The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced an exciting UGC Update in 2025, offering Non-Design Students a golden opportunity to explore creative fields through the Design Minor Framework. This initiative allows students from non-design backgrounds to earn Design Credits alongside their primary courses, enhancing their interdisciplinary skills and boosting employability.
What is the Design Minor Framework 2025?
The UGC 2025 Design Minor Framework is a structured program that enables students who are not enrolled in traditional design courses to take up design-related subjects. The framework focuses on practical, industry-relevant learning while keeping it flexible for students from diverse disciplines.
Key highlights include:
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Open to Non-Design Students across all higher education institutions
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Earn Design Credits that count towards overall degree requirements
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Flexible course options in fields like graphic design, UI/UX, product design, and more
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Exposure to creative problem-solving and innovation techniques
How Non-Design Students Can Benefit
For students who have never considered design as a career, this initiative opens doors to:
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Skill diversification: Learn design principles alongside your core subject
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Career flexibility: Gain a competitive edge in industries valuing creativity
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Portfolio development: Build a strong visual and conceptual portfolio
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Interdisciplinary projects: Collaborate with peers from different departments
Course Structure & Credit Details
Here’s a breakdown of the Design Minor Framework for Non-Design Students:
| Course Component | Credit Points | Duration | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Design | 2 | 6 weeks | Non-Design Students |
| Digital & Graphic Design Basics | 3 | 8 weeks | Non-Design Students |
| UI/UX Fundamentals | 3 | 8 weeks | Non-Design Students |
| Product & Industrial Design | 2 | 6 weeks | Non-Design Students |
| Capstone Design Project | 4 | 12 weeks | Non-Design Students |
Students can choose a combination of courses to accumulate Design Credits based on their interests and degree requirements.
Steps to Enroll
Getting started is simple for Non-Design Students:
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Check your university’s UGC-approved programs
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Select the Design Minor courses you are interested in
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Register online or through your academic department
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Complete coursework and projects to earn Design Credits
Why This UGC Update Matters
The UGC Update aligns with the global trend of interdisciplinary learning, ensuring students are not limited by their primary field of study. By offering design education to Non-Design Students, universities are fostering creativity, innovation, and adaptability, which are highly valued in the job market.
FAQs
1. Can Non-Design Students earn credits toward their main degree?
Yes, the Design Credits earned through the minor framework count toward the overall credit requirement of your degree.
2. Is prior design experience necessary?
No prior experience is required. Courses are tailored for Non-Design Students and start from the basics.
3. How long does it take to complete a Design Minor?
The duration depends on the number of courses chosen, but typically it can be completed in 1–2 semesters.
4. Are these Design Credits recognized nationally?
Yes, since this initiative is part of the official UGC Update, credits are recognized across UGC-affiliated universities in India.
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