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We are introducing A to Z
Professional Courses
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING
Aeronautical
Engineering plays an important role in designing, manufacturing and
testing of aero planes. Aeronautical Engineering is hundred percent
technical course and needs more attention than other traditional
courses.
The Pilot and Aeronautical Engineer
are the two wings of a plane. Due to economic liberalizations, private
sector participation has been increased in aviation sector. Number of
private agencies are operating domestic and international services.
Hence, the demand of aero planes increased both in the country and
abroad simultaneously. More aeronautical engineers are wanting for
private and government agencies.
ABOUT COURSE:
Aeronautical
Engineering is a tough and complex subject. To prepare a design or to
make a aero plane is a prolonged process and it has so many months even
years also. So aeronautical engineer have very much patience. His job is
more challenging and responsible.
ELIGIBILITY:
Some major
institutions are offering this course. In this course there are
under-graduate and graduate courses that passed 10+2 or intermediate
with Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. I I Ts are conducting Joint
Entrance Test (JEE) for the course in the month of May every year. These
institutions offers under-graduate engineering courses in B. E.
Aeronautics. I I Ts offers P. G., M.Tech. and Ph. D. programmes in these
course. Madras I I T offers three years P G programme in Aeronautical
Engineering.
There is also
an alternative way to get aeronautical engineering degree. Aeronautical
Society of India recognized by Ministry of Education, conducts
membership examination for this course. One can become aeronautic
engineer by successfully completing this membership. This course is
equivalent to B. Tech (Aeronautical Engineering). This membership exam
has three parts i.e. student examination, Section-A, and Section-B.
X-class students are also eligible for this course. All major
institutions in India and abroad are members of the society. So there
are tremendous chances for practical training.
OPPORTUNITIES:
All major
companies in India and abroad are waiting for Aeronautical Engineers.
Hence, there is much demand for them. There are many opportunities for
Aeronautical Engineers in Air Craft, Aero Space Industries. There is
also scope for research in this field. These people also get jobs in
Indian Government Institutions like D R D O, H A L, N A L etc.
Some of
the major institutions offers these course in our country.
++ I I
Ts in Madras, Bombay, Kanpur, Kharagpur.
++
Punjab Engineering College in Chandigarh.
++
Aeronautical Society of India, New Delhi.
Acting
Acting is a profession that calls out to a person.
Stories of the hardships and struggles an acting career entails can
never dampen the enthusiasm of the true actor. Acting is not just an
intensely competitive field; it is the profession in which the demand is
really insignificant in proportion to the supply. Luck of all kinds
plays a major role in establishing a person in this profession.
Eligibility:
Outstanding acting talent with a ‘stage’ personality
is a natural pre-requisite. Other important attributes are good health,
an iron constitution, innate grace, coordinated movements with a good
sense of rhythm preferably an aptitude for dancing and singing, a good,
well-modulated voice with proper diction and intonation.
Courses:
Complete exposure, training and education in acting
are possible through degree/diploma courses in drama/acting available in
the country in many important universities and institutes. Educational
requirements for entry into these acting/drama courses could be after
passing matriculation (Class 10) or successful completion of plus two or
equivalent level of education or even graduation, in some cases (such as
the National School of drama). A good command over language is
essential.
Full time acting/drama courses normally last two to
three years. Admission through audition, interview and aptitude testing.
Previous participation in drama productions at the school/college level
and / or with amateur organized groups is a prerequisite / preferred
The entrance test may include a written component to
assess the applicant’s knowledge and awareness of the world of theatre,
films, television, as well as his/her power of expression in a language.
The practical component of the aptitude test could include an oral
analysis of plays provided, enactment of dramatic passages, display of
skill in dancing, singing, playing of instruments, yoga, etc.
During the course students are trained in voice
production, diction, movement, mime, verse speaking, play analysis and
play construction techniques for the various media, acting, stagecraft,
light designing and set designing. Students are trained in the art of
makeup and learn about different types of drama and acting techniques. A
full-time course should provide a good blend of theory and practical
training.
Institutions
·
National school of drama, bahawalpur house,
Bhagwandas Road, New Delhi-110001.
·
ImagoActing School, Sudhan Bhavan Firstfloor,
37 Saidulajab Village, Opp CISf Camp, Saket, Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, New
Delhi-110030.
·
Ashok Kumar Academy, 47 Union Park, Chembur,
Mumbai-400071.
Prospects
Prospects are not very bright except for the
exceptionally talented and lucky few. The sudden invasion of the
satellite television network, however, has widened opportunities
significantly. Our film industry is also a very big one. Recently there
has been a noticeable revival of interest in theatre too.
Many of our talented actors/actress who could or cold
not become big names have diversified from acting to doing compering for
show, contests, awards ceremonies, anchoring and hosting television
shows and film-oriented entertainment programes as well as anchoring
even educational programes and have been highly successful and popular.
