Course Overview
The Master of Design in Interior Design at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Dubai, is a transformative program that delves into the dynamic and evolving landscape of interior design. Designed to address the complexities of indoor built environments, the program equips students with the advanced skills and knowledge needed to redefine interior spaces with creativity, functionality, and purpose. This rigorous curriculum integrates design theory, practice, and research, fostering innovative problem-solving and a deep exploration of design possibilities. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary learning, the program prepares students to develop tailored solutions that promote well-being while addressing pressing societal and environmental challenges. Students have the opportunity to expand their expertise through a variety of specialized elective courses, including Adaptive Reuse and Recycle, Digital Design, Project Management, Design for Society, Culture & Heritage, Temporary Design, Lighting and Illumination, Furniture Design, Design for the Vulnerable, and Interior Landscape. Graduates emerge as design leaders, ready to navigate and influence the global interior design industry. By combining a forward-thinking approach with ethical and sustainable design principles, this program empowers students to create spaces that are not only visually compelling but also socially and environmentally impactful.
Course Details
Starting Date:
September 2026
Study Mode:
Full-Time (Evening)
Program Length:
2 years (4 semesters)
Application Deadline:
30 July 2026
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Key Facts
Elective Flexibility
The Master of Design in Interior Design program provides students with the opportunity to expand their expertise through a range of specialized elective courses. These electives allow students to explore domains such as Adaptive Reuse and Recycle, Digital Design, Project Management, Design for Society, Culture & Heritage, Temporary Design, Lighting and Illumination, Furniture Design, Design for the Vulnerable, and Interior Landscape, enhancing their knowledge and skills in areas critical to the evolving interior design industry.
Professional Engagement
The program fosters direct interaction with seasoned professionals through seminars, talks and forums and includes collaborative workshops with notable design organisations such as Tasmena and APID (Association of Professional Interior Designers). This helps students gain insights into real-world practices and build valuable industry connections.
Global Exposure and Practical Experience
Students participate in international study tours to explore regional designs and engage in architectural documentation projects, including the developmental landscape of the UAE. They also compete in international design competitions, enhancing their global perspective and practical skills.
Benefits
- Advanced Research Opportunities: Students have the opportunity to contribute to the interior design field through rigorous research, examining and consolidating previous findings, which prepares them for advanced studies and specialisations in diverse design typologies.
- Industry Placements: Graduates have the opportunity to work for prestigious companies such as Natuzzi, Aedas Interiors, IKEA, RAK Ceramics, Spencer Interiors, Emitech, Home Gallerys, Design Works Portfolio, Casa Nova Interiors and Salah Interiors. This provides valuable professional experience and industry exposure.
- Academic and Professional Development: Program graduates can pursue entry-level teaching positions and participate in various professional activities, including publishing and speaking at conferences. This allows them to disseminate knowledge and collaborate with professionals across related fields, enhancing their academic and career prospects.
Admission Requirements
The Master of Interior Design program requires specific qualifications for admission. Candidates must demonstrate academic capability and a keen interest in interior design through the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or a related field with a minimum GPA of 2.0.
- For non-design graduates: Completion of a Certificate Program in Interior Design with a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Additionally, applicants without formal qualifications may be considered if they have significant professional experience and expertise in design. Applicants can also qualify through a professional or academic portfolio showcasing design work.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of our Master of Interior Design course in Dubai are well-prepared for diverse and dynamic careers in the design industry. The program opens doors to various high-demand roles, such as:
- Interior Designers
- Product and Accessories Designers
- Sales & Marketing Executives
- Lighting Designers
- Retail Designers
- Exhibition and Space Planners
- 3D Visualisers
- Design Managers
- Business Development Managers
- Independent Design Consultants
Course Detail
It is designed to immerse students in the core principles of interior design through a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice. Students participate in design studios, engaging with real-life case studies that foster critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. Collaborative projects allow them to work alongside peers from diverse backgrounds, enhancing their teamwork abilities and broadening their global perspective.
| Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Design Studio -1 | Design Studio –II |
| Design History | Research Methodology |
| Elective-1 (Adaptive reuse and Recycle, Digital Design & Project Management)/ Elective-4 (Design Innovation Development & Marketing Strategies, Facilitating Design Thinking & Leadership & Design Entrepreneurship) | Elective-3 (Furniture Design, Design for the Vulnerable & Interior Landscape) / Elective-4 (Design Innovation Development & Marketing Strategies, Facilitating Design Thinking & Leadership & Design Entrepreneurship) |
| Elective -2 (Design for Society, Culture & Heritage, Temporary Design and Lighting & Illumination) | Open Elective I* |
*For information regarding specialisation or elective subjects, refer to the prospectus.
It focuses on deepening students' expertise through specialized research and advanced practical applications. This pivotal year enables students to undertake a comprehensive thesis project, allowing them to apply their acquired skills and drive innovation within the field. Additionally, a professional internship or a study project provides firsthand experience in global markets and exposure to cutting-edge design trends, effectively preparing them for successful careers in the international design arena.
| Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
|---|---|
| Design Studio -III | Thesis |
| Cultural Anthropology | Elective-3 (Furniture Design, Design for the Vulnerable & Interior Landscape) / Elective-4 (Design Innovation Development & Marketing Strategies, Facilitating Design Thinking & Leadership & Design Entrepreneurship) |
| Thesis Enquiry - Dissertation | Open Elective II* |
| Practical Training | |
| Study Report | |
| Elective-1 (Adaptive reuse and Recycle, Digital Design & Project Management)/ Elective-4 (Design Innovation Development & Marketing Strategies, Facilitating Design Thinking & Leadership & Design Entrepreneurship) | |
| Elective -2 (Design for Society, Culture & Heritage, Temporary Design and Lighting & Illumination) |
Fees
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