An Interview with Dr. Sanjay Gupta (Vice Chancellor, WUD Sonipat)

Careers360: How was the idea of the World University of Design envisaged? What is the mission and the vision?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: The World University of Design was born out of a vision to redefine education in the creative domain, aligning with India’s growing need for innovation, design thinking, and leadership in this sector. As industries in India evolved in response to global challenges, there was a felt need in India’s higher education system for an institution solely dedicated to nurturing the confluence of creativity, technology, and interdisciplinary collaborations. That was the time when WUD was conceptualised in 2016. We recognized that the future of design was not just in mastering aesthetic or technical skills but in fostering a mindset that blends creativity with problem-solving, human-centred approaches, and an understanding of sustainable practices.

The university’s mission has always been to produce graduates who are not only proficient designers but also future-ready innovators who can lead industries through meaningful contributions across various sectors. With the creative economy now emerging as a key a driver of global growth, World University of Design is positioned to serve as a hub of ideas, practices, and research; connecting traditional design disciplines with modern digital technologies,community engagement, and industry demands. Our vision is to create leaders who will shape the future by making design a strategic advantage, both for businesses and societies at large.

WUD’s guiding philosophy is rooted in its mission to cultivate passionate, ethically driven, and globally aware leaders who embrace creativity, entrepreneurship, and collaboration. By integrating design, art, and architecture education within an interdisciplinary framework, WUD serves as a training ground for individual excellence, while at the same time as a platform for advancing research and contributing to the social and economic development of the creative industries.

Careers360: The university offers various courses focused on design. In your opinion, how can class 12 students choose the best suitable course?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: Choosing the right design course after Class 12 is a crucial decision for students, as it lays the foundation for their future career. In a field as expansive and evolving as design, the key is for students to discover where their passions align with their potential. The first step is to engage in self-reflection—students need to understand their personal interests, strengths, and natural inclinations. Design is a deeply personal and creative field, so a student’s love for drawing, curiosity about technology, passion for fashion, or fascination with user experiences can be a strong indicator of the direction they should pursue. For example, students who are visually inclined and love crafting stories might gravitate toward Animation, Graphic Design, or Communication Design, whereas those with an analytical mindset and a focus on solving tangible problems might find a home in disciplines like Product Design or Industrial Design.

Beyond personal interests, it’s equally important for students to explore the vast array of specialisations within design to see what excites them. The world of design spans from architecture to UX/UI, from fashion to game design, and from automotive to graphics & communication design. Understanding the nuances of each specialisation, the type of work it entails, and the industries it serves can be eye-opening. This exploration is critical because design is not a monolithic field—different disciplines require distinct skill sets and have varying professional landscapes. Some students might be drawn to the artistic freedom of Fashion Design, while others could be captivated by the strategic, user-centred focus of Interaction Design.

Students also need to think about where they see themselves in the future, and how their Design education can help them get there. Design has moved beyond just aesthetics; it has become a critical aspect of business strategy, technology development, and user experience.Sectors like digital media, gaming, and even healthcare are increasingly seeking design talent. Understanding how a particular discipline will connect to these growing industries can help students make more future-proof decisions.

Attending workshops, internships, and career counselling sessions can offer practical insights and help students experience the creative process first-hand. Exposure to real-world projects and the opportunity to work with professionals is invaluable in making informed decisions. Universities like WUD also provide these opportunities to help students better understand the nuances of various design disciplines before committing to a particular path. This combination of introspection, exploration, and hands-on experience will guide students to the course that is not only a perfect fit for their talents but also aligned with their career aspirations.

Careers360: Kindly give insights on the admission and selection process.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: The admission and selection process at the World University of Design is structured to identify students who exhibit academic promise while demonstrating a strong creative aptitude and passion for design. Rather than solely relying on academic scores, the process is designed to ensure that each candidate’s unique creative perspective and problem-solving abilities are considered. It begins with the submission of the admission form, where eligibility is assessed based on the applicant’s academic background and, in cases like the B.Arch programme, entrance exam scores such as NATA or JEE.

