Interior Architecture, BS
Within the program, you’ll actively engage in programming, design analysis and space planning in interior settings. Our students prepare both computer-aided and hand-rendered drawings and documents outlining their specifications for aesthetically pleasing interiors that meet client needs, enhance quality of life and ensure public safety and well-being.
A portfolio review is not required for admission to the Interior Architecture Program.
Your Degree Plan
As a freshman, you’ll take introductory interior design classes right away and are evaluated at the end of your 1st year. Entry into the program is competitive. A cohort of the top 20 are selected based on their performance in the Interior Design courses, projects, and overall grade point average.
After your freshman year, you’ll progress through the rest of the program with the same cohort of students, which will become a valuable support system. An internship or study abroad experience is required, and internships often lead to employment in your aspirational career choice. Students take portfolio-building and professional development courses prior to their internship experiences.
WVU’s Interior Architecture Program prepares you to sit for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Exam after the required 2 years of professional experience. The NCIDQ is the industry’s recognized indicator of proficiency in interior design principles and a designer’s commitment to the profession.
Interior Architecture majors are also encouraged to participate in a wide variety of clubs and extracurricular activities across the campus, such as the Solar House Decathlon and the WVU Chapter of the The American Society of Interior Designers.
Computer Requirements
Each student entering the 1st year of the Interior Architecture major is expected to use a personal laptop computer that meets the Interior Architecture Computer Requirements.
Introduction to Architectural Design and Graphics
ID 115
Introduction to the principles and elements of design and their applications in analyzing, interpreting, developing, and communicating architectural spaces.
Architecture and Design Foundations Studio
ID 165S
Introduction to architectural design and communication processes utilizing concept development and the principles and elements of design.
Architectural Interior Design and Graphics 2 Studio
ID 265S
Introduction to the design of architectural, typological elements and compositions with an emphasis on spatial development and human accommodation. Students examine precedents by significant architects and designers and use their findings to inform design decisions. Design diagramming, modeling (digital and physical), and graphic communication are stressed.
History of the Architectural Interior 2
ID 280
Architectural interiors of the modern period within their geographical, political, aesthetic, social, technological, and economic contexts. Focus on European and American developments in a globalized world.
Light and Color in Architectural Interiors
ID 335
Introduction to the theories and practices of lighting design with an emphasis on the relationships between light, color, and well-being within architectural interiors. Overview of the principles of light quality, quantity, distribution, and color rendering for residential and contract spaces. Application of lighting calculations, modeling, and graphic illustrations to the development of interior lighting schemes.
Honors
Expand your curiosity and enhance your curriculum through the WVU Honors College. Two programs are offered: Honors Foundations and Honors in Action.
The WVU Difference
What sets this program apart?
- Curriculum includes either an internship or semester abroad.
- Field trips to New York and Pittsburgh.
- Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.
- Graduates are NCIDQ-eligible.
- Dedicated studio spaces.
- Scholarships awarded annually.
- Connect with professionals in your field of study and enhance your professional communication skills.
Learn by Doing
Get involved outside the classroom.
- Students are required to have at least one internship or study abroad experience, and take portfolio-building and professional development courses prior to the internship.
- Network with industry professionals and program alumni both in the classroom and through field trips to New York and Pittsburgh.
View all of the student organizations you can join.
Careers and Outcomes
How does this degree prepare students for a career?
Commercial and Industrial Designers
Median Salary: $79,450
Possible Job Titles: Design Engineer, Designer, Industrial Designer, Product Designer
Interior Designers
Median Salary: $63,490
Possible Job Titles: Designer, Interior Design Consultant, Interior Design Coordinator, Interior Designer
Career options
Recent alumni of the program are employed by interior design and architecture firms and work in the hospitality, education, office, healthcare, and real estate development sectors.
Some have followed paths in design publishing, product sales, social media, and entrepreneurship.
Others have pursued graduate degrees in fields like architecture, historic preservation, and sustainability studies.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the Interior Architecture major, first-time freshmen must meet WVU's first-time freshman admission requirements. Interested in transferring? Review the transfer admission requirements.
Tuition and Aid
How much does Interior Architecture at WVU cost? And how can you save?
Tuition and Fees
Estimated rates are available on our tuition website. Anyone who is not a current West Virginia resident, including international students, will be charged non-resident rates.
Ways to Save
Beyond scholarships, here are other ways to reduce your cost of attending WVU.
Financial Aid
The most important step toward funding your future with financial aid for the Interior Architecture, BS is submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA.
Start at Another WVU Campus
You can start your career with WVU at another campus and transfer to WVU Morgantown.
Transfer Articulation Agreements
To simplify the transfer process, we have formal agreements with certain institutions. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to WVU.
Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.
Request Info
Want to know more about Interior Architecture at WVU? Fill out our request form to receive more information.
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