HCD Global Immersion · DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub
One certification. Nordic universities. A career in global design.
A hybrid programme for recent graduates in design and engineering — built to prepare you for top global universities focused on sustainability, systems thinking, and human-centred design. Certification from DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub.
₹6 L · annual
2 fellows per cohort
Nordic pathway
Next intake: January 2027 · Applications open · Rolling admissions
Express your interest
We will confirm your application within 48 hours.
2027 intake · Rolling admissions · Apply early
You will receive a pre-immersion briefing pack two weeks before the programme begins.
1
year · hybrid programme
3–6
months residential
₹6L
annual · 3 instalments
Nordic
university pathway
Aug 26
next intake
Who this programme is for
Your DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub certificate is the gateway.
Most design and engineering graduates from strong Indian institutions are ready for global universities — but lack the academic portfolio and research credentials that admissions committees require. This programme builds both. Through a hybrid structure combining online learning with an optional residential fellowship at DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub, you develop the thinking, research skills, and academic writing expected of a global design scholar. Through HCD's partnership with Nordic Universities and Global Institutions like WHO, WEF ,graduates who demonstrate commitment can access structured support for admission to Nordic universities focused on sustainability, systems design, and human-centred practice.
01
Recent graduates ready for something more
Design, engineering, and related graduates who know their Indian degree isn't enough on its own — and who want a structured, credentialled path to global universities without the uncertainty of applying alone.
02
Graduates who learn through making and research
You don't want another passive online programme. You want to publish real research, build a portfolio that holds up internationally, and earn a credential from one of India's most respected institutions.
03
Future students of Nordic and global universities
Through HCD's partnership with Iceland Design and Architecture, high-performing graduates gain structured support to access Nordic universities — institutions at the forefront of sustainability, systems thinking, and human-centred design. This is not a shortcut. It is a pathway for those who do the work.
Programme curriculum
One year. Six pillars.
A hybrid programme — online learning combined with monthly visits to DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub as needed. All students participate in campus sessions throughout the year. Additionally, two students per cohort are awarded a competitive residential fellowship: 3–6 months on campus with hostel accommodation and stipend.
Module 1
Foundations
Principles of Human-Centred Design
The history, philosophy, and methods of HCD. From user research to systems thinking — the conceptual framework underlying credible design practice globally. Faculty-led live sessions, readings, and a written reflection submitted at module close.
Ongoing
Academic portfolio · first submission
You begin building your academic portfolio from day one. Faculty set the standard against Nordic and international university expectations. First formal review at module close.
Module 2
Research
Design Research Methods
Qualitative and quantitative research for design. Field studies, ethnographic methods, synthesis frameworks, and the writing conventions of international design journals. You conduct at least one primary research study during this module.
Ongoing
Portfolio · research chapter
Your research study is documented and added to your portfolio as a standalone chapter — structured to the conventions of academic presentation.
Module 3
Writing
Academic Writing and Publication
Participants write, refine, and submit original research to selected peer-reviewed journals. Faculty guide each paper through the editorial process. A published or submitted paper significantly strengthens your university application.
Milestone
Paper submission to selected journal
Every participant submits at least one paper. Faculty pre-review ensures the paper meets submission standards. Journal placement depends on the quality of the work — and you are encouraged to aim high.
Module 4
Portfolio
Academic Portfolio Development
A structured process for building an academic portfolio that meets the standards of global university applications. Two faculty review sessions. Portfolio calibrated against the expectations of Nordic and international graduate admissions committees.
Final review
Portfolio · final submission and faculty sign-off
Faculty sign off on your portfolio before it is submitted to any university. The portfolio includes your research chapter, paper, HCD project documentation, and your academic statement.
Module 5 · Optional
Residential
Residential Fellowship at DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub
Two students per cohort are awarded a competitive residential fellowship — 3 to 6 months on campus at DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub, with hostel accommodation and stipend provided. All other students participate in monthly campus visits throughout the programme year.
