Program Information

Bachelor of Interior Design

• 4-Year Degree Program

• Program Fees: Domestic Students, International Students

• Apply for Admission

General Description

The Bachelor of Interior Design combines theory with specialized knowledge and the development of proficiencies relative to the profession of interior design. It is intended for students who wish to pursue a professional career in this creative multi-faceted discipline. Interior designers work in all areas of the built environment including residential, office, retail, hospitality, and Institutional settings to create interior spaces that are "functional, enhance the quality of life and culture of the occupants, and are aesthetically attractive"¹. The program provides a balanced range of theoretical, intellectual, communication, experiential, applied and other skills, needed to deal effectively with the responsibilities of interior design professional life. The interior design curriculum features lecture, studio, critique, and computer lab instruction; independent and collaborative projects; formal and informal presentations; field trips; an internship and a final major project spanning two semesters. The elective study in the Liberal Arts and Sciences provides an excellent foundation and structure for lifelong learning and ensures that students develop quantitative reasoning and critical thinking skills.

¹IDC Interior Designers of Canada

Admission Requirements

• General admission requirements apply.
• English 12 with minimum “C” grade for students enrolling in English 115.
• A minimum "C" grade in one of Principles of Mathematics 11, Applications of Mathematics 11, or Foundations of Mathematics 11.
• All students seeking enrolment in the Bachelor of Interior Design program must have an interview with the Faculty Selection Committee prior to admission.
• For interview dates, please contact the Admissions office at 1–888–920–2221 local 6400.
• Bachelor of Interior Design candidates must bring the following to the interview:
  • A 100-300 word written statement on reasons and goals for seeking enrolment in the program and indicating research about the profession;
  • A resume;
  • A portfolio demonstrating aptitude as described below:
    • A minimum of 10, maximum of 15, examples of artwork that should include:
      • 2 - 3 Original black and white drawings in a variety of media.
      • 2 - 3 Original paintings or illustrations in a variety of media demonstrating the use of colour.
    • And a variety of examples from the following to make up the balance:
      • Original collages or mixed-media pieces exploring specific themes.
      • Photographs, slides, and/or digital files of three-dimensional artwork such as installation, sculpture, and pottery.
      • Traditional and digital photography utilized as a means of personal expression and/or communication.
      • Graphic print work such as linocuts, woodcuts, silkscreens, etc.
      • Photographs of mural art.
      • Photographs or originals of various crafts such as quilting, stitchery, fashion design, or jewelry design.

Notes on Admission

• Due to the nature of the contemporary work place, students should be familiar with fundamental computer skills such as word processing before considering an education in Interior Design, to ensure they can complete course work.
• Enrolment in this program is limited. Students who meet or exceed the minimum admission requirements may not necessarily be admitted to the program.

Admission with Advanced Standing

Admission to the Bachelor of Interior Design at the second and third year levels may be possible based on available seats and will be determined on the basis of credit equivalencies determined by all of the above plus review of course outlines from the transferring institution and/or PLA. Candidates with an Applied Arts Diploma in Interior Design from Vancouver Island University will qualify for entry into the third year but may not be guaranteed a seat as enrolment is limited.

Start Date and Application Deadline

The program starts in September and applications are accepted between November 15 and March 31. For further information regarding late applications and program contacts check the Program Availability List.

Program Outline

The Bachelor of Interior Design is comprised of nine semesters organized as follows:

The first three years of study (six semesters) begin with a fall semester (September through December) followed by spring semester (January to April). The seventh semester is a paid internship term, scheduled in the summer between third and fourth year. The final two semesters revert to the standard fall/spring format.

In addition to the 87 specialized credits in Interior Design and 9 required credits in other areas (English and Digital Media) students must complete 33 elective credits of which at least 15 are upper-level.

* Study Abroad courses have enhanced fees. For further information check the Liberal Studies Abroad page.

* Students must complete 33 elective credits of which at least 15 are upper-level.

Updated March 28, 2012