Bachelor of Interior Design (Commercial)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Torrens University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Interior Design (Commercial) at Torrens University is ideal for creative thinkers who want to design engaging, functional, and visually striking commercial spaces, from retail stores and offices to hotels and restaurants. Throughout the program, you’ll gain practical skills in design, materials, lighting, sustainability, and professional project workflows, all while developing your own creative voice and professional portfolio.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
Your first year builds a strong foundation in design thinking and practical skills. You’ll explore core principles through subjects like Design Context and Design Drawing, learning to translate ideas into 2D and 3D visualisations. Interior Design Practice and Design Studio introduce you to real-world design processes and the connection between materials, storytelling, and spatial experience.

Year 2
In the second year, you begin applying your knowledge to more complex projects. Computer 3D Modelling enhances your digital design skills, while Design Studio 3 and Problem Based Learning Studio teach you how to plan projects, manage briefs, and consider the business side of design. You’ll also work on collaborative projects, developing solutions from concept to delivery.

Year 3
Your final year focuses on professional practice and preparing you for the industry. Units such as Systems and Documentation 2 (Commercial) and Environment Design 4 (Commercial) give you experience in creating detailed plans and design proposals. Through Work Integrated Learning and Portfolio and Industry Experience, you’ll gain real-world experience, build a professional portfolio, and connect with industry professionals.

Focus areas:
Commercial interiors, spatial branding, 3D modelling, construction documentation, sustainable design, professional practice, portfolio development

Learning outcomes:
Design creative commercial spaces, professionally use industry software such as SketchUp Pro, AutoCAD, 3DsMax, Revit, and Unreal Engine, apply sustainable strategies, produce professional-standard construction documentation, and complete at least 120 hours of work experience through internships or live projects

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The degree is recognised by the Design Institute of Australia, ensuring your learning meets professional industry standards and helping you begin your career with confidence

Reputation (employability rankings):
Graduates from this program are highly sought after, with around 95% of interior design alumni employed within 12 months of graduating, reflecting strong demand in the industry

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Torrens University, interior design is learned by doing. From day one, you’ll be hands-on in studios and workshops, working on real design briefs that mimic professional practice. You’ll use industry-standard software to create 2D and 3D designs, collaborate with classmates on group projects, and gain practical skills that will make you work-ready by the time you graduate. The program also includes work-integrated learning, giving you direct experience in a professional setting and connections with industry professionals who guide your growth.

Here’s how your practical experience comes to life:

Work Integrated Learning (WIL): Complete at least 120 hours of industry experience through internships or live client briefs, giving you real-world exposure and confidence in professional settings.
Industry-standard software: Learn and practice with tools like SketchUp Pro, AutoCAD, 3DsMax, Revit, and Unreal Engine, so you graduate ready to meet industry expectations.
Collaborative project studios: Work in teams on design challenges, just like professional design studios, to develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Learn from practising designers: Your lecturers are often current interior design professionals, sharing real insights, techniques, and expectations from the industry.
Design libraries and research tools: Access specialised resources, both digital and physical, to explore materials, history, and technical research to support your projects.
Campus facilities: Use creative studios, workshops, and collaborative spaces to sketch, model, and prototype your designs, and get feedback in a professional-style environment.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from Torrens University with a Bachelor of Interior Design (Commercial) opens the door to exciting careers creating inspiring commercial spaces. Many graduates go on to roles such as Commercial Interior Designer, Spatial Designer, 3D Visualiser, or Design Coordinator, working in retail, hospitality, workplaces, or public environments. Thanks to the practical experience, real-world projects, and industry connections built into the degree, you’ll leave ready to contribute from day one:

Career support services: Torrens’ Career Ready team helps you get interview-ready, polish your résumé, search for jobs, and build a professional profile — all tailored for interior design graduates.
Employment outcomes & salary: Early-career commercial interior designers in Australia can expect starting salaries around AUD 55,000–70,000, with the potential to earn more as you specialise or lead projects.
Industry engagement: Through work-integrated learning and studio projects, you’ll work on real client briefs and connect with design studios, giving you hands-on experience and potential job opportunities before graduation.
Accreditation & professional value: The degree is recognised by the Design Institute of Australia, helping you gain credibility and confidence as a professional interior designer.
Graduation outcomes: Torrens graduates have gone on to work with creative agencies, design consultancies, and retail brands, applying their skills in concept development, technical documentation, and spatial storytelling.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue learning after your bachelor’s, there are several options. You could pursue a Graduate Diploma or Master of Design to specialise in areas like sustainable interiors, design leadership, or innovation. Some graduates also explore related fields in architecture, spatial experience, or the creative industries, which can open doors to research, teaching, or leadership roles in design.