Program Overview

Master of Science in Design and Merchandising, Plan A, Interior Design Specialization

The Interior Design specialization of the M.S. in Design and Merchandising offers the opportunity to explore creativity, sustainability, emerging technologies, spatial perception, and human health and wellness within the context of interior design. The Plan A emphasizes the development of content knowledge and research skills through the completion of an original research study, preparing graduates for doctoral-level work or for industry positions requiring critical thinking, analytical abilities, and/or depth of knowledge in the field.

Major Areas of Specialization

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

Program Requirements

• A minimum of 30 credits are required to complete this program.
• The program includes:
  • Department Core:
    • DM 501: Research and Theory-Design and Merchandising (3 credits)
    • DM 551: Research Methods (3 credits)
    • Specialized research/data analysis methods (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)

Procedures for the Master's Degree

1. Application for admission
2. Diagnostic examination when required
3. Appointment of advisor
4. Selection of graduate committee
5. Filing of program of study
6. Preliminary examination (for Ph.D. and PD)
7. Report of preliminary examination
8. Changes in committee
9. Application for Graduation
10. Submit thesis or dissertation to committee
11. Final examination
12. Report of final examination
13. Submit a signed Thesis/Dissertation Submission Form and Survey of Earned Doctorates (for Ph.D. only)
14. Submit the thesis/dissertation electronically
15. Graduation

Effective Date

Effective Fall 2001

Program Total Credits

A minimum of 30 credits are required to complete this program.