The Interior Design program provides competency-based training in research techniques, problem solving, proficiencies and presentation skills required to be a successful professional interior designer. The program focuses on creativity and critical thinking.

Students of this program learn the basics of interior design, including the principles and elements of design, blueprint reading, building technology, color theory, materials, fabrics, history of furniture and architecture, lighting technologies, drawing for interiors and business law for interiors, and they gain practical experience. Students build professional portfolios throughout the program. Students will round off their educational experience by completing 17 credits of general education courses in five areas of study including mathematics, natural and social sciences, English and communications.

Students completing the degree are eligible to take the national exam to become a licensed interior designer after appropriate completion of work experience as required by the National Council of Interior Design Qualifications.

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:
1.    Analyze the clients’ needs, goals, and life and safety requirements.
2.    Integrate findings with knowledge of interior design.
3.    Formulate preliminary design concepts that are appropriate, functional, and aesthetic.
4.    Develop and present final design recommendations through appropriate presentation media.
5.    Prepare working drawings and specifications of non-load-bearing interior construction, materials, finishes, space planning, furnishings, fixtures, and equipment.
6.    Collaborate with professional services of other licensed practitioners in the technical areas of mechanical, electrical, and load-bearing design as required for regulatory approval.
7.    Prepare and administer dibs and contract documents as the clients’ agent.
8.    Review and evaluate design solutions during implementation and upon completion of projects.
9.    Improve the quality of life, increase productivity, and protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
10.    Develop an appropriate budget for the client.

Employment opportunities upon successful completion of the Interior Design Associate of Applied Science Degree are residential designers, commercial designers, independent designer, retail designer, project coordinator, showroom manager, visual merchandiser, sales representative, retail owner or manager just to list a few of the hundreds of possibilities in the field of design. Students completing the degree will be eligible to take the national exam to become a licensed interior designer after appropriate completion of work experience as required by the National Council of Interior Design Qualifications [NCIDQ].
Beginning salaries for an entry-level designer range from $24,000-$32,000 and an experienced designer can expect to earn in the range of $75,000-$125,000 annually.