Interior Architecture

The Bachelor of Interior Architecture at the University of South Australia offers students an innovative and comprehensive education in the fundamental principles and practices of interior design and spatial planning. This program is designed to equip students with the skills needed to transform interior spaces that are functional, sustainable, and aesthetically compelling. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics including design theory, technical skills, materiality, lighting, and environmental sustainability, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the interior architecture industry.

The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, providing students with opportunities to work on real-world projects and collaborate with industry professionals. Emphasis is placed on developing creative problem-solving abilities, technical proficiency, and an understanding of human-centered design principles. Students learn how to produce detailed drawings, 3D models, and visual presentations that communicate their design ideas effectively. The program also addresses the importance of sustainable design practices, encouraging students to consider ecological impacts and energy efficiency in their projects.

In addition to technical skills, students gain critical understanding of cultural, social, and historical contexts that influence interior architectural design. They undertake diverse projects that challenge them to innovate and adapt designs for a variety of indoor environments, including residential, commercial, healthcare, and educational spaces. The program fosters a collaborative learning environment where students develop teamwork and communication skills essential for professional practice.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Interior Architecture at the University of South Australia are prepared for careers in interior design firms, architectural practices, and related industries. They are equipped to contribute to the creation of innovative, sustainable, and human-centric interior spaces that enhance the quality of life for users. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, industry connections, and an emphasis on contemporary design issues, students graduate ready to make significant contributions to the field of interior architecture.

Graduates of a Bachelor of Interior Architecture will have a broad and coherent body of knowledge, with depth in the underlying interior architecture and design principles and concepts that serve as a basis for involvement through various stages of a design or building project, from its conceptual design and documentation through to its production and beyond.

Graduates will develop research and methodological skills to integrate theoretical, technological, behavioural, environmental and ethical issues within interior design practice; cognitive and creative skills to develop the design of interior fit outs and facilities of a range of scales and complexities in their environmental, social and cultural context; verbal, written and graphic communication skills including traditional drawing methods and computer based representation; cognitive and technical skills to demonstrate a broad understanding of knowledge in contemporary design culture, with an emphasis on current interior architectural practice internationally and in Australia.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Interior Architecture will demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills to research, plan, implement and evaluate broad aspects of creative practice and contexts relating to interior architecture, to make informed independent judgements in a range of design based, technical and management functions in all fields of interior architecture and with personal responsibility and accountability for ethical and sustainable design outputs in consideration of others, their functions and occupational needs. 

The students will complete 144 units of study with Year 1 establishing basic skills and concepts in design creativity, research, environmental awareness, materials and technologies and communication; Year 2 proficiencies in representation, construction, documentation and detailing; Year 3 developing competence in research and sustainable design issues and Year 4 professional management and mastering design and research in social, cultural and physical contexts.

To be eligible for selection, applicants are required to:

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and

• obtain a competitive ATAR, and
• meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C-

Alternatively, applicants can fulfil one of the following requirements with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements, and other academic requirements for the program:

• Complete secondary education qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
• Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points, or
• Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
• Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above, or
• Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV level or above, or
• Qualify for Special Entry, or
• Complete a University Foundation Studies program

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

English language test

• IELTS total: - 6.0
• IELTS reading: - 6.0
• IELTS writing: - 6.0

Each year, more than 2,500 students at the University of South Australia benefit from scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. We welcome high achieving students from developing countries who are supported by the Australian government program, Australia Awards. We also host around 500 students who are sponsored by their home government, university or employer. 

The Bachelor of Interior Architecture at the University of South Australia is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for professional practice in the field of interior architecture and design. This qualification equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to create functional, sustainable, and aesthetically compelling interior spaces for a diverse range of clients and environments. The curriculum emphasizes a combination of technical competencies, creative design processes, and understanding of the social, cultural, and environmental aspects of interior spaces. Students engage in studio-based learning, which fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovative design solutions. The program covers core areas such as space planning, materials and finishes, lighting design, sustainability, building codes and regulations, and project management. Through industry-relevant coursework, students gain practical experience working on real-world projects, preparing them for employment in architecture firms, interior design practices, or related fields. The program also provides opportunities for internships and industry placements, which help students build professional networks and gain valuable insights into current industry practices. Courses are taught by experienced faculty members who are active contributors to the field of interior architecture, ensuring that students receive up-to-date knowledge and industry trends. The university emphasizes sustainability and ethical practice as fundamental aspects of the program, reflecting the importance of responsible design in today’s built environment. Upon graduation, students are eligible to pursue registration or accreditation in various professional bodies, depending on regional requirements. The Bachelor of Interior Architecture typically takes three years of full-time study to complete. Students who wish to further their qualifications can opt for postgraduate opportunities, including master's degrees or specialized certifications. The program also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative thinking, essential qualities for future leaders in interior architecture. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to contribute creatively and practically to the design of human-centered interior environments across residential, commercial, healthcare, cultural, and institutional sectors.