Advertising
Advertising aims to turn the good opinion of a target
prospect towards a specific product such as television, shaving cream,
detergent, or service such as airline, banking, or a film, may be even a
political party. In the absence of competition this task would be very
easy and convenient. In reality this is just not the case. At the very
point of time when one advertising agency is trying to capture the
attention of its target audience to its product, there are many such
agencies trying the same thing with the same audience and a similar
product. In advertising, therefore, beating the competition is the
ongoing challenge.
Advertisement is the business of communicating a
message to an audience through the media-newspapers, magazines, radio,
television, hoardings in public places, etc. not only the corporate
sector with its vast range of products and services but the government
also requires advertising to convey messages of the right social values,
rights and duties, and the different social welfare schemes. Television
companies, hotels, shops and industries-all make use of advertisements
to reach the masses. Advertising is, thus, one of the processes of mass
communication, journalism and public relations being the other two. It
forms the basis of marketing.
Qualifications:
Some personality traits are essential for all
advertising personal whether on the executive or the creative side. A
creative visual imagination, good powers of observation, insight into
the interest of people from all works of life, the ability to interact
with people, to work as part of a team, a practical temperament,
patience and perseverance, and mental and physical toughness to be able
to withstand high pressure and criticism.
Market and media researchers should have an
analytical and logical brain.
Visualizers should possess exceptional artistic
ability too. Copywriters should be able convey a lot with the minimum of
words and so should possess a strong feeling for words.
Courses:
Executive department: For jobs on the executive side
of an advertising agency diploma/degree holders in mass
communication/advertising/social communication are found suitable. These
courses are usually of one year or two years, duration and can be taken
up only after graduation in any discipline. In these courses students
are taught marketing, media planning, graphics, and group campaigns with
all other aspects of advertising and public relations.
¨
MBAs
with specialization in marketing also join the executive side. MBA
courses can be taken up after graduation. They are usually of two years
duration.
¨
Postgraduates in statistics are suited for
market research (quantitative) while postgraduates in sociology and
psychology are preferred for qualitative market research.
¨
Copywriters may be diploma holders in
advertising. However, those who have a flair for words and can find the
phrase or work which sums up other’s long-winded explanations should
approach advertising agencies to appear for copywriting test.
¨
MBA programes are offered by many universities
in the country as well as by the premier institutes like the Indian
institutes of Management, Jammalal Bajaj Institute of Management
(Mumbai), S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research, T.A Pai
Management Institute ( TAPMI), IISWBM, Kolkata, to name a few.
Institutions:
1)
Indian Institute of Mass Communication, New
Delhi 110067
2)
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Institutes in Major
cities across the center.
Air hostess or cabin crew
The air hostess and flight steward or cabin crew are
the first people to welcome passengers aboard an aircraft. They welcome
and greet every passenger. They help them to supervise their seating
arrangements and help them in arranging their hand baggage in the proper
manner. Once all the passengers have come in they set about ensuring the
safety belt arrangements and demonstrate the use of emergency equipment.
They make the necessary announcements over the public address system.
Their duties and responsibilities start much before the arrival of the
passengers. Before their arrival, they have to make the necessary
arrangements, for the comfort of the passengers by checking that
blankets, pillows, magazines, newspapers, etc., are in good order in
their proper places.
Air hostesses and flight stewards have to be on duty
throughout the duration of the flight looking after passengers in
general and taking special care of air-sick travelers, sick children and
babies; and also the elderly or very young who are traveling alone. They
provide first aid should the situation arise. They serve meals to
passengers and crew and after the meal clear the dishes and check again
that all passengers have been served all the items. they work
continuously and efficiently during the flight in the confined space of
the cabin with good humour.
Depending on the routes they fly, cabin crew may get
to do a lot of sightseeing; the longer the route the higher are the
chances of sightseeing as crews often change planes at “slip points” or
stop-overs. At these times they stay at luxury hotels at the airlines
expense.
Eligibility:
Common sense, a sense of responsibility, ability to
handle crisis, initiative, helpful, friendly nature, physical stamina
and the capacity to work with speed and efficiency, systematic approach,
attractive appearance, a well modulated pleasant voice, and a
proportionate figure with good posture and baring are important traits
for cabin crew.
Course:
Airlines recruit cabin crew (air hostesses/flight
stewards) on the basis of certain eligibility criteria:
·
Age: below 25 years
·
Height: Minimum height should be 154.5-157.5
cm (Barefeet) for air hostess and 170-180 cms for flight steward
·
Weight: proportionate to height as per the
company’s standards
· Status (marital): Unmarried
·
Vision: Preferably normal eyesight without
glasses; or minimum uncorrected vision (distant) should be 6/24 in each
eye.