At DIC campus
DIC studio, labs, and faculty access
Fellows work alongside DIC faculty and doctoral researchers on live projects. Full access to DIC fabrication labs and design studios. The fellowship is awarded on academic performance — not applied for at enrolment.
Module 6
Pathway
Nordic University Pathway
HCD's partnership with Miðstöð Hönnunar og Arkitektúrs (Iceland Design and Architecture) gives qualifying graduates structured support for admission to Nordic universities. Application guidance, portfolio review, and introductions to admissions teams at institutions focused on sustainability and systems design.
Partnership
Iceland Design and Architecture
Through HCD's formal partnership with Iceland Design and Architecture, graduates who meet the programme's academic standards can access facilitated introductions and admission support at Nordic universities. This is not a guarantee — it is a pathway for those who earn it.
Certification
DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub Certification
Certification is awarded by DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub upon successful completion of all coursework, the academic portfolio, and paper submission. The certification is recognised by international admissions offices.
Investment
₹6,00,000
Annual programme fee · paid in three equal instalments
Programme tuition, annual
₹6,00,000
Residential fellowship (2 students per cohort)
Competitive · hostel and stipend provided
Meals, on-campus dining
Covered — DIC fellowship
Travel to Hyderabad
At participant cost
All tools and materials
₹0 · provided
For context: Comparable programmes at Aalto, RCA, or KADK cost €15,000–€30,000 annually. This programme provides a DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub certified credential, original published research, a faculty-reviewed portfolio, and a structured Nordic university pathway — at a fraction of the cost.
What you take away from the programme
01
DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub Certification — recognised by international admissions offices. Awarded upon completion of all coursework, portfolio, and paper submission.
02
Published research — at least one paper submitted to a selected peer-reviewed journal, documented in your academic portfolio alongside your methodology and findings.
03
Academic portfolio — a structured, faculty-reviewed portfolio built to the standards expected by Nordic and global university admissions committees.
04
Campus access — all students visit DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub monthly throughout the year. Two students per cohort are additionally awarded a competitive residential fellowship with hostel and stipend.
Admissions
We review every application personally. We are looking for graduates with genuine intellectual curiosity, a clear reason to pursue global education, and the commitment to do original research. The statement of purpose is two pages.
Statement of purpose · 2 pages
One additional requirement:
tell us why now.
We admit on the basis of purpose, clarity of thinking, and intent. Your statement should make clear why a global education in HCD matters to you at this point in your life — and what you intend to do with it.
I. Your academic and professional background — and the gap in knowledge or opportunity you are looking to address.
II. Why you are drawn to human-centred design, sustainability, or systems thinking — and the global institutions where you want to study.
III. What you intend to do with this certification, the portfolio, and the research you produce.
1
Application form — Name, organisation, current role, and a one-paragraph description of the challenge you are bringing.
2
Statement of purpose · 2 pages — Reviewed by the DIC–HCD admissions panel. The challenge definition is the most important element for the immersion format.
3
30-minute admissions call — A structured conversation to pressure-test your challenge definition and confirm the immersion format is the right fit for your schedule.
4
Confirmation and pre-immersion pack — Admission decision within 48 hours. Pre-immersion briefing pack issued two weeks before arrival, including reading, challenge preparation guide, and campus logistics.
Agust 2026 immersion.
Applications close 1 September 2026 · Confirmation within 48 hours
Next immersion after this: February 2027
Pre-immersion briefing pack sent two weeks before arrival.
2027 cohort · Applications now open
Rolling admissions. Apply early.
A cohort of committed graduates. One year of structured learning. A supported path to global universities. Certification from DIC, IIT Hyderabad Hub.
Questions? Write to admissions@hcd.institute · Response within 24 hours
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7-Day Full Immersion · Design Innovation Centre, IIT Hyderabad
One certification. Nordic universities. A career in global design.