The next critical step is the Design Aptitude Test (DAT), or one of its equivalents—Art Aptitude Test (AAT) or General Aptitude Test (GAT)—depending on the course the student is applying for. These tests are integral because they assess more than just skills & knowledge; they evaluate a student’s ability to think creatively, their design sensibilities, and their approach to solving complex challenges. Design, as a discipline, requires a balance of imagination and analytical thinking, and the aptitude tests are tailored to capture this balance in each candidate.

Once the aptitude test is completed, the shortlisted candidates undergo a campus interview. This phase is crucial to assess a candidate's passion, curiosity, and the ability to constantly innovate. The interview is an opportunity for the admissions team to delve deeper into the student’s motivations, long-term goals, and readiness to engage with the challenges and opportunities of design education. It helps the selection committee understand the individual’s mindset and potential to grow as a creative leader.

WUD Sonipat admission is based on a holistic evaluation that combines performance in the aptitude tests, the interview, and academic history. Candidates who successfully meet these criteria are issued an offer letter.

Careers360: When we talk of creative aptitude, what do we talk about? Kindly elaborate.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: When we talk about creative aptitude, we’re essentially discussing a person’s ability to think beyond what’s already known, to generate ideas that are both imaginative and practical. In design education, creative aptitude is the driving force that enables students to transform abstract concepts into tangible, meaningful outcomes. It’s what allows a designer to see possibilities where others see limitations, to craft solutions that are both functional and aesthetically engaging.

To make it more relatable, consider how a fashion designer approaches the challenge of creating a collection. They don’t just think about what’s popular at the moment or stick to conventional designs. Instead, they think of new ways to play with fabric, color, and form to create something that feels fresh and bold, yet wearable. This balance of imagination and practicality is what creative aptitude enables—seeing beyond the obvious to create something unique. Similarly, an architect tasked with designing a sustainable home must not only focus on the structure’s technical aspects but also on how the design interacts with the environment, how natural light flows through the space, and how to make the building both functional and inspiring. This involves problem-solving that goes beyond just mathematics and engineering; it’s about creative solutions that make the design both efficient and beautiful.

Creative aptitude also includes the ability to adapt and stay flexible. Imagine a graphic designer working on a campaign who has to shift their approach midway due to a change in client preferences. A creative mind doesn’t see this as a setback but as an opportunity to innovate and improve the concept.

Creative aptitude therefore about curiosity, exploration, and critical thinking—constantly questioning, refining, and evolving ideas to create something that resonates both aesthetically and functionally with the world around it. This kind of thinking isn’t limited to design; it’s a mindset that can be applied to any field, helping people to innovate, solve problems, and bring about change in exciting and unexpected ways.

Careers360: What makes World University of Design unique in comparison with other design schools in the country?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: The World University of Design stands apart from other design schools in India by its visionary approach, forward-thinking curriculum, and pioneering role in redefining design education in the country. Being the first dedicated Design University in India, WUD didn’t just create an academic institution; it set off a movement. It ignited the idea that design is not just a niche discipline but a driving force for innovation across industries. Since its inception, WUD has inspired more than 300 universities and thousands of colleges to introduce design programmes, a testament to its role as a trailblazer in the field.

One of the key aspects that make WUD unique is its “campus without walls” philosophy, which breaks down the silos traditionally found in higher education. This approach encourages students from various creative disciplines to work together, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration that mirrors the interconnected nature of the real world. This immersive, collaborative environment is essential for the development of creative professionals who can think holistically, combining elements of art, design, technology, and business in their problem-solving processes.

Another defining feature is WUD’s commitment to preparing students for the future. The curriculum is specifically designed to anticipate industry trends and technological advancements. For instance, WUD was one of the first institutions in India to offer specialised programmes in Animation & Game Design, and UI/UX, long before these areas became widely recognized as critical to the future of the creative industries. Similarly, WUD integrated emerging technologies like AI, 3D printing, and AR/VR into its programmes long back to ensure that its students are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to lead in an ever-evolving global market.

