Enter OTP
Indiana University Bloomington’s BS in Interior Design is a CIDA- and NASAD-accredited program combining aesthetics, behavioral science, and technical systems. It’s an excellent fit for students who want to bridge artistic creativity with practical, people-focused design strategies.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundational art and core design courses build visual literacy, model-making, and creative reasoning.
Year 2: Progression into interior-specific studios, digital drawing, lighting, materials, and theory courses.
Year 3: Advanced studios integrate sustainability, building systems, professional practice, and electives in green design or cultural context.
Year 4: Capstone studio integrates multidisciplinary methods, portfolio development, and optional internship opportunities.
Focus areas: Sustainable Systems, Human Behavior, Interior Technology
Learning outcomes: Evidence-based spatial design, 3D modeling, professional documentation
Professional alignment (accreditation): CIDA-accredited and NASAD-accredited, meets NCIDQ eligibility
Reputation: Esteemed School of Art, Architecture + Design known for interdisciplinary approach and professional readiness
IU Bloomington’s program is built on community engagement, research, and industry-readiness:
CIDA-accredited, delivering a human-centered curriculum focused on sustainability, building systems, materials, and ecological design.
Collaborative studio instruction in spatial design, detailing, and user-focused environments backed by advanced digital fabrication tools.
Strong experiential offerings: internships, community-engaged learning, study abroad, creative research, and faculty-mentored projects through IU’s broad experiential learning framework.
Campus programs like the McKinney Visiting Artist Series, MAD Labs, and the Grunwald Gallery enrich the student experience.
IU’s Career Development support and funding opportunities help make practical learning and creative activity possible—often with faculty mentorship.
IU Bloomington’s BS in Interior Design offers a well-rounded education in technical design, human behavior, and innovation. Graduates go on to become commercial interior designers, workplace design strategists, kitchen/bath designers, and space planners.
IU prepares students through:
Walter Center for Career Achievement: Offers individualized coaching, internship matching, and exclusive access to design-related job boards.
Positive graduate outcomes: Around 88–91% of grads report successful job placement or further study; starting salaries average $50,000–$65,000.
Real-world design integration: Many students intern with regional and national firms such as DLZ, Axis Architecture + Interiors, and CSO Architects.
CIDA-accredited program: Supports national licensure and gives your degree long-term value.
Studio-based curriculum: Emphasizes human-centered design, building systems, lighting, and finish materials.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates are ready for advanced study in M.Arch, MA in Interior Design, or interdisciplinary programs in Environmental Psychology, Sustainable Design, or UX-focused environments.
Portfolio Requirement: Not required for admission Recommended for transfer studentsRecommendation Letters: Not requiredInterior Designer – Plan and design functional and attractive spaces for clientsResidential Interior Designer – Create personalized home interiors based on lifestyle needsCommercial Interior Designer – Design interiors for offices hotels stores and public spacesSpace Planner – Organize layouts to maximize comfort efficiency and flowInterior Stylist – Curate decor and furnishings to enhance spatial aestheticsInterior Project Manager – Manage design timelines resources and executionSustainable Design Consultant – Apply eco conscious solutions to interior projectsLighting Designer – Craft lighting strategies that shape atmosphere and usabilityFF&E Specialist – Select and coordinate furniture fixtures and equipment for interiorsVisualization Artist – Produce 3D renderings and digital walkthroughs for presentations
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
Indiana University Bloomington
