Interior Design Technology, A.A.S.

Degree: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

Program description. The Interior Design Technology curriculum provides students the solid design foundation needed to start working toward becoming a professional interior designer. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in residential design as well as sales positions related to interior design. Graduates are employed by interior design firms, furniture stores, flooring stores, paint and decorating centers, building centers, kitchen and bath design firms, and residential building contractors.

Typical job opportunities: Design assistant, interior decorator, residential consultant, design sales associate

After successfully completing the Interior Design Technology program, graduates are prepared for advanced work in a four- or five-year interior design program or for immediate employment. Graduates of the IDT program are able to communicate a design through appropriate visual skills including hand drafting and sketching, CAD drafting, and other visualization methods. They enjoy working with people and the components of interior design. They are effective communicators who are organized, creative, and have the ability to follow through on all tasks.

Graduates of the program confer with clients to determine the purpose and function of the environment, style preferences, budget, types of construction, equipment to be installed and other factors that affect planning interior residential environments. They integrate findings with their knowledge of interior design and formulate plans to be practical, aesthetic and conducive to intended purposes including improving the lifestyle of occupants. They advise clients on interior design factors, such as space planning, the layout and utilization of furnishings and equipment, color schemes and coordination, and the selection of interior components. They estimate material requirements and costs, prepare drawings and materials for presentation to the client for approval and coordinate the implementation of all phases of a residential design project.

Program goals. Upon completion of the Interior Design Technology program, the graduate will have developed the skills, knowledge and abilities to accomplish the following:

1. Understand fundamentals of art and design, theories of design and human behavior, and design-related history.
2. Apply the knowledge, skills, processes and theories of interior design.
3. Communicate effectively.
4. Design within the context of building systems and use appropriate materials and products.
5. Apply the laws, codes, regulations, standards, and practices that protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

Contact(s): Engineering and Media Technologies, (865) 694-6483