A hybrid programme for recent graduates in design and engineering — built to prepare you for top global universities focused on sustainability, systems thinking, and human-centred design. Certification from IIT Hyderabad and DIC.
₹6 L · annual
Nordic pathway
2 fellows per cohort
Next intake: January 2027 · Applications open · Rolling admissions
Express your interest
We will confirm your application within 48 hours.
You will receive a pre-immersion briefing pack two weeks before the programme begins.
2027 intake · Rolling admissions · Apply early
1
year · hybrid programme
₹6L
annual · 3 instalments
Aug 26
next intake
3–6
months residential
Nordic
university pathway
Who this format is for
Your Design credential is the gateway.
Most design and engineering graduates from strong Indian institutions are ready for global universities — but lack the academic portfolio and research credentials that admissions committees require. This programme builds both. Through a hybrid structure combining online learning with an optional residential fellowship at IIT Hyderabad's Design Innovation Centre, you develop the thinking, research skills, and academic writing expected of a global design scholar. Through HCD's partnership with Nordic Universities and Global Institutions like WHO, WEF graduates who demonstrate commitment can access structured support for admission to Nordic universities focused on sustainability, systems design, and human-centred practice.
01
Recent graduates ready for something more
Design, engineering, STEM and related graduates who know their Indian degree isn't enough on its own — and who want a structured, credentialled path to global universities without the uncertainty of applying alone.
02
Graduates who learn through making and research
You don't want another passive online programme. You want to publish real research, build a portfolio that holds up internationally, and earn a credential from one of India's most respected institutions.
03
Future students of Nordic and global universities
Through HCD's partnership with Iceland Design and Architecture, high-performing graduates gain structured support to access Nordic universities — institutions at the forefront of sustainability, systems thinking, and human-centred design. This is not a shortcut. It is a pathway for those who do the work.
Programme schedule
One year. Six pillars.
A hybrid programme — online learning combined with monthly visits to IIT Hyderabad's DIC as needed. All students participate in campus sessions throughout the year. Additionally, two students per cohort are awarded a competitive residential fellowship: 3–6 months on campus with hostel accommodation and stipend.
Module 1
Foundations
Principles of Human-Centred Design
The history, philosophy, and methods of HCD. From user research to systems thinking — the conceptual framework underlying credible design practice globally. Faculty-led live sessions, readings, and a written reflection submitted at module close.
Ongoing
Academic portfolio · first submission
You begin building your academic portfolio from day one. Faculty set the standard against Nordic and international university expectations. First formal review at module close.
Module 2
Research
Design Research Methods
Qualitative and quantitative research for design. Field studies, ethnographic methods, synthesis frameworks, and the writing conventions of international design journals. You conduct at least one primary research study during this module.
Ongoing
Portfolio · research chapter
Your research study is documented and added to your portfolio as a standalone chapter — structured to the conventions of academic presentation.
Module 3
Writing
Academic Writing and Publication
Participants write, refine, and submit original research to selected peer-reviewed journals. Faculty guide each paper through the editorial process. A published or submitted paper significantly strengthens your university application.
Milestone
Portfolio · final submission and faculty sign-off
Faculty sign off on your portfolio before it is submitted to any university. The portfolio includes your research chapter, paper, HCD project documentation, and your academic statement.
Module 4
Residential
Residential Fellowship at IIT Hyderabad
Two students per cohort are awarded a competitive residential fellowship — 3 to 6 months on campus at IIT Hyderabad's Design Innovation Centre, with hostel accommodation and stipend provided. All other students participate in monthly campus visits throughout the programme year.
At DIC campus
IIT studio, labs, and faculty access
Fellows work alongside IIT faculty and doctoral researchers on live projects. Full access to DIC fabrication labs and design studios. The fellowship is awarded on academic performance — not applied for at enrolment.
Module 5
Morning · 9 am – 1 pm
AI and systems analysis
Session on AI as a strategic design tool — applied to each participant’s project. Second-order effects analysis: mapping systemic consequences of the proposed solution.
Afternoon · 2 pm – 6 pm
Guest session and open studio
Lecture by an IIT researcher or senior industry practitioner. Open studio time for project work and pre-jury rehearsal. Third and final mentor session.
Module 6
Pathway
Nordic University Pathway
HCD's partnership with Miðstöð Hönnunar og Arkitektúrs (Iceland Design and Architecture) gives qualifying graduates structured support for admission to Nordic universities. Application guidance, portfolio review, and introductions to admissions teams at institutions focused on sustainability and systems design.
Partnership
Iceland Design and Architecture
Through HCD's formal partnership with Iceland Design and Architecture, graduates who meet the programme's academic standards can access facilitated introductions and admission support at Nordic universities. This is not a guarantee — it is a pathway for those who earn it.
Certification
DIC Certification
Certification is awarded jointly by IIT Hyderabad and the Design Innovation Centre upon successful completion of all coursework, the academic portfolio, and paper submission. The certification carries the institutional weight of IIT Hyderabad and is recognised by international admissions offices.
Investment
₹6,00,000
Annual programme fee ·
Residential fellowship (2 students per cohort)
Accommodation on IIT campus, 6 nights
₹6,000 – ₹14,000
Meals, on-campus dining
Included in accommodation
Travel to Hyderabad
At participant cost
All tools and materials
₹0 · provided on campus
For context: Comparable programmes at Aalto, RCA, or KADK cost €15,000–€30,000 annually. This programme provides an IIT Hyderabad and DIC certified credential, original published research, a faculty-reviewed portfolio, and a structured Nordic university pathway — at a fraction of the cost.
What you take away from 7 days
01
IIT Hyderabad and DIC Certification — recognised by international admissions offices. Awarded jointly upon completion of all coursework, portfolio, and paper submission.
02
Published research — at least one paper submitted to a selected peer-reviewed journal, documented in your academic portfolio alongside your methodology and findings.
03
Academic portfolio — a structured, faculty-reviewed portfolio built to the standards expected by Nordic and global university admissions committees.
04
IIT campus access — all students visit IIT Hyderabad's DIC monthly throughout the year. Two students per cohort are additionally awarded a competitive residential fellowship with hostel and stipend.
Admissions
We review every application personally. We are looking for graduates with genuine intellectual curiosity, a clear reason to pursue global education, and the commitment to do original research. The statement of purpose is two pages.
The statement of purpose · 2 pages
One additional requirement:
tell us why now.
We admit on the basis of purpose, clarity of thinking, and intent. Your statement should make clear why a global education in HCD matters to you at this point in your life — and what you intend to do with it.
I. Your academic and professional background — and the gap in knowledge or opportunity you are looking to address.
II. The specific challenge you will work on during the immersion — and why it matters now.
III. What you intend to do with this credential and the work produced during the week.
1
Application form — Name, organisation, current role, and a one-paragraph description of the challenge you are bringing.
2
Statement of purpose · 2 pages — Reviewed by the DIC–HCD admissions panel. The challenge definition is the most important element for the immersion format.
3
30-minute admissions call — A structured conversation to pressure-test your challenge definition and confirm the immersion format is the right fit for your schedule.
4
Confirmation and pre-immersion pack — Admission decision within 48 hours. Pre-immersion briefing pack issued two weeks before arrival, including reading, challenge preparation guide, and campus logistics.
August 2026 immersion.
Applications close 15th July 2026 · Confirmation within 48 hours
Next immersion after this: February 2027
Pre-immersion briefing pack sent two weeks before arrival.
October 2026 · 6 places remaining
Applications close
15July
10 participants. Seven days. The next immersion after this is February 2027. If the challenge is live — now is the right time.
Questions? Write to admissions@hcd.institute · Response within 24 hours
The HCD Institute
Design Innovation Centre (DIC)
Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad
Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, India – 502284
Certification
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HCDx in Global Supplychain
