The prime philosophy of GLS University is to provide an ideal and creative learning environment and continue the tradition of excellence in education of the sponsoring body of the University, viz. Gujarat Law Society (GLS).
GLS, established in the year 1927, is one of the largest and oldest educational institutions in the state of Gujarat. GLS was promoted by luminaries Shri Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Shri Ganesh Mavlankar, the first Speaker of the country, and Shri I. M. Nanavati with the vision of excellence in education. GLS University was established in April 2015 under the Gujarat Private University Act-2009. In a short span, today, GLS University has become a highly acclaimed university that provides enhanced learning experiences through its excellent academic quality, well-equipped infrastructure, innovative teaching methods, creative curriculum design, experienced faculty team, and industry-oriented programs.
In this VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) world, GLS University is accelerating its gear in diversified spheres like Management, Commerce, Business Administration, Design, Law, Computer Application, Computer Engineering & Technology, Performing Arts, Research, and Technology. Students of GLS University experience the exceptional quality of education with a large spectrum of curricular, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities. The key objective of GLS University is to cultivate students' values, knowledge, ethics, skills, and enthusiasm in a way that will help society, the nation, and the world at large.
We at GLS University strongly believe in the overall development and grooming of the student fraternity through distinguished pedagogy, interactions with industry experts, live projects, and various flagship events of different departments. With the assistance of many international collaborations and industry tie-ups, we are creating a revolutionizing environment for all stakeholders of GLS University, placing GLS University on the world map in the field of education.
The growth of any institute is determined by its ability to continually reset its benchmark and envision an inclusive, forward-thinking future.
The Indian economy is thriving, and design education, with a legacy of more than 60 years since Independence, is once again perfectly poised to take the lead in nation-building. Gujarat Law Society (GLS) has already been part of this legacy, having invested in meaningful education for over ninety-six years. Since becoming a full-fledged university in 2015, its programs have reflected contemporary thoughts and concerns. The GLS Institute of Design, established in 2016 as an important part of this educational tradition, is led by renowned academician and thought leaders Dr. Sudhir Nanavati, President, GLS University; Dr. Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director, GLS University, Dean, GLS Institute of Design; and Dr. Anil Sinha, Director, GLS Institute of Design, GLS University.
Since its inception, the GLS Institute of Design has made its mark by running a successful design program for the past nine years, catering to a wide cross-section of design aspirants locally and across India. The university has also launched a PhD program in design. The only missing link in this vision for comprehensive design education is the awaited launch of a successful master’s program in design.
GLSID alumni are well-placed in the industry, and the institute continues to receive positive feedback about the quality and attitude of its students. This has strengthened our faith and confidence in the potential growth we envision for the institute. Our recognition of the persistent need for a master’s program is reaffirmed by the significant number of alumni pursuing higher studies at universities abroad and joining design institutions in India. This aspiring student population faces challenges due to the high fees in the current design education landscape, marked by numerous players. This situation presents an immense opportunity for the launch of a meaningful and high-quality master’s degree program in three areas of specialization.
The Master's Programme in Visual Communication Design is an advanced two-year program meticulously crafted for individuals seeking to deepen their expertise in the dynamic and evolving field of visual communication in India and abroad. Designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of communication across various mediums, this program offers specialised elective-based inputs in filmmaking, storytelling, graphic design, animation film design, interaction design, user interaction, and user interface design.
This master's program emphasises theoretical knowledge and the practical application of design principles by delving into interdisciplinary design collaborations. Students will have the opportunity to engage in multiple design projects of their interest, enabling them to explore and experiment with their ideas under the guidance of experienced mentors. The program aims to build creative thinkers who can effectively communicate ideas and narratives through innovative visual solutions.
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, design is no longer just about aesthetics—it has become a strategic function that drives innovation, business transformation, and social impact. Design Management is the interdisciplinary field that integrates design thinking, business strategy, technology, and leadership, ensuring that creativity is aligned with business objectives to deliver impactful and sustainable solutions.
The Master of Design (M.Des) in Design Management is a future-oriented program tailored to equip professionals with the skills and mindset to lead design-driven organizations and develop innovative solutions for today’s global challenges. This program built a multidisciplinary approach, empowering students to become strategic thinkers, design entrepreneurs, and business leaders who can effectively bridge the gap between creativity and commerce.
As industries undergo profound shifts, the role of Design Management has become crucial in shaping products, services, experiences, and brands that are both user-centric and business-relevant. Organizations increasingly seek professionals who can merge analytical thinking with creativity, structure innovation processes, and drive market differentiation.
The program prepares students for this evolving industry by providing a comprehensive learning experience, integrating design methodologies, business strategies, systems thinking, and industry exposure to create professionals who can manage design as a strategic asset in various domains.
The Master's in Furniture and Retail Space Design is a comprehensive two-year program designed to immerse students in the dynamic fields of furniture and retail design. Structured around a progressive learning approach—Knowing, Thinking, and Doing—this program builds a strong foundation in the theoretical and strategic aspects of retail environments and furniture design before transitioning into hands-on application and real-world problem-solving.
At its core, the program delves into the planning and business dynamics of retail from a design perspective. Students gain insights into consumer behavior, spatial planning, material innovation, and brand identity while also developing the ability to create compelling, functional, and commercially viable retail and furniture solutions. This is achieved through an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates design research, digital tools, sustainability, and emerging trends such as experiential retail and immersive technologies.
Graduates emerge as dynamic design professionals capable of shaping retail experiences and furniture solutions that align with contemporary market demands. Whether aspiring to work within global design firms, establish independent practices, or innovate within the retail and furniture sectors, this program offers the skills and industry connections necessary for success.
Candidate applying for the program should meet the following mandate requirements:
There will be separate seats for the candidates from Overseas/ Corporate/ company sponsored candidates.
The program spans two years (four semesters). During the first three semesters, students engage in coursework at the Institute, while the final semester is devoted to the M.Des. Final project.
M.Des. ( Master of Design, 2 Years)
Design Aptitude Test & Personal Interactions
GLS University, Faculty of Design will conduct their own entrance examination followed by an interview with portfolio.
https://admission.glsuniversity.ac.in/glsid/ApplicationForm.aspx