Enter OTP
4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
Oklahoma State UniversityOklahoma State University’s BS in Design Housing and Merchandising with a focus on Interior Design offers a blend of interior design principles, consumer behavior, and merchandising strategies. This program is well-suited for students interested in both the creative and commercial sides of interior environments.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundational courses in design, textiles, and visual communication set the stage for interdisciplinary learning.
Year 2: Students explore residential and commercial interior design studios along with merchandising concepts and materials studies.
Year 3: Advanced coursework covers sustainable design, technical systems, and spatial planning.
Year 4: Capstone projects integrate design solutions with consumer trends and merchandising strategies, preparing students for professional practice.
Focus areas: Interior Design, Merchandising, Consumer Behavior
Learning outcomes: Creative problem solving, commercial design strategies, technical competence
Professional alignment (accreditation): CIDA-accredited; meets NCIDQ eligibility
Reputation: Known for its combined approach to design and merchandising with strong industry connections
At OSU, Interior Design students immerse themselves in hands-on experiences and industry connections:
Required internships with companies like Gensler, Corgan, Scott Rice, and Steelcase provide real-world exposure and professional networking.
Mixed Reality Lab and Human Environmental Factors Lab offer access to the latest technology, including augmented reality, virtual reality, and digital prototyping, preparing students for industry success.
Global study tours to cities such as New York City, Milan, Florence, Paris, Berlin, London, Madrid, Barcelona, Prague, and Copenhagen allow students to explore cultural sites and global fashion and merchandising companies.
Faculty-led trips to Dallas, Texas, and Taos, New Mexico, provide opportunities to visit design firms, showrooms, and creative offices, enhancing students' understanding of the industry.
Community engagement through projects and collaborations with local organizations fosters a strong connection to the profession and community.
OSU’s program trains students to design interiors with a strong focus on human comfort, aesthetics, and functionality—ideal for residential, commercial, and retail environments. Graduates typically pursue roles as interior designers, merchandising specialists, space planners, and product developers.
Career advantages at OSU:
Career Services and Professional Development: Access to résumé workshops, internship placement, and networking through the Spears School of Business and College of Human Sciences.
Positive graduate outcomes: Approximately 85–90% of students find employment or continue education within 6 months, with starting salaries between $48,000 and $62,000.
Industry connections: Partnerships with regional design firms and retailers offer practical internships and hands-on project experience.
Accreditation: Program meets CIDA standards, ensuring national recognition and licensure eligibility.
Studio-based curriculum: Emphasizes design thinking, technical skills, and merchandising strategies.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can pursue graduate degrees in Interior Design, Retail Design, or Environmental Psychology at OSU or other universities.
Portfolio: Not requiredLetters: 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
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