisciplinary Design | Elective | 4 | Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration, Complex Problem Solving, Systems Thinking, Innovation Across Domains, Integrative Design Approaches |
| DE703 | Digital Storytelling | Elective | 4 | Narrative Structures in Digital Media, Interactive Storytelling, Multimedia Content Creation, Animation and Motion Graphics, User Engagement through Stories |
| OE701 | Critical Thinking & Reasoning | Elective | 4 | Logic and Argumentation, Problem Analysis, Decision Making, Bias Recognition, Ethical Reasoning |
| OE702 | Foreign Language | Elective | 4 | Basic Grammar and Vocabulary, Conversational Skills, Cultural Context, Reading and Writing Basics, Language for Business Travel |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SD801 | Graduation Project | Core | 12 | Independent Research and Development, Comprehensive Design Solution, Final Prototyping and Testing, Detailed Portfolio and Documentation, Public Exhibition and Presentation |
| SD802 | Professional Practice IV | Core | 4 | Career Planning and Strategy, Job Search and Application, Interview Skills and Salary Negotiation, Professional Networking, Personal Branding for Designers |
