FCS

Interior Design

Advisory Board

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Interior design is a dynamic, stimulating, demanding profession which draws on creative and practical talents, and emphasizes the application of analytical, technical, business and aesthetic skills in the development of spaces for living, working and/or relaxing. Graduates are employed with architectural and design firms, in interior/facilities management divisions of large corporations, retailing home furnishings and marketing positions and showroom management.

Students in the interior design program at Western Michigan University become involved in the artistic and pragmatic planning of interior spaces. In the process they learn to draw upon information from the fields of:

fine arts;
human ecology;
architecture;
graphic design;
industrial design;
psychology;
sociology;
anthropology;
environmental science; and
a host of supportive disciplines in order to skillfully develop spaces, in which people live, work and pursue personal interests.

Outside the classroom

Professional Internships and Opportunities

Interior Design Student Organization

Career possibilities and Opportunities

A career in interior design is filled with creative challenges and constant learning opportunities. It involves a commitment to developing environments that support life, living and work in a positive way that not only contributes to the desired image, but also enhances performance and productivity. Graduate career opportunities include:

Residential designers developing the interiors of single family detached homes, apartmentsand condominiums.
Commercial designers developing the design of offices, financial institutions, retail, hospitality and entertainment establishments, recreational facilities, health care, public and government institutionsand specialized areas such as set design for TV/theatre/film, exhibitionsand kiosks.
Employment with architectural and design firms, in interior/facilities management divisions of large corporations, in retailing home furnishings and in marketing positions and showroom management.

Accreditation - The interior design program at Western Michigan University is committed to graduating designers capable of creating artistic and responsive interior spaces. Studio and classroom activities, field trips, speakers and required field experience are important components in developing creative problem solvers who integrate research and explore alternative solutions in the pursuit of total spatial development. The program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation and participates with art and industrial design in the accreditation of art and design programs at WMU by NASAD (National Association of Schools of Art and Design).

* www.accredit-id.org is the recognized accrediting body of interior design programs throughout the United States and Canada.

Resource Guide

Interior Design resources for career guidance and exploration

Gallery

Professional and Student Exhibits:

Scheduled exhibits during the academic year feature the work of both students and professionals. Architectural and interior design firms display graphics and models from recent projects and share insights with students through informal presentations. Senior shows provide an opportunity for soon to be professionals to share their work and inspire other students. Work from across the program is displayed during spring and summer to introduce campus visitors to the interior design program.