Experiential learning is at the core of WUD’s pedagogy, with an emphasis on bridging the gap between theory and practice. Students are given opportunities to engage with real-world challenges through interactive studios, hands-on projects, and industry collaborations. This approach is reflected in WUD’s nearly perfect job placement rates, as students graduate with not just theoretical knowledge, but practical skills that make them immediately valuable to Employers.

Beyond placements, WUD encourages students to think like innovators and entrepreneurs. Programmes like Kritishala empower students to develop and patent their own projects, providing a platform for them to transform ideas into tangible, marketable products. This entrepreneurial spirit, combined with WUD’s strong industry connections, helps students not only find jobs but also create opportunities for themselves, whether by launching startups or pursuing creative ventures.

What also sets WUD apart is its advocacy for design as a key driver of India’s economic growth. The university has not only influenced academic policies but also government strategies, promoting design as a crucial sector for India’s future. This recognition, including support from national leaders, positions WUD as more than just an educational institution; it is a thought leader in shaping the role of design in the country’s development. Ultimately, what makes the World University of Design unique is its holistic vision of what design education should be—an engine for innovation, a hub for collaboration, and a platform for shaping the future of both individuals and industries.

Careers360: Since design is more practical and hands-on, what kind of infrastructure is suitable? Please give details of the infrastructure that students can expect at the World University of Design?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: At the World University of Design (WUD), the infrastructure is specifically crafted to support a hands-on, practical approach to learning, ensuring that students have access to the tools and spaces necessary for their creative and professional development. WUD facilities are designed to reflect the latest advancements in design education, catering to a diverse range of disciplines. Students can expect open-access labs, such as the Animation and AR/VR Lab, which is equipped with high-performance workstations, motion capture systems, and VR headsets. This lab is ideal for students in fields like animation, game design, and virtual environments, allowing them to experiment with immersive technologies and interactive storytelling. Similarly, the Rapid Prototyping Lab for product and industrial design students is equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines, enabling them to quickly create prototypes and test their concepts using various materials.

WUD also offers specialised workshops tailored to specific disciplines, such as the Pattern Making & Construction Studios for fashion design students, where they can explore garment creation techniques. The Ceramics Studio provides the tools for pottery techniques, including wheel throwing and glazing, while the Print-Making Studio serves visual arts students. The Automotive Design Studio features both traditional clay-modelling tools and virtual reality sketching capabilities, and the Weaving Studio offers facilities for textile arts,allowing fashion and textile design students to engage in fabric manipulation, dyeing, and weaving.

For students interested in film, digital media, and communication design, the Sound and Film Studios are equipped with professional-grade recording equipment and post-production suites, providing the opportunity to explore sound design, editing, and full-scale film production. WUD also emphasises flexible learning spaces, such as its Transformative Design Studios, which are modular and can be reconfigured for various activities like group discussions, presentations, or exhibitions. This adaptability reflects real-world creative workplaces. All classrooms are fitted with advanced AV technology, including tiered seating and mobile tech setups, ensuring immersive and interactive learning.

The university also boasts collaborative workspaces, furnished with movable furniture, power outlets, and Wi-Fi, perfect for brainstorming, group discussions, or informal study. WUD further promotes informal learning through its Outdoor Learning Areas, featuring open-air stages for performances and workshops, as well as landscaped green spaces that provide a serene environment for relaxation, brainstorming, or working on projects.

Technology integration is central to WUD’s approach, with a Learning Management System (LMS) that offers easy access to course materials, digital resources, and collaborative tools, enabling students to engage with their coursework from anywhere. In summary, the infrastructure at WUD goes beyond high-tech labs and studios; it creates a comprehensive environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, and practical learning, preparing students for success in the competitive world of design.

