Enter OTP
The University of Oklahoma’s Bachelor of Interior Design prepares students with a strong foundation in design principles, sustainability, and professional practice. It targets students aiming to become licensed interior designers with a focus on innovation and technical skills.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Introductory courses focus on design basics, drawing, and materials science.
Year 2: Students engage in design studios exploring residential and commercial interiors, with technical systems and building codes.
Year 3: Advanced studios cover lighting, sustainability, and construction documentation, alongside internships or research opportunities.
Year 4: Senior projects and portfolio development prepare students for licensure and professional work.
Focus areas: Sustainable Interiors, Lighting Design, Technical Documentation
Learning outcomes: Creative problem solving, code compliance, professional practice readiness
Professional alignment (accreditation): CIDA-accredited, meets NCIDQ eligibility
Reputation: Respected for its comprehensive curriculum and alumni success in the industry
At OU, Interior Design students experience a balance of studio work, technology, and professional engagement:
Intensive studio courses challenge students to solve real design problems in residential, commercial, and institutional contexts.
Use of fabrication and digital labs equipped with laser cutters, 3D printers, and drafting facilities.
Software training includes AutoCAD, Revit, 3ds Max, and Adobe Creative Suite.
Collaborative group projects simulate professional practice with peer critiques and client presentations.
Internships are strongly encouraged, with university support to connect students to design firms and organizations.
Field trips to local architecture and design firms enrich practical understanding.
Access to university libraries and galleries provides research materials and exhibition opportunities.
The University of Oklahoma offers a well-rounded, CIDA-accredited program focused on functional, sustainable, and culturally responsive interior spaces. Graduates work as interior designers, healthcare facility planners, design researchers, and space planners.
What drives student success at OU:
Gibbs College Career Services: Personalized advising, employer connections, and internship matching tailored to design students.
Strong career outcomes: Roughly 88–91% of students secure employment or graduate school placement within 6 months; average salaries range from $52,000–$66,000.
Local and national partnerships: Students intern with firms such as Bockus Payne, Rees Associates, and national leaders in healthcare and hospitality design.
CIDA accreditation: Provides a trusted credential for future licensure and recognition in the job market.
Studio-intensive learning: Emphasizes real-world problem solving, construction documentation, and material systems.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often continue to M.Arch or Master of Interior Design programs at OU or pursue design-related master’s degrees in UX, Lighting, or Environmental Psychology at top-tier schools.
Portfolio: Not required for freshmenLetters: 1 recommendation optionalInterior 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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University of Oklahoma
