BA (hons) Interior Design (Foundation Year)

At the University of Salford, Interior Design is very much a hands-on, studio-based course. From day one, you learn by designing, experimenting, and making — not just studying theory. You’ll work in creative spaces that mirror professional design studios, using the same tools and technologies designers use in industry, while building a strong portfolio throughout your studies. The Foundation Year eases you into this environment, helping you develop confidence, creativity, and collaborative skills before progressing to the degree.

This practical learning comes to life through:

• Purpose-built design studios: You’ll work in dedicated studio spaces where interior design students develop ideas, create drawings, models, and presentations, just like in professional practice.

• Advanced workshops and making facilities: Access to 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and model-making workshops allows you to physically test and refine your designs.

• Industry-standard digital tools: You’ll develop digital design skills using professional software in specialist Mac suites, supporting 2D drawing, 3D modelling, and visual presentation.

• Live briefs and project-based learning: Design projects are structured around real-world challenges, helping you think like a designer and produce work that employers value.

• Group work and collaboration: You’ll work with students from other creative disciplines, reflecting how interior designers collaborate with architects, artists, and clients in practice.

• Industry engagement: Guest designers and industry professionals regularly contribute to teaching, sharing insights into current trends and career pathways.

• Showcase opportunities: Your work will be exhibited in end-of-year shows, giving you confidence, visibility, and experience presenting your ideas professionally.

Studying Interior Design at the University of Salford sets you up for a creative career where you can turn ideas into real, functional spaces. Graduates develop strong design thinking, technical skills, and professional confidence, leading to roles such as interior designer, product or furniture designer, set designer for film and television, or working in design education. With hands-on projects and industry exposure built into the course, you graduate with a portfolio that speaks for itself.

What supports your career journey at Salford:

• Careers and employability support: You will be supported by Salford’s Careers and Enterprise team with portfolio advice, interview preparation, networking events, and guidance for both studio roles and freelance work.

• Industry-led learning: The course is shaped by current industry practice, with guest lectures, workshops, and live project briefs delivered by professionals working in interior and spatial design.

• Real-world experience: Opportunities for placements and live projects help you gain practical experience, build contacts, and understand how the design industry really works.

• Strong graduate outcomes: Many Salford interior design graduates move directly into creative roles or further study, supported by a portfolio-driven course structure that aligns closely with employer expectations.

• Long-term value: The degree builds transferable skills in creativity, problem-solving, and communication, giving you flexibility to work across design, media, retail, and architectural environments over the long term.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, you can take your studies further:
Graduates often progress to postgraduate programmes in Interior Design, Design Innovation, or related creative disciplines. These routes allow you to specialise further, refine your design identity, and position yourself for senior creative roles, research, or teaching in the future.