Mahindra École Centrale, [MEC] Hyderabad

M.Des. in Design Innovation

The Master of Design (M.Des.) in Design Innovation at Mahindra University is a two-year postgraduate programme focused on creativity, human-centered design, innovation, and interdisciplinary problem-solving. The programme prepares students to design meaningful products, services, and experiences by combining design thinking, technology, business, and social impact.

Course Overview

Degree Awarded: Master of Design (M.Des.)
Specialization: Design Innovation
Duration: 2 Years
Mode: Full-Time
Offered By: Mahindra University
Location: Hyderabad, Telangana

Program Objectives

The M.Des. in Design Innovation aims to:

• Develop creative and strategic design thinking skills

• Train students in human-centered and user experience design

• Encourage innovation across products, services, and systems

• Integrate design with technology, business, and sustainability

• Prepare graduates for professional design practice, entrepreneurship, and research

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum blends theory, creativity, and hands-on design practice.

Core Subjects Include:

• Design Thinking and Innovation Methods

• Human-Centered Design

• Research Methods in Design

• Visual Communication and Storytelling

• Systems and Service Design

• Design Ethics and Sustainability

Advanced and Emerging Areas:

• User Experience (UX) and Interaction Design

• Product and Industrial Design

• Service and Strategic Design

• Digital Design and Emerging Technologies

• Social Innovation and Design for Impact

• Design Entrepreneurship

Practical Learning:

• Studio-based design projects

• Live industry and community-based projects

• Interdisciplinary team collaborations

• Design workshops and critiques

• Final-year thesis or major design project

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must have:

• A bachelor’s degree in Design, Engineering, Architecture, Fine Arts, or related disciplines

• Graduates from other disciplines with strong creative aptitude may also apply

• Minimum 50–60 percent aggregate marks (as prescribed by the university)

• Portfolio submission may be required

Admission Process

Admissions are based on creative ability and academic merit.

Selection Process:

• Online application to Mahindra University

• Portfolio review (where applicable)

• Design aptitude test and/or personal interview

• Final admission offer issued by Mahindra University

Fees Structure

• Fees are prescribed by Mahindra University and may vary by academic year

• Hostel and other charges are additional

• Scholarships and financial assistance are available for eligible students

Career Opportunities

Graduates of M.Des. in Design Innovation can pursue careers as:

• Design Innovator

• UX / UI Designer

• Product or Industrial Designer

• Service Designer

• Design Strategist

• Innovation Consultant

• Entrepreneur or Design Researcher

Placements and Recruiters

Students benefit from Mahindra University’s industry and innovation ecosystem.

Placement Highlights:

• Strong emphasis on portfolio development

• Industry-linked design projects and internships

Potential Recruiters:

• Design and innovation studios

• Technology and product companies

• Consulting firms

• Startups and social enterprises

• Corporate innovation and R&D teams

Key Advantages of Studying Design Innovation at Mahindra University

• Interdisciplinary and innovation-driven curriculum

• Strong focus on human-centered and sustainable design

• Studio-based learning with real-world projects

• Experienced faculty with industry and research exposure

• Excellent foundation for design careers and higher studies