Syllabus
MDes Syllabus and Subjects
MDes (Master of Design) is generally a two-year postgraduate programme that develops advanced creative, technical and research skills. The curriculum combines theoretical study with studio practice, specialised electives and project work.
Subjects vary according to the institution and chosen specialisation. The following tables provide indicative syllabus outlines rather than a standard curriculum followed by every university.
MDes Fashion Design Syllabus
MDes in Fashion Design focuses on design development, illustration, digital presentation, sustainability and fashion research. Studio projects help students translate creative concepts into design outcomes.
| Semester | Indicative Subjects |
|---|---|
| Semester 1 | Fundamentals of Design and Illustration; Research Methodology I; Community Connect; Fashion Design Studio I; Digital Design and Presentation; History of Art and Design I |
| Semester 2 | Fashion Design Studio II; Design for a Sustainable Society; History of Art and Design II; Digital Design and Presentation; Research Methodology II |
| Semester 3 | Fashion Styling and Image Design; Fashion Design Studio III; Community Connect; Fashion Forecasting; Dissertation |
| Semester 4 | Thesis; Professional Practice |
MDes Interior Design Syllabus
MDes in Interior Design explores the planning and development of interior spaces. Students study materials, furniture, ergonomics, lighting and building services alongside practical design projects.
| Semester | Indicative Subjects |
|---|---|
| Semester 1 | Basics of Drafting; Elements of Interior Design; Basics of Furniture; Basic Ergonomics |
| Semester 2 | Estimating and Costing; Interior Materials and Specifications; Furniture and Furnishings; Project-Based Learning I |
| Semester 3 | Interior Lighting and Acoustics; Working Drawings; Interior Services; Project-Based Learning II |
| Semester 4 | Internship; Dissertation |
MDes Product Design Syllabus
MDes in Product Design develops skills in researching user needs, exploring design concepts and creating functional products. The curriculum may combine physical product development with digital interaction and business considerations.
Since semester-wise arrangements differ across institutions, the table below outlines relevant areas of study.
| Area of Study | Indicative Subjects |
|---|---|
| Design Foundations | Design Methods and Constructs; Aesthetics and Semantics |
| Visualisation and Communication | Digital Visualisation; Systematic Drawing; Fundamentals of Photography |
| User-Centred Design | Anthropometry and Ergonomics; Digital Interaction |
| Research and Design Development | Research Planning; Design Process |
| Technology and Innovation | Consumer Robotics; Prototyping |
| Business and Entrepreneurship | Business Research; Entrepreneurship; Business Fundamentals |
Studio assignments, prototypes and research projects help students apply design principles to practical challenges. The exact subjects, electives and final project requirements depend on the institution.
Popular MDes Specialisations
MDes programmes cover a wide range of design disciplines. Students should confirm the exact programme title and availability at their preferred institution.
| Specialisation | Specialisation | Specialisation |
|---|---|---|
| Fashion Design | Interior Design | Apparel Design |
| Textile Design | UI/UX Design | Knitwear Design |
| Furniture Design | Game Design | Toy Design |
| Automotive Design | Film and Video Design | Leather Design |
| Web Design | Footwear Design | Product Design |
| Graphic Design | Ceramics and Glass Design | Industrial Design |
The choice of specialisation should reflect the student’s interests, existing skills and career goals. Reviewing the curriculum, studio facilities, faculty expertise and project opportunities can help students choose a suitable programme.