Interior Architecture is a purposeful, three-dimensional response to a client’s environmental requirements. Our Bachelor of Fine Arts program seeks to balance the subjective with the objective demands of professional practice, infusing academic concerns with faculty who are concurrently involved with the profession. The Interior Architecture student manipulates interior space, furniture and finishes to serve functional requirements and conceptual/artistic ends. The student is cognizant of building systems (structural, mechanical, life-safety, etc.) and modes of professional practice. Our Interior Architecture program focuses almost exclusively on non-residential interior spatial solutions. Following our rigorous, CIDA-Accredited program, including a mandatory internship, graduates join firms as active team members working on a variety of project typologies. Following two years of professional experience, graduates are qualified to undertake the National Council for Interior Design Accreditation (NCIDQ) exam, leading to licensed/titled status.

Upon successful completion of this program, students should be able to:

• work through the critical phases of the design process, as established and required within professional interior architecture practice;
• participate as an entry-level professional within the architecture and design community, with a competent level of creative, intellectual, and technical skills as required by CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation);
• demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the built environment and its physiological, psychological, and social effects on the user, to assure that health, life safety, welfare, and sustainability concerns are incorporated;
• have an understanding of design tools (design concept, circulation patterns, overall atmosphere, materials, lighting) that enhance the built environment and support the client’s intention; and
• be qualified, with the addition of 2 years professional experience, to sit for the NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) exam.

A grade of “C” or better is required in all major coursework, and a CGPA of 3.0 or higher is required in the major for BFA candidates.

For students who have already earned a Bachelors degree in another field, the Second Bachelor of Arts in Interior Architecture is available.

Program Requirements  

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