‘Become more employable with this BVoc course’, says educator

Are you wondering whether to take up a degree programme or Bachelor of Vocation (BVoc) course? Don’t worry you are not alone; there are thousands of students who have this dilemma. The ‘better’ option depends on individual goals and preferences. If you have a clear career path in mind and prefer hands-on, specialised training, a BVoc programme might be the right fit. On the other hand, if you want a more comprehensive education and are open to exploring different fields, a traditional degree programme could be more suitable.

However, of late, BVoc courses in India have been gaining popularity as an alternative higher education option for students. This is because the skill-based approach prepares students to enter the workforce with practical knowledge and expertise, making them more employable. The programmes are tailored to specific professions or industries like healthcare, tourism, information technology, agriculture, and management.

According to Ar Rajni Kumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Design-Head, Interior Design, Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar, BVoc-Product Design Management and Entrepreneurship combines interior, fashion, sculpture, and Computer-aided Design (CAD).

The added advantage is that the government has been promoting skill development and vocational education through various initiatives like the Skill India Mission. As a result, there are increased opportunities, funding, and support for BVoc programmes including Product Design Management and Entrepreneurship.

“The course offers unique career opportunities due to its diverse skill set and interdisciplinary approach. Graduates gain a broad range of creative and problem-solving abilities, enabling them to approach design challenges from multiple perspectives. With an entrepreneurial mindset, they can turn innovative ideas into successful ventures, making them attractive candidates for start-up environments or launching their design studios,” Kumar said.

The advantage of pursuing this course is that the mixed course opens doors to various career paths like product design, interior design, fashion design, graphic design, and design management, while also allowing specialisation in niche areas, providing a competitive edge in the job market.

The curriculum of the Product Design Management and Entrepreneurship course at ACFA is designed to provide a comprehensive education in design, management, and entrepreneurship. It typically includes knowledge of design principles, art history along with specialised modules in interior design, fashion design, sculpture, and CAD

–Ar Rajni Kumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Design-Head, Interior Design, Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar

The curriculum

The curriculum of the Product Design Management and Entrepreneurship course at ACFA is designed to provide a comprehensive education in design, management, and entrepreneurship. It typically includes knowledge of design principles, art history, and crafts of India, along with specialised modules in interior design, fashion design, sculpture, and CAD.

“Students learn practical design skills through hands-on design studios and gain proficiency in design technology and software applications. The curriculum also covers product design management, emphasising market research, product development, branding, and marketing strategies. Students also receive training in entrepreneurship and business management, equipping them with the skills to start and manage their own design ventures,” Kumar shared.

Job opportunities for graduates

Graduates can pursue roles like product designers, creating innovative designs for various consumer goods. They can also explore careers as interior designers, working on residential, commercial, or hospitality projects. Another option is to become a fashion designer, developing clothing lines or specializing in specific areas like sustainable fashion.

“Graduates can venture into entrepreneurial endeavours, starting their own design studios, fashion labels, or product development companies. With their interdisciplinary skill set, they may also find opportunities in graphic design, design consulting, or design management roles in diverse industries,” Kumar said.

Why study at ACFA

Studying the course of product design management and entrepreneurship at ACFA offers several compelling reasons. The institute has a strong reputation for its Fine Arts education, ensuring that the students receive a high-quality curriculum and benefit from experienced faculty and infrastructure.

“ACFA likely provides a comprehensive programme that covers various disciplines, such as interior design, fashion, sculpture, and graphics. Additionally, the college’s industry connections and practical training opportunities can give the students valuable exposure and enhance their employability. With an entrepreneurial focus and a supportive alumni network, The institute also offers a conducive environment for nurturing creative and business skills, preparing its students for a successful career in the field of product design management and entrepreneurship,” Kumar stressed.

Internships and practical training for students

ACFA offers internships and practical training opportunities to students pursuing this course. These opportunities can provide valuable hands-on experience in the industry and allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

“The college has collaborations with design firms, creative agencies, or companies in related fields, offering internships to students. These internships and practical training opportunities play a crucial role in shaping students’ professional growth, building their portfolios, and establishing valuable industry connections. The college has a placement cell that invites companies and also guides students on available internships and practical training programmes,” Kumar said in conclusion.