This degree introduces interior design students to the terminology, marketplace, and professional issues of practice, while an experiential curriculum emphasizes both studio and workshop to stimulate creativity, experimentation, problem solving and innovation. Important values are creativity, passion, diversity, commitment, collaboration, excellence and vision.
Interior design is more than just decorating. It has evolved into a multi-faceted profession dealing with complete environments that not only please but enhance the health, safety and welfare of end users. Creative vision is inspired and participatory design skills developed through an increased understanding of the design process. Practical skills you need to see the design process to completion are emphasized. You'll learn to envision great spaces - and know how to build them too.
This challenging multidisciplinary program combines academic study of the history and theory of interior design with practical, hands-on projects. In classes taught by industry professionals, you'll learn drafting techniques, computer modeling, lighting, and materials and methods, with an emphasis on sustainability, health and safety.
The Professional Interior Designer is qualified by education, experience and examination to enhance the function and quality of interior spaces. NAU interior design courses meet National Certification for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Exam eligibility requirements.
To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 120 |
| Major GPA | C |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 114 |
| University Honors Program | Optional |
| Progression Plan Link | View Progression Plan |
Purpose Statement
Our degree in Interior Design introduces students to the terminology, marketplace, and professional issues of practice, while an experiential curriculum emphasizes both studio and workshop to stimulate creativity, experimentation, problem solving and innovation. n this program, students learn about principles and application of design, critical design thinking, anthropometrics, ergonomics, construction and building systems, building codes, allied building professions, professional consensus building, computer-assisted design, effective communication, the history of art and design, business practices, and how to do research for innovative design solutions. Throughout the program, we cultivate the values of creativity, passion, diversity, commitment, collaboration, excellence and vision in our students.
Student Learning Outcomes
Outcomes align with Standards from the National Association of Schools of Art & Design Accreditation
Take the following 75 units with a Grade of "C" or better in each course:
Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.
You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or liberal studies requirements.
We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.
You must have completed all of the coursework used to fulfill these requirements within the last 10 years.
Laptop Computer Requirement
Beginning with the Fall 2010 semester, students taking second year Interior Design courses must own a laptop computer of the required specifications as their coursework will include in-class computer-based assignments. Details about systems, software, and departmental support is available on the Interior Design website-content and structure page.
Professional Organization
Northern Arizona University currently supports a student branch of the American Society of Interior Designers; upon graduation from the B.S. in interior design, you may apply for associate membership in the ASID.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.