Program Overview

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Interior Architecture and Design Program

The Interior Architecture and Design program at Western Michigan University is a dynamic, stimulating, and demanding course of study that draws on creative and practical talents. Students in this major become involved in the artistic and pragmatic planning of interior spaces, learning to draw upon information from various fields, including architecture, graphic design, industrial design, fine arts, psychology, sociology, environmental science, history, and supportive disciplines.

Program Description

The program is committed to graduating designers capable of creative and technical solutions that enhance the quality of life and culture of their occupants. Design solutions must be functional, aesthetically appropriate, and meet all public health, safety, and welfare requirements, including code, accessibility, environmental, and sustainability guidelines. The selection of materials and finishes, as well as the selection and specification of furniture, fixtures, equipment, and millwork, must meet maintenance, life-cycle performance, environmental, and safety requirements.

Program Components

• Studio and classroom activities
• Field trips
• Speakers
• A required field experience

These components are essential in developing creative problem solvers. The quality of the program is recognized in its accreditations by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.

Beyond the Classroom

As an interior architecture and design student at WMU, students are required to earn three semester credits by completing 300 hours of supervised field experience with an interior design, architectural, facilities management, or retail firm. Field experience offers the opportunity to apply theories and principles from the academic program to real-world situations and gain valuable work experience. Field experience may be completed during the fall, spring, or summer sessions.

Students also have the opportunity to gain experience and build their professional network through registered student organizations, such as the Kappa Omicron Nu honor society, the American Society of Interior Design, and the Council for Interior Design Accreditation.

Exhibiting Work

Students have several opportunities to exhibit their work, including scheduled exhibits during the academic year featuring the work of both students and professionals. Interior architecture and design firms display graphics and models from recent projects and share insights with students through informal presentations. Senior shows provide an opportunity for soon-to-be professionals to share their work and inspire other students. Work from across the program is displayed during spring and summer to introduce campus visitors to the interior design program.

Career Outcomes

Recent WMU graduates with degrees in interior architecture and design are working as:

• Residential designers
• Commercial designers
• Interior design consultants

They work in a variety of industries and settings, including:

• Corporate
• Facility planning and design
• Government
• Healthcare
• Hospitality
• Institutional
• Residential
• Retail
• Sustainability and Leed Certification

Program Location

The program is offered in Kalamazoo.

Other Programs of Interest

• Art
• Art Education
• Art History
• Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher Education
• Graphic Design
• Fashion Design and Development
• Fashion Merchandising