Interior Design

Interior Design at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers a comprehensive program that prepares students to become creative and skilled professionals in the field of interior environmental design. The curriculum emphasizes both the artistic and technical aspects of designing interior spaces that are functional, safe, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing. Students gain a solid foundation in the principles of design, space planning, materials, lighting, and color theory, combined with training in the use of industry-standard software and tools. The program also focuses on understanding building codes, accessibility standards, and sustainable design practices to ensure compliance and promote environmentally responsible solutions. Students have opportunities for hands-on learning through studio projects, internships, and collaborations with industry professionals, which prepare them for diverse career paths such as residential design, commercial design, healthcare environments, and hospitality settings. The faculty comprises experienced professionals who mentor students and foster a creative learning environment. Graduates of the program are equipped with a portfolio demonstrating their design capabilities, critical thinking skills, and technical knowledge, making them competitive candidates in the interior design industry. The program's integration of current industry trends and technologies ensures students are well-prepared for evolving market demands. Furthermore, students can participate in various student organizations and design competitions, enhancing their professional development and networking opportunities. The university's location provides access to a vibrant design community and resources that support innovative and sustainable design practices. Overall, the Interior Design program at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln aims to cultivate talented designers who can positively influence the built environment through thoughtful, innovative, and responsible design solutions.

Students work closely with their advisor to determine courses within and outside of the College of Architecture to fulfill curriculum requirements while supporting indivdiual areas of interest and focus.

Core Courses [6 credits]

• IDES 886 Evolving Issues in Interior Design
• IDES 891 Evidence Based Design

Research Methods/Analytical Techniques: [6 credits]

• IDES 885 Research Methods
• EPDS 859 Statistical Methods

Discipline Theory [6-12 credits] 

• IDES 845 History of Interiors & Designed Objects 
• IDES 856 Environmental Behavior 
• IDES 858 Changing Workplace
• IDES 884 Material Culture
• IDES 820 Branding
• IDES 821 Environmental Graphic Design
• ARCH 841 Architecture History & Theory II *
• IDES 847 African Architecture *
• IDES 881 Women in Design *
• IDES 891 Selected Topics in Interior Design
• (These are courses offering group investigation of a topic in Interior Design lead by an instructor.) 
• IDES 891 Suburban-ism 
• IDES 891 Crossroads Design and Health

Independent Field Work [3-6 credits]

• IDES 898 Problems in Interior Design.

Courses are often taken close to when the student begins their thesis study so they are able to use the course to effectively work towards thesis work. The credits are meant to align with professional internship opportunities in relation to individual research and thesis goals and/or field work to prepare for upcoming research projects. Course expectations may include, but are not limited to: literature reviews, IRB certification, site inventory and analysis, and the development of research methods and data collection instruments. Learning outcomes and course deliverables will be developed with guidance and instruction of interior design faculty.

Campus Wide Electives [3-6 credits] 

• In consultation with their interior design advisor, campus-wide electives can be chosen from graduate courses within the disciplines of psychology, sociology, anthropology, education, business and history.

Thesis [6 credits] 

• IDES 898 Problems in Interior Design. 
• The thesis will be used to gain new insights and to develop theory or to contribute to the body of knowledge that can in turn advance the discipline and practice of interior design.

* These classes are only offered on campus.

• An applicant must have an undergraduate degree in architecture, interior design or a closely-related field.A diploma or certificate of graduation. (Not required if the transcript includes the name of the degree and the date it was conferred.)
• The Diploma Supplement, if the degree is Bologna-compliant.
• Online Application for Graduate Admission
• $50 Application Fee (paid with credit card or check)
• One copy of all college/university official transcripts
• Statement of Interest
• Resume
• Three references will be asked to submit letters of recommendation electronically
• GRE score (recommended, not required)
• TOEFL or IELTS score. Exemptions for the English proficiency requirement are granted for non-native speakers who have received a bachelor's or more advanced degree either from a U.S. institution or from a university outside the U.S. at which English is the official language of instruction.

Portfolio

Please attach a multi-page PDF portfolio (20mb max) of personal design work. You have the option of additionally attaching, along with the portfolio, one of the following: -- Image (up to 10MB each) -- Video (up to 500MB each) -- 3D Model (embedded) -- Document (20MB each)

Students who wish to pursue one of the dual degrees offered in conjunction with the Master of Architecture must apply separately to the other degree department. You should contact the other program directly to determine what their application requirements are. You will have to be accepted into both our program and the other degree-granting program to pursue the dual degrees. Acceptance into one and not the other will not void your acceptance into that program. It simply limits your participation to the program you are accepted into.

Your admittance into the Master of Architecture Program will require the purchase of a notebook microcomputer. The College is supporting both PC and Macintosh platforms. Either choice is acceptable. In addition, you will be required to purchase or lease the appropriate software required by the department. Detailed specifications for hardware and software will be sent to you with your acceptance package.

Scholarships

• Assistantships
• Fellowships
• University Tuition Assistance Grants (UTAG)

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln provides students with a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of interior design. The program emphasizes creativity, technical skills, and professional development to prepare students for careers in residential, commercial, and institutional interior environments. Students learn about space planning, color theory, building codes, sustainability, and digital design tools, equipping them to create functional, aesthetically pleasing, and safe interior spaces. The curriculum combines foundational courses in design concepts with advanced studio projects, internships, and collaborative opportunities that foster real-world experience. The program also encourages students to develop their critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are essential for effective client interactions and project management. Students may have opportunities to participate in design competitions, exhibitions, and networking events with industry professionals, enhancing their career prospects. The faculty members are experienced designers and educators dedicated to mentoring students and advancing research in interior design. The program aims to produce well-rounded graduates who can adapt to the evolving demands of the design industry, contribute innovative solutions, and uphold ethical and sustainable practices. Graduates are prepared to seek licensure or certification as interior designers and to pursue advanced degrees or specialized training in related fields. The university’s facilities include modern design studios, technology labs, and resource libraries that support hands-on learning. Overall, the BFA in Interior Design at Nebraska offers a rigorous and dynamic academic environment to cultivate talented interior designers ready to make meaningful contributions to the built environment.