Careers360: Design exposure is mandatory for students to succeed. Please give a few examples at how this is achieved at the University?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: Exposure to design is woven into every layer of the student experience at WUD, propelling them towards a deep, real-world understanding of the discipline. From the outset, students are immersed in a learning environment that thrives on practical engagement, not just theoretical knowledge. Our ethos of “learning by doing” means that students are constantly interacting with design challenges that mirror the complexities of the professional world. Whether through collaborative studios or immersive projects, students at WUD are actively crafting, prototyping, and refining their ideas in real time, using state-of-the-art technologies like 3D printers, VR tools, and AI-driven design software. This hands-on exposure helps students understand not only the technicalities of their craft but also the nuanced interplay between form, function, and user experience.

Another unique facet of WUD’s approach is its interdisciplinary structure, which ensures that students are not confined to the silos of their specific programmes. They are often brought together in large-scale collaborative projects that draw upon skills from fashion, architecture, visual arts, and product design. This mirrors the way design operates in the real world, where cross-disciplinary teamwork drives innovation. Such projects are designed to be open-ended, fostering a culture of exploration and creative risk-taking that pushes students to break free from conventional solutions.

Beyond the classroom, WUD strategically connects students with the global design industry through internships and mentorships with leading professionals and studios. These experiences are not merely observational; students work on live projects and confront the challenges faced by designers in the industry, gaining critical exposure to real-world dynamics. Further, through international partnerships and study exchanges, WUD offers students the chance to experience global design ecosystems firsthand, enriching their understanding of diverse cultural influences and design philosophies. WUD is also part of the ERASMUS international mobility network. By interacting with design students from around the world, students develop a globally aware design sensibility that prepares them for the ever-evolving demands of the design industry.

At WUD, students don’t just learn design—they live it. From the vibrant, studio-centred culture of experimentation to the cutting-edge tools they use, every moment is an opportunity for creative engagement and innovation.

Careers360: How does the University nurture a culture of academic excellence and student-centred learning?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: The nurturing of academic excellence and student-centred learning is embedded deeply in our ethos, creating an environment where each student is empowered to explore, experiment, and grow. The university employs a holistic approach to learning that emphasises flexibility and adaptability, allowing students to take ownership of their educational paths. Instead of being passive recipients of knowledge, students at WUD are active participants in their learning journey, shaping their academic experiences through customised programmes that cater to their unique strengths and aspirations. Faculty members act as mentors, guiding students not just academically but also in personal and professional development, ensuring that every individual feels supported and challenged to reach their highest potential.

At WUD, the academic culture thrives on the principles of innovation and engagement. Rather than relying solely on traditional teaching methods, the university integrates dynamic, hands-on learning experiences where students are immersed in real-world challenges from day one. Whether through project-based learning, collaborative studios, or immersive simulations, the curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and creative problem-solving, preparing students for the complexities of professional design environments. The emphasis on interdisciplinary learning encourages students to look beyond their specific fields of study and collaborate with peers from different disciplines, fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity and innovation.

Continuous feedback is a cornerstone of the learning experience at WUD. The university cultivates an open and constructive dialogue between students and faculty, where progress is regularly assessed through peer reviews, critiques, and faculty consultations. This ensures that students not only understand their strengths but are also given the tools and guidance to overcome challenges, refining their work through a process of iteration and improvement. Such a feedback-rich environment also instils resilience and adaptability, qualities essential for success in the fast-evolving design landscape.

Academic excellence at WUD is further enriched by a vibrant, student-centric campus culture that extends beyond the classroom. The university actively promotes the well-being and holistic development of its students, recognizing that personal growth is integral to academic success. Through programmes that support mental health, physical fitness, and emotional well- being, WUD creates a balanced environment where students can thrive. Cultural events, student clubs, and extracurricular activities play a pivotal role in fostering creativity, leadership, and community engagement, ensuring that learning is both meaningful and joyful.

