Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design is a studio-based program focused on creating conceptually driven, critical, holistic three-dimensional spaces. In this major, the principles of space, form, color, and light serve as the foundations of study.

Program Overview

Investigations of building codes, materials, construction methods, and documentation will complement studies in the history of interior environments, design theory, business procedures, and current professional movements. While in the program, students will have the chance to participate in study abroad opportunities in a variety of locations such as Italy, Qatar, and England.

Curriculum and Requirements

The program engages sustainability issues and inclusive design practice to ensure spaces are accessible to everyone. Relationships with design firms nationwide offer opportunities and access to professional critiques, visiting designers, and site visits. Students will gain valuable practical experience through a required internship in an interior design or architecture firm.

Sample Courses

• Interior Design Studio
• Interior Graphics Hand and Digital
• Light and Color in Interior Environments
• Construction Documents
• Building Systems

Career Outcomes

Upon graduation, a majority of students enter the field or pursue graduate programs in architecture, graphic design, and industrial design. Alumni are employed as:

• Commercial designers
• Hospitality designers
• Residential designers
• Museum and exhibition designers
• Lighting designers

Accreditation and Professional Preparation

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). The CIDA-accredited program prepares students for entry-level interior design practice, for advanced study, and to apply for membership in professional interior design organizations. The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design granted by Virginia Commonwealth University meets the educational requirement for eligibility to sit for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination (NCIDQ Exam).

Student Success

Surveying the Class of 2021 (88% response rate), key statistics include:

• Job Placement: 93% of the students who graduated in May 2021 were part of the design profession within one year of graduation. Of those, 79% were employed as full-time designers, and 14% were furthering their design studies in graduate school.
• 100% Acceptance into Graduate Programs: All five students from the May 2021 graduating class who applied to graduate school were accepted.
• Graduation Rates: 84% of the students from the class of 2021 graduated within four years.
• Retention/Attrition: 95% of the students completing the academic year returned for the next academic year.

Art Foundation Program

The Art Foundation program (AFO) is the prerequisite first year, required for entry into all undergraduate programs in the visual art and design departments. It provides students with an intellectually rigorous, studio-based experience in the fundamental issues of art and design. AFO is designed to help students foster an enthusiasm for their work and the means to reflect analytically and critically.