Interior Design students at portfolio review in the Knoll Showroom in Seattle.

Interior Design

OVERVIEW

The Interior Design program offered at the School of Design and Construction prepares graduates to enter professional practice and make meaningful contributions from day one. Along the way, you will be immersed in an experiential based curriculum featuring the design studio.  This collaborative and creative environment seeks to understand what makes great design and how to create it. Supportive coursework provides a broad foundation of design and construction along with disciplinary focus in materials, lighting, history, practices, and theory.

You will learn on your feet, with opportunities for travel and study tours, community engagement, job shadows and internships. Unique to Interior Design is the Senior Experience: offerings include  study abroad in Italy, professional internship, or community-based studio. Many interior design students choose to minor in one of the allied SDC disciplines, expanding their options for practice and graduate education.

The backbone of the interior design curriculum is the studio experience. First-year projects focus on applying the basic elements and principles of design in two and three dimensions. The second year focuses on residential and small commercial design along with technical courses such as materials. Upper-division courses continue to merge design with technical issues through a variety of projects ranging from residential spaces to large commercial projects.

Computer and hand skills are threaded throughout the curriculum. Design studios allow students to receive individualized hands-on training. Computer-aided design is an integral part of the course work. AutoCAD, Revit and other digital programs provide a strong graphics base. An up-to-date materials resource library provides students with samples for project work and information on current material technology and performance.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates of the Interior Design program are educated to:

  • Analyze client’s needs, goals, and life safety requirements.
  • Integrate findings with knowledge of interior design.
  • Formulate preliminary design concepts that are aesthetic, appropriate, functional, and in accordance with codes and standards.
  • Develop and present final design recommendations through appropriate presentation media.
  • Prepare working drawings and specifications for interior detailing, fixtures, and furnishings in compliance with accessibility guidelines and applicable codes.
  • Collaborate with professional services of other licensed practitioners in the technical areas of design as required for regulatory approval.
  • Prepare and administer bids and contract documents as the client’s agent.
  • Review and evaluate design solutions during implementation and upon completion.

There are a variety of career prep services offered through the Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture’s Internships and Career Services office. Involvement with the Interior Design Club provides opportunities to engage in community service projects, help with school functions, and participate in national conferences and events.

NCIDQ PASS RATES (CIDA PROGRAMS)

The NCIDQ Examination is founded on education and enhanced by experience. NCIDQ Certification assures interior designers are competent to meet industry standards not only for aesthetics but also for public health, safety and welfare. Washington State University’s pass rate is consistently higher than national averages. Go to NCIDQ to learn more.

ACCREDITATION

The BA degree is accredited by the Council of Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).

SCHEDULE OF STUDIES

ARTICULATION AGREEMENTS

The interior design program at WSU has articulation transfer agreements with the following colleges:

QUESTIONS?

RESOURCES

The Intelligent.com “Best colleges in Washington” guide provides information such as top colleges and universities, available financial support, and future employment opportunities to further assist students in making the right decision for their future.

Interior Design Accreditation