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The BA (Hons) Interior Design at the University of Derby is ideal for creative students eager to shape inspiring and functional interior spaces. The program blends artistic vision with technical skills, preparing graduates to design interiors that are both visually striking and practically effective.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1:
In the first year, students gain a strong foundation in interior design principles and creative processes. Core modules such as Introduction to Interior Design, Design Studio Practice, and Materials and Digital Techniques introduce essential skills in sketching, model-making, and digital visualization. Students develop the ability to conceptualize ideas and communicate them effectively.
Year 2:
The second year focuses on developing technical expertise and real-world design applications. Modules like Lighting and Acoustics, Interior Spatial Planning, and Digital Modelling and Rendering enable students to refine designs with practical considerations in mind. Collaborative projects encourage problem-solving and applying design concepts to complex environments.
Year 3:
In the final year, students undertake independent projects and professional-level design challenges. Modules such as Professional Practice, Advanced Interior Design Project, and Portfolio Development guide students to create comprehensive design solutions and develop a professional portfolio ready for industry entry. By graduation, students are confident in both creative and technical aspects of interior design.
Focus areas: Interior design, spatial planning, lighting, digital visualization, material application, and professional practice.
Learning outcomes: Students will be able to design functional and visually engaging interiors, apply technical and digital skills, critically evaluate design solutions, and manage projects from concept to completion.
Professional alignment (accreditation): Professionally oriented training aligned with industry standards, supporting careers in interior design and related sectors.
Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Derby is recognized for strong graduate employability, particularly in creative programs, with official UK employability stats highlighting career readiness for design graduates.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Interior Design program leave ready to shape inspiring and functional interiors across residential, commercial, and public spaces: typical roles include Interior Designer, Exhibition Designer, Retail Designer, and Space Planner.
Progression & Future Opportunities:
University career services: The Derby Careers and Employability Service offers one-to-one guidance, portfolio and CV support, internship placements, and networking opportunities with leading design firms.
Employment stats & salary: Many graduates secure employment within six months, with starting salaries around £22,000–£28,000, advancing to £35,000+ with experience.
University–industry partnerships: Collaborations with design studios, retail brands, and public space projects give students hands-on experience and live project opportunities.
Accreditation value: Professionally recognized, the degree enhances employability and professional credibility in the design industry.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni work in interior design studios, exhibition and retail design, or freelance consultancy, often progressing to senior designer or creative lead roles.
Further Academic Progression:
Students can continue their studies with Master’s programs in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or Spatial Design, or pursue professional certifications in specialized design areas, building on both creative and technical expertise gained during the degree.
At the University of Derby, students in the BA (Hons) Interior Design program gain hands-on experience that blends creativity with technical skill. From conceptualization to realization, you’ll engage in projects that mirror real-world interior design practice, developing the confidence to transform spaces across residential, commercial, and cultural contexts. You’ll work with cutting-edge tools, collaborate on team-based projects, and access specialist facilities that bring your ideas to life. The course ensures that your learning is practical, industry-relevant, and fully prepares you for a professional career in interior design.
Your experiential learning includes:
Dedicated Design Studios: Fully equipped studios for interior design projects, model making, and digital visualization.
Industry Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, and 3D rendering programs.
Workshops and Laboratories: Access to wood, metal, and model-making workshops to create physical prototypes.
Collaborative Projects: Group work on live briefs simulating professional client scenarios.
Field Trips and Site Visits: Explore commercial, cultural, and residential spaces to understand design in context.
Internships and Placements: Opportunities to gain experience with interior design firms, architects, or creative agencies.
Research Facilities: Experiment with lighting, materials, textures, and sustainable design solutions in specialized labs.
Library and Learning Resources: Comprehensive design texts, journals, and online resources to support research and innovation.
University Institutes and Centres: Engage with the university’s creative and design institutes for mentorship and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
American (GPA/AP): Applicants need a High School Diploma or GED with a minimum GPA of 3.0. They must also submit SAT (1600/2400 or 1060/1600 new SAT), ACT 23, or scores of 3+ in three AP subjects.CBSE (India – Standard 12): Students should have at least 65% overall in Standard 12 to meet eligibility requirements.UCAS (UK University Points): A minimum of 120 UCAS points is required, reflecting academic readiness for undergraduate study.A-Level: Applicants must have achieved BBB in three principal A-Level subjects.IB (International Baccalaureate): Students should hold a full IB Diploma with scores equivalent to A-Level BBB.GCSE: Minimum Grade 4/C in Maths and English (or equivalent) is required.IELTS: An overall IELTS score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each section is required for English proficiency.Architectural AssistantUrban Design AssistantInterior Designer3D Visualiser / Architectural IllustratorConstruction Project Manager (assistant level)Planning & Development OfficerProperty Developer / Real Estate ConsultantLandscape DesignerFurniture DesignerSet Designer (filmtheatreTV)Lighting DesignerExhibition & Museum Designer
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University of Derby
