Can an Architecture Student Pursue an MDES? Does the Curriculum Involve Coding?

Yes, an architecture student can pursue a Master of Design (MDES) degree. The duration for obtaining a bachelor's degree is typically three to four years, depending on the college, and it requires a minimum score of 60%. Additionally, you may need to qualify for the Common Entrance Exam for Design (CEED) or a university-specific entrance exam before applying. Before you apply, it's important to check the eligibility criteria.

Curriculum Overview

MDES degrees are offered in various streams, including Animation Design, Graphic Design, Interior Design, and many others. Typically, none of these degrees necessarily involve coding. However, there might be cases where a background in coding can enhance your skills. For example, in User Interface/Experience (UI/UX) design, coding knowledge can help you communicate your thoughts more effectively with your team in a professional manner. This is particularly true if you are working on advanced design projects involving interactive elements.

Recruitment and Professional Expectations

When it comes to recruitment, genuine recruiters generally do not expect design applicants to have a thorough knowledge of coding. The focus of design is more on solving user-related problems in products, web services, and researching market trends to attract a better user base. Designers are expected to be experts in their field, focusing on creating visually appealing and user-friendly solutions.

Advisory and Resources

If you need more guidance or counseling on design courses, consider joining ImaginXP’s free webinar sessions. ImaginXP is known for providing valuable insights and guidance for design enthusiasts, offering practical advice on navigating the admissions process and preparing for your design career.

Specific Considerations for Architecture Students

For architecture students specifically, many MDES programs allow students with an architectural background. Many MDES professors also have an architecture background. Architects can often focus on product design or mobility design. However, there are no strict restrictions. The key is to have a strong portfolio that showcases your capabilities in the chosen design stream.

Interaction Design and Coding Knowledge

For those interested in Interaction Design (IxD), some knowledge of coding can be beneficial. It can improve your skills and make you more competitive in the job market. However, it is not a mandatory requirement. The curriculum typically focuses on design principles, usability, and user-centered design processes. A good understanding of these areas is more critical than deep coding knowledge.

For more detailed information and support, you can refer to online resources such as ImaginXP’s free webinar sessions. These sessions are designed to provide comprehensive guidance on the various aspects of design education, including the application process, portfolio development, and career prospects.

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We hope this information helps you in making an informed decision about pursuing an MDES degree. If you have any further questions or need more detailed information, feel free to reach out to our team at ImaginXP.