

B-DES in General at University of Petroleum and Energy Studies


Dehradun, Uttarakhand
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About the Specialization
What is General at University of Petroleum and Energy Studies Dehradun?
This B.Des program at University of Petroleum and Energy Studies focuses on fostering creative thinking, design innovation, and problem-solving skills crucial for various industries. While specific specializations emerge later, the foundational curriculum builds a strong understanding of design principles and processes relevant to the evolving Indian market, preparing students for diverse roles in the creative economy. It emphasizes a holistic approach to design education.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any stream with a creative aptitude and a keen interest in visual arts, problem-solving, and technology. It also caters to individuals seeking a foundational design education before specializing, and those aspiring to launch careers in design-intensive sectors within India. Specific prerequisite backgrounds typically include a 12th-grade qualification and a design aptitude test.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue dynamic career paths across India''''s burgeoning design sectors, including product design, UI/UX, graphic design, and animation. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program aims to equip students with a robust portfolio and a design thinking mindset, highly valued by Indian and multinational companies, aligning with industry growth trajectories.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Design Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in foundational design studios, workshops on drawing, color theory, and visual communication. Focus on mastering basic design elements and principles. Regularly sketch and maintain a visual diary to develop observational skills.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, Drawing materials, Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator (basic), Online tutorials (e.g., NPTEL design courses for concepts)
Career Connection
A strong foundation is critical for any design specialization. It builds the core aesthetic and functional understanding necessary for future roles in product, graphic, or UI/UX design.
Cultivate Critical Thinking & Problem Solving- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply in design challenges, analyze case studies, and question conventional solutions. Participate in group discussions and present design concepts, defending choices based on design thinking methodologies.
Tools & Resources
Design Thinking frameworks, Case study analyses (e.g., IDEO, NID resources), Peer feedback sessions
Career Connection
The ability to critically analyze and solve problems is highly sought after by Indian companies, enabling designers to contribute effectively to innovation and user-centric product development.
Explore Diverse Design Fields- (Semester 1-2)
Attend guest lectures, workshops, and seminars across various design disciplines (e.g., product, fashion, animation, UI/UX). This broad exposure helps in identifying areas of personal interest for future specialization.
Tools & Resources
UPES School of Design events, Industry conferences (online/offline), Design magazines/blogs
Career Connection
Early exposure helps students make informed decisions about their specialization, leading to more focused skill development and better alignment with desired career paths in India''''s diverse design industry.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Design Projects & Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek and participate in design projects, both academic and external. Enroll in national or international design competitions to gain practical experience, develop a portfolio, and receive external validation.
Tools & Resources
UPES project opportunities, India-specific design competitions (e.g., Lexus Design Award India), Project management tools (e.g., Trello)
Career Connection
Building a strong portfolio through projects and awards is paramount for placements in top design firms and startups in India, showcasing practical skills and initiative.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 3-5)
Attend industry events, connect with alumni, and reach out to design professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Seek mentorship opportunities to understand industry trends and gain career advice relevant to the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, UPES alumni network, Industry meetups/webinars
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, job referrals, and insights into specific industry demands, which is crucial for navigating the competitive Indian job market.
Develop Digital Design Proficiency- (Semester 3-5)
Master industry-standard software relevant to various design disciplines (e.g., Figma for UI/UX, SolidWorks for product design, Adobe Creative Suite for graphic design). Focus on efficient workflow and digital prototyping skills.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Suite (XD, Illustrator, InDesign), Figma/Sketch, 3D modeling software (e.g., SolidWorks, Blender)
Career Connection
Proficiency in digital tools is non-negotiable for modern design roles across India, increasing employability and efficiency in diverse design teams.
Advanced Stage
Complete a Capstone Project/Thesis- (Semester 6-8)
Undertake a significant individual or group capstone project that addresses a real-world design problem. Focus on a comprehensive design process from research to final implementation and presentation, demonstrating specialized skills.
Tools & Resources
Research methodologies, Prototyping tools, Presentation software, Faculty guidance
Career Connection
A well-executed capstone project forms the centerpiece of a graduate''''s portfolio, demonstrating advanced problem-solving and specialized skills to potential employers in India, often leading directly to job offers.
Secure Industry Internships- (Semester 6-7)
Seek out and complete multiple internships with reputable design firms, startups, or corporate design departments. Prioritize internships that offer exposure to the full design lifecycle and opportunities for hands-on experience.
Tools & Resources
UPES placement cell, Internshala, LinkedIn Jobs
Career Connection
Internships are crucial for gaining practical industry experience, building a professional network, and often converting into full-time placements in leading Indian companies, significantly boosting career prospects.
Refine Portfolio & Interview Skills- (Semester 7-8)
Continuously update and refine the professional portfolio, curating only the best work. Practice interview techniques, focusing on articulating the design process, problem-solving approach, and showcasing soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Tools & Resources
Online portfolio platforms (e.g., Behance, Dribbble), Mock interviews, Resume/CV builders
Career Connection
A polished portfolio and strong interview skills are essential for standing out in the competitive Indian design job market, securing desired roles, and negotiating better salary packages.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Minimum 50% marks in 10th and 12th grade. Valid score in JEE Mains/NATA/UCEED/CUET/UPES Design Aptitude Test (UPES DAT).
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified




