Mission, Goals and Overview of Interior Design
The mission of the Interior Design program is to provide a curriculum that prepares students for a position as an entry-level professional interior designer. The curriculum will equip students with communication, creativity, critical thinking, and problem solving skills that will enable them to assist clients, colleagues and the local and global community. The program will provide graduates with skills and experiences that can lead to academic, professional and personal success.
Student Learning Outcomes of the Interior Design Program
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Apply critical thinking skills to research and analyze the client’s goals and requirements;
- Utilize a design process to identify and explore complex problems and generate creative solutions supporting human behavior within the interior environment;
- Formulate design concepts and present design recommendations through effective oral, written and visual communications using a range of tools and media;
- Prepare construction drawings and specifications compliant with codes;
- Apply universal design guidelines to interior spaces;
- Select and specify finishes, furnishings, fixtures and equipment that promote environmentally responsible design and sustainability guidelines;
- Apply ethical and accepted standards of business practices; and
- Interface with contemporary practice through professional development.
The interior design program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation. The interior design major builds upon Meredith’s liberal arts foundation by helping our students prepare for fulfilling and productive careers. The major provides opportunities for students interested in residential, commercial and institutional design. Students are admitted to the interior design degree program after advisement and recommendation of the interior design faculty. The comprehensive curriculum is built upon practical, traditional skills combined with advanced technology with emphasis on function and aesthetics. Students build skills in programming, concept development, space planning, material selection and specification and presentation methods. The program also emphasizes professional practice. An Advisory Board of interior design professionals reviews the curriculum, recommends innovations and identifies career possibilities. Our location in the Research Triangle provides Interior Design internship opportunities. Leadership development and professional connections are possible through participation in the American Society of Interior Designers Student Chapter and International Interior Design Association. During the senior year students have the opportunity to work closely with an assigned mentor in professional development, portfolio development and job search skills. Meredith’s interior design program also offers opportunities for study abroad in Denmark between the junior and senior year and frequent opportunities for study abroad in Sansepolcro, Italy.
Graduates may pursue careers in such settings as design firms, architectural firms, retail furnishings and materials stores, corporate, government, and institutional facilities departments, office furnishings dealerships, hospitality and health care facilities. Students are prepared to continue programs of study at the graduate level as well.
Degrees and Certificates
