Bachelor of Arts [B.A] [Interior Design] From Virginia Commonwealth University

An important focus also is placed on the study of design theory and the history of interior environments. All of these areas are synthesized in the curriculum to provide learning of the overall context of the built interior environment. Graduates are prepared with the skills and knowledge that can facilitate the student’s transition into an entry-level interior design position at a successful firm or corporation, or entry into programs of advanced study. The department also prepares students with the skills and knowledge that will allow for lifelong learning and professional development in the design industry. Prospective students are encouraged to review the School of the Arts undergraduate admissions website as well as the Art Foundation Program website.

Learning outcomes:

• Students will demonstrate professional values. The students will demonstrate professional values that address client and user needs in response to the built environment, professional ethics, environmental ethics and the role of sustainability in the practice of interior design. Students will demonstrate an understanding of a global perspective approach to thinking and problem-solving (viewing design with awareness and respect for cultural and social differences of people; understanding issues that affect the sustainability of the planet; understanding of the implications of conducting the practice of design within a world market). Students will demonstrate critical and analytical thinking, creative thinking, and the ability to think visually and volumetrically. Students will demonstrate professional discipline (i.e., time management, organizational skills) and active listening skills. Students will understand the importance of community and public service.

• Student work will demonstrate design fundamentals. Students will demonstrate knowledge of design fundamentals including design elements and principles, color principles, theories and systems, theories of design and composition, and principles and theories of lighting design. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the theories of human behavior in the built environment including human factors (ergonomics, anthropometrics), the relationship between human behavior and the built environment, and an understanding of the principles of sustainability. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the history of art, architecture and design.

• Student work will demonstrate knowledge of interior design. Students will demonstrate knowledge and application of the design process and two- and three-dimensional design elements and principles in the development of the spatial envelope. Student work will demonstrate programming skills, including problem identification, identification of client and user needs, and information gathering research and analysis (functional requirements, code research, sustainability issues, etc.). Student work will demonstrate competent schematic design, concept development and problem-solving (concept statements, conceptual drawings, space planning). Student work will demonstrate competent design development skills (selection of finishes and materials; furniture selection and plan, plans, elevations, sketches, and study models; luminaires and lighting sources; design justification solutions in relation to the program and concept; appropriate selection and application of decorative architectural elements). Student work will demonstrate competent skills in preparing drawings, schedules and specifications as an integrated system in a single project. Student work should demonstrate an understanding of appropriate selection and application of art and accessories, the ability to custom design interior elements, way-finding methods and graphic identification. Student work must demonstrate understanding that design solutions affect and are impacted by building systems and interior materials. Students must demonstrate understanding of the impact of laws, codes, regulations, standards and practices that protect the health, safety and welfare of the public.

• Student work will demonstrate effective communication. Student work will demonstrate competence in drafting and lettering, both manual and computer-aided techniques; illustrative drawing; and presentation of color, materials and furnishings. Students must express ideas clearly in oral presentations and critiques; communicate clearly in writing of specifications, schedules, and contracts and other business-related documents, such as project programs, concept statements, reports, research papers, resumes and correspondence. Student work must demonstrate the student’s ability to successfully render the design intent using two- and three-dimensional methods (manual and computer-aided).

• Students will demonstrate a foundation in business and professional practices. Students will demonstrate understanding of project management (estimating, budget management, contract administration, information management, conflict resolution, assessment processes including post-occupancy evaluation). Students must demonstrate knowledge of licensing and registration requirements for interior designers and professional design organizations, Students must demonstrate understanding of basic business computer applications (word processing, spreadsheets) and business procedures (marketing, strategic planning).