Total Credit Hours - 180

Students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Interior Design are required to take a total of 55 courses as follows:

• 38 core courses
• 2 core electives
• 7 required general education courses
• 8 general education electives

Core Curriculum 114 cr.

Students are required to take 38 core courses as follows:

FND110 - Drawing

This is a fundamental drawing course in which students will explore various art and media, use a variety of drawing tools, draw 3-dimensional objects in one and two-point perspective and generate drawings that demonstrate correct proportions.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

FND111 - Color Theory

This fundamental course provides an introduction to the principles of color and an exploration of color theory as it relates to design and form. The psychological and cultural aspects of color will be examined in making appropriate design decisions. This course is equivalent to FND115

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

FND112 - Fundamentals of Design

This course will explore the basic principles of design and introduce the creative process. Design elements and relationships will be identified and employed to establish a basis for critical analysis. Design will be presented as a tool of communication.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

FND113 - Perspective

This is a foundation course in basic drawing. Students learn to draw three-dimensional forms through observation and application and perspective principles.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

FND120 - Visual Indication

This course will explore various means of indicating visual elements in design. Using traditional media, the ability to effectively indicate photographs, illustrations and other images will be developed.

Prerequisite(s): FND111

Credits: 3

FND121 - Theory and Development of Form

This course will provide an introduction to the understanding and development of visual and tactile forms, emphasizing the transformation of concept sketches into three-dimensional form, studies a variety of materials and explores the fundamental principles of using the forms as compositional elements.

Prerequisite(s): FND112

Credits: 3

ID120 - Basic Drafting

An introduction to basic drafting techniques, terminology and symbology used on drawings, including use of equipment, lettering, plan and elevation construction.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

ID121 - Basics of Interior Design

An introduction to the principles and practices of interior design including design terms, trends and materials.

Prerequisite(s): ID120

Credits: 3

ID124 - Digital Visualization for Interior Design

This course is designed to explore digital techniques of 2 and 3 dimensional interior spaces. Students will use digital tools to help them quickly visualize their designs volumetrically and apply 3D design elements within the spatial envelope. Students will explore techniques for preparing and manipulating graphics for interior design presentations.

Prerequisite(s):
CPU100 or equivalent

Credits: 3

ID130 - Textiles

Explores the nature of man-made and natural fibers, their product uses and characteristics. Content includes discussion of yarns, fabrics, finishes, design methods, aesthetic application and ordering specifications.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

ID131 - History of Furniture - Ancient Style to 1830

The study of the evolution of furniture and its related elements from ancient times to 1830.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

ID135 - Programming & Space Planning I

The utilization of conceptual thinking and analysis in planning residential spaces.

Prerequisite(s): ID120

Credits: 3

ID210 - History of Furniture - 1830 to Present

The study of the History of Furniture as influenced by designers, architects and sociologists from the Victorian era and the beginning of industrialization to present. Development of contemporary design thought from its roots in the nineteenth century reform movements, through the Bauhaus and the impact of technology on design in the twentieth century. Includes the history of individual designers and their contributions to the development of the profession.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

ID211 - Lighting

A comprehensive study of lighting design techniques for interior spaces including selection and application of lighting fixtures and proper light source concepts.

Prerequisite(s): ID135 ID251

Credits: 3

ID213 - Programming and Space Planning II

This course focuses on the programming process, adjacency studies, space allocation, and furniture layout for nonresidential spaces.

Prerequisite(s): ID135

Credits: 3

ID215 - Human Factors

This course includes a study of design of furniture, fixtures and architectural elements relevant to human form, function and client specification. It also provides for the development of safe and productive environments.

Prerequisite(s): ID135

Credits: 3

ID221 - Introduction to AutoCAD

A study of the basic skills of computer-aided drafting through a variety of exercises.

Prerequisite(s): ID120
CPU100 or equivalent

Credits: 3

ID230 - Office Design

A study and application of the design process from programming through presentations to working drawings based upon client needs and applicable commercial spaces.

Prerequisite(s): ID311

Credits: 3

ID250 - Residential Design Studio

Explores the design development phase of the design process. Students make the transition from thinking conceptually to fully developing a detailed residential space. Course content centers on interrelationship of the elements of the three-dimensional aspects of space, such as scale, and proportion volume as well as detailing materials, furnishings, finishes, and their application in the residential environment. Discussions include physical and psychological needs unique to the home.

Prerequisite(s): ID135 ID221

Credits: 3

ID251 - Drafting Technology

In this course students will develop understanding of mechanical drawings, detailed drawings, and other components of an entire working drawing package using hand skills developed in basic drafting. In addition, they will enhance their basic CAD skills while increasing their speed and problem-solving capabilities. Students will gain proficiency in hand and computer-assisted drafting through progressively complex applications.

