World University of Design VC shares important updates on WUD admission, placement, collaborations

World University of Design, Vice Chancellor, Dr Sanjay Gupta in an exclusive interview with Shiksha.com shared some important details on WUD Admissions, upcoming courses, collaborations and more.

World University of Design, Vice Chancellor, Dr Sanjay Gupta in an exclusive interview with Shiksha.com shared some important details on WUD Admissions, upcoming courses, collaborations and more. With the ongoing admission at WUD, the VC has shared an update on unique courses offered at the World University of Design, along with its placement culture, scholarships, and more. Talking about WUD Placements, Gupta said, "The opportunities for our students in the job market consistently surpass the number of available graduates due to the industry's trust and preference for WUD's skilled individuals." Check out some informative excerpts from the interview in this article.

Q: WUD is currently conducting UG and PG admissions. Are there any specific changes in the admission process that candidates must take care of?

A: WUD has announced admissions to its UG and PG programs for 2024. WUD Admissions will be through its design aptitude test (WUDAT), scheduled for January 28, 2024 (Sunday). The last date to apply is January 26, 2024 (Friday). Additionally, WUD is a result-sharing partner with IIT Bombay for UCEED and CEED scores, which it will accept for admission to its B Des and M Des degree programs, respectively.

WUDAT 2024 will be conducted in a proctored online mode, and the participating students can take the exam in the comforts of their homes on their laptops. The two-hour online examination will consist of multiple-choice question-based sections on logical reasoning, verbal reasoning, GK, as well as a drawing-based section. Shortlisted students from WUDAT will be called for an interview-cum-portfolio round online. Based on the student’s performance in both rounds, provisional admission offers are made to a select few students.

Q: Does WUD train students for placements?

A: At WUD, our focus is on nurturing students' design skills and capabilities to prepare them for a rewarding career journey. We believe in fostering an environment where individuals can not only harness their talents but also continually grow and evolve in their respective fields. The professional placements of WUD students have consistently demonstrated the high demand and recognition from companies seeking WUD graduates. The opportunities for our students in the job market consistently surpass the number of available graduates due to the industry's trust and preference for WUD's skilled individuals. 

Q: What are some new and unique courses in WUD’s bucket?

A:  At WUD, we have strived to offer innovative and cutting-edge courses since our inception, courses that cater to the evolving landscape of design. Some of our unique and pioneering courses include:

a) Design Strategy and Management: This course, offered at both UG and PG levels, amalgamates design thinking with strategic management principles, preparing students to lead and innovate within various industries by understanding the intersection of design and business.

b) User Experience (UX) and Interaction Design: Focused on creating intuitive and user-centric digital experiences, this PG course equips students with skills in usability, interaction design, and prototyping for web and mobile applications, leading to instant and lucrative placements.

c) Animation & Game Design: Offered at both UG and PG levels, the innovative course explores the realms of animation and game development, learning storytelling techniques, character design, and interactive experiences.

d) Fashion Communication: Converging fashion, visual communication, and branding, this course trains students in crafting compelling visual narratives and marketing strategies within the fashion industry. An interesting offshoot is fashion styling, which has emerged by itself as a lucrative profession.

e) Film and Video Design: Exploring the intersection of design and storytelling, this course delves into the world of visual storytelling through set design, cinematography, and editing techniques for film and video production.

f) Digital Product Design: A new-age course, this course explores the intersection of design and aspects of computer science, focusing on creating user-centered digital products and encompassing aspects of design thinking, prototyping, and user interface (UI) design for diverse digital platforms. Another program that leads to instant and lucrative placements.

g) Transportation Design: Not just car design, this course explores the future of mobility by learning vehicle design concepts, sustainability in transportation, and innovative approaches to designing automobiles and transportation systems.

Q: AI is taking over the design industry aggressively. Is WUD planning to introduce AI learning with respect to design in its courses?

A: WUD prides itself on being an institution that runs with technology and not after it. WUD acknowledges the transformative impact of AI in the design industry and has introduced AI to all its students across streams since 2019 itself. Our curriculum development is continually evolving to include modules that explore the intersection of AI and design, focusing on areas such as AI-powered design tools and generative design for personalized user experiences. Our goal is to empower them to not only adapt to technological advancements but also to creatively utilize AI as a tool to enhance their design capabilities, fostering innovation and staying at the forefront of the evolving design industry.

Q: Please tell us about the courses offered at WUD that are popular among aspirants.

A:  A number of programs at WUD have garnered significant popularity and interest among aspiring designers. These courses stand out due to their comprehensive curriculum, hands-on learning experiences, industry-relevant projects, and the guidance of experienced faculty members. The practical exposure, creative freedom, and opportunities for real-world application make these programs immensely popular among aspiring designers seeking a solid foundation and a promising career. The most-sought-after programs include:

a) Fashion Design: Our Fashion Design program is a hot favorite among creative individuals passionate about the world of fashion. It covers a comprehensive curriculum focusing on creative design, trends, patternmaking, draping, construction, textile studies, and fashion marketing, providing students with a holistic understanding of the industry.

b) Graphic Communication Design: This program is tailored for those fascinated by visual storytelling, branding, and communication through various mediums. Students explore typography, illustration, digital media, and design thinking to craft compelling visual narratives.

c) Product Design: At WUD, the Product Design course emphasizes innovation and functionality. It equips students with skills in conceptualizing and developing products, considering aspects of usability, aesthetics, ergonomics, and market viability.

d) Interior Design: This course caters to individuals with a flair for transforming spaces. Students learn about spatial planning, materials, lighting, and environmental considerations to create functional, aesthetically pleasing interior spaces.

e) Architecture: Our architecture program delves into the art and science of designing buildings and structures. It covers architectural theory, design principles, sustainability, contextuality, and technological advancements shaping the field of architecture.