·
Educational: Graduate degree from a recognized university, or Plus Two
/equivalent with 3-year diploma in Hotel
Management and Catering from a recognized instituted.
·
Knowledge of the national language and at
least one international language (English, usually) is essential.
·
The application should be physically fit with
a pleasing personality and clear complexion.
After completing the initial screening of
applications private airlines company may invitee them for a written
examination, usually of the objective type (multiple chose). Those who
qualify in the written examination have to appear for a group discussion
followed by a personal interview of successful candidates. Knowledge of
the national languages (or an Indian language) and English are
essential. The national airlines usually invite specialized cadres is
through all-India competitive written examinations. The written
examinations are followed by interviews of successful candidates by the
respective services boards. The recruitment advertisements appear in
prominent national dailies as also in Employment News / Rozgar Samachar.
Prospects:
Officers in the apex financial institutions may be
posted anywhere in India. High remunerations with generous perquisites
and residential accommodations with generous perquisites and residential
accommodation in prize localities are among the many facilities provided
by these organizations.
Prospects of promotion are bright and after five to
seven years of experience these officers are much sought after by
foreign banks and various financial companies.
Architecture
The challenge of architecture is to produce a
practical and an artistically pleasing design within a given budget. It
is an essential service for all. Architects design and supervise the
construction of various types of buildings, keeping in view the primary
considerations of stability, utility and beauty.
Qualifications:
Good health with good eyesight, keen observation;
rational and pragmatic approach, creativity and originality, analytical
and mathematic ability, dexterity, ( in drawing and sketching)
proficiency in geometrical modeling, keen desire to update knowledge of
latest developments in structural techniques and materials, good
understanding of legal and financial matters, ability to issue clear
instructions and explanations to teammates, clients and contractors,
good perception of social and psychological attitudes, and an
authoritative personality.
Course
The training period of an architect is five years.
Architecture is taught through diploma or degree courses in the
different colleges/schools of architecture throughout the country.
Admission to the architecture courses is on the basis of an admission
test to evaluate a candidate’s aptitude in physics, chemistry and
mathematics as well proficiency in drawing. The minimum educational
qualification to appear for this admission test is successful completion
of plus two or equivalent level of education. Selection to the Bachelor
of Architecture (B.Arch.) program is based on performance in the
admission test, merit at class XII examinations, participation in co
curricular activities and interview. Most of the courses prefer
applications in the age group of 16-21 years.
Subjects in the architecture course include history
of architecture, practical mathematics, design and construction, town
planning, economics, some sociology, environmental science, and
professional practice. Computers are an important part of the training
in architecture.
Further specialization in this field can be in
industrial design, urban design, landscape architecture, town planning /
urban planning, transports planning etc. these courses are open to B.
Arch. Degree/diploma holders.
Institutions:
·
Sir. J.J. college of Architecture, Dr.
D.N.Road, Fort, Mumbai-400001.
·
Indian Institute of Technology,
Roorkee-247667.
Prospects
Architects can work in different settings in private
practice, in the town planning departments of local authorities
(municipalities, corporations, housing boards), in government
departments (public works), railways, defense, insurance etc. They can
start consultancy of his own also.
Beautician
This profession offers
excellent scope for entrepreneurship. Beauticians may practice their
skills in skin care, hair care, hair dressing, cosmetology, etc. all at
the same time, or specialize in one of these areas. Eventually, they can
evolve their own formulations for skin care, hair care, etc. and market
them to their clients.
Earning a good reputation
from satisfied clients is very important in this profession. Beauticians
may start as employees in a big beauty establishment before deciding to
branch out on their own.
Beauticians give treatment
ranging from simple make-up and facial, to massage; skin treatment such
as open pores, anti-wrinkle; electric depilation; manicure; pedicure;
hair styling, perming, colouring, treatment of hair problems. They also
advise clients on the use of the right type of cosmetics suited to
specific skin types and complexions, weather conditions, etc. and can
help them to select the right hair style for their hair texture and
lifestyle. Beauticians can help customers to decide on the right type of
beauty treatment in the long term.
Beauticians should look
fresh and well groomed always even though their work keeps them on their
feet the whole day,
Personality Traits
Liking for people, good
health, stamina, good humor, helpful nature, friendliness, confident
manner, tact, persuasive attitude, courtesy, imagination, systematic
approach, cool, dry hands, an attractive well-groomed appearance, some
artistic ability, dexterity and an unruffled manner help.
Courses
Polytechnics conduct
diploma courses in beauty culture and hair dressing for students who
have completed plus two or equivalent examinations successfully. These
courses vary in duration from six months to two months. The longer
duration courses are more comprehensive.
Established beauticians of
national and international repute also conduct training programs which
are well recognized in the profession.