Prerequisite(s): ID221

Credits: 3

ID311 - Codes/Barrier-Free Design

This course is a comprehensive study and application of the codes and regulations for building construction, fire/safety and accessibility that affect the interior design of public buildings.

Prerequisite(s): ID213 ID251

Credits: 3

ID313 - Computer 3D Architectural Model Making

This course will introduce the student to 3D modeling software and its application to interior rendering.

Prerequisite(s): ID221

Credits: 3

ID320 - Institutional Design

This course encompasses the design of institutional environments, primarily in the area of health care and related facilities and provides a careful balance of aesthetics and image as well as function and code compliance.

Prerequisite(s): ID311

Credits: 3

ID323 - Professional Practices

An introduction to the principles of marketing Interior Design service. Familiarizes students with the business, legal and financial aspects of a design practice.

Prerequisite(s): ID121

Credits: 3

ID330 - Environmental Design

Students will design a variety of projects using the research of environmental issues and concerns, both current and ongoing, as the foundation and basis of their chosen project. Emphasis on group interaction and weekly presentations.

Prerequisite(s): ID311

Credits: 3

ID340 - Interior Architectural Systems and Detailing

Survey of the principles of interior construction and the interrelationship between materials and structure. Building materials and interior fabrication will be discussed and installation methods will be explored through detail drawings. Course includes discussion of wall, floor, ceiling, mechanical and electrical systems and their relationship to interior design.

Prerequisite(s): ID311 IDB232

Credits: 3

ID350 - Advanced Residential Design Studio

This course is an advanced study of residential space planning and considers applications to people of various age groups, economic levels, and/or physical and emotional conditions. Students are required to develop a design solution based on research of current literature concerning product information and the needs of special populations.

Prerequisite(s): ID250

Credits: 3

ID351 - Mixed Medium Rendering

Students will advance basic visual indication skills through a method of exploring a variety of presentation medium as they are applied to rendered presentation drawings for interior spaces.

Prerequisite(s): FND120

Credits: 3

ID352 - Digital Presentation Methods

This course experiments with alternate methods of creating and producing interior design presentations. Combining a variety of software, reproduction methods, and manual technology, students explore ways to manipulate and integrate images and text into a cohesive graphic package. Course includes issues of design, composition, and typography.

Prerequisite(s): ID124

Credits: 3

ID353 - Commercial Design Studio

Study of the physical requirements and code restrictions involved in a variety of specialty areas such as recreational, hospitality, and store planning. Individual projects cover the total design process, with emphasis on universal design, research, and alternate presentation methods.

Prerequisite(s): ID340

Credits: 3

ID354 - Multicultural/Global Design

Survey and research application of multicultural design is the study of different cultures as they relate to design issues and concerns. Students will develop a knowledge of a variety of cultures and relate that knowledge to the to their personal design philosophy.

Prerequisite(s): ID311

Credits: 3

ID422 - Graduate Project Pre-Design

Students will select their major project in either residential or non-residential design.  They will engage in individual research culminating in a statement of their philosophy of design. 

Prerequisite(s):
Student has successfully completed all core courses in quarters 1-9 inclusive of the Interior Design program

Credits: 3

ID430 - Portfolio

Students will refine previous projects in a comprehensive collection representative of interior design skills incorporated into a professional portfolio.

Prerequisite(s): 165 credits successfully completed in the Interior Design Program.

Credits: 3

ID436 - Graduate Project Studio

Students will continue and complete the development of their selected thesis.  the project will allow the students to use all skills and knowledge required over previous quarters to fully express themselves both verbally and graphically.

Prerequisite(s): ID422

Credits: 3

ID440 - Construction Documents

Using a design of their own creation students will learn how to develop a contract document package for that previously developed project. The emphasis is on architectural finish plans, reflected ceiling plans, and custom architectural detail construction drawings. Students will develop a full set of contract documents for their design, including formatting and cross-referencing drawings and how to represent details, sections, and legends.

Prerequisite(s): ID340 ID353

Credits: 3

ID450 - Advanced Commercial Design

This course is a senior studio emphasizing the comprehensive synthesis of problem identification, research, programming, preliminary design, and design development in the solution of complex, commercial interior design problems. Studios will simulate as closely as possible actual work conditions. The course will include team projects emphasizing time management, conflict resolution, self-generated work schedules, and peer review.

Prerequisite(s): ID353

Credits: 3

ID451 - Internship ID451 - 11 week

Through a field internship experience, students will be able to apply acquired subject matter and career/professional skills in a real and practical situation within the Interior Design field. The main objectives of the internship are to allow students the opportunity to observe and participate in the operation of successful Interior Design businesses. The students will gain experience needed to enter the field upon graduation.

Prerequisite(s): Has successfully completed all core courses in quarters 1-7 inclusive in the Interior Design program.

Credits: 3

IDB232 - Materials and Specifications

This course explores many applications of specifications for the designer, for the purpose of product purchase, quality control and communications regarding installation and application.

Prerequisite(s): ID130

Credits: 3

Core Electives 6 cr.

Students are required to take 2 core elective courses from the list below:

CC420 - Internship

Through a field internship experience, students will be able to apply acquired subject matter and career/professional skills in a real and practical situation. The main objectives of the internship are to allow students the opportunity to observe and participate in the operation of successful business in relation to their fields of study. The students will gain experience needed to enter the field upon graduation.

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of at least 75 credits in their discipline with a 2.75 or higher CGPA

Credits: 3

FND134 - Photography

An introductory-level class that explores the principles of photography as well as the utilization of photography as a means of documenting design projects and portfolio pieces. This course covers the basic principles for lighting, setup and shooting with 35mm and digital cameras. Students will photograph both two-dimensional and three-dimensional objects. Students will be taught basic principles of using a video camcorder.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

FND150 - Sales and Persuasive Techniques

An understanding of the sales process and the steps to sell a product or service is essential to a student who works in any area of business. Selling is an essential skill for the sales function of a business, but is also part of the job for many other employees. This course focuses on the essential skills and knowledge one needs to affect a sale, as well as the ways that the sales pitch can be focused to solve customer problems. This course also covers persuasive communication techniques in the area of advertising. Areas covered include the fields of logic and psychology. Among the topics to be covered are the framing effect, emotional hot buttons, mass appeal, snob appeal, subliminal messages, and the bandwagon effect. Maslow's hierarchy of needs, emotional reactions and how to achieve them and the various types of media that could be used to achieve the appropriate desired response are also covered.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 4

ID220 - Residential Design - Kitchen and Bath

A study of residential environment with emphasis on kitchen & bath design.

Prerequisite(s): ID135 ID221

Credits: 3

ID270 - Architectural Design Conceptualization

This course focuses on integrating both hand and computer techniques as a conceptualization and communication tool as a means to improve the design process.  This course steps through the process of designing a commercial project that starts with hand drawn sketch ideas of the interior envelope and moves to the use of digital technology to finalize design ideas, create presentation illustrations of the space and construction documents.

Prerequisite(s): ID124 ID221

Credits: 3

ID275 - Sustainable Practices for Residential Design

his course addresses the theory and practice of creating green residential dwellings including sustainable practices, exploration of passive solar design, energy efficiency, air quality, natural landscaping, residential materials and resources, and the built environment.  The course will address sustainable residential certification programs such as LEED for Homes, Energy Star, and others.

Prerequisite(s): ID221

Credits: 3

ID276 - Sustainable Building Principles and Practices

Students will examine sustainable building principles and practices and the impact of building design, construction, and maintenance on the environment including resource consumption and conservation.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

ID460 - Advanced Computer 3D Architectural Model Making

This course focuses on the advanced use of BIM software as both a drafting and a visualization tool.  The course uses an industry current version of Building Integrated Modeling software and covers the drafting and plotting of construction documents along with the development of presentation drawings and 3-dimensional models

Prerequisite(s): ID313

Credits: 3

ID478 - Special Topics: Interior Design

The Special Projects class is designed to allow the opportunity to research and explore a defined market segment of the Interior Design Industry.  Students will be challenged to research and analyze a specialized topic, understand the design considerations to the facility and user, and apply the research to a defined project parameter. Projects and topics will vary and students and faculty will have the ability to propose projects for future classes.

Prerequisite(s):
Has successfully completed all core courses in quarters 1-9 inclusive in the Interior Design program with a minimum 3.0 CGPA

Credits: 3

IND412 - Furniture Design

In this specialized design course, an emphasis is placed on the design process for furniture. Focus is on different types of furniture, as well as the environment created by it. Marker color ideation sketches, renderings, design book, and input models are completed. Optionally, a final model can be created.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

General Education 28 cr.

Students are required to take 7 required general education courses as follows:

Students need to select ART1020 OR ART1030

ART1020 - Art History: Prehistory to the Early Modern Era

 

This course is an introduction to Western art from ca. 25,000 BCE to ca. 1700 CE and covers prehistoric art in Europe, the Near East and Egypt; Aegean and Greek art; Roman, Early Christian, Jewish and Byzantine art; and Gothic, Renaissance (Italian and Northern), and Baroque art. Concepts such as the artists’ influence, artistic motifs, stylistic evolution, cultural context, patronage, function, reception, and censorship as well as the incorporation of non-European art forms into the Western Tradition will be covered in this class. The course is designed to help students increase their art historical vocabulary for discussing an art object’s medium, composition, style, and iconography.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 4

ART1030 - Art History: From the Early Modern to the Contemporary

This course is an introduction to Western art before the Neoclassical from ca. 1700 CE to the present day and covers Neo-Classicism, Realism, Impressionism and Modernist movements from Fauvism through Abstract Expressionism to Contemporary. Concepts such as artists’ influence, artistic motifs, stylistic evolution, cultural context, patronage, function, reception, and censorship as well as the incorporation of non-European art forms into the Western Tradition will becovered in this class. The course is designed to help students increase their art historical vocabulary for discussing an art object’s medium, composition, style, and iconography.  

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 4

ART3020 - Survey of Architecture

This course surveys American architecture from the eighteenth century to the present, examining visual, historic, and social significance. Emphasis is placed on construction detail and technique as well as measurement and engineering analysis.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1010 and any 1000 or 2000-level ART class

Credits: 4

COM1010 - Introduction to Communications

In this course s

 

tudents will develop and refine oral and written presentation skills focusing on compiling, organizing and outlining the research material. Through a series of speeches, students will work to become better public speakers and have a basic understanding of various theories of communication. Emphasis is placed on communication theories and techniques used in interpersonal group, public, intercultural, and mass communication situations.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1010

Credits: 4

COM3010 - Advanced Communications

The purpose of this course is to examine the theoretical and practical aspects involved in effective communication. The course will emphasize essential elements of communication in both personal and professional environments as well as identify and analyze efficient oral and written delivery techniques.

Prerequisite(s): COM1010 ENG1010

Credits: 4

ENG1010 - Composition and Language

Students will be introduced to college level writing processes, including theme, composition, and research. Students will adhere to standard conventions of written English.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 4

ENG1020 - Composition and Language II

An extension of Composition and Language I with an emphasis on the refinement of individual skills, writing styles and voices, and on research procedures. Selected readings in prose, drama, and poetry supplement the course and provide topics for discussion and written assignments. A series of short papers, including documentation, may be required.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1010

Credits: 4

MTH1010 - College Math

Concepts of algebra including linear and quadratic equations, polynomials, exponents, logarithms and functions. Emphasis on graphical representations of functions. This course is designed to build an adequate background for the college-level mathematics, science and business courses.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 4

General Education Electives 32 cr.

Students are required to take 8 general education electives.

One General Education Elective course must be taken from each area: English, Science/Math, Humanities, and Social Science.  Three General Education Elective courses must be at the 2000-level or higher, and three additional courses must be at the 3000-level or higher.

 

Some courses are offered on a rotating basis.

Transitional Courses 0-12 cr.

Placement tests in Math and English are administered to determine if a student needs additional preparation in either of these areas.  If a need is indicated, accepted applicants are placed in developmental courses on the basis of their placement test scores and/or transfer credit.  Students must successfully complete or place out of transitional courses in order to progress in the program. Transitional course credits do not count towards the total number of credits for graduation or cumulative grade point average.  Taking transitional classes increases the number of courses a student will take and may extend the number of quarters a student will be in attendance.

 

ENG095 - Reading and Writing Skills

This course emphasizes the study of basic competencies needed in order to perform satisfactorily in a college-level English course. Specifically, this includes grammatical, mechanical, and usage skills essential to produce competent paragraphs and essays.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits:

MTH099 - Basic Mathematics

This course emphasizes the study of basic competencies needed in order to perform satisfactorily in a college-level basic mathematics course. Specifically this includes concepts and applications of whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percents, the order of operations and signed numbers.

Prerequisite(s): MTH100 requires a C or better for a passing grade. Once placed in MTH099 you must pass both Transitional Math courses (MTH099 and MTH100) with a C or better before taking College Math (MTH101).

Credits: 3

MTH100 - Elementary Algebra

This course emphasizes the study of basic algebraic concepts needed to perform satisfactorily in the college-level mathematics course. Specifically, this includes signed numbers, variables, exponents, equations, inequalities, graphing techniques, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions and applications.

Prerequisite(s): MTH099

Credits: 0

SS100 - Strategies for Online Learning

This course will familiarize students with the academic skills needed to succeed at the college level and in the online learning environment. Students will be encouraged to develop an attitude of curiosity and inquisitiveness, a capacity for perspective and comparison, and an ability to think rationally and contextually. The course will emphasize students' responsibility for a successful undergraduate education and the importance of being a lifelong learner. Students will also be introduced to policy and procedures of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh – Online Division.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3