Program Overview

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Introduction to the M.S. in Design and Merchandising Program

The M.S. in Design and Merchandising program offers students the opportunity to explore various aspects of design and merchandising, including creativity, sustainability, emerging technologies, spatial perception, and human health and wellness. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in both academia and practice.

Interior Design Specialization Overview

The Interior Design specialization of the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program provides students with the opportunity to explore various aspects of interior design, including creativity, sustainability, emerging technologies, spatial perception, and human health and wellness. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in both academia and practice.

Major Areas of Specialization

Major areas of specialization for graduate study and research in Interior Design include:

• Creativity and cognition
• Sense of place
• Sustainable design studies
• Inclusive design and design justice
• Health, wellbeing, and resilience
• Theory, sociocultural, and global approaches
• Design pedagogy
• Digital fabrication
• Emerging technologies for design

Career Opportunities

Opportunities after completing the master's degree include:

• Teaching in higher education
• Practicing as a research practitioner
• Practicing in a specialty market segment such as commercial, residential, healthcare, lighting, graphic, and/or industrial design
• Pursuing a doctoral degree

Interior Design Curriculum

The Interior Design curriculum is offered in two plans: Plan A and Plan B.

Plan A, Interior Design Specialization

Plan A requires a minimum of 30 credits, including:

• Department Core:
  • DM 501: Research and Theory-Design and Merchandising (3 credits)
  • DM 551: Research Methods (3 credits)
  • Specialized research/data analysis methods course (3 credits)
• Breadth:
  • Out-of-department Course (3 credits)
• Specialization Courses:
  • Select a minimum of 12 credits from 500-level courses with approval of advisor
• Thesis:
  • DM 699: Thesis (6 credits)

Plan B, Interior Design Specialization

Plan B requires a minimum of 30 credits, including:

• Department Core:
  • DM 501: Research and Theory-Design and Merchandising (3 credits)
  • DM 551: Research Methods (3 credits)
  • Specialized research/data analysis methods course (3 credits)
• Content Coursework:
  • Select a minimum of 15 credits from AM, DM, INTD prefixes with advisor approval
• Breadth:
  • Out-of-department Course (3 credits)
• Paper/Project:
  • DM 698: Research (3 credits)

Research and Engagement

The Department of Design and Merchandising offers various research opportunities for graduate students, including collaborative and creative spaces such as the Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising and Nancy Richardson Design Center. Students can explore research topics and labs where faculty and students work collaboratively.

Application Process

The application process for the graduate program is a multi-step process. Students are advised to familiarize themselves with all the steps involved in the application process.

Frequently Asked Questions

The program has a frequently asked questions section that provides answers to common questions about prerequisites, GRE or TOFEL scores, and other relevant information.

Career Opportunities

The graduate degree in Interior Design can lead to various career opportunities, including teaching in higher education, practicing as a research practitioner, and practicing in specialty market segments.

Program Details

The M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans: Plan A and Plan B, each with its own set of requirements and coursework. The program is designed to be completed in a minimum of 30 credits, and students can choose from various specialization courses and research areas. The program is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds, including design practitioners, designers, and architects who wish to specialize beyond their undergraduate design credentials or become research practitioners.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior Design specialization is a comprehensive program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in interior design, preparing them for careers in academia and practice. The program offers two plans, each with its own set of requirements and coursework, and is suitable for students with diverse backgrounds.

For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

The program details, including descriptions, requirements, admission criteria, and research areas, are provided in their entirety above. For any further information or clarification, please consult the official website of the university or contact the admissions office.

Please note that the information provided is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to verify the information with the university before applying to the program.

In conclusion, the M.S. in Design and Merchandising program with an Interior