ATLAS ISDI, Mumbai: A Glimpse into the Future of Design Education

The annual partners’ meet at ATLAS ISDI in Mumbai was an experience that left an indelible mark on all of us from Desizn Circle. As we stepped into the campus, we were greeted by an atmosphere buzzing with creativity, innovation, and a palpable sense of purpose. ATLAS ISDI, one of India’s premier design and management schools, is not just an institution; it is a thriving ecosystem that nurtures the next generation of designers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. Over the course of our visit, we were given a comprehensive tour of the campus, met with students, interacted with faculty, and gained deep insights into the institution’s unique pedagogy, placements, internships, and interdisciplinary approach to education.

Sumit sir & Ankita maam with other design students at ISDI

The ATLAS ISDI campus is a testament to the institution’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation. The state-of-the-art infrastructure is designed to inspire students and provide them with the tools they need to excel in their chosen fields. From spacious design studios and cutting-edge technology labs to collaborative workspaces and an incubation center, every corner of the campus reflects the institution’s forward-thinking approach.

One of the highlights of the campus tour was the incubation center, which serves as a launchpad for budding entrepreneurs. Here, students are encouraged to transform their ideas into viable business ventures. The center provides mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities, enabling students to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. This unique facility underscores ATLAS ISDI’s vision of integrating design and entrepreneurship under one roof, a philosophy that sets it apart from other design schools.

Meeting the Students: Passion, Talent, and Ambition

One of the most rewarding aspects of our visit was the opportunity to interact with the students. Their passion, talent, and ambition were truly inspiring. We met students from diverse disciplines, including fashion design, product design, communication design, interior design, strategic design management, and 3D animation and VFX. Each student had a unique story to share, and it was evident that ATLAS ISDI’s interdisciplinary approach had played a pivotal role in shaping their perspectives.

The students spoke enthusiastically about their capstone projects, a cornerstone of the ATLAS ISDI curriculum. In the eighth semester, students are required to work on real-world projects in collaboration with industry partners. This hands-on experience not only hones their skills but also prepares them for the challenges of the professional world. Many students shared how their capstone projects had led to job offers, while others spoke about how the experience had inspired them to pursue entrepreneurship or higher studies.

Placements and Internships: A Gateway to Success

ATLAS ISDI’s placement record is a testament to the institution’s commitment to student success. Over the past four years, more than 2,000 of the 3,000+ graduates have opted for placements, with top companies like KPMG, Google, IBM, Infosys, Deloitte, Accenture, Bain & Company, Gucci, Ogilvy, and Viacom 18 actively recruiting from the campus. The remaining graduates have chosen to pursue higher studies or embark on entrepreneurial ventures.

The institution’s robust internship program is another key factor in its students’ success. ATLAS ISDI has forged strong relationships with industry leaders, ensuring that students gain valuable work experience even before they graduate. These internships not only provide students with a glimpse into the professional world but also help them build a network of industry contacts.

Interdisciplinary Learning: The Future of Design Education

One of the most striking aspects of ATLAS ISDI is its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. The institution believes that the future of design lies at the intersection of various disciplines, and its curriculum reflects this philosophy. Students are encouraged to explore diverse fields, collaborate with peers from different disciplines, and develop a holistic understanding of design.

This interdisciplinary approach is further reinforced through the institution’s roundtable conferences, where 40 leaders from the design industry come together to mentor students. These conferences provide students with invaluable insights into industry trends, challenges, and opportunities. The mentorship they receive from these industry stalwarts is instrumental in shaping their careers

Global Collaborations: Expanding Horizons

ATLAS ISDI’s collaboration with The New School Parsons in New York is a cornerstone of its global outreach. This partnership enables regular curriculum exchange, ongoing faculty interaction, and in-person faculty visits. Students also benefit from preferred master’s acceptance at The New School Parsons, opening doors to global opportunities.

In addition to its collaboration with The New School Parsons, ATLAS ISDI has established 2+2 pathways programs with top international institutions such as the University of the Arts London (UAL), Nottingham Trent University (NTU), Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), and the California College of the Arts. These programs allow students to complete the first two years of their education at ATLAS ISDI and the remaining two years at a partner institution, earning a globally recognized degree.

Industry Exposure: Learning from the Best

ATLAS ISDI’s commitment to providing students with real-world exposure is evident in its numerous industry collaborations. The students’ participation in the DIOR fashion show in Mumbai and their visits to the Paris and New York Fashion Weeks are prime examples of the institution’s efforts to bridge the gap between academia and industry. These experiences not only enhance students’ skills but also give them a taste of the global design landscape.

The visit of Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, to ATLAS ISDI was another milestone in the institution’s journey. Cook’s interaction with the students was a testament to the institution’s reputation as a hub of innovation and creativity. Such high-profile visits not only inspire students but also reinforce ATLAS ISDI’s position as a leader in design education.

Faculty: A Blend of Academia and Industry

ATLAS ISDI’s faculty is a unique blend of academicians and industry professionals. With over 150 regular faculty members and 250+ visiting faculty from the industry, the institution ensures that students receive a well-rounded education. The faculty’s industry experience enriches the curriculum, providing students with practical insights and real-world perspectives.

The ongoing interaction between faculty and students fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation. Faculty members are not just teachers; they are mentors who guide students in their academic and professional journeys. This close-knit relationship between faculty and students is one of the key factors behind ATLAS ISDI’s success.

Courses Offered: A Diverse Range of Opportunities

ATLAS ISDI offers a diverse range of courses, catering to the varied interests and aspirations of its students. The institution’s programs in fashion communication, fashion design, product design, communication design, interior design, strategic design management, and 3D animation and VFX are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their chosen fields.

The School of Management and Entrepreneurship and the School of Design Technology, both housed under one roof, provide students with a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of design and business. This integrated approach prepares students to navigate the complexities of the modern business world, making them valuable assets to any organization.