BA Hons in Interior Design

The BA (Hons) Interior Design program at Heriot-Watt University (Scottish Borders Campus) is delivered by the School of Textiles and Design, a long-established and globally recognized institution. The course equips students with a balance of creative, technical, and conceptual skills needed in the professional design world.

Key focus areas include:

• Creativity and Innovation: Fosters original thinking and spatial problem-solving.

• Sustainability: Encourages responsible and ecological design approaches.

• Human-Centered Design: Prioritizes user needs and experiences in interior environments.

• Technical Proficiency: Offers hands-on learning in digital tools (AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit), materials, lighting, and construction methods.

• Cultural Literacy: Supports critical engagement with historical and contemporary design contexts.

Year-wise Breakdown of Core Modules

Year 1: Foundations

• Introduction to Interior Design

• Visual Communication and Drawing

• Construction Materials and Methods

• Design Theory and Processes

• Historical and Cultural Contexts

Year 2: Intermediate

• Studio Projects: Retail, Hospitality, Office Interiors

• Advanced CAD and Digital Skills

• Sustainable and Environmental Design

• Lighting and Furniture Design

• Contextual Design Studies

Year 3: Advanced

• Studio Projects: Public and Commercial Spaces

• Collaborative and Industry-Led Briefs

• Research Methods for Designers

• Professional Practice and Presentation

• Exhibition Design and Portfolio Building

Year 4: Independent Practice

• Final Honours Project (Independent Design Thesis)

• Research Dissertation

• Professional Portfolio Development

• Graduate Showcase Exhibition

Learning and Assessment Methods

• Studio-Based Learning: Central to the course, offering project-based, practical design experience.

• Seminars and Workshops: Develop both theoretical and hands-on skills.

• Individual Tutorials: Provide tailored feedback and mentoring.

• Field Trips and Site Visits: Support real-world learning and design research.

• Assessments: Include design projects, presentations, reflective essays, reports, and final exhibitions.

Rankings

• Heriot-Watt University is globally recognized in design and technology through THE World University Rankings 2024.