| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-08-01 | - |
| 2025-08-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours) program at Conestoga College equips students with the skills and knowledge to excel in the interior design profession. Through a comprehensive curriculum, project-based learning, and paid co-op work terms, graduates are prepared for careers in various sectors, including residential, commercial, and healthcare design. The program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA), ensuring graduates meet industry standards and are eligible for professional membership applications.
Program Outline
Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours) - Conestoga College
Degree Overview:
The Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours) program at Conestoga College is designed to provide students with the theoretical, practical, and technical skills required for success in the interior design profession. The program aims to:
- Equip students with an understanding of the evolving nature of interior design as both art and science.
- Prepare students to meet the demands of technological changes and current trends in sustainability, universal design, and health and safety.
- Provide students with the skills to design and create sustainable interiors, manage interior design projects, and collaborate effectively within professional teams.
- Fully prepare graduates for the realities of new and emerging technologies and successful careers in interior design. The Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours) degree is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). This accreditation ensures that graduates meet the educational requirements for entry-level interior design practice, advanced study, and professional membership applications.
Outline:
Program Length:
Four years
Delivery:
Full-time
Campus:
Cambridge – Fountain Street
Program Structure:
- The program consists of a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of interior design, including:
- Functional and aesthetic components of interior spaces
- Ergonomics, illumination, acoustics, finishes, safety, and space programming
- Sustainable interior design principles
- Interior design project management
- Collaboration with architects, engineers, and contractors
- The curriculum incorporates project-based learning to provide students with practical experience in developing creative design solutions for diverse interior spaces, such as:
- Residential
- Corporate/commercial
- Retail
- Institutional
- Healthcare
- Hospitality/entertainment
- Exposition However, the program description highlights key areas of focus, including:
- Design principles and aesthetics
- Technical skills (e.g., space planning, furniture selection, lighting, materials)
- Building codes and regulations
- Sustainability and environmental considerations
- Project management and communication
- Professional ethics and practice
Assessment:
The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning outcomes, including:
- Assignments (individual and group projects)
- Presentations
- Examinations (written and practical)
- Portfolios
- Co-op work term evaluations The specific assessment criteria and weighting for each component may vary depending on the individual course or module.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and enhance student engagement. These methods may include:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Seminars
- Workshops
- Studio work
- Guest lectures from industry professionals
- Site visits
- Online learning resources
Faculty:
The program is delivered by an interdisciplinary faculty with expertise in various areas of interior design, including:
- Design principles and theory
- Technical skills and software
- Building codes and regulations
- Sustainability and environmental design
- Project management and communication
- Professional ethics and practice The faculty members are actively involved in research and professional practice, ensuring that students receive up-to-date knowledge and industry insights.
Unique Approaches:
The program incorporates several unique approaches to enhance student learning, including:
- Project-based learning: Students work on real-world projects, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills to practical situations.
- Co-operative education: Paid co-op work terms provide valuable hands-on experience and industry connections.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration: Students have the opportunity to collaborate with professionals from various disciplines, such as architecture, engineering, and construction.
- Focus on sustainability: The curriculum emphasizes sustainable design principles and practices, preparing students for the future of the industry.
Careers:
Graduates of the Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours) program are prepared for a variety of exciting career opportunities in the interior design field. These may include:
- Interior Designer
- Project Manager
- Space Planner
- Furniture Designer
- Lighting Designer
- Sustainability Consultant
- Design Researcher
- Educator The program also prepares students for further study and professional certifications, such as the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam.
Other:
- The program requires applicants to submit a portfolio as part of the admission process.
- Graduates of advanced diploma programs in interior design can apply to transfer credits.
- The program is listed on both the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO) and the Interior Designers of Canada's (IDC) list of recognized interior design programs.
Conestoga College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Overview:
Conestoga College is an Ontario college offering full and part-time studies. It provides a wide range of programs and services to students, including full-time, continuing education, online, apprenticeship, and open programs. The college is known for its focus on applied learning and its commitment to preparing students for successful careers.
Services Offered:
Conestoga College offers a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Academic integrity resources, accessible learning services, bookstore, eConestoga online learning platform, global opportunities, library services, program technology requirements, student tech help, and tutoring & academic help.Student Support:
Counseling, Indigenous services, medical care clinic, remote service hours, student financial services, and student rights and responsibilities.Get Involved:
Athletics & Recreation, Co-Curricular Record (CCR), CSI - Student association, Orientation, and Student Engagement.Campus Services:
Child care centers, facilities management, food services, IT service desk, lockers, ONE Card, parking & transportation, printing services, safety & security, and student housing.Career & Employment:
Community Career Centre, Conestoga Entrepreneurship Collective, co-operative education, myCareer Services, and Talent Hub.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Conestoga College provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for students. Students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and student government. The college also offers a range of social events and opportunities for students to connect with their peers and the wider community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Applied Learning:
Conestoga College emphasizes hands-on learning and practical skills development, preparing students for real-world careers.Career-Focused Programs:
The college offers a wide range of programs designed to meet the needs of employers and prepare students for specific career paths.Strong Industry Partnerships:
Conestoga College has strong relationships with industry partners, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and access to real-world experiences.Supportive Campus Environment:
The college provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students, with a range of services and resources available to help them succeed.Academic Programs:
Conestoga College offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
- Applied Computer Science & Information Technology
- Business
- Community Services
- Creative Industries
- Engineering & Technology
- Health & Life Sciences
- Hospitality & Culinary Arts
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Trades & Apprenticeship
Other:
Conestoga College has multiple campuses and locations across Ontario, including Brantford, Cambridge, Guelph, Ingersoll, Kitchener, Milton, Stratford, and Waterