Interior Architecture & Design

Today’s building industry demands a new breed of design professionals. More than ever, employers and clients are turning to dynamic creatives who bridge the gap between architects and interior designers. These professionals use both art and science to solve the evolving issues of user experience, accessibility and sustainability.

At BJU, you’ll learn to participate on architecture and design teams to create smart environments across the arenas of health care, retail, education, workplace and the home. You’ll develop an eye for detail and master both the technical and aesthetic demands of an architectural project—from researching and choosing materials to space-planning within specific building codes. You’ll gain a strong foundation in art and design theory, and you’ll combine that foundation with practical industry knowledge and technological training.

Program

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.

Personal Computer Requirements

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.

BJU Core

At BJU, you’ll build a foundation in critical thinking and living as a light for God’s kingdom. Courses in English and speech will give you the skills to communicate effectively with clients and co-workers orally and in writing. Other liberal arts courses, such as economics, philosophy and science, will round out your education and help you develop important life skills like problem-solving and analytical thinking. In addition, you’ll experience a wide variety of fine arts events, including plays, operas and concerts, which will inspire your imagination and creativity.

Core Bible courses will help you grow more confident in the truth of God’s Word and encourage sharing your faith with others. You’ll also learn how to apply principles from these courses to your business practices and ethics.

Electives

You’ll have a lot of flexibility when it comes to picking electives. Some of the best options include photography and additional art courses so you can expand your design skill set. Business and accounting courses are other great options, especially if you’re interested in small businesses or entrepreneurship.

Licensure Disclosure