Interior Design

Description

Interior designers use their talents and expertise to transform and enhance society. As an interior design student at Suffolk, you'll gain the knowledge and skills to influence the way people live, work, play, grow, move, and bond. Innovation and creative problem solving, protection of natural resources, attention to building codes and laws, and understanding human behavior all play a role in the work of an interior designer.

As a Bachelor of Fine Arts candidate in interior design, you'll develop a comprehensive knowledge of design theory, history, communication and design skills, sustainable and socially-conscious design, lighting and furniture design, and code adherence and professional practices. You’ll also develop fluency in the use of two- and three-dimensional design software and computer hardware, which are necessary tools for the contemporary designer.

The School of Art & Design is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Our Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design program is accredited as a Professional Level Program by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA), the national accrediting body for post-secondary interior design programs. See our Student Achievement Data.

Departmental Goals

At The New England School of Art & Design at Suffolk University (NESADSU) students explore their talents and abilities while learning to communicate visually. The NESADSU educational experience offers the instruction, resources and facilities they need to become successful working professionals.

Irrespective of major, all NESADSU students must:

• Gain functional competence with principles of visual organization, including the ability to work with visual elements in two and three dimensions; color theory and its applications; and drawing

• Present work that demonstrates perceptual acuity, conceptual understanding, and technical facility at a professional entry level in their chosen field(s)

• Become familiar with the historical achievements, current major issues, processes, and directions in their field(s)

• Be afforded opportunities to exhibit their work and to experience and participate in critiques and discussions of their work and the work of others

• Understand and employ a problem-solving process that incorporates research, experimentation, and evaluation

• Practice collaborative processes with their peers

• Develop a practical understanding of their potential in the professional marketplace

Program Goals

Interior Design students must have a foundation in the fundamentals of art and design; theories of design, sustainable design, and human behavior; and discipline-related history. They must be able to understand and apply the knowledge, skills, processes, and theories of interior design, communicating effectively at all stages (including oral and written communication and use of the computer). Students must develop the attitudes, traits, and values of professional responsibility, accountability, and effectiveness. They must learn to design within the context of building systems, using appropriate materials and products, and apply the laws, codes, regulations, standards, and practices that protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Students must also gain a foundation in business and professional practice.

Students will apply this knowledge to a wide range of interior design problems, including but not limited to socially conscious design, furniture design, lighting design, human-centered design, and environmental and sustainable design. Program goals include the fostering of creativity and innovation through abstract thinking; the development of critical, analytical, and strategic thinking; the encouragement of a global, socially conscious, and sustainable design perspective; the encouragement of technical expertise and flexibility in the use of industry tools; and the fostering of interdisciplinary collaboration.

As a Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) accredited first-professional program in Interior Design, the Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) program at NESADSU has adopted the following specific learning objectives as stated by CIDA:

• Students have a foundation in the fundamentals of art and design; theories of design, sustainable design, and human behavior; and discipline-related history

• Students understand and apply the knowledge, skills, processes, and theories of interior design

• Students communicate effectively

• Students develop the attitudes, traits, and values of professional responsibility, accountability, and effectiveness

• Students design within the context of building systems

• Students use appropriate materials and products

• Students apply the laws, codes, regulations, standards, and practices that protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public

• Students have a foundation in business and professional practice

The Bachelor of Interior Design program at Suffolk University provides students with comprehensive training in the art and science of creating functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing interior environments. This program combines rigorous coursework in design principles, spatial planning, and materials with practical experience through studio projects and internships. Students will explore the history of interior design, learn about sustainability practices, and develop skills in computer-aided design (CAD) and building information modeling (BIM). The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication to prepare graduates for diverse careers in residential, commercial, and institutional interior design. Throughout the program, students will engage in hands-on projects, collaborative team work, and interactions with industry professionals, allowing them to develop a professional portfolio that demonstrates their design capabilities. The program also emphasizes ethical practices and accessibility standards, ensuring that students are equipped to create inclusive and responsible designs. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty, Suffolk University’s Interior Design program offers a dynamic learning environment where students can hone their creative talents and technical skills. Upon graduation, students will be prepared for entry-level positions in interior design firms, architecture offices, or related fields, as well as for pursuing advanced certifications and postgraduate studies. The program’s innovative approach aims to foster future leaders in interior design who can adapt to evolving industry trends and contribute meaningfully to the built environment.

The Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Interior Design at Suffolk University typically requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare them for professional practice in the field of interior design. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, covering areas such as lighting design, space planning, environmental psychology, materials and finishes, building codes and regulations, and sustainable design practices. Students are expected to develop strong competencies in computer-aided design (CAD), 3D modeling, and presentation techniques, enabling them to effectively communicate design concepts to clients and team members.

The degree program generally includes core courses in design fundamentals, history of interior design, and professional practice, as well as electives that allow students to specialize in areas such as hospitality, healthcare, or residential interiors. A significant component of the program involves studio courses, which provide hands-on experience through real-world projects, mock client consultations, and collaborative work with peers. These studios are intended to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills essential for successful interior designers.

In addition to coursework, students are often required to complete internships or cooperative education experiences to gain industry exposure and practical work experience. The program may culminate in a capstone project or portfolio presentation, demonstrating students’ ability to integrate their knowledge and skills into a cohesive design proposal. To ensure readiness for professional practice, students typically undertake coursework in professional ethics, project management, and business practices relevant to interior design.

Admission requirements for the program usually include a high school diploma or equivalent, a portfolio demonstrating artistic and design skills, and possibly SAT or ACT scores. Competitive applicants often have a background in visual arts or related fields. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to participate in design competitions, professional organizations, and networking events to build industry connections. Upon successful completion, graduates are prepared to pursue licensure or certification as required by their region and seek employment in interior design firms, architectural practices, or related fields.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The interior design program at Suffolk University offers a comprehensive approach to financing studies, ensuring that students can access multiple resources to support their education. Students enrolled in the program are encouraged to explore a variety of funding options including federal and state financial aid, scholarships, and institutional grants. Suffolk University provides detailed information regarding the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is essential for determining eligibility for federal grants and loans. The university's financial aid office guides students through the application process, helping them identify suitable funding opportunities to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Additionally, Suffolk University offers merit-based scholarships specifically aimed at students pursuing degrees in design-related fields. These scholarships are competitive and require students to demonstrate academic achievement, portfolio quality, and commitment to their chosen field. There are also need-based grants for students from low-income backgrounds. Students can also seek private scholarships from external organizations dedicated to supporting interior design students, which may be available through local or national associations such as the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).

The university encourages students to consider work-study programs, which provide part-time employment opportunities on or near campus, allowing students to earn income while gaining professional experience relevant to their studies. Payment plans are another option offered by Suffolk University, enabling students to spread tuition payments over multiple installments, thereby making tuition more manageable over the course of the academic year.

Suffolk’s financial planning resources include counseling services that assist students in understanding their financial options and developing budgets to manage expenses effectively. Moreover, the university has partnerships with lenders that offer student loans with favorable terms, including lower interest rates and flexible repayment schedules. Students are advised to carefully evaluate the total cost of education, including tuition, fees, supplies, and living expenses, and to utilize available financial aid tools to plan their financing.

Overall, Suffolk University provides an extensive support system for financing studies in interior design, minimizing economic barriers and enabling students to focus on their academic and professional growth within a vibrant and resource-rich environment.

The Interior Design program at Suffolk University is designed to prepare students for careers in the dynamic field of interior architecture and design. This program emphasizes the development of creative and technical skills necessary to create functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable interior environments. Students will learn about space planning, color theory, furniture design, and sustainable practices, equipping them with a comprehensive understanding of the discipline. The curriculum incorporates courses in architectural drawing, computer-aided design (CAD), building codes, and materials selection, providing a well-rounded education that balances artistic expression with technical proficiency.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities for hands-on learning through studio projects, internships, and collaborations with industry professionals. The program aims to foster an understanding of how interior design can influence the well-being and productivity of users, as well as address environmental and social responsibility. Students are encouraged to develop their portfolios and participate in design competitions to showcase their skills and creativity. The faculty includes experienced professionals and educators dedicated to mentoring students and preparing them for success in graduate studies or entry into the workforce.

Suffolk University's strategic location in Boston allows students to engage with a vibrant city known for its architectural heritage and innovative design communities. The program's emphasis on real-world applications prepares graduates to work in various settings, including residential, commercial, hospitality, and institutional interiors. Upon completing the program, students will possess the technical skills, creative vision, and professional knowledge necessary to pursue careers as interior designers, space planners, or design consultants. The program also offers pathways for further education and specialization in fields related to interior and environmental design.