The university’s strong industry connections ensure that students are not only academically prepared but also career-ready. By engaging with industry leaders through internships, guest lectures, and real-world projects, students are constantly exposed to current trends and practices, making them highly employable upon graduation. WUD’s commitment to fostering research and innovation is equally strong, encouraging students to explore new ideas, engage in cutting-edge research, and even pursue entrepreneurial ventures. The support for intellectual property rights and incubation of startups gives students the confidence to turn their creative ideas into tangible, impactful solutions. Through global exchange programmes and international case studies, students are exposed to diverse perspectives, fostering a sense of global citizenship and broadening their understanding of design as a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries.

Careers360: What kind of industry collaborations can students expect at the World University of Design? How will these aid WUD students in their career growth?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: Industry collaborations at the World University of Design (WUD) form the backbone of the university’s approach to preparing students for the dynamic design landscape. These collaborations offer students a bridge between the theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom and the practical demands of the professional world. From the very beginning of their academic journey, students are immersed in industry-relevant experiences that shape their skill sets, broaden their perspectives, and enhance their career readiness.

Besides multiple industry visits to various industry clusters and special units, it is the embedded internships that’s a key part of WUD’s industry engagement, offering students direct exposure to the professional environment. Through well-established partnerships with leading companies and design firms across various sectors, students secure internships that allow them to work on live projects, develop hands-on expertise, and gain a real understanding of industry expectations. These internships are not just learning opportunities but also platforms where students can demonstrate their capabilities, often leading to job offers or long-term professional relationships.

Additionally, WUD emphasises live projects within their curriculum that are developed in collaboration with industry partners. These real-world design challenges simulate the complexities of professional practice, requiring students to navigate client briefs, deadlines, and creative constraints. By working on projects that address current market needs, students gain invaluable experience in problem-solving, team collaboration, and client management, all of which are critical to their future careers.

Beyond internships and projects, WUD frequently brings industry into the classroom through guest lectures, workshops, and mentorship programmes. Industry professionals regularly share their insights into emerging trends, new technologies, and the evolving demands of the design world. These interactions enable students to stay ahead of the curve and remain adaptable to the rapid changes in their respective fields.

Moreover, networking events organised by the university, including industry panels, design fairs, and alumni meet-ups, provide students with the opportunity to interact directly with employers, industry veterans, and successful alumni. These events are crucial for building professional networks, gaining insights into different career paths, and staying connected to the broader design ecosystem. Additionally, WUD’s strong placement cell ensures that these connections translate into meaningful career opportunities, offering students robust job placement support as they transition from academia to professional life.

The university’s reputation, coupled with its strong industry ties, ensures that WUD students are well-positioned to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their respective fields.

Careers360: You come with a rich and vast valuable experience. What are the key factors that have been incorporated at the university at your behest?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: My approach to leadership has always been about fostering an ecosystem where innovation, adaptability, and a global outlook is central to education. One of the most significant aspects that I have instilled in the university is the importance of interdisciplinary learning. I strongly believe that in the modern world, creativity cannot thrive in silos. The design landscape requires professionals who can navigate multiple disciplines seamlessly, whether in architecture, arts, design, or communication. This philosophy has influenced our “university without walls” approach, where students are encouraged to collaborate across departments,work on cross-disciplinary projects, and find creative solutions that go beyond their own fields of study.

Another focus has been on ensuring that our programmes remain futuristic & industry-relevant. Design is evolving at an incredible pace, and it is crucial that what our students learn today prepares them for tomorrow. In response to this, I have worked closely with industry leaders to align our curriculum with the needs of the marketplace. We could introduce programmes like animation and game design and UX/UI specialisations well before they became buzzwords in mainstream education. These forward-looking programmes ensure that WUD graduates are equipped not just with the theoretical knowledge but with the practical skills to thrive in real-world environments.

Technology has been another cornerstone of my vision for WUD. In today’s world, digital tools such as augmented reality, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are revolutionising creative industries. I have pushed for the integration of these technologies into our curriculum, ensuring that students receive hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools that will define their professional futures. By making these technologies a part of everyday learning, WUD students are not only familiar with them but are ahead of the curve in harnessing these innovations to shape their creative output.

