The History and Overview of BYU’s Interior Design Program
Brigham Young University’s Interior Design Program is one of the oldest and well-respected programs in the United States. In 1947, the university’s department of Home Economics created an interior decorating program. The program was designed for women who wanted to work as homemakers. Initially, the program focused on teaching homemaking and interior decorating skills.
However, in 1962, the program shifted its focus and began offering a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design. Since then, the program has continued to evolve and upgrade its curriculum to better meet the demands of the design industry.
Today, the BYU Interior Design Program is part of the College of Family, Home, and Social Sciences. The program offers two undergraduate degrees: a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design and a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design.
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design is a professional program that focuses on the design of commercial and institutional interiors, including schools, hospitals, offices, and public spaces. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to design spaces that are functional, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing.
The Bachelor of Science in Interior Design is a more general program that covers a wide range of topics related to interior design. Students in this program learn about design theory, color theory, drafting, and spatial planning. The program prepares students for careers in the residential, commercial, or institutional interior design fields.
One of the unique aspects of the BYU Interior Design Program is its emphasis on the relationship between design and faith. The program encourages students to explore how design can promote values and enhance the quality of life. This approach has made the BYU Interior Design Program a popular choice for students who are looking for a spiritually enriched environment in which to study design.
The program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA), which is the most respected accrediting agency for interior design programs. The accreditation ensures that the program meets the rigorous standards set by the profession and reflects current industry practices.
The BYU Interior Design Program also provides students with opportunities to gain professional experience through internships and other hands-on projects. The program has strong ties to the local design community, and students regularly participate in local design events and competitions.
Overall, the BYU Interior Design Program is an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a career in interior design. The program’s emphasis on professional excellence, design theory, and faith-inspired design set it apart from other design programs. Students graduating from the program are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive design industry.
Prerequisites and Admission to BYU’s Interior Design Program
If you’re considering pursuing a degree in interior design, Brigham Young University’s (BYU) Interior Design Program is an excellent option. However, before you can begin your interior design studies, there are certain prerequisites you must meet. Additionally, you’ll need to become familiar with the admission requirements and process.
First, let’s discuss the prerequisites you’ll need to meet in order to be eligible for BYU’s Interior Design Program. The first thing you’ll need is a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. You’ll also need to have completed certain courses, including:
- ART 131: Drawing I
- ART 233: Design Fundamentals
- ART 241: Art History I
- ART 242: Art History II
- FDHUM 110: Social Science
- FDHUM 111: Fine Arts
- FDHUM 222: Humanities
- Any additional courses from the General Education Core
If you haven’t completed all of these courses, don’t worry – you can still apply to the program, but you’ll need to complete any remaining prerequisites before you can begin your interior design coursework.
Once you’ve met the prerequisites, you’ll need to apply for admission to the program. The first step is to complete the online application, which includes answering several essay questions. There is also an application fee of $35.00. In addition to the application itself, you’ll need to submit several supporting documents, including:
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities you’ve attended
- A portfolio of your creative work, which should demonstrate your abilities in design and visual communication
- A resume that highlights your education, previous work experience, and any relevant extracurricular activities
- Two letters of recommendation
It’s important to note that admission to BYU’s Interior Design Program is competitive, with a limited number of spots available each year. The program only admits students once per year, during the fall semester. If you’re accepted into the program, you’ll need to maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA in your interior design coursework to remain in good standing.
BYU’s Interior Design Program is a four-year program that prepares students for careers in a variety of industries, including residential and commercial design, hospitality design, and more. The program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA), which means that graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam and become licensed interior designers.
In summary, in order to be admitted into BYU’s Interior Design Program, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites, including a minimum GPA and completion of specific courses. You’ll also need to complete the online application and submit several supporting documents, including a portfolio of your creative work and letters of recommendation. If accepted, you’ll need to maintain a minimum GPA in your interior design coursework. By completing this program, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful career in interior design, with the credentials necessary to become a licensed interior designer if desired.
The Curriculum of BYU’s Interior Design Program
BYU’s Interior Design program has designed a curriculum that combines artistic and practical skills with technological rigor and business savvy. The program is divided into four main parts, each building upon the last to prepare students for a successful career in interior design. These parts are: the Introduction, the Core, the Emphasis, and the Specialization. The curriculum culminates in a final project where students apply all they have learned throughout the program to a real-world design problem.
The Introduction
The Introduction is comprised of two classes, ID 110 and ID 120. These courses are designed to introduce students to the foundational principles of design thinking, history, and theory. Students learn to use design principles to solve problems in the built environment. They also study design history to understand how architecture and interior design have evolved over time. These classes provide a strong foundation for the rest of the program.
