BA (Hons) in Interior Architecture

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Dublin Griffith College

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) in Interior Architecture at Griffith College is a creative, practice-focused degree that combines interior design with architectural thinking to prepare students for real-world design careers. It suits students who are passionate about shaping interior spaces and want strong practical skills, industry knowledge, and a professional design portfolio.

Curriculum structure

Year One
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in design principles, visual communication, and spatial awareness. Through modules such as Interior Projects 1, Ergonomics and Anthropometrics, and Architectural Drafting & 2D CAD, students learn how people interact with space and how to communicate ideas clearly using technical drawings and digital tools. Materials and Finishes introduces key material properties and their use in interior environments.

Year Two
The second year focuses on developing more complex design solutions and strengthening digital expertise. Students advance their creative and technical abilities through Interior Projects 3, Introduction to BIM, and Advanced BIM, gaining experience in professional-level 3D modelling and coordination. Modules like Sustainability in Interior Design and Design Futures encourage students to consider environmental responsibility and contemporary design contexts.

Year Three
In the final year, students undertake major design projects that reflect professional practice through Interior Projects 6. Advanced modules such as BIM Collaboration and Advanced Rendering refine presentation and teamwork skills, while Project Management and Materials Science & Structural Mechanics prepare students for managing real design projects and understanding structural considerations in interior architecture.

Focus areas: interior architecture and spatial design, BIM and digital modelling, sustainable materials and design strategies, professional practice and project management

Learning outcomes: ability to develop creative and functional interior design solutions, strong technical skills in CAD and BIM, in-depth understanding of materials and human factors, readiness for professional interior architecture practice

Professional alignment (accreditation): The program is recognised by leading professional bodies including the European Council of Interior Architects, the Institute of Designers in Ireland, and The Interiors Association.

Reputation (employability rankings): Griffith College has a strong reputation within Ireland’s design and creative industries, with a portfolio-driven approach and close industry links that support graduate employability, although no specific global ranking is published for this program.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA (Hons) in Interior Architecture at Griffith College is built around hands-on learning, ensuring students graduate with strong practical and professional skills. From the first year, students work in dedicated design studios and use industry-standard digital tools to develop concepts, produce technical drawings, and create detailed 3D models that reflect real interior architecture practice. Learning is studio-led and project-based, helping students gain confidence in presenting ideas, collaborating with others, and responding to realistic design briefs in a professional environment:

• Studio-based learning in fully equipped interior architecture and design studios
• Training in professional software including AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, Twinmotion, and Enscape
• Individual and group design projects that reflect real-world interior architecture workflows
• BIM-based project work that develops coordination and technical modelling skills
• Opportunities to participate in field trips, exhibitions, and design-related site visits
• Public presentation and exhibition of student work during events such as Griffith Creative Week
• Access to internship opportunities and strong industry links that support work placements and graduate employment
• Use of Griffith College’s library and learning resources to support design research and project development

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA (Hons) in Interior Architecture at Griffith College develop a strong mix of creative design ability, technical knowledge, and professional awareness that supports a smooth transition into the design industry. With a practice-led education and a strong portfolio, graduates typically move into roles such as interior architect, interior designer, CAD or BIM technician, and 3D visualiser, working across residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors:

• Careers and employability support: Griffith College provides dedicated careers and employability services, including CV and portfolio guidance, interview preparation, access to job vacancies, and on-campus careers fairs that connect students directly with employers

• Employment opportunities: Students regularly secure internships and entry-level roles with interior design studios and architectural practices in Ireland, often supported by the college’s industry links and professional networks

• University–industry engagement: The Faculty of Design maintains close connections with industry through guest lectures, design events, exhibitions, and employer engagement activities that expose students to current professional practice

• Professional accreditation value: The programme is recognised by the European Council of Interior Architects and the Institute of Designers in Ireland, adding long-term professional credibility and supporting career progression

• Graduate outcomes: Graduates leave with a strong professional portfolio and the practical skills needed to work in interior architecture, design studios, and multidisciplinary design environments

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students may choose to progress to postgraduate study at NFQ Level 9, such as a Master’s degree in interior architecture, design, or related creative and built environment disciplines, allowing them to specialise further or move into advanced professional or academic pathways.