Diversity and inclusion are other values that are central to the WUD experience. I have always emphasised the need for an environment that celebrates different perspectives, cultures, and ideas. Our student body, which represents 22 states across India, reflects this commitment to creating a microcosm of India’s diverse culture. Encouraging students to learn from one another’s backgrounds and experiences has created a vibrant and dynamic community that enriches the academic and creative journey for everyone.

Entrepreneurship has also been a key focus area under my leadership. I believe that designers today are not just creators; they are also innovators and problem-solvers. To support this vision, I established an incubation and entrepreneurship cell where students can transform their ideas into viable businesses. This emphasis on fostering entrepreneurial thinking has led to several student innovations being filed for patents, demonstrating that our students are not only creative thinkers but also pioneers in bringing their ideas to life.

Moreover, I have prioritised nurturing a sense of social responsibility among our students. In a world increasingly conscious of sustainability and ethics, it is vital that design practices are responsible and forward-thinking. At WUD, we emphasise the need for students to consider the social, environmental, and ethical implications of their work, ensuring that their creativity contributes positively to society.

The pandemic was a true test of resilience, and one of the moments I am most proud of at WUD is how we managed the transition to online learning. Our swift adaptation ensured that no academic time was lost, and through virtual workshops, mental health support, and community engagement initiatives, we maintained a strong sense of continuity and connection within our student body. This resilience, both in academic and emotional support, has become a defining characteristic of our community, and it is something that I believe will continue to guide WUD as we navigate future challenges.

Careers360: While most think design to be just fashion oriented, it is in existence in every industry. Can you elaborate on this with examples on the various areas that students can go into?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: Design is far more than just fashion. As we say it at WUD, Design is the horizontal across all verticals. It is embedded in nearly every industry, shaping the way we experience products, services, and environments. At the World University of Design (WUD), we emphasise the vast applications of design, encouraging students to explore its various facets. For instance, in Product Design, designers create everything from household items to complex machinery, blending creativity with technical expertise to develop functional, aesthetically pleasing, and user-friendly products. Graduates in this field can enter industries like consumer electronics, furniture, or sports equipment design. In the digital space, User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) Design, Digital Product Design are pivotal to creating smooth and intuitive interactions with websites, apps, and software. Companies in tech, e-commerce, and gaming actively seek UX/UI designers to enhance digital experiences. Transportation Design goes beyond aesthetics to focus on ergonomics, safety, and sustainability, especially as electric vehicles and autonomous technologies evolve, offering new opportunities for innovation.

The entertainment industry relies heavily on design, particularly in Animation and Game Design, Film and Video Production, and Digital Design, where designers work on movies, video games, virtual reality, and more. The rise of streaming platforms and digital content creation offers a wealth of opportunities in these fields. Graphic Design and Visual Communication play a crucial role in branding, advertising, and digital media, where designers craft logos, packaging, and multimedia content, working in industries such as publishing, advertising, and digital marketing.

Sustainability and Environmental Design allows students to focus on eco-friendly products, energy-efficient buildings, and systems that reduce environmental impact. This can lead to careers in green technology, sustainable urban planning, or eco-conscious fashion. In Interior Design, designers create functional and inspiring spaces, a field now particularly relevant with the rise of hybrid work environments. Graduates can specialise in residential, commercial, or hospitality design. Architecture and Urban Design allow graduates to contribute to shaping physical spaces, from individual buildings to entire cities, with a growing focus on sustainable, smart urban planning.

Lastly, while Fashion and Textile Design remains a central part of the design world, it now encompasses not just clothing but also accessories, textile innovation, and even wearable technology, with a growing emphasis on sustainable and smart fashion. These examples highlight that design is a versatile and expansive field, offering numerouscareer paths across industries, from technology to entertainment, healthcare to sustainability. Whether students are interested in digital product design, industrial design, or design strategy and management, the skills they develop in design will enable them to shape experiences, products, and services in a wide range of sectors.

