BA(Hons) Interior Design.

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

The Glasgow School of Art

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Interior Design at GSA is a conceptually driven, studio-based program that prepares students to design spatial experiences that are innovative, responsive, and critically engaged. The course emphasizes the transformation of existing buildings and spaces, combining theory and practice with cultural, ethical, and aesthetic considerations.

Key focus areas include:

  • Conceptual Design Thinking: Emphasis on narrative, spatial atmosphere, and user experience.

  • Adaptive Reuse: Designing new experiences within existing architectural contexts.

  • Sustainability: Integration of sustainable design practices and responsible material use.

  • Human-Centered Design: Deep focus on the social, cultural, and experiential aspects of space.

  • Technical Skills: Development of skills in drawing, digital representation (CAD, 3D), construction detailing, and visual storytelling.


Year-wise Breakdown of Core Modules

Year 1: Foundations

  • Introduction to spatial awareness, materiality, and drawing as a communication tool.

  • Development of conceptual and visual language through exploratory studio projects.

  • Introduction to histories and theories of design.

Year 2: Intermediate

  • Engagement with real-world scenarios across various spatial typologies (retail, hospitality, public space).

  • Further development of digital and physical modelling, technical drawing, and narrative design.

  • Integrated studies in design theory and contextual understanding.

Year 3: Advanced

  • Focus on user-centred and ethically responsive design solutions.

  • Development of individual design identity and advanced technical proficiency.

  • External projects and potential collaborations with practicing professionals or other institutions.

  • Opportunity for international exchange.

Year 4: Independent Practice

  • Self-directed final major project that reflects critical and professional awareness.

  • Production of a written dissertation.

  • Final design portfolio and public exhibition as part of GSA Degree Show.


Learning and Assessment Methods

  • Studio Practice: Core to the program; includes critiques, tutorials, and hands-on model-making.

  • Lectures & Seminars: Provide contextual, theoretical, and historical understanding of interior design.

  • Workshops: Focused sessions in materials, lighting, and digital tools (Rhino, Revit, Adobe Suite).

  • Peer & Staff Reviews: Regular feedback and critique sessions.

  • Assessment: 100% coursework – includes design projects, portfolios, essays, and verbal presentations.


Rankings

  • QS World University Rankings 2025:

    • Top 10 in the world for Art & Design.

  • Glasgow School of Art is internationally renowned for its excellence in creative education and research.

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Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

 

  • International Exchange: Available in Year 3 through GSA’s global network of partner institutions.

  • Live Projects: Engagement with external clients and real-world briefs in later years.

  • Field Trips: Local and international site visits to support design research (e.g., Milan, Berlin).

  • Degree Show: Public exhibition of final year work, attended by industry professionals.

  • Collaborations: Opportunities to work across disciplines with architecture, fine art, or design innovation students.

Progression & Future Opportunities

 

Career Outcomes:
Graduates work in:

  • Interior and spatial design

  • Set and production design (TV, film, theatre)

  • Exhibition and museum design

  • Retail and hospitality design

  • Environmental and experiential branding

Notable Employers:
Graduates have gone on to work with:

  • Foster + Partners

  • Universal Design Studio

  • Studioilse

  • Timorous Beasties

  • Graven

  • Imagination

Postgraduate Opportunities:

  • Progression to Master of European Design (MEDes) or MDes Interior Design at GSA or other top design schools.

  • GSA also offers a PhD in Design, subject to application and portfolio.

Program Key Stats

£24,350
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


Yes

Eligibility Criteria

ABB
3.0
30
65

N/A
N/A
6.0
80

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Interior Designer
  • Interior Architect
  • Spatial Designer
  • Exhibition Designer
  • Retail/Branded Environment Designer
  • Lighting Designer
  • FF&E Designer
  • Set/Production Designer
  • Design Strategist
  • Design Researcher

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