The Core
The Core consists of six courses, ID 201, ID 202, ID 212, ID 234, ID 236, and ID 240. These courses build upon the introductory classes and provide students with a deeper understanding of design principles, space planning, and materials. They also include technical courses such as drafting, lighting, and codes so that students have the necessary technical skills to succeed as an interior designer. The Core is designed to give students a broad understanding of design while also providing them with the skills they need to succeed in the later parts of the program.
The Emphasis
The Emphasis portion of the program is where students choose an area of emphasis or specialty within the field of interior design. Students choose from one of three emphasis tracks: Commercial, Residential, or Sustainable Design. Each emphasis track consists of four classes that are designed to prepare students for a specific area of the industry. Students are able to gain in-depth knowledge and advanced skills in their chosen area. The Emphasis portion of the program is designed to give students a competitive edge in the field.
The Specialization
The Specialization portion of the program gives students the opportunity to specialize even further in a specific area of interest. Students are able to choose from one of three specializations: Lighting Design, Furniture Design, and Healthcare Design. Each specialization consists of two classes that provide students with in-depth knowledge and advanced skills in a specific area. The Specialization portion of the program allows students to differentiate themselves even further in the industry and prepare them for specific career paths.
The curriculum of BYU’s Interior Design program is designed to give students a strong foundation in design principles while also providing them with the necessary technical skills, business acumen, and industry expertise to succeed in the field. The program is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in interior design by providing them with a well-rounded education in a variety of areas within the field.
Opportunities for Students in BYU’s Interior Design Program
BYU’s Interior Design Program provides a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for a career in the field of interior design. The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces. Graduates of the program are well-rounded designers prepared to enter the industry with confidence.
One of the most significant benefits of being a student in BYU’s Interior Design Program is the hands-on experience students receive. Students participate in various design projects throughout their time in the program, each designed to challenge their creativity, problem-solving skills, and technical abilities. The program features a professional internship component where students work with real-world clients. This experience gives students a practical understanding of the design process and how to work effectively with clients.
Another unique opportunity available to students in BYU’s Interior Design Program is the annual study abroad program. Each year, students have the chance to travel to various destinations across the world, studying interior design in a new cultural context. The program’s international study experiences provide students with an opportunity to explore new and innovative design concepts, gain inspiration from diverse cultures, and expand their global perspectives.
One of the most exciting opportunities available to students in BYU’s Interior Design Program is the chance to work on a complete house renovation project through their capstone class. In this class, students work together in teams to design and renovate a real house. The capstone project provides students with an opportunity to apply everything they have learned throughout the program and showcase their skills to potential employers.
In conclusion, students enrolled in BYU’s Interior Design Program have access to a variety of unique opportunities to develop their creative skills, challenge themselves, and gain practical experience. The program’s curriculum is designed to instill a well-rounded understanding of interior design principles and prepare students for a fulfilling career in the industry.
Graduating from BYU’s Interior Design Program
BYU’s Interior Design Program is an excellent academic program that instills students with practical knowledge and skills to become professional interior designers. The program combines a rigorous curriculum with real-world experience, preparing students with the right tools to succeed in their future careers.
The program covers various aspects of interior design, including design theory, color theory, space planning, materials, furniture, and lighting. The curriculum also includes courses in drawing, CAD, and modeling software, enabling students to create complete design solutions that both meet the client’s needs and reflect their aesthetic sensibilities.
The program’s faculty is comprised of industry professionals with extensive experience, providing personal guidance and mentorship to each student. Students can count on receiving constructive feedback and practical advice tailored to their skill level and learning style. The faculty also maintains close relationships with leading figures in the industry, ensuring that students stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices.
Graduating from BYU’s Interior Design Program is a significant accomplishment that represents the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Students are prepared to take on any challenge and go beyond mere technical competence, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Career Prospects
Graduating from BYU’s Interior Design Program opens up new opportunities for students to pursue their passions and interests in the field of interior design. The program prepares students to work in a variety of settings, including commercial and residential design, hospitality, healthcare, and institutional design.
Many graduates of the program start their careers working for well-established firms or as freelance designers. As they gain experience and skills, they can progress to more senior positions, oversee projects, and manage teams of designers. In some cases, graduates also decide to start their own design firms, providing personalized services to clients and building their brands.
BYU’s Interior Design Program prepares students to become well-rounded professionals with a broad range of skills. Graduates of the program are equipped to hit the ground running and add value to any team from day one. The program’s curriculum, faculty, and resources provide students with an unparalleled learning experience that prepares them for success in their future careers.
Overall, BYU’s Interior Design Program is an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a career in interior design. With its academic rigor, practical focus, and supportive faculty, the program prepares students for exciting and rewarding careers in a growing field that demands innovative and creative solutions to complex design challenges.