Careers360: AI is now everywhere. In your opinion, what is AI’s role in today’s design world especially for students? How would you advise them to cope?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: AI is undeniably transforming the design landscape, offering today’s students immense potential to boost creativity, streamline workflows, and drive innovation. However, it is essential to understand that AI’s role in design is not to replace human designers but to complement and empower them. AI serves as a creative catalyst by generating numerous design options in seconds, providing students with starting points they may not have considered. For example, generative design tools can analyse constraints such as material properties or user needs and propose optimised solutions. In architecture, AI can generate multiple building design iterations, considering factors like structural integrity and energy efficiency. This allows students to explore a wider range of possibilities before selecting the best one.

AI also automates repetitive tasks, such as resizing images, formatting layouts, or generating colour schemes, freeing students to focus on the conceptual and creative aspects of their projects. This increased efficiency allows for faster prototyping and experimentation, leading to quicker refinements of ideas. Additionally, AI enables data-driven design by analysing user behaviour and patterns, helping students make informed decisions. In UX/UI design, for instance, AI can predict user preferences, test iterations, and suggest improvements, optimising the user experience before a product is finalised. In fields like product design and architecture, AI’s generative and predictive capabilities allow designers to explore thousands of possibilities based on specific parameters and predict trends, helping them stay ahead in a competitive industry.

AI needs to be viewed as a collaborative tool rather than a replacement for human creativity. While AI offers ideas and solutions, it is the designer’s intuition, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence that refine and bring depth to those solutions. For students, embracing AI therefore is an opportunity, not a threat. By learning AI tools, they can enhance their creativity, improve efficiency, and expand their possibilities.

However, they should not neglect the design fundamentals—such as aesthetics, usability, and emotional impact—which remain their responsibility. AI can suggest options, but designers must critique, adapt, and refine those options to align with their vision and meet user needs. Students should focus on developing uniquely human skills—creativity, empathy, problem-solving, and storytelling—that set them apart from AI. These are the qualities that breathe life into design and cannot be replicated by technology. AI is a powerful tool in today’s design world, and students who learn to integrate its capabilities with their own creative thinking will thrive.

Careers360: Kindly give details on the internships that WUD students get - roles, duration and companies.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: At the World University of Design (WUD), internships are an integral part of the curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry experience. Typically, students engage in internships lasting 6-8 weeks, depending on their program and field requirements. Additionally, every student is required to complete a semester-long graduation project in collaboration with industry partners, providing significant hands-on experience in real-world settings. These dual experiences—a short-term internship and an extended industry project—equip students with the practical knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their careers.

In Fashion and Product Design, interns contribute to various stages of the design process, from trend research, sketching, and material selection to prototyping and production processes. UX/UI Design interns often work with tech companies or design studios, focusing on user research, wireframing, prototyping, and usability testing, helping improve digital products like websites and apps. Architecture students intern with architectural firms, contributing to project planning, drafting, 3D modelling, and site surveys, while Interior Design students assist with space planning, material selection, and the development of residential or commercial concepts. Graphic Design and Visual Communication interns typically work with creative agencies, handling branding, marketing assets, packaging design and social media visuals. Meanwhile, Animation and Film students take on roles in production studios, helping with tasks like storyboarding, character design, animation, and post-production editing.

WUD students have interned with prominent companies like ABInBev, Incedo, Thence, KPMG, Landmark Group, EX2 India, Kangaroo Global, Reevooy, ABFRL, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), Within Design, Chalk Studio, Homelane, Maruti Suzuki, Tata Elxsi, Schbang, 88GB (a DDB Company), Annalect (an Omnicom Group Company), Rupa Publications, Rockstar Games, and Hettich, among others. These internships not only provide exposure to cutting-edge industry practices but also often lead to pre-placement offers, paving the way for successful careers. The typical internship takes place during summer or winter breaks, while the semester-long graduation project allows students to gain deeper, long-term industry experience, applying their academic knowledge to real-world challenges.

