Overview
The Master of Design (MDes) in Communication Design is a postgraduate program focusing on visual storytelling, branding, and digital media communication. It equips students with advanced skills in graphic design, typography, information design, UI/UX design, and motion graphics for diverse communication needs.
Quick Highlights
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Level | Masters Degree |
| Eligibility | Bachelor's degree in Design, Fine Arts, Architecture, or related fields with minimum 50% marks. Some institutes also accept candidates with degrees in Mass Communication, Journalism, or English Literature with a strong portfolio. |
| Entrance Exam | CEED, UCEED, NID Entrance Exam, DAT, Specific Institute Entrance Tests |
| Avg Fees | INR 2,00,000 - 10,00,000 per annum |
| Sarkari Jobs | Limited |
Why Study This Course?
Market Demand:
High/10
- Develop sophisticated visual communication strategies for brands and campaigns.
- Master cutting-edge tools and software for digital and print media.
- Gain expertise in user-centered design, crucial for web and app development.
- Build a strong portfolio that demonstrates creative problem-solving and technical prowess.
Who should study?
This course is ideal for individuals with a bachelor's degree in design, fine arts, or related fields who are passionate about visual communication and wish to specialize in areas like graphic design, branding, advertising, digital media, or user interface design. Candidates should possess strong creative thinking, problem-solving skills, an eye for detail, and a keen interest in understanding user behavior and communication strategies.
Eligibility & Admission
Minimum Qualification:
Bachelor's degree in Design, Fine Arts, Architecture, Visual Communication, or a related discipline with a minimum aggregate score of 50%. Some institutes may have specific requirements for non-design backgrounds, often involving a portfolio review or preliminary design aptitude tests.
Entrance Exams
| Exam Name |
Conducting Body |
| Common Entrance Examination for Design (CEED) |
IITs |
| Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design (UCEED) |
IIT Bombay |
| National Institute of Design Entrance Examination (NID DAT) |
National Institute of Design (NID) |
| Design Aptitude Test (DAT) |
Various Private Design Institutes |
Top Institutes
Selection Criteria:
Admission is typically based on a combination of: 1. Design Aptitude Test (CEED, UCEED, or institute-specific). 2. Studio Test/Workshop. 3. Portfolio Review. 4. Personal Interview. Academic scores from the bachelor's degree are also considered.
Government Hubs
| Government Institutes |
| National Institute of Design (NID) - Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Bengaluru, Jorhat |
| Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) - Bombay, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kanpur (IDC School of Design) |
| University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES Dehradun - some programs have govt backing) |
| Central Universities offering design programs |
Notable Private Hubs
| Government Institutes |
| World University of Design (WUD) - Sonipat |
| Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID) - Pune |
| Pearl Academy - Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai |
| National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) - Various Campuses |
| MIT Institute of Design - Pune |
| Anil Agarwal Institute of Design, Jaipur |
| DSK Supinfocom, Pune |
Top Cities Offering This Course
New Delhi
Mumbai
Bengaluru
Pune
Ahmedabad
Hyderabad
Gurugram
Jaipur
Career Opportunities
Private Sector Scope
Top Industries: Advertising & Marketing Agencies,
IT & Software Companies (UI/UX),
Media & Entertainment,
Publishing Houses,
E-commerce,
Retail & Fashion,
Product Design Studios,
Consulting Firms
| Job Role | Average Salary (INR/Month) | Experience Level |
|---|
| Graphic Designer | 40,000 - 70,000 | 2-5 Years |
| UI/UX Designer | 50,000 - 90,000 | 3-7 Years |
| Art Director | 70,000 - 1,20,000+ | 5+ Years |
| Brand Designer | 55,000 - 85,000 | 3-6 Years |
IndCareer Editorial Take
Ideal Candidate:
A creative individual with a strong visual sense, analytical thinking, good communication skills, and a fundamental understanding of design principles. Proficient in design software and passionate about visual problem-solving.
Critical Checks before Admission:
- Verify specific eligibility criteria for each institute, as they can vary significantly.
- Understand the exact weightage of entrance exams, portfolio, and interviews for admission.
- Research faculty profiles and alumni work to gauge the program's strengths.
- Check for accreditation and approvals by relevant bodies.
Common Misconceptions:
Misconception: Communication Design is just about making things look pretty. Reality: It involves strategic thinking, understanding user needs, problem-solving, and delivering messages effectively.
State-Specific Note:
While many top institutes are concentrated in Maharashtra, Delhi-NCR, and Gujarat, significant design education hubs are emerging in cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Private institutes across various states offer MDes programs, requiring careful evaluation of their curriculum and industry connections.
Content Accuracy: This content is
curated by experts and verified against current educational standards. While we strive for
accuracy, fees and admission criteria may vary by institute. Please verify with official
sources.
