Interior Design BDes (Hons)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Robert Gordon University

Program Overview

The BDes (Hons) Interior Design program at Robert Gordon University (RGU) is dynamic four-year course, offered through Gray’s School of Art, immerses you in the art and science of creating functional, aesthetic, and inclusive interior environments. Ideal for those passionate about spatial design, human-centered creativity, and sustainable practices, this program equips you with the skills to transform spaces across residential, commercial, cultural, and community contexts.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your journey begins with foundational design principles, focusing on spatial awareness, material exploration, and visual communication. Modules such as Design Studio 1, Materials and Processes, and Visual Culture introduce you to the core aspects of interior design, encouraging experimentation and critical thinking. Emphasis is placed on developing a strong design foundation and understanding the cultural and historical contexts of design.

Year 2:
Building upon the basics, Year 2 delves deeper into design development and technical skills. Courses like Design Studio 2, Lighting Design, and Sustainable Design Practices enhance your ability to create functional and environmentally conscious interior spaces. Students engage in more complex design projects, considering user experience, sustainability, and technical detailing.

Year 3:
Year 3 focuses on advanced design concepts and professional practice. Modules such as Design Studio 3, Professional Practice, and Digital Visualization Techniques prepare you for real-world challenges in the interior design field. You'll work on comprehensive design projects, integrating technical knowledge with creative design solutions.

Year 4:
The final year culminates in a major design thesis, where you demonstrate your interior design expertise. Courses like Design Thesis, Research Methods, and Advanced Interior Design guide you in producing a comprehensive design project. Emphasis is placed on innovation, sustainability, and professional readiness.

Focus Areas

Spatial design, human-centered design, sustainable practices, material exploration, professional practice

Learning Outcomes

Proficiency in interior design principles, understanding of human behavior in spatial contexts, ability to create sustainable and functional designs, competence in digital visualization tools, readiness for professional practice in interior design

Professional Alignment

Accredited by the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) and recognized by the Chartered Society of Designers (CSD)

Reputation

RGU's Interior Design program is renowned for its strong industry connections, emphasis on practical experience, and high employability rates among graduates

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At RGU, students of the Interior Design BDes (Hons) program engage in a comprehensive learning experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. The curriculum emphasizes studio-based learning, collaborative projects, and real-world case studies, allowing students to experiment with various media, methods, and approaches to interior design.

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support their creative and professional development. The program encourages innovation and critical thinking, preparing graduates to meet the challenges of the ever-evolving interior design industry.

Key Facilities and Learning Opportunities:

Dedicated Studio Spaces: Personalized studio areas for each student, fostering an environment conducive to creativity and focused work.
Advanced Software Tools: Access to industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM tools, enabling the creation of detailed designs and models.
Model Making Workshops: Well-equipped workshops allow students to construct physical models, enhancing their understanding of spatial relationships and design concepts.
Digital Fabrication Facilities: State-of-the-art equipment, including 3D printers and CNC machines, supports the prototyping and testing of design ideas.
Collaborative Projects: Students engage in group projects, simulating real-world interior design practice and promoting teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Research Opportunities: The curriculum includes research modules that encourage students to explore topics of personal interest, contributing to the development of their interior design perspective.
Professional Development: Through modules like Professional Practice and Development, students gain insights into the business and regulatory aspects of interior design.

These facilities and opportunities ensure that students graduate with a comprehensive skill set, ready to contribute effectively to the interior design profession.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this program are well-equipped to step into roles such as:

Interior Designer
Spatial Planner
Exhibition Designer
Design Consultant

These positions are in high demand across various sectors, including residential, commercial, hospitality, and public spaces.

Why Choose RGU’s Interior Design Program

Creative and Practical Curriculum: The program emphasizes inclusive design, materials, human behavior, and visual culture, alongside design thinking and problem-solving.
Hands-On Learning: Students engage in studio-based projects, gaining practical experience in design and construction.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Study in modern, well-equipped studios and workshops that foster creativity and innovation.
Industry Connections: RGU has strong links with industry partners, providing students with opportunities for placements and real-world projects.
Graduate Employability: RGU boasts a high graduate employability rate, reflecting the program's effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the Interior Design BDes (Hons) program, you have several options to further your studies:

Postgraduate Studies: Pursue a Master’s degree in related fields such as MSc in Interior Architecture, MSc in Sustainable Design, or MSc in Urban Design.
Professional Certifications: Obtain additional certifications from professional bodies like the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) to specialize in areas such as commercial design, healthcare interiors, or sustainable design practices.
Doctoral Research: Engage in PhD research focusing on areas such as human-centered design, biophilic design, or the impact of interior environments on well-being.

These pathways can enhance your expertise, open up leadership roles, and contribute to advancements in the field of interior design.