Careers360: What kind of roles do students get after passing out of the University?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: Upon graduating from the World University of Design (WUD), students are well-equipped for diverse roles across a wide spectrum of design fields. Many enter traditional creative roles such as fashion designers, graphic designers, and product designers, where they work for established brands, studios, or even start their own labels, blending creativity with functionality and sustainability. In sectors like interior design and architecture, graduates collaborate with design firms or consult independently, creating spaces that balance aesthetics with practicality. Those specialising in UX/UI design are highly sought after in tech firms and startups, designing user-friendly digital interfaces for apps, websites, and software.

In more specialised roles, animators, game designers, and multimedia artists contribute to the entertainment industry, creating engaging visual narratives for films, games, and online content. Others pursue positions like curatorial designers or exhibition designers, working with galleries, museums, and cultural events to curate and design immersive experiences. The rise of new technologies has opened doors for AR/VR designers, interaction designers, and robotics specialists, who push the boundaries of user experiences and virtual environments. Similarly, roles like data visualisation specialists are in demand as industries look to communicate complex data through compelling visual narratives.

Graduates interested in sustainability find roles as sustainable fashion designers, working on eco-friendly solutions in industries ranging from fashion to electronics. Meanwhile, fields like medical product design and automotive human factors blend design with healthcare and engineering, improving the functionality of medical devices or enhancing driver experiences in autonomous vehicles. For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, many graduates start their own studios or tech-driven ventures, applying their design thinking to create innovative products and services.

Emerging careers like experience design, service design, and design strategy have gained prominence, allowing graduates to shape customer journeys, optimise service delivery, and integrate design thinking into business strategies. WUD graduates are also carving out niches as speculative designers, who explore future possibilities in fields like biotechnology and smart cities. As trend forecasters, some analyse global consumer behaviour to predict and shape future products and services. Across all these roles, the combination of creative, technical, and strategic skills gained at WUD ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the global design landscape.

Careers360: Kindly give the insights about last year’s placement statistics?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: WUD’s placement statistics from last year highlight the strong industry connections and opportunities available to students. WUD placement cell assisted approximately 80% of students in securing graduation projects, providing essential real-world experience. Most of these students got pre-placement offers with the highest salary package being Rs 13 lakhs. This strong placement performance reflects WUD’s commitment to student success and industry readiness.

Careers360: Any advice to students who wish to pursue design courses?

Dr. Sanjay Gupta: For students seeking admission to WUD courses, I would advise that - it’s essential to reflect on your interests and strengths before choosing a specialisation, as design offers a vast array of fields like fashion, product design, UX/UI, graphic design, architecture, and more. Researching these disciplines thoroughly can help you understand which area aligns with your passion and long-term goals. Equally important is selecting the right design school—one that offers a strong programme in your chosen field, experienced faculty, and opportunities for real-world exposure through internships and industry partnerships. Schools like the World University of Design (WUD) are known for providing a balanced curriculum that merges creativity with technical skills, preparing students for the demands of modern industries. Pay close attention to the learning environment, ensuring it fosters creativity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation. Only a few top design institutions focus on integrating new technologies like AI, VR, and sustainability into their programmes. Identify them.

Additionally, when choosing a school, consider the opportunities for practical learning, as internships and hands-on projects are crucial for gaining industry experience. Whether you choose to study locally or abroad, ensure the institution has a global outlook and prepares you for diverse career opportunities.

Start building a strong portfolio early on, showcasing your ideas, creativity, and design process, as it will be a critical component in the admission process. Seek out guidance from mentors, current students, or professionals in the field, as their advice can offer valuable insights into what to expect. Above all, let your passion for design guide your choices. Whether your interest lies in creating innovative products, stunning visuals, or user-centred digital experiences, follow your instincts and choose the path that resonates most with your vision and ambition.