Q: WUD has recently launched the WUD Aptitude Test (WUDAT) for admission to various programs in the fields of art and design. Any tips and suggestions for aspirants planning to appear for the test?

A: WUDAT is the gateway to a successful career in art, architecture, or design. The test is designed to assess your creative and analytical abilities. By preparing diligently, practicing regularly, and showcasing your unique creative flair, you can maximize your chances of performing well in the test and securing admission to the desired programs at WUD. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you prepare effectively:

a) Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure and format of the WUDAT. Knowing the sections, types of questions, and time allocation for each segment can help you manage your time better during the test.

b) Practice and refine your skills: Focus on honing your creative and critical thinking skills. Engage in regular practice sessions involving drawing, sketching, problem-solving, and conceptualizing ideas. This will help you perform better in the creative sections of the test.

c) Review Basic Design Principles: Brush up on fundamental design principles such as color theory, composition, perspective, and form. A solid understanding of these principles will be beneficial during the test.

d) Stay Updated with Current Trends: Keep yourself updated with the latest trends and developments in the field of art and design. Awareness of contemporary design styles, technologies, and industry practices can add depth to your responses.

e) Prepare a Portfolio (required for the second stage): Ensure your portfolio showcases only your best work, demonstrating your skills, creativity, and unique design perspective.

f) Stay Calm and Focused: On the day of the test, remain calm and focused. Read instructions carefully, plan your approach for each section, and aim for a balance between accuracy and speed.

g) Seek Guidance and Resources: Utilize study materials, online resources, practice tests, and guidance from mentors or teachers to enhance your preparation.

Q: Are there any scholarships offered that can benefit candidates for higher education?

A: Our aim at WUD is to support deserving candidates in their pursuit of higher education in art and design, fostering a diverse and talented community at WUD. We offer various scholarship opportunities to assist candidates pursuing higher education in the field of art and design. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, encourage creativity, and support students from diverse backgrounds. Some of the scholarships available at WUD include:

a) Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded to students based on their academic performance and/or performance in the design aptitude test. WUD seeks out the best-performing students and offers full scholarships.

b) Diversity Scholarships: Aimed at promoting diversity and inclusivity, these scholarships are available to students from underrepresented backgrounds or specific demographic groups, such as wards of defense personnel and serving teachers, daughters’ only families, and single-parent children.

c) Talent-Based Scholarships: Offered to individuals with exceptional abilities in the performing arts.

d) Sports Achievements: Recognizing achievements in sports, these scholarships honor students' accomplishments beyond academics.

Q: Considering that, the whole education system is moving towards skill development. How can a candidate be industry-ready? What type of skills are companies looking for in an ideal candidate? How is WUD working towards instilling skills in their students?

A: WUD aims to produce graduates who are not only technically proficient but also possess the critical thinking, communication, adaptability, and ethical mindset necessary to excel in the ever-evolving design industry. These skills are crucial, and at WUD, we prioritize equipping our students with the skills that resonate with industry demands. Here's an insight into how we prepare our graduates to become industry-ready:

a) Relevant Technical Expertise: Companies value candidates who possess a strong foundation in technical skills specific to their field, such as software proficiency, design techniques, or industry-standard tools. At WUD, our curriculum is designed to impart hands-on training and expertise in these technical aspects, ensuring students are adept at utilizing the latest tools and technologies.

b) Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: The ability to think critically, analyze problems, and propose innovative solutions is highly sought-after by employers. WUD emphasizes fostering these skills through project-based learning and real-world challenges that encourage students to think creatively and solve complex design problems.

c) Effective Communication and Collaboration: Strong communication skills, both verbal and visual, are vital for success in any design-oriented career. WUD emphasizes communication and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, preparing students to effectively convey their ideas and work collaboratively in professional settings.

d) Adaptability and Continuous Learning: The design industry is dynamic, requiring professionals to adapt to new trends, technologies, and methodologies continuously. WUD promotes a culture of lifelong learning, encouraging students to embrace change, stay updated with industry advancements, and foster a growth mindset.

e) Industry Exposure and Internships: To bridge the gap between academia and industry, WUD facilitates internships and industry projects guided by professionals. These experiences provide students with practical exposure, allowing them to understand industry practices, network with professionals, and apply their skills in real-world scenarios.

f) Ethical and Sustainable Design Practices: Companies value candidates who understand the importance of ethical design practices and sustainability. WUD integrates ethical considerations and sustainability principles into its curriculum, encouraging students to create designs that are socially responsible and environmentally sustainable.

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