The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced the UGC Design Minor Framework 2025, opening doors for students outside the design field to explore creative disciplines and earn college credits. This initiative encourages non-design students to develop skills in design thinking, innovation, and creativity without pursuing a full-fledged design degree.
With this framework, students from science, commerce, arts, and other streams can integrate design learning into their academic journey seamlessly.
Table of Contents
What Is the UGC Design Minor Framework 2025?
The UGC Design Minor Framework 2025 is a structured academic initiative that:
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Allows non-design students to earn college credits through short-term design courses.
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Promotes interdisciplinary learning, combining design skills with traditional subjects.
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Encourages hands-on, project-based learning to enhance problem-solving and creative thinking.
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Can be completed alongside regular degree programs, offering flexibility for students.
Who Can Enroll?
The framework is primarily designed for:
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Undergraduate students in non-design streams such as science, commerce, and arts.
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Students seeking to add creative skills to their career profile.
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Individuals looking to explore design without committing to a full-time program.
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Stream | Science, Commerce, Arts, or other non-design courses |
| Year of Study | Usually 2nd or 3rd-year undergraduates |
| Pre-requisites | No prior design experience required |
| Credit Value | Equivalent to 12–24 college credits depending on the course |
How Non-Design Students Can Earn College Credits
The UGC Design Minor Framework 2025 offers multiple ways for students to earn college credits:
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Short-Term Modules – 4–6 week intensive workshops on design fundamentals, UX/UI, or product design.
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Project-Based Learning – Hands-on projects evaluated for practical skills and innovation.
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Online & Hybrid Courses – Flexible options to learn alongside regular degree programs.
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Internships & Industry Collaboration – Gain real-world experience with design firms while earning credits.
| Mode of Learning | Credit Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Modules | 3–6 | Focused skill-building sessions |
| Project-Based | 6–12 | Portfolio development and evaluation |
| Online/Hybrid | 3–6 | Flexible schedules, remote learning |
| Industry Internship | 6–12 | Real-world exposure with mentorship |
Benefits of the Design Minor Framework for Non-Design Students
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Enhanced Career Prospects – Adding design skills makes students more competitive in fields like marketing, product management, and entrepreneurship.
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Creative Thinking – Encourages innovative problem-solving and lateral thinking.
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Flexibility – Students can earn college credits without overloading their main academic program.
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Portfolio Building – Projects and assignments contribute to a professional portfolio for future opportunities.
How to Apply
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Check with your college if it offers courses under the UGC Design Minor Framework 2025.
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Select the desired modules based on your interest and credit requirement.
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Complete the registration and enrollment process.
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Attend classes, complete projects, and earn college credits recognized by your institution.
FAQs
Q1. Can first-year students enroll in the Design Minor?
A: Generally, the framework targets 2nd or 3rd-year students, but some colleges may allow exceptional first-year students to participate.
Q2. Is prior design knowledge required?
A: No. The framework is specifically designed for non-design students with no prior experience.
Q3. Can the Design Minor credits be transferred to other institutions?
A: Credits are recognized by the college offering the program. Transfer policies may vary depending on the institution.
Q4. How many credits can a student earn through this minor?
A: Depending on the modules chosen, students can earn 12–24 college credits under the UGC Design Minor Framework 2025.
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