Academics

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Check out the variety of degree programs, see what you'll learn in our well-rounded education programs.

Design – Programs & Curriculum

  • Interior Design — Associate of Specialized Technology

    • Interior Designers deal with the use of interior space to create stimulating and functional areas for work and play.

      Interior designers prepare drawings, select fabrics and accessories, develop budgets, and write specifications. They design window treatments, order furniture, specify lighting and other architectural details, and assist in planning additions and renovations to existing structures as well as new construction.

      The Interior Design Program prepares students for diverse entry-level positions in computer-aided drafting, space planning, freelance design, kitchen and bath design, direct marketing, and assisting designers in both residential and commercial design companies.

      The classroom is used to simulate workplace conditions and develop proficiency with the tools and techniques of the Interior Design field. Coursework builds on traditional skills and demonstrates their application in future technology, such as computerized planning and drafting. Since employers today place emphasis on communication literacy, students also take courses to develop skills in writing and public speaking, psychology, history, and marketing to round out their education.

    • Total Credit Hours: 72
    • 6 quarters
  • Curriculum
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    • ID110 Architectural Drawing 

      This course is an introduction to the principles of design using drafting as a design tool. The course covers plan and elevation drawing as well as the use of standard architectural symbols. This course is a prerequisite for all design and technical courses.

      Prerequisites: None

    • ID120 Interior Design Fundamentals 

      This course introduces the philosophy, principles, and elements of design and decoration, with a practical application in residential design. Emphasis is placed on the identification and practice for skills required for interior designers to successfully practice.

      Prerequisites: None

    • ID130 Sketching for Interiors 

      An elemental approach to the tools and process of drawing and rendering interiors and exteriors. This course includes the application of line quality, value, proportion, and perspective in a variety of media.

      Prerequisites: None

    • ID210 Color Theory 

      This course is a combination of lecture and studio that introduces basic theories of color application in the interior design field. Students explore perception, color history, and the psychology of color.

      Prerequisites: None

    • ID220 Perspective Drawing 

      An advanced application of drafting and design skills. Coursework includes construction and preparation of a variety of architectural grids and perspective plotting and drawing.

      Prerequisites: ID 110 or an equivalent course in drafting (instructor approval)

    • ID230 Introduction of CAD 

      This course provides an introductory study of computer drafting and design. AutoCAD and Windows XP are used to create 2D working drawings for a residential design project, including floor plans, furniture and finish plans, and interior exterior elevations. Students learn how to generate drawing files to printer, plotters, and networked stations.

      Prerequisites: ID 110 or an equivalent course in drafting (instructor approval)

    • ID310 Space Planning 

      The studies of interior space planning with emphasis on concept, form, function, and code compliance. Attention is given to spatial problem solving and universal design concepts.

      Prerequisites: ID 110 or an equivalent course in drafting (instructor approval)

    • ID320 Rendering 

      Students will illustrate interiors and accessories as a means of communicating design concepts to both colleagues and clients. Special focus is placed on the perception of three-dimensional space, perspective and plan rendering, and experimentation with mixed media.

      Prerequisites: ID130, ID210, ID220

    • ID330 History of Architecture and Furniture I 

      This course covers the relationship of art and design in architecture and furniture from Egyptian through French/Spanish Renaissance periods.

      Prerequisites: None

    • ID340 Advanced CAD 

      An advanced application and study of AutoCAD and Windows NT. The student produces two-dimensional working and presentation drawings for a commercial project which includes site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, details, mechanical systems, and schedules.

      Prerequisites: ID230

    • ID410 Design Process 

      The process of design from programming and theory through finished presentation. Project development includes site analysis, schematic design, graphic thinking, and structural systems.

      Prerequisites: ID110, ID120, ID130, ID220, ID310, ID320

    • ID420 History of Architecture and Furniture II 

      This lecture course covers the relationship of act and design in architecture and furniture from 17th Century through the present.

      Prerequisites: ID330

    • ID430 Materials and Resources 

      A study of the materials used in residential and contract construction. Details of construction and finish techniques are explored, with emphasis on product specification and design application.

      Prerequisites: None

    • ID510 Residential Design 

      The advanced study of residential interior design and space planning with emphasis on kitchen and bath. Projects challenge students with the redesign of an interior residential space, preparation of complete specifications for changes, and creation of presentation boards.

      Prerequisites: Completion of Interior Design courses through fourth term.

    • ID520 Textiles and Design 

      This course introduces students to the design and construction of fibers and furnishings for residential and contract use. Emphasis is given to fabrics, wall coverings, floor coverings, and upholstery, as well as installation methods and fabrication of materials.

      Prerequisites: None

    • ID530 Lighting 

      This course provides an introduction to architectural illumination and concentrates on the use of light to enhance interior spaces. Topics include vision and perception, color, assessing quality of the visual environment, calculations, and a basic understanding of terms and equipment used in the lighting industry.

      Prerequisites: Completion of Interior Design courses through second term.

    • ID610 Contract Design 

      The application of contract design principles to a comprehensive project that includes the design, space planning, interior systems, and specification of materials and furnishings. Students make formal presentations of the contract design projects to a faculty review panel.

      Prerequisites: Completion of Interior Design courses through fifth term.

    • ID620 Design Studio 

      This independent program that allows the student to design and specify customized products and materials for a Contract Design project. Individual design projects vary, but can include furnishings, wall coverings, tile design, and a promotional graphics package as used in a contract facility.

      Prerequisites: None

    • ID630 Design Business Pocedures 

      The study and application of business procedures used by the interior design profession. Attention is given to budgeting, researching new products, and specifying and ordering for clients. The student writes purchase orders, drafts contracts, and develops a budget for the Contract Design project using library resources and the Internet as research tools.

      Prerequisites: None

    • ID660 Senior Seminar 

      This course prepares students for the transition from student to design professional. Career options are explored, and students set goals for individual career paths. Emphasis is placed on developing and presenting a portfolio that is targeted to the job search. Students develop a job search strategy with the assistance of the Graduate Services Department. Emphasis is placed on developing interview techniques, and preparing résumés and portfolios. Career paths and options are explored in depth through lecture, guest speakers, and research.

      Prerequisites: None

    • PA160 Communications I 

      Students are introduced to a wide spectrum of communication tools that include creative and expository writing, research, and peer evaluations. Class work will use these tools to facilitate such areas as time management, goal setting, critical thinking, and self esteem.

      Prerequisites: None

    • PA260 Public Speaking 

      An introduction to the various strategies for overcoming communication apprehension and gaining confidence for effective public speaking is covered in this course. The skills learned are applied in other courses for client presentations and demonstrations.

      Prerequisites: None

    • PA460 Marketing 

      Marketing is designed as an overview and introductory course to the marketing field and for all Art Institute majors to work in diverse teams. As a class, we will explore the meaning of marketing in a free market economy, environmental influences, and tracking trends for decision making. We will learn marketing fundamentals, market research, consumer behavior, market segmentation, and marketing mix decision variables (produce, price, placement, promotion). We will broaden your thoughts on marketing to appreciate the significant role it will play in your professional lives, and with good practice, to be able to prepare a marketing plan.

      Prerequisites: None

    • PA560 Psychology 

      This survey course covers the principles of traditional psychology that include perception, motivation, intelligence, memory, abnormal psychology, and personality.

      Prerequisites: None

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