Curriculum
The graduate Interiors program integrates design concepts, technical information, and hands-on skills in an integrated studio model that encourages communication and shared learning. Students engage questions of aesthetics, function, ethics, technology and the realities of the marketplace. We emphasize sustainability, diversity, and equity in designing the built environment. Students and faculty collaborate across disciplines in both research and studio design projects. The program offers an immersive experience, producing well-rounded, innovative, and socially-engaged interior design professionals.
Interior Architecture and Design (MSIAD) Course Requirements and Plan of Study
The graduate Interior Architecture & Design degree prepares students with diverse undergraduate backgrounds to enter the field of interior design. The program is grounded in visual studies, providing a foundation of design knowledge, integrating creative and artistic approaches to experience, and emphasizing the value of aesthetics and craft. At the same time, the program integrates social science research and methods that inform a human-centric design process, contribute to the understanding of human factors in design, and provide a basis for design decision-making grounded in evidence.
The combination of rich and diverse student backgrounds, active faculty involvement, and emphasis on the creative, collaborative design studio create a culture within the interior design program that values the world of ideas, the challenging of conventional thought, and the discipline of hard work. Through this the program cultivates responsible and sensitive designers who promote the well-being of the public and advocate for safe and healthy environments.
There are 92 required graduate credits and 12 prerequisite credits that must be completed for the degree. A Plan of Study based on review of transcripts and portfolio will be prepared for all accepted students, which will indicate what the curriculum requirements will be. Several factors influence the length of the program and the sequencing of courses including: prerequisite course work needed, undergraduate degree coursework, transfer credits, and programmatic changes. Students should contact the Program Director to ensure they meet all degree requirements in a timely manner. The following links to the Course Catalog provide further information. For course descriptions please click on the course number.
Interior Architecture (MSIA) Course Requirements and Plan of Study
The graduate Interior Architecture degree is a post-professional degree for students with a background in interior design or architecture. The MSIA allows in-depth specialization, interdisciplinary research, and custom paths of study. The master’s degree in Interior Architecture consists of 45 graduate credits, taken across studios, seminars, electives, and the graduate thesis.
Students should contact the Program Director to ensure they meet all degree requirements in a timely manner. The following links to the Course Catalog provide further information. For course descriptions please click on the course number.
Graduate Thesis
The program culminates in a three-term thesis process that provides opportunity for the student to pursue in-depth knowledge in an individual topic of investigation under the guidance of a faculty member. This self-directed research results in a thesis paper and design proposal due in early February, and culminates with a thesis design project that is presented orally and visually in the spring of the final year. Please visit our archive of graduate thesis projects.
Comprehensive Exam
The Comprehensive Exam consists of a number of components that must be completed during the graduate coursework: sketch problems, design competitions, professional experience, and a portfolio review. The Comprehensive Exam is intended to demonstrate mastery of the curriculum requirements and prepare students to enter the professional environment.
Policies
The following are curriculum policies established by Drexel University:
For additional information, please speak with the Program Director or the Westphal College Office of Academic Advising