Exploring the Design and Innovation Academy: Courses, Fees, and Future Prospects

In a world increasingly driven by creativity, user experience, and technological advancement, design education has become a catalyst for innovation and change. At the forefront of this movement in India stands the Design and Innovation Academy (DIA), more specifically known as IMS Design and Innovation Academy Noida. Founded with the vision to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry expectations, the institute has become one of the most respected design schools in India. This article delves deep into the Design and Innovation Academy’s academic offerings, course structure, fee details, placement performance, and the holistic environment it provides to aspiring designers.

About the Design and Innovation Academy

A Legacy of Creative Education

Established in 2005 by the Unison Group, IMS DIA Noida emerged as a revolutionary platform for students eager to explore the realms of design, fashion, interior, product, and communication. Affiliated with Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU), Meerut, the academy positions itself uniquely by offering not just academic training but also industry exposure through its in-house couture label and production house.

The academy’s mission is to nurture global design leaders capable of disrupting conventional design thinking. With its core philosophy rooted in creativity, innovation, and industry integration, DIA has played a vital role in shaping the future of design education in India.

IMS Design and Innovation Academy Noida: Campus & Facilities

Situated in Sector 62, Noida, IMS DIA boasts an urban campus equipped with state-of-the-art labs, digital studios, fashion workshops, a resourceful library, and prototyping facilities. The academy maintains a learning environment that encourages experimentation, collaboration, and creative risk-taking.

Additional amenities include:

• Wi-Fi-enabled smart classrooms

• Fabrication labs for fashion and product design

• A media lab for animation and communication design

• Tie-ups with global design schools for exchange programs

Design and Innovation Academy Courses

IMS DIA offers a range of Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Certificate programs that align with global industry standards. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, conceptual exploration, and hands-on technical skill development.

Undergraduate Courses

1. Bachelor of Design (B.Des) – 4 Years
Offered Specializations:

• Fashion Design

• Interior Design

• Communication Design

• Product Design (Luxury)

The B.Des program integrates design fundamentals, material exploration, software proficiency, and client-based projects to prepare students for real-world design challenges.

2. B.Sc in Jewellery Design – 3 Years
This program focuses on gemology, CAD design, craftsmanship, and luxury branding tailored for the luxury accessory segment.

Postgraduate and Diploma Courses

1. PG Diploma in Fashion, Interior & Jewellery Design – 2 Years
Aimed at graduates or professionals seeking domain transition or specialization. These programs blend theoretical grounding with market-ready portfolios.

Short-Term Certification & Online Courses

IMS DIA also offers certificate and diploma courses (3 to 9 months) in the following areas:

• Interior Styling

• UI/UX Design

• Fashion Styling

• Digital Marketing

• Product & Accessory Design

The online modules are crafted for working professionals and remote learners, with expert-led sessions and assignments.

Admission Process

Admission to the Design and Innovation Academy follows a merit + aptitude-based evaluation:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Application Form (Fee: ₹1,200)

2. Design Entrance Test (DET) – Tests creative aptitude

3. GAT & CAT (General + Creative Aptitude Tests)

4. Portfolio Review & Personal Interview

Important Dates:

• Registration deadline: January 18, 2025

• DET Exam: January 21, 2025

Design and Innovation Academy Fees Structure

Understanding the fee structure is essential for planning your design education journey. IMS DIA offers transparency and also scholarships to deserving candidates.

Scholarships

• PG Diploma: ₹30,000 merit-based

• 9-month certificate: ₹12,500–₹15,000

• 6-month certificate: ₹8,500

• Scholarship tests held annually in May

Placement and Career Opportunities

IMS DIA enjoys an impressive 98% placement rate, with students getting placed in both domestic and international firms. The academy has tie-ups with leading fashion, media, luxury, and design brands.

Top Recruiters:

• Tommy Jeans

• Diesel

• Adobe

• ITC

• CNN

• Hacker

• Pantaloon Retail

Salary Packages:

• Highest (Domestic): ₹12–15 LPA

• International Offers: Up to ₹30 LPA

• Average Salary: ₹7–10 LPA

DIA’s design incubation program and industry-based internships give students ample real-world exposure before graduation.

Global Outreach and Industry Connect

One of the academy’s key differentiators is its global exposure. Through academic collaborations with international institutions, DIA facilitates student exchange, international design competitions, and joint research projects.

Industry Events & Showcases:

• Annual Fashion Weeks

• Interior Design Conclaves

• Product Launch Exhibitions

• Alumni Mentor Series

These events foster meaningful connections between students and global design practitioners.

What Makes IMS DIA Unique?

1. Holistic Curriculum integrating creativity, technology, and business acumen

2. Real-world Simulation Labs and couture house for experiential learning

3. International Exchange Programs with European and American design schools

4. Creative Incubation and start-up support post-graduation

5. Diverse Course Options for undergraduate, postgraduate, and working professionals

Testimonials

“IMS DIA didn’t just teach me design—it taught me how to think like a designer. My portfolio helped me land a position with a global fashion label even before graduation.”
— Aanya Singh, B.Des Fashion Design (Batch of 2022)

“The freedom to explore, fail, and try again within a guided mentorship framework is what I valued most.”
— Rahul Sharma, PG Diploma in Interior Design

Future Prospects for DIA Students

With India’s design sector estimated to grow at over 23% CAGR through 2030, skilled designers are in high demand. DIA students graduate with not just a degree, but a career-ready portfolio, entrepreneurial mindset, and global industry network.

Whether students aim to start their own labels, work with top brands, or pursue further international education, IMS DIA provides a solid foundation.

Final Thoughts

In the ever-expanding world of design, institutions like the Design and Innovation Academy serve as crucial bridges between potential and performance. By offering forward-thinking pedagogy, international exposure, and strong industry links, IMS DIA Noida has firmly established itself as a leader in India’s design education landscape.

Whether you’re a high-school graduate exploring design or a professional seeking to upskill—DIA’s dynamic offerings are worth considering.

This article is published by Mating Press, your source for educational and career-focused content.