NIFT - Master of Design (M.Des.)

In the current era that we live in, fashion has a completely different meaning altogether. Earlier it was limited only to apparel, but now with the explosion of innovation in materials, technology, craftsmanship, culture, business, economics, promotion & consumption, fashion is multi disciplinary & multi dimensional.

NIFT is offering a ‘Master of Design’ degree which builds professionals to be competent & dynamic fashion professionals. Research is integral to this program & it empowers the individual to take up challenges, which inherently exist in contemporary complex systems.

Deeply embedded in research & development, this course prepares students in working for private & government agencies, in addition to giving them the option of making scholarly contributions as well. Additionally this course is design – guided, which teaches students to solve complex business issues, fashion & society.

This program caters to multidisciplinary & dynamic jobs that train students for competitive environments. Research is one of the tools that empower one to take up challenges, which may emerge in contemporary complex systems. Therefore, this course builds its specializations based on the foundation of design thinking and research practice.

Graduates of this program would be equipped to hold key positions in large design, fashion or corporate houses in the areas of design thinking & research, craft design, special needs, publication & graphics, media writing & design, lifestyle products.

Majors

It’s the core domain of the department. I.e. The purpose of the first semester major is to prepare a firm background, on which further specializations are built, in the area of marketing, merchandising, understanding of fabrics, research and statistical as well as information technology application in it.

The understanding of these basic disciplines is followed by learning’s in subsequent semesters with subjects like supply chain management, Omni channel retailing, consumer behavior and neuron marketing, luxury management, brand management etc.

Eligibility criterion

Any candidate who fulfils the prescribed educational qualification criteria for the concerned Master’s program can apply.

                                                Qualifying Age

No age limit

Educational Qualification for an M.Des (Master of Design)

· Undergraduate Degree in any discipline from any Institute / University recognized by law in India

Or

• Undergraduate Diploma of minimum 3 years duration from NIFT / NID

Schedule of exams

Once you’ve got the fundamental aspects of the exam in place, you must move onto understanding the following –

Master of Design - Programs Test Weightage

The Examination Process

Comprises a written test - Creative Ability Test (CAT) & General Ability Test (GAT) followed by Group Discussion & Personal Interview (GD/PI) for shortlisted candidates of the written examination.

The written test comprises -

Quantitative Ability

This sub-test evaluates the quantitative ability of students. It consists of questions on addition, multiplication,division,fractions,percentage,rate of interest,work & task, ratio & proportion plus distance.

Communication ability & English comprehension

The language ability of the candidate in day to day communication in English is evaluated. It includes synonyms, antonyms, words with corresponding meanings, singular, plural, one word substitutes, idioms and phrases, correct spellings & comprehension

Analytical and logical ability

Tests the candidates ability to infer and logic from given information, plus evaluate the ability to identify the problem & apply reasoning in solving the core issues. Creative and lateral thinking is useful here.

General knowledge and current affairs

Aiminged at test the candidate’s general knowledge and current affairs

Case study

Based on a situation of an industry environment, It helps in evaluating the candidate’s managerial ability. Short listed candidates from the written entrance examination are required to take the Situation Test/Group Discussion (GD) / Interview as applicable (except B.FTech).

Group Discussion

Shortlisted candidates for Masters Programs from the written entrance examination are required to undergo case study based Group discussions (GD) & Personal interview (PI).

GD lasts approximately 15 to 20 minutes of discussion on a case study assigned, wherein the candidates is assessed on –

1) Conceptual clarity

2) Knowledge of the topic assigned

3) Contribution made to the topic

4) Interpersonal skills

5) Ability to generate new ideas

6) Problem solving approach

7) Leadership qualities

8) Effective communication

And finally after you’ve got an overall understanding of the framework of the NIFT – MDes program, as an aspirant, you must aim for a good placement after you’ve completed the course.

Career opportunities

Students are provided with career pathways to create new avenues from different areas of interest, plus the unique aptitude & ability of each student is recognized and honed through specialized training and skill development during the course of two year.

Graduates take up jobs in large fashion, design or corporate houses in the areas of craft, textiles, special needs, publications, media, lifestyle products, graphics & user experience design depending on the area of specialization pursued by each student.

And finally a NIFT education will give you exposure to the following

·         Academic Transaction

·         Interdisciplinary

·         Specialization

·         The Industry Connect

·         General Electives

·         Integrated Assignments

·         Academic Mentoring

·         Craft Cluster Initiative

·         Continuous Evaluation

If you’ve read this article until now, you will be sufficiently aware of the nuances of the MDes exam & will be in a stronger position to arm yourself with a game plan to crack it!