Interior Design Major
Why study interior design at CMU?
The interior design program at CMU, accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, prepares students for a wide range of careers in commercial and residential design and other related areas. As a student majoring in interior design, you will study space planning, furniture and equipment layout, design theory, human factors, and building and design technology. Consider these key features distinguishing this program at CMU:
- An advanced computer-aided design laboratory and a fully equipped lighting laboratory
- Professional enrichment through design competitions, program-required professional design internship, and regular field trips to cities such as Chicago, Toronto, and Milwaukee
- Study abroad programs, including a two-week design tour of London, Florence, and Rome every other summer
- Involvement in on-campus student and professional organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers and the Home Builders Association
Career outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, for all occupations through the year 2014:
- Employment of interior designers is expected to grow nine to 17 percent.
- Postsecondary education-especially a bachelor's degree-is recommended for entry-level positions in interior design.
- Economic expansion, growing homeowner wealth, and an increased interest in interior design will increase demand for designers.
Career options
Graduates of the interior design program at CMU will find a variety of career opportunities. Some of these may require additional education.
- Antiques Specialist
- Architectural Draftsperson
- Color Consultant
- Interior Designer
- Lighting Consultant
- Merchandise Manager
- Project Coordinator
- Sales Representative
- Set Designer
- Showroom Manager
Program Overview
The course listings below are a representation of what this academic program requires.
For a full review of this program in detail please see our official online academic bulletin
AND consult with an academic advisor. This listing does not include the General Education
courses required for all majors and may not include some program specific information, such as admissions, retention, and termination standards.
(Click on the course name or number for a complete course description.)
Interior Design Major
The Interior Design Program at CMU approaches the detailed design of interiors by drawing on diverse knowledge from various disciplines emphasizing an integrated approach that relates interior design to its larger social and architectural context. Students in the program are prepared to excel in a wide range of careers including commercial and residential design as well as other related areas. A sequence of creative design studios is supported by both theoretical and technical courses and students learn both traditional and digital visual presentation formats.
( Total: 57 Semester hours
The Interior Design program has the right to request any student's work for display, publication or permanent use. The department provides minimal supplies and equipment. Students are expected to purchase most of their personal project materials.
Suggested Minors (20-24 hours): Art, Art History, Business Administration, Foodservice Administration, Gerontology, History, Hospitality Services Administration, Industrial Technology, Journalism, Management, Marketing, Psychology, Retailing, Sociology. )
(57 hours)
Required Courses
3
IET 357 Residential Architectural Graphics
Modern house planning resulting in a complete set of plans and specifications. This course is approved for offering in a distance learning format.
3
IND 131 Interior Design Studio I: Introduction
Application of basic design elements and principles and the use of design concepts, materials, and model building techniques applicable to commercial and residential interiors. Pre/Co-Requisite: IND 138.
3
IND 138 Visual Communication for Interior Design
Visual communication of design concepts through rendering and presentation techniques; used to express development and the final stages of design process.
3
IND 139 Interior Design Drafting
Provides drafting and print reading experience designed to meet the professional needs of students concentrating in interior design by covering presentation, architectural and pictorial drawings.
3
IND 155 Introduction to Textiles
Study of fiber, yarn and fabric properties intended for commercial and interior usage; impact of various processes on use and serviceability; includes textile laboratory analysis. Credit may not be earned in both IND 155 and AMD 155.
3
IND 238 Design History and Precedent
Cross-cultural survey of environmental design including primal, vernacular, and high style forms with correlating historical context.
3
IND 328 Design History and Criticism
Study of Western design forms (17th century through present) with correlating historical, cultural, and theoretical developments. Criticism of current design using diverse criteria. Prerequisites: IND 131, IND 238.
3
IND 332 Human Shelter and Environment
Perspectives on the interrelationship between the built, cultural and natural environments, including: social, political and psychological effects; cross-cultural and interdisciplinary views; and ecological aspects. (University Program Group IV-A)
3
IND 334 Computer-Aided Design for Interiors
Fundamental concepts and applications of graphic software programs. Current and potential applications of digital computers and CAD software in design. Prerequisites: IND 131, IND 138, IND 139; Pre/Co-Requisite: IND 337.
3
IND 336 Materials and Components of Interior Design
Consideration of the materials, equipment and systems utilized in the design and construction of interior environments.
3
IND 337 Interior Design Studio II: Residential
Application of basic design process to residential interiors: space planning, furnishings, finishes, color, and lighting; according to the socioeconomic, physical, and psychological needs of users. Prerequisites: IND 139, 332. Pre/Co-Requisites: IND 328, 336.
1
IND 338 Internship Preparation for Interior Design
Development of skills to prepare students for obtaining an internship in an interior design firm or related field. Should be taken semester prior to IND 438. Prerequisite: IND 337.
3
IND 339 Interior Design Studio III: Special User Groups
Assessment of the special environmental needs of the disabled, elderly and children; application to studio design problems. Prerequisites: IND 131, IND 138, IND 139, IND 238, IND 328, IND 332, IND 336, IND 337. Pre/Co-Requisites: IND 334, 436.
3
IND 432 Seminar in Interior Design
Prerequisites: IND 339, 436. Must be taken during the final Spring semester before graduation.
3
IND 433 Professional Practices in Interior Design
Application of internships and business procedures to the establishment and general management of a design practice. To be taken immediately following IND 438. Prerequisite: IND 438.
3
IND 434 Advanced CAD for Interiors
Advanced application of CAD software. Emphasis on application of the computer as a design tool, topical applications and computer graphic methods. Prerequisites: IND 334, IND 337; Pre/Co-Requisites: IND 339, 436.
3
IND 436 Lighting and Other Mechanical Systems
Considers the role of mechanical systems in the design of interior spaces with emphasis on lighting, and including heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and acoustical systems. Prerequisites: IND 139, IND 138, IND 131, IND 337; MTH 055.
3
IND 437 Interior Design Studio IV: Contract
Application of visual, conceptual and functional design processes in the design and space planning of commercial and public spaces. Prerequisites: IND 334, 339, 436; Pre-Co-Requisite: IND 434.
2
IND 438 Interior Design Internship
Supervised internship of 250 hours in an interior design firm or related field designed to complement classroom learning. Taken semester prior to IND 433. Prerequisite: IND 338.
3
IND 439 Interior Design Studio V: Senior Thesis
A capstone studio course that focuses on projects with increasing scope and complexity and topics that vary depending on current trends in interior design. Prerequisite: IND 437.