PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Bachelor of Science in Interior Design is a four-year program of study (128 credit hours), that includes design studios, technical, specialized courses, and a required internship. Following the two-year Basic Studies sequence, students complete two years of Major Studies, an intensive series of specialized courses and studios on the professional practice of interior design.
VISION STATEMENT
The interior design program is a recognized source of academic excellence, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration in design.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Interior Design Program is to prepare students for entry level positions in the interior design profession and to provide opportunities for students to explore the wide range of career options to fit their individual goals. A focus on professional practice including certification and licensure informs students of critical issues influencing practice in support of their career endeavors and promotes design leadership. Professional experiences including engagement with the DFW interior design community, a formalized internship structure, and exposure to a wide range of opportunities support the mission.
PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY
The program philosophy is reflected in our teaching and respect for diversity, not only of our students, but in support of the range of career paths they choose. Our core belief in legal recognition for professional practice is guided by the NCIDQ definition of “interior design.” We encourage and promote personal and professional growth and development through many experiences in the classroom, the design community, and volunteer opportunities. Students benefit from the wide range of support that is provided by the design community to assist, mentor, employ, and develop emerging talent through professional association involvement.
PROGRAM GOALS
The interior design program prepares graduates for professional careers by providing opportunities through which students learn the environmental, technical, aesthetic, and human-centered aspects of design. Students understand the impact of interior design decisions on the built environment and its occupants as they develop awareness of global issues, from sustainability to cultural and societal issues where design makes a difference. The program focuses on evidence-based design solutions and promotes interdisciplinary collaboration with related disciplines including architecture, landscape architecture, lighting design, community development, and others. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of design thinkers and leaders and to that purpose, provide experiences that reflect professional practices, collaboration, and expanding opportunities beyond the classroom.
MAJOR REQUIREMENTS
First and Second Year
- All entering students majoring in Interior Design are admitted into our Interior Design Basic Studies program.
- Interior Design Basic Studies, students complete 1st and 2nd year INTD/ARCH courses in the correct sequence and also complete their core curriculum. These courses must be completed before declaring major and enrolling in any 3000/4000 level ARCH/INTD courses.
- The Interior Design Program offers one freshman level course to gain exposure to the profession as an introductory class and to connect with other students in the program and to engage in program activities.
- The Interior Design Program offers two sophomore level courses to continue developing skills and knowledge of interior design practice; these courses allow students to connect with other students in the program and to engage in program activities.
- The Undergraduate Interior Design Program consists of a series of lectures and design studios that must be taken sequentially. The program will take a minimum of 8 semesters (4 years) to complete for both new freshmen and transfer students.
- The course sequencing for both the design and lecture courses has been designed to help students successfully complete the program. The course sequencing is strictly enforced.