Fluency in English is a
basic requirement for all these programs. To succeed, a beautician
should be able to speak well. Knowledge of the local language is also
helpful. A foreign language is a great help in the bigger establishments
attached to luxury hotels. Knowledge of elementary science is an asset.
The courses are divided
between theory (anatomy, physiology, hygiene, and some chemistry, nature
of hair, hair dressing, salon organization, and electrical treatment)
and the practical work of giving facials, make-up, different types of
massage, tinting and bleaching of hair, etc. The best professional
training in this field is available in the metropolitan and major cities
in the country. After initial training many interested individuals go
abroad for further training.
Institutions
·
Polytechnic for
Women, A-3, South Extension-1, Ring Road, New Delhi-110049.
·
Akbar Peerbhoy Girls
Polytechnic, 92, Dr. D.N. Road, Fort, Mumbai-400001.
·
Many regional
vocational training institutes also offer similar courses.
[Listing is indicative, not exhaustive].
Prospectus
The beauty business is
growing in volume at a very fast pace. While many beauty specialists
start off with a big establishment before branching out, many prefer to
start off on their own and build their own clientele
Knowledge of equipment and
techniques has to be updated on an ongoing basis. Formulation of
specialized beauty products, treatment packages, their manufacture and
marketing have become important extensions of the beautician's
profession in which some have been noticeably successful.
The profession is open to
men and women alike. Although small, the segment of grooming specialists
for men is growing very fast.
Good grooming being an
essential aspect of an attractive personality, beauty/grooming
specialists today constitute a much sought after breed of professionals.
Beauticians command very high fees for their specialized professional
services and continue to be fully booked up. Smaller towns are today
proud of their own beauty salons as well.
Biotechnology
Biotechnology finds
application, in the pharmaceutical industry, chemical industry and
agriculture. The use and application of biotechnology span a wide range
of activities from developing new varieties of seeds to improving
livestock breeds, from creating neem-based pesticides to high-yielding
tomato seeds, from little fish that clean up distillery effluents and
earthworms that eat away at sewage to industrial enzymes that hasten the
production processes. Biotechnology finds application in the textile
industry too such as when the stone-wash effect in jeans is produced by
using enzymes, whereas in the food processing industry enzymes are used
for tenderizing meat and for improving the extraction of juice from
fruits by rupturing cell walls.
The nature of work in the
field of biotechnology is essentially scientific and research-oriented
whether in research establishments run by government funds or in the R&D
cells of the corporate sector.
Eligibility
Well above average
intelligence, ability to concentrate for long hours, an inquiring mind,
imagination, capacity for original thought, perseverance, interest in
acquiring knowledge beyond immediate requirement, organizing ability,
ability for team work, methodical, practical approach to scientific
problems, resourcefulness, and ability and willingness to get to the
bottom of a problem.
Training
Specialized training in
biotechnology may commence after successfully completing plus two or
equivalent examinations (in the science stream - physics, chemistry,
mathematics, biology) only at some of the Indian Institutes of
Technology, at Anna University, Chennai, Vellore Institute of
Technology, Vellore and a few other institutions in the country. These
are typically 4-year B. E. / B. Tech. courses. Admission is through an
engineering entrance test.
Admission to IIT programs
is based on performance of the candidates in the Joint Entrance
Examination (JEE) organised by all HTs. In this examination candidates'
knowledge of physics, chemistry and mathematics of the level of plus two
or equivalent is evaluated.
In the general way the
study of biotechnology in the universities is taken up after completion
of graduation, although many universities have also started offering
biotechnology as a subject during the B.Sc. program. Eligibility for
joining the master's degree biotechnology programs in the universities
is a graduate degree in the biological/physical/agricultural/veterinary
science or in engineering/medicine or forestry/ fisheries, with
aggregates of at least 55 per cent in the qualifying examination.
Generally admission to the postgraduate courses in biotechnology also
requires getting selected in an entrance examination.
Institutions
Combined Biotechnology
Entrance Examination is conducted by JTNU for admission to postgraduate
program in Biotechnology.
·
University of
Allahabad, Allahabad-211002
·
Banaras Hindu
University, Varanasi-221005
·
University of
Hyderabad, P O Central University, Hyderabad-500046
·
Jawaharlal Nehru
University, New Delhi-110067
Prospects
Post graduates and PhD’s
can get jobs in pharmaceutical companies, in the chemical, agriculture
and allied industries. They can get placements in government and private
research laboratories also. They offer the best remuneration packages.
The biotech business is growing at an accelerated rate. So prospects of
a career in this field are expectedly brightly.
Company Secretary
A Company Secretary's role
starts from the very moment when the idea of formation of a Company is
conceived. Although the responsibilities of a Company Secretary (CS) may
vary from company to company the knowledge and training acquired by
company secretaries make them versatile to carry out various functions
in Finance, Accounts, Legal Administration and Personnel areas in
addition to their own secretarial duties and responsibilities. A Company
Secretary is recognized as one of the principal officers of the company
by various enactments. Company secretaries, thus occupy a pivotal and
versatile position in companies. Companies having a paid up share
capital of above Rs. 50 lakhs or more are statutorily required to
appoint a whole-time CS.
Qualifications
Administrative ability,
common sense and good judgement, legal aptitude, numerical ability,
tact, discretion, interest in current affairs', brevity and clarity in
expression, confidential and assured manner and being systematic are
useful traits for an aspiring company secretary.
Course & Training
Professional studies
towards becoming a company secretary can commence right after completion
of the plus two level of education through the foundation course.
[Admission is open throughout the year by making an application in the
prescribed Form FC-1 together with documentary evidence in support of
date of birth and educational qualification]. The duration of the
Foundation course is 8 months, excluding the months of admission and the
examination. The Foundation course covers these subjects: English and
Business Communication (FCEBC); Basic Economics and Business Environment
(FCBE-(BE); Financial Accounting (FCFA); Elements of Business
Laws and Management (FCEBLM) and Information Systems and Quantitative
Techniques (FC1SQT). Foundation course students are required to pass the
Foundation examination within 3 years from the date of their admission.
Candidates who have passed the Foundation examination or are eligible
for exemption there from and are not less than 17 years of age may seek
registration as a student for the Intermediate course.
Graduates in any discipline
excluding Fine Arts; those who hold a degree or master's degree in
Corporate Secretarship or Commerce; those who have a pass in the Final
examination of the Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India (ICWAI)
or the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. (ICAI) or any other
Accountancy Institution in India or abroad recognized as equivalent
thereto by the Council may also enroll themselves in the Company
Secretarship Intermediate Course.
A candidate, who has passed
the Foundation Course or is exempted there from, is accepted for
registration for Intermediate course. A registered student is required
to complete the Intermediate and the Final examination within the
registration period.
Candidates for the
Foundation, Intermediate and Final Examinations are required to undergo
compulsory postal tuition imparted by the Institute and are allowed to
appear in the examination only on successful completion thereof. Under
the compulsory coaching scheme, the students are provided with complete
study material and test papers for various subjects.
The CS course is complete
after students have undergone 16 months practical and modular training
in order to apprise the students with the functioning of the Corporate
Sector and to create a cadre of professional Company Secretaries having
a sound theoretical base and practical exposure to serve trade and
industry effectively, both as a part of the management team as well as
independent practicing professionals.
After qualifying in the
Final examination and undergoing practical training, a CS is eligible to
be admitted as an Associate Member and can use the letters "ACS" after
his/her name to indicate that he/she is an Associate.
The Institute of Chartered
Secretaries and Administrators (ICSA), with its headquarters and U.K.
Divisional Office at 16, Park Crescent, London, has taken up the
implementation of the process of registration of ICSI members for the
ICSA examinations.
Institutions
·
The Institute of
Company Secretaries of India, 'ICSI House', 22 Institutional Area, Lodi
Road, New Dclhi-110003.
·
Western India
Regional Office of the ICSI, No. 13, Jolly Maker Chambers, No. II (1st
Floor), Nariman Point, Mumbai- 400021.
·
Southern India
Regional Office of the ICSI, New No, 9 (Old No. 4), Wheatcrofts Road,
Nungambakkam, Chennai-600034.
Placements
Qualified company
secretaries can find well-paid positions in the private sector and
public corporate sector, banks and financial institutions, stock
exchanges, company law boards, government departments. They can start
private consultancy for their own.
Dietician
A dietician applies the
scientific principles of nutrition to the preparation of different kinds
of food for people enjoying good health and for those suffering from
disease. Cookery is only a small part of dietetics. In a hospital,
dieticians are responsible for providing therapeutic diets to patients,
especially for those for whom the diet is also a special part of the
treatment. Dieticians may also be put in charge of all the food
services in a hospital as dietician-catering officers.
In the processed food
industry a dietician works on the development and improvement of food
products and production methods.
Dieticians may be in charge
of catering in organizations of different types such as residential
schools, offices and so on.
Health foods being the
current craze, dieticians can work on different varieties of daily
meals, tasty snacks that are also nutritious. They can set up their own
health food store or run catering services. The top hotels prefer to
employ a dietician to plan out menus for different types of guests and
also to supervise the food production process.
Eligibility
Interest in sound diet, an
aptitude for science, organizing ability, ability for teamwork,
patience, a sense of responsibility, understanding of people of all
ages, backgrounds, temperaments and tastes, basic idea of the diet
pattern prevailing in different parts of the country among a
cross-section of society and the ability to express oneself lucidly
would be important for aspiring dieticians.
Courses
With a few exceptions,
dietetics is studied only after a bachelor's degree in any one of the
following disciplines: home science, medicine, science (with chemistry,
microbiology), hotel management and catering. Some universities offer
postgraduate diploma courses in dietetics. Subjects taught in dietetics
include chemistry, physics, nutrition and physiology.
Dietetics may be taken up
as a specialization in home science at the Master's degree level in many
universities in the country. Delhi University, University of
Mumbai/Madras also offer nutrition/health and nutrition as subjects at
the bachelor's degree level.
Institutions
Post-graduate diploma
course in Dietetics at:
·
SNDT Women's
University, Mumbai Faculty of Home
·
Science, Juhu
Campus, Sir Vithaldas Vidyavihar, Juhu Road, Santa Cruz (W),
Mumbai-400054
·
Sri Ramchandra
Medical College and Research Institute, Porur, Chennai-600116
Placements/Prospects
Dieticians find jobs in
hotels, hospitals, in the processed food industry, and in teaching. The
prospects are good in all the fields except in teaching where opening
are comparatively restricted.
The most lucrative
prospects are in the field of private enterprise keeping in view the
present trend for health food. Residential schools, railways, and
airlines also employ dieticians to run and/or supervise their catering
services and look after their nutritional needs. Openings for the
trained dietician today are varied and the future looks even brighter.
Fashion
Fashion consciousness is at
its height now. The market, the print and the electronic media are all
devoting a great deal of attention and lots of money to the fashion
industry and fashion events. The industry has great potential for
growth, development and export.
The world of fashion offers
a variety of careers to choose from. Designing is one major career
option with various specializations to choose from.
Fashion communication is as
much as specialized profession as the other aspects of fashion. It
encompasses areas such as visual merchandising, styling, graphic design,
display and exhibit design, advertising and public relations, and
creative writing, specific to the fashion and lifestyle industry.
Fashion designers know how
to design garments and are aware of all the processes which go into the
assembling of a garment. They have to visualize the design and style of
a garment keeping in mind the material to be used, the occasion when it
will be worn, the technique of its construction and the scale in which
it is to be produced. Not all designers create original models or launch
a new line which shakes the fashion world. Most of them spend their time
and talent in translating famous couturiers' original ideas and adapting
old styles to suit the latest year's mood so as to produce clothes which
can be more commonly worn and more easily manufactured.
The designer's job always
involves a variety of tasks but it varies enormously according to the
size, type of the employing organization/firm. Few designers spend much
time actually creating and sketching brand new ideas, styles and trends.
The majority specialize in designs which are an amalgamation and
Courses/Training
Professional training in
fashion helps to develop one's ability and channelise creativity. Almost
all the polytechnics (government or private), especially those for
women, offer courses in fashion designing or dress designing or costume
designing. Many of them may offer accessory design courses. Most of
these courses are open to students after completion of the plus two or
equivalent level of education. Admission to these courses is usually on
the basis of an aptitude test evaluating flair for designing and
sketching, sense of perspective in two and three-dimensional space,
aesthetic sensitivity and skill in visualization.
Some polytechnics also
offer courses on garment merchandising and marketing for which drawing
skills are not important but numerical ability and analytical reasoning
skills are relevant.
The National Institute of
Fashion Technology (NIFT) has been set up as an autonomous body under
the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India at Hauz Khas, New Delhi.
NIFT is the premier educational institute in the country imparting
professional training to men and women aspiring for a career in
different areas of the fashion industry. It offers 4-year undergraduate
programs in Design with scope for specialization in Fashion & Apparel,
Fashion & Textile, Fashion & Lifestyle Accessories, Fashion
Communication and 4-year undergraduate programs in Fashion Technology.
At the higher level are the 2-year Post Graduate Programs in Fashion
Management and Fashion Technology.
Separate examinations are
conducted for admission to different programs. The entrance tests for
the fashion/ accessory design courses are administered with a view to
assessing the aptitude, ability, motivation, skill and maturity of the
candidate. The tests evaluate the candidate's proficiency in the English
language, numerical ability and reasoning skills. Part of the admission
test relates to the evaluation of the creative ability of the candidate
through drawings and sketches on different themes, or of certain objects
from different perspectives, colour sensitivity, etc.
The complete selection
process at NIFT includes Situation Test, Thematic Apperception Test,
Group Discussion and Interview following the written test. The idea is
to assess the personality of the candidate, his/her motivation and
interest in the world of fashion, perceptions of the fashion scene, etc.
Candidates may take along a portfolio of sketches/designs to demonstrate
ability and interest in designing.
The fashion design
curriculum covers all the processes of design from inspiration to the
final product. Students learn all about pattern making, garment
construction, grading and draping, fashion art, history of costumes and
textiles, and apparel fabric and textile science. They are also taught
presentation techniques, preparation of portfolios as an aspect of
creative marketing and how to organize fashion shows.
The accessory design
students learn about preparation of portfolio and presentation
techniques, coordination and export marketing in addition to design
methodology, materials and production processes. Once students complete
the course they may design, coordinate shows, organize displays and
marketing for different types of markets.
Some Industrial Training
Institutes (FTIs), vocational training institutes under Directorate of
Vocational Education & Training run by the government and private
vocational institutes also offer courses for training in fashion. An
ideal training institute should have good connections with industry so
that students may gain practical experience along with theoretical
training. It must offer an updated curriculum and adequate
infrastructure and regular industry interaction.
The faculty should have recent
industrial experience.
Institutions
Placements/Prospects
Increasingly India has
entered the field of haute couture on the international scene and Indian
designers are getting to display their creations in international
stores. Indian fashion designers are being approached by global chains
to create separate lines of clothing and accessories. The garment export
industry and the fashion outlets in the country are thriving. Designer
wear has come to stay and the demand is growing. There is a thriving
market not just for haute couture but also perfect, sports wear, leisure
wear and the ready-to-wear segment of the industry.
Fashion professionals are
either working on their own or they are attached to fashion houses or
garment export units, to the film industry, to theatre or to electronic
media. Many textile units in the country have launched their own fashion
lines and this has created many more jobs. The fashion industry is at a
stage when there are jobs coming up on a regular basis. There is an
ongoing demand for trained professionals but competition for the jobs is
fierce with innumerable aspirants for each job.
Flair is an important
quality for professionals in the fashion industry, whether it is in the
discipline of design or in marketing, fashion forecasting, organizing
and staging of shows, fashion coordination, communication or management.
Foreign Languages
Learning foreign languages
may be one way of giving full rein to a flair for languages or it may
lead to the rendering of certain specialized services which are highly
challenging and remunerative. Those who know foreign languages can
utilize their skills in several ways: in teaching, interpreting,
translating, tourism and in areas such as mass communication or customer
relationship management, Linguists can easily take up teaching as a
career. They can teach in schools, colleges/universities or in
institutions which impart training in one or more foreign languages.
Teaching offers a lot of scope for innovation and experimenting with
different techniques depending on the type of students
Translators are employed by
government organizations which have to deal with foreign government or
agencies in the discharge of their functions. Their employment may be
contractual or temporary in nature.
Industrial and commercial
organizations, research institutions and other organizations may require
translators to handle correspondence with foreign parties, to finalize
contracts and deals. The best and most lucrative prospect for
translators is to set up an agency with a group of linguists and handle
translating assignments in a variety of languages and subjects.
Freelancers may be attached to such agencies. Prospects are good for
such agencies and for freelancers in the commercial centers of the
country. Remunerations depend on the level of difficulty, intricacy,
urgency and specializations required for the translating assignment.
Interpreting
Knowledge of foreign
languages may offer opportunities for interpreting. Interpreting
requires a high degree of fluency and special skills to handle
conversations and discussions spontaneously without hesitation so as not
to interrupt the flow.
Interpreting has to be both
simultaneous and consecutive, that is, interpreters have to transmit the
meaning of a phrase in near-perfect style almost instantaneously, and
automatically; consecutive interpreting is only slightly less difficult.
The technique of interpreting can be perfected only if the inborn gift
is there.
Freelancing is also a good
option for interpreters and the prospects are best in the metropolitan
cities for those who have good professional contacts and credibility.
Skill in foreign languages
is an asset for professionals in the field of mass communication.
Foreign correspondents for the print and electronic media can be most
effective if they are proficient in the language of the country where
they are reporting from.
Qualifications
Flair for languages,
interest in people and an agile mind are basic traits for a career in
foreign languages. Awareness of social and cultural backgrounds of
foreign countries helps in the appreciation of the nuances of foreign
languages for effectiveness in all types of work.
Translators have to be
meticulous and should be able to concentrate for long periods. They
should also be able to get along with people especially for assignments
of a technical nature.
Interpreters at
international conferences need physical stamina, a cool temperament and
should preferably equip themselves with the background of the assignment
they are to cover.
Teaching languages requires
proficiency, patience and the ability to communicate with different age
groups.
Courses
Most of the prominent
universities in the country conduct diploma, degree or certificate
courses in many foreign languages, mostly the degree courses are open to
graduates in any discipline. The duration of the courses also varies
with a minimum period of six months allocated to the certificate
courses.
There are many foreign
language training institutes which offer specialized training in a
particular language at different levels. For example, German language is
taught at the Max Mueller Bhavans in various cities in the country.
French language classes are organized by the Alliance Francaise centres
in India. Italian language classes are held by the Italian
Consulate/Embassy/Cultural Centre in India. Similarly, you may find the
Russian cultural centre offering Russian language classes.
Those who have acquired the
graduate level of proficiency in foreign languages may go in for the
master’s program’s at selected universities. The CIEFL (Central
Institute of English and Foreign Languages) at Hyderabad conducts MA
(correspondence-cum-attendance) courses in various foreign languages.
JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru
University) School of Languages, Now Delhi offers a five-year integrated
MA program In foreign languages after plus two. Admission is on the
basis of an entrance test of the objective type. The areas of knowledge
tested are proficiency in English and overall general awareness.
Students could leave after completing the three-year BA (Hons.) program
in foreign languages or automatically become eligible for the two-year
MA program.
The Indian Institute of
Tourism and Travel Management, and Indian Institute of Foreign Trade,
New Delhi are also known to offer foreign language courses.
Institutions
·
Central Institute of
English and Foreign Languages, Hyderabad-500007
·
University of Delhi,
Department of Germanic and Romance Studies
Gemmology and Jewelry
Design
Gemmology is the science
dealing with the study of gemstones. Gemmologists identify gemstones,
sort them out, grade them and can advise on the various properties
regarding suitability of particular stones for setting in different
metals. Their work is essentially scientific and technical and requires
great skill.
Jewelry designers use their
artistic ability to create new designs for various types of clients and
markets. They may also design the jewelry according to specifications of
individual customers. They either work on their own or freelance.
Permanent employment may be with big export or designer houses or in
small exclusive set-ups.
Gemmologists and jewelry
designers with relevant qualification and experience may also be
involved in teaching and training.
Eligibility
Gemmologists need good
powers of observation, attention to detail, precision, ability to
concentrate, objective approach, ability to take responsibility and
ability to work on their own.
In addition to the
aforementioned traits, jewelry designers require artistic creativity,
imagination, aesthetic sense, colour sensitivity, interest in, and
awareness of, new ideas, understanding and appreciation of prevalent
tastes, customs, traditions, and trends in various strata of society and
in the different parts of the country and the world, the ability to
communicate ideas to clients /customers and artisans/ workers equally
well, the ability to take criticism and willingness to lower one's
artistic standards occasionally in the interests of economic necessity
or technical workmanship.
Courses
The main objective of the
courses in gemmology is to impart the lotost technical know-how with
respect to gem cutting, sorting, grading, valuation and identification
of gemstones- These courses, which are usually of short duration of
three to eight months, provide up-to-date knowledge of scientific
developments in the field to students who can become skilled artisans.
The basic educational qualification required to join such courses is a
pass in the Secondary School Examination.
Jewelry design courses
teach the rudiments of designing, different stone settings, various
kinds of finish to be given to jewelry, techniques of fabrication, etc.
The students are trained to design on paper giving complete details of
size and weight of stones, the size of the final product, the weight in
metal, etc.
Institutes
·
Gemmological
Institute of India, 29, Gurukul Chambers, 187-1S9 Mumbadevi Road,
Mumbai-400002.
·
Indian Institute of
Gems & Jewelry, Bagmal Laxmichand Farikh Campus, MIDC, Andheri E,
Mumbai-400069
a.
Advance Course in
Jewelry Design-30 sessions after HSC/12"1 and completion of
basic design course from a reputed institution.
b.
Introduction to
Basic jewelry Making-80 sessions after SSC/10lh
c.
Introduction to
Gemmology-75 sessions after HSC/12th
d.
Computer Aided
Jewelry Design & Manufacturing-60 sessions after SSC/10th
·
Department of
Geology, St. Xavier's College, Mumbai-400001 Diploma in Gemmology,
jewelry designing and diamond grading
·
Jasani Department of
Jewelry Design & Manufacture, 3rd floor P.V. Polytechnic, S.N.D.T.
Women's University, Juhu Campus, Santa Cruz W, Mumbai-400049 Diploma in
Jewelry Design and Manufacture
·
Indian Diamond
Institute, Katargam, GIDC, Sumul Dairy Road, Surat- 395008
Prospects
Government has realized the
vast potential for growth in gem and jewelry exports. The gem and
jewelry industry is totally employment-oriented and there are openings
for various categories of jobs. Jewelers' firms offer both artisan's
jobs as well as designer's.
Establishing a jewelry shop
is possible for those with adequate capital. Jewelry designers may
decide to freelance for both Indian and global markets.
India’s gems and jewelry
exports are slated to touch $10 billion in 2003 after scaling a new high
of $ 9 billion already. India is the largest processor of diamonds in
the world and almost 95% of Argyle diamonds are processed in India.
World retail majors like
Wal-Mart, Scars and Ratners have started sourcing part of their jewelry
requirements from Indian manufacturers. The domestic potential to export
jewelry has not been fully realized as the jewelers in the small and
medium sector find it difficult to export and access international
markets. Newly emerging markets like Latin America and Africa hold good
promise for the domestic jewelry exporters.
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