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Program Overview

A PhD in Design is an advanced academic program aimed at individuals seeking to contribute original knowledge to the field of design. It prepares scholars for research, teaching, and leadership roles in academia, industry, and creative practice.

By pursuing a PhD in Design at Vidya University, you'll embark on a transformative journey that will equip you with a comprehensive skill set. You'll not only delve deep into the theoretical of design, but also gain practical experience in applying design principles to real-world challenges. This rigorous program will hone your critical thinking skills, enabling you to analyze complex problems and develop innovative solutions. You'll also cultivate strong problem-solving abilities, allowing you to navigate challenges with creativity and efficiency.

Duration
3 Years

Applications Open for 2025

Programme Name

Ph.D in Design

Career Opportunities

Academic Positions

University Professor: Teach and conduct research at prestigious institutions, shaping the future of design education.

Research Fellow: Pursue independent research and contribute to the advancement of design knowledge.

Design Industry

Design Consultant: Provide strategic design solutions to clients across various industries.

UX/UI Designer: Create user-centered digital experiences.

Industrial Designer: Design innovative products for mass production.

Interaction Designer: Design interactive systems and experiences.

Service Designer: Design services and systems that improve people's lives.

Research Institutions

Research Scientist: Conduct research in design-related fields.

Policy Analyst: Develop design-informed policies and strategies.

Innovation Consultant: Drive innovation and creativity within organizations.

Scholarship

*Terms and Conditions Apply

  • Scholarships are granted based on the order of application and are applied as fee adjustments.
  • To retain the scholarship throughout the duration of the program, students must maintain a minimum academic performance of 8 CGPA in all semesters, ensure at least 80% attendance, and avoid any disciplinary issues during their course of study."

Eligibility

To be eligible for applying for admission to Ph.D. Degree, the applicant, should have:

Candidates for admission to the Ph.D. program shall have a Master's degree or a professional degree declared equivalent to the Master's degree by the corresponding statutory regulatory body, with at least 60 % marks or with an Aggregate CGPA of 6.5 on a scale of 10 (or an equivalent grade in a point scale wherever grading system is followed). 4 of 12

Or

  • Bachelor's degree with Honours with a rigorous research project in the major or relevant area of study
  • 75% Marks or 8.0 CGPA on a 10-point scale in the relevant program
  • The duration of the Undergraduate program shall be a minimum of four years or eight semesters or equivalent.

Selection

Vidya Research Aptitude Test (VRAT) - a written test conducted by the University.

Or

Eligibility as per UGC
Qualified For Eligible for JRF Eligible for Assistant Professor Eligible for PhD Admission
JRF Assistant Professor Yes Yes Yes
Assistant Professor PhD Admission No Yes Yes
PhD Admission No No Yes

Program Highlights

  • Research Focus
    • Theoretical Foundations: Developing an understanding of design theory, including philosophy, history, and cultural aspects of design.
    • Design Methods & Methodologies: Learning both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies specific to design, such as ethnography, case studies, participatory design, and prototyping.
  • Interdisciplinary Approach
    • Collaborative Research: Often involves collaboration with other fields such as engineering, social sciences, computer science, business, and the arts.
    • Contextual Applications: Applying design thinking and methodologies in real-world scenarios across industries like healthcare, education, urban planning, and technology.
  • Practical Design Application
    • Prototyping & Experimentation: Hands-on design work and iterative development of prototypes, sometimes involving fabrication and digital tools (e.g., 3D printing, CAD software).
    • Design Labs: Collaborative workshops and labs for testing out design ideas in real-world contexts.
  • Dissertation/Thesis
    • Research Project: The culmination of the Ph.D. journey is the dissertation or thesis, which should present original research that contributes significantly to the field of design.
    • Defense & Presentation: Ph.D. candidates defend their work in front of a panel of experts, often with public presentations and discussions.

Frequently Asked Questions – Ph.D in Design

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Design, Architecture, Fine Arts, or a related field from a recognized university. A minimum percentage or CGPA, as specified by the university, is required. Candidates may also need to clear an entrance exam and interview. A well-defined research proposal is often a key part of the application process. Specific eligibility details are available on the university’s website.

A PhD in Design opens pathways to academic and research roles in universities and design institutions. Graduates can also pursue careers in design consulting, creative direction, and innovation strategy. Opportunities exist in industries like product design, UX/UI, fashion, and visual communication. Many graduates contribute to policy-making in design education and innovation. Entrepreneurship in design-driven businesses is another viable option.

The program allows students to explore diverse research areas, including sustainable design, user experience (UX) design, design for social impact, and design education. Other areas include material innovation, visual communication, product design, and design thinking methodologies. Students can tailor their research to align with emerging trends and personal interests. The program encourages interdisciplinary research and innovative problem-solving.

The university offers extensive support, including access to state-of-the-art design labs, libraries, and digital resources. Faculty mentorship is provided throughout the research journey, from proposal development to dissertation completion. Funding opportunities for research projects and participation in national and international conferences are available. Collaborative opportunities with industry partners and interdisciplinary teams enhance the research experience.

The program typically takes 3-5 years to complete, depending on the nature of the research and the student’s progress. The duration includes coursework in the initial phase, followed by independent research leading to the dissertation. Part-time options may also be available for working professionals, extending the timeline. Regular reviews and progress evaluations help ensure timely completion of the degree.

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