Modern designers combine the science of architecture with the art of interior design. Designers with an education in interior architecture are part of the building process from the ground up?from construction to color, lighting, furnishings and textures. As an interior architecture and design student, you?ll focus on how the buildings impact the people living and working inside of them. The courses you take will prepare you with professional understanding of several design aspects:

• Form (Aesthetics)?Color theory and the ability to select materials that present a unified look to a space is crucial. Courses in drawing, graphics and foundational design instill a strong understanding of using color intentionally to bring art and design to life.
• Safety?You?ll learn how to keep spaces free from obstructions, use fire-retardant materials and finishes, maintain good air quality, and further, to serve the people who use the space.
• Accessibility?The Americans with Disabilities Act requires many features in commercial spaces and recommends many in residential spaces that make it easy for people to use spaces without calling attention to themselves. You?ll learn how to make your spaces welcoming and helpful to all kinds of people.
• Function?The function of a space concerns the goal of the user. Function must be considered from the beginning of the design plan, and all decisions must be weighed against it.
• Sustainable Design?You?ll learn how to design spaces that use renewable resources, have limited negative impact on the environment and connect people with the natural environment.
• Graphic Presentation?You?ll take graphic design courses, enter contests and complete studio design projects to develop skills in page layout, branding and digital imaging. This knowledge broadens the application and value of your education and instills confidence in presenting a professional, polished product.

You?ll also develop the skills to master the latest architecture and design technology: AutoCAD, Revit Architecture, SketchUp, SU Podium, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator.

By the time you graduate, you?ll have a strong foundation in the creative process, a professional portfolio and valuable on-the-job experience through your senior internship.