Enter OTP
4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of Texas AustinA four-year, CIDA-accredited professional degree focused on creative and technical design solutions for the built environment. Ideal for students aiming for licensure and a career in interior design practice.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Core studio experiences in design thinking, materials, and spatial communication, blending art, theory, and hands-on practice.
Year 2: Intermediate design studios emphasize residential and commercial interiors, reflecting human behavior and sustainability considerations.
Year 3: Advanced studio work integrates interdisciplinary projects, real-world design challenges, and professional portfolio development.
Year 4: The program culminates in senior studio and a comprehensive capstone project, preparing graduates for NCIDQ eligibility and entry into professional settings.
Focus areas: Spatial Planning, Sustainability, Human-Centered Design
Learning outcomes: Professional-level drawing, technical systems knowledge, and design communication
Professional alignment (accreditation): CIDA-accredited, meets NCIDQ eligibility; recognized by Texas Board of Architectural Examiners
Reputation: Part of UT Austin’s renowned School of Architecture and among the oldest CIDA-accredited programs in the region
At UT Austin, BS Interior Design students learn by doing—developing creative, social, and technical design skills in studio environments and real-world settings:
Studio-based courses every semester foster innovation, critique, collaboration, and problem-solving in design—guided by faculty, professionals, and peers.
The program sits within the School of Architecture, offering interdisciplinary opportunities and exposure to architecture students.
Students get career prep through the School’s Career Services—offering portfolio reviews, job/internship fairs, and one-on-one advising.
A required professional internship course helps bridge studies with industry practice.
Access to UT’s extensive resources: Goldsmith Hall woodshops and drafting labs, seventeen libraries including specialized architecture collections, and the Blanton Museum for creative research and inspiration.
Plenty of campus-wide experiential programs—research, internships, entrepreneurship, and sustainability initiatives—are open to design students.
Graduates of UT Austin’s BS in Interior Design emerge with the creative vision and technical expertise to shape spaces across residential, commercial, and institutional settings. Common career paths include interior designer, spatial planner, workplace design strategist, and sustainability consultant.
How UT Austin prepares you for real-world success:
Career & Internship Services through the School of Architecture: Personalized advising, employer connections, portfolio reviews, and the Career Expo that brings top design firms directly to students.
Excellent placement rates: Over 92% of graduates secure employment or enter grad school within six months, with starting salaries ranging from $55,000–$72,000.
Real-industry projects: Partnerships with firms like Perkins&Will, Page, and Gensler give students real client-facing experience.
CIDA-accredited program: Ensures eligibility for NCIDQ certification and adds long-term value to your degree.
Reputation and outcomes: The program ranks consistently among top interior design schools nationally.
Further Academic Progression:
UT Austin graduates are strong candidates for M.Arch, MFA in Interior Design, or Sustainable Design programs at top schools including UT’s own advanced degrees or Ivy League design institutions.
A portfolio is not required for incoming freshmen but may be submitted for scholarship review.Recommendation Letters: Not accepted for freshman applicantsInterior 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.
