Bachelor of Interior Design (Residential)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Torrens University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Interior Design (Residential) at Torrens University Australia is perfect for creative thinkers who want to shape the way people live, designing functional and inspiring home spaces. The program combines practical skills with design theory, allowing you to explore materials, lighting, sustainability, and emerging technologies while bringing your ideas to life.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in design principles and creative thinking. You’ll study units like Design Context, Design Drawing, and History of Architecture, Interior Design and Decoration to understand how spaces have evolved. Alongside these, technical skills in Construction and CAD and Joinery and Finishes give you the practical knowledge needed for residential projects.

Year 2
The second year focuses on developing your design and problem-solving abilities. Through Computer 3D Modelling, Design Studio 3, and Problem Based Learning Studio, you’ll tackle real-world design challenges. Units like Environment Design 2 (Residential) and Systems and Documentation 2 (Residential) help you refine your understanding of residential spaces and professional documentation.

Year 3
In your final year, you’ll polish your professional skills and prepare to enter the industry. You’ll complete Work Integrated Learning and Portfolio and Industry Experience, along with advanced units such as Emerging Design Technologies (Residential) and Environment Design 3 (Residential). By the end of the year, you’ll have a professional portfolio and hands-on experience through internships or live projects.

Focus Areas

Residential space design, sustainability, materials and finishes, 3D modelling, construction documentation, emerging design technologies

Learning Outcomes

Design innovative residential solutions, develop advanced 3D visualisation skills, master material and spatial expertise, produce professional documentation, and gain real-world project experience

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Recognised by the Design Institute of Australia

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Known for strong student support and industry connections, placing graduates in high demand within the interior design field

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Torrens University, the Bachelor of Interior Design (Residential) is all about learning by doing. You won’t just study design theory — you’ll get hands-on experience creating real residential spaces using the same tools and techniques that professional designers rely on. From day one, you’ll work with industry software like SketchUp Pro, AutoCAD, 3Ds Max, and Revit, and your projects will often mirror real-world briefs, giving you a taste of what working as an interior designer is really like. Collaboration is key, with group projects, studio work, and live industry challenges helping you develop both creative and professional skills.

Here’s how your practical experience comes to life:

Work-Integrated Learning: Gain at least 120 hours of real-world experience through internships or live industry briefs, preparing you for professional practice.
Industry-Standard Software: Develop skills with essential design tools including SketchUp Pro, AutoCAD, 3Ds Max, and Revit, so you’re ready for the workplace.
Live Studio Projects: Collaborate on residential design projects that simulate real client briefs, encouraging teamwork and creative problem-solving.
Industry Connections: Benefit from partnerships with design leaders, offering mentoring, networking, and potential internship opportunities.
Design Library & Digital Resources: Access specialized design libraries, databases, and trend resources to support research, inspiration, and project development.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Interior Design (Residential) at Torrens University Australia leave with the skills, confidence, and portfolio to step straight into the design industry. Many go on to roles as Residential or Interior Designers, Property Stylists, Virtual Environment Designers, or take on positions in design studios and architectural firms, bringing creative ideas to life in real spaces. This degree prepares you for professional success in several ways:

Career support from day one: Torrens University’s Careers Connect service helps you with resume building, interview preparation, job opportunities, and industry networking so you’re well-prepared for the workforce.
Strong employment prospects: Around 94% of Torrens design graduates find employment within 12 months, showing that employers value the practical, hands-on skills you gain.
Industry partnerships: You’ll benefit from collaborations with leaders like Vogue Australia and Sibella Court, providing mentoring, networking, and internship opportunities that can help launch your career.
Earning potential: Roles such as Interior Designer or Residential Designer in Australia typically offer salaries ranging from $75,000 to $110,000+, reflecting real growth potential as you gain experience.
Accreditation that matters: Recognised by the Design Institute of Australia, your qualification carries credibility and long-term value across the interior design profession.

Further Academic Progression:
If you wish to continue your studies, you could move into postgraduate programs such as a Master of Interior Architecture or Design or specialised diplomas in areas like sustainable design or advanced digital modelling. These pathways allow you to deepen your expertise, take on leadership roles, and expand your career options within the design industry.