Program Overview

New Zealand Diploma in Interior Design (Residential)

Overview

Turn your talent for design into a career in the dynamic world of residential interior design. This programme is perfect for those seeking a career in the interior design industry or already working in the industry without a formal qualification.

What Will I Study

You will study both the theory and practical aspects of interior design, including:

• Light and colour
• Design principles
• Materials and finishes
• Lighting
• Soft furnishings
• Window treatments
• Ergonomic principles
• New Zealand art and cultural/historical influences in interior design

You will also learn about:

• Architectural communication
• Building codes, laws, and regulations
• Personal and business presentation
• Business management

Additionally, you will develop your freehand drawing and manual drafting abilities, and learn how to use software such as Computer Aided Design and Photoshop.

Pathway

This programme provides a natural progression to our Bachelor of Architectural Studies programme.

Details

• Type: Diploma
• Code: NZ3665
• Next Starts: February 2026
• May be available for Study Visa?: Yes
• International application close date: 20 January for March start
• Credits: 120
• Level: 5
• May be eligible for Studylink?: Yes
• Available Part time: Yes
• May be eligible for Fees Free?: Yes
• Reference: NZ3665-STRU

Fees for 2025

• Domestic Fee: $8,310 - $9,225 per year
• Indicative Student Services Fee: $370.50 per year
• Valid To: December 31, 2025

Academic Requirements

• NCEA Level 2 including:
  • 10 Numeracy credits at Level 1 or above
  • 10 Literacy credits at Level 2 or above

Additional Requirements

• In addition, you need to:
  • Attend an information session to ensure the programme of study is suitable for you
  • Ara will be in touch regarding the dates and times of these sessions

Alternative Requirements

• Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
• If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry

English Requirements

• What if English is not my first Language?
• If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study
• Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
  • English Proficiency Outcomes Chart
• If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment
• If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country
• IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test
• What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
• You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills

Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic

• 5.0 Listening
• 5.0 Reading
• 5.0 Writing
• 5.0 Speaking

Selection Criteria

• A selection process will take place for this programme
• This will be based on application information and assessed against a selection rubic

Funding Assistance

• If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for
• These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study
• We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance

Core Courses

• Design Studio 1 (INTR501) - 15 credits
• Design Studio 2 (INTR502) - 15 credits
• Design History and Theory (INTR503) - 15 credits
• Interior Design Technology (INTR504) - 15 credits
• Interior Design Materials and Finishes (INTR505) - 15 credits
• Professional Practice (INTR506) - 15 credits
• Interior Design Communication 1 (INTR507) - 15 credits
• Interior Design Communication 2 (INTR508) - 15 credits

Career Opportunities

• You may choose to join an interior design practice or businesses associated with interior design
• You may also set up your own company

Study Pathways

• This programme provides a natural progression to our Bachelor of Architectural Studies programme

Recommended School Subjects

• Mathematics
• Art
• Design
• ICT
• Technology
• Graphics
• English-rich subjects
• Relevant industry experience

COVID-19 Vaccination Information

• Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme
• You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid vaccination status to apply for or to study this programme
• However, some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated for Covid before allowing you to complete work at their organisation
• The number of organisations at which your placement or workplace assignment can be completed may be impacted, depending on your vaccination status

Additional Entry Requirements

• In addition, you need to:
  • Attend an information session to ensure the programme of study is suitable for you
  • Ara will be in touch regarding the dates and times of these sessions

Credit Recognition

• If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification

Documents

• Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 427 KB
• International Application Form PDF, 358 KB

Area of Interest

• Architecture and Construction Management

Need Some Help Picking the Right Course for You?

• Send us an enquiry or book a tour and experience Ara for yourself!