The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has launched an innovative undergraduate course — BTech in Design — which will be available to students from the academic year 2025–26. Offered by the Department of Design, this new four-year programme reflects the institute’s efforts to integrate design thinking with technological expertise, focusing on real-world socio-technical challenges that require interdisciplinary solutions.

The BTech in Design programme is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of both foundational engineering principles and advanced design methodologies. By blending technical knowledge with design-centric approaches, the course aims to produce graduates who can address complex problems across industries while contributing to the development of sustainable and user-centric solutions.

Admission to this unique programme will be based on a candidate’s performance in two national-level entrance examinations — the Joint Entrance Examination Advanced (JEE Advanced) and the Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design (UCEED). It is important for aspirants to note that qualifying only one of the two exams will not make them eligible for admission. Both scores are mandatory for consideration. This dual examination requirement reflects the course’s dual emphasis on engineering skills and creative design thinking.

Eligibility criteria specify that students must have completed Class XII in either 2024 or 2025 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as core subjects. In addition, for UCEED eligibility, candidates must be born on or after October 1, 2000. However, a five-year age relaxation is applicable to candidates from the Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) categories. These criteria align with national standards and ensure inclusivity while maintaining academic excellence.

The application process for the BTech in Design programme will be conducted entirely online through IIT Delhi’s official admissions portal. Students are advised to ensure that they meet all eligibility requirements before initiating the application process. Once the portal opens, applicants will be required to register, enter personal and academic details, and provide documentation to support their credentials. Key dates for application submissions, counselling, and seat allotment will be announced on IIT Delhi’s official website. Prospective students are encouraged to check the site regularly for updates and announcements regarding the admissions timeline.

In terms of academic structure, the BTech in Design is a four-year degree programme comprising a total of 155 credits. The inaugural batch will include a small cohort of 20 students, allowing for close mentorship and personalized academic guidance. The coursework has been carefully curated to provide a balanced and robust education in both core design and interdisciplinary topics.

Nearly 50% of the curriculum will focus on core design subjects, providing students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills essential for a career in design innovation. The remaining portion of the programme will consist of interdisciplinary courses sourced from various departments, centres, and schools within the institute. This structure not only broadens the scope of learning but also fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration and a holistic educational experience.

Key subjects covered in the curriculum include design frameworks, prototyping techniques, mechanics of solids and fluids, environmental science, research methodology, communication and teamwork, design entrepreneurship, and exhibition design. The programme has been intentionally crafted to encourage students to develop systematic design thinking capabilities, along with critical problem-solving skills. Emphasis will be placed on experiential learning, encouraging students to work on real-world design projects and collaborate across disciplines.

The hands-on nature of the course aims to build proficiency in prototyping and iterative design processes, which are crucial for innovation in both industrial and societal contexts. The inclusion of design entrepreneurship as a subject further highlights the institute’s focus on fostering future design leaders and change-makers who can bridge the gap between creativity and market needs.

The launch of this programme also aligns with a broader academic restructuring underway at IIT Delhi. Starting from the 2025–26 academic year, the institute will implement updated curriculum frameworks across its undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. These changes are aimed at making IIT Delhi’s academic offerings more responsive to global trends and emerging demands in science, technology, and innovation.

In a rapidly evolving world where challenges are increasingly complex and multifaceted, the need for professionals who can think beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries has never been greater. By introducing the BTech in Design, IIT Delhi positions itself at the forefront of academic innovation, creating a space where engineering precision meets human-centred design. This initiative is expected to set a new benchmark in design education in India, attracting talented students who aspire to be the next generation of problem-solvers, innovators, and design entrepreneurs.