Master of Science in Design and Merchandising with Interior Design

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Oklahoma State University

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Design and Merchandising with an Interior Design option at Oklahoma State University prepares students to advance their expertise through applied design coursework, research, and creative problem-solving. The program combines design theory, human behaviour, technology, and research methods, preparing graduates for careers in interior design, business, industry, Extension, and higher education.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop a strong foundation through Theoretical Perspectives for Design and Merchandising, Research Developments in Design and Merchandising, and Proposal Writing. They also study statistical methods and Theories of Creative Process in Design and Merchandising, building research and analytical skills.

Year 2: Students deepen their expertise through electives such as Graduate Interior Design Studio, Application of Virtual and Augmented Reality, Sustainable Design for Apparel and Interiors, and Advanced Digital Design Communication. They complete either a research thesis or a design thesis involving original experimental design work.

Note: The university specifies a 30-credit-hour requirement and two thesis pathways but does not publish a fixed year-wise course sequence. The above is an indicative learning progression.

Focus Areas

Interior design research, design theory, creative processes, sustainable design, human factors, ergonomics, virtual and augmented reality, digital design communication, consumer behaviour.

Learning Outcomes

Apply research methods and statistical techniques to design problems.
Evaluate human behaviour and user-centred design requirements.
Develop innovative and functional interior environments.
Integrate digital technologies and sustainable design practices.
Conduct independent research and experimental design projects.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Professional preparation: The program develops advanced research, design, and professional practice skills for careers in industry, business, Extension, and higher education. Specific program-level professional accreditation is not stated by the university.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Academic strengths: The program is delivered by nationally recognized faculty and provides access to specialized research laboratories equipped with virtual and augmented reality technology, eye-tracking equipment, psychophysiological equipment, and 3D printing capabilities. A specific program-level QS or Guardian employability ranking is not stated.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Oklahoma State University combines research-based education with practical design experimentation, allowing students to investigate how interior environments can improve people's experiences and everyday lives. Students benefit from fully equipped design studios, specialist research laboratories and advanced technologies, including virtual reality, augmented reality, eye-tracking equipment and 3D printing. Faculty research also addresses real-world challenges such as aging in place, dementia housing, assistive technology and facility management.

Program-specific practical opportunities:

Experimental Design Projects: Develop original design work through the design thesis pathway, applying creative processes to practical interior design challenges.
Research Thesis: Conduct independent research into interior environments, functional design, user behaviour and other specialist areas.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality: Explore immersive technologies for investigating and evaluating interior environments.
Eye-Tracking Research: Use eye-tracking equipment to study visual attention and user interactions with designed environments.
Psychophysiological Research: Access specialist equipment to investigate human responses to different environmental and design conditions.
3D Printing: Develop physical models and prototypes to support design experimentation and visualization.
Aging-in-Place Research: Explore design solutions that improve accessibility, comfort and independence for older adults.
Dementia Housing and Assistive Technology: Investigate how interior environments and assistive technologies can support people with dementia and other care needs.
Facility Management and Design: Examine the relationship between building environments, functionality and the needs of their users.
Faculty Research Collaboration: Work with faculty involved in interdisciplinary research addressing environmental design, human behaviour and technology.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Oklahoma State University's M.S. in Design and Merchandising – Interior Design option can pursue opportunities in interior design research, design consultancy, facility management, higher education and specialized design industries. The program develops advanced research, analytical and creative skills, preparing graduates for professional roles involving functional environments, human-centred design and innovative interior solutions.

Career Opportunities:

Interior Design Researcher
Interior Design Consultant
Facility Management Specialist
Higher Education Instructor

University Career Services:

Career Coaching: Oklahoma State University's Career Services provides guidance on career planning, professional development and employment preparation.
Resume and Interview Support: Students can access assistance with job applications, resume development and interview preparation.
Employer Networking: Career fairs, employer recruitment events and networking sessions help students connect with prospective employers.
Graduate Career Resources: Graduate students can access career resources, professional development opportunities and guidance for entering academic or industry positions.

Employment Statistics and Salary Figures: The university does not publish a separate graduate employment rate or salary figure for the M.S. Interior Design option. Its published interior design employment statistics relate to the undergraduate program and should not be treated as graduate placement outcomes.

Long-term Accreditation Value: A specific professional accreditation for the M.S. Interior Design option is not stated. The department maintains an emphasis on professional interior design education and CIDA standards within its undergraduate program; this should not be interpreted as CIDA accreditation of the master's degree.

Graduation Outcomes: Graduates can apply their advanced research and design knowledge in professional interior design environments, industry research, facility management and higher education. Students completing the research thesis pathway can also develop the academic foundation needed for doctoral-level study, while the design thesis pathway provides experience in original experimental design.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue the Ph.D. in Human Sciences – Design and Merchandising option at Oklahoma State University. This 60-credit doctoral program offers an Interior Design specialization and focuses on advanced research methods, statistical analysis, interdisciplinary design research and dissertation development. Research areas include virtual and augmented reality, lighting design, facility management, aging-in-place, dementia caregiving, eye-tracking and environmental design, making it a relevant progression route for students interested in academic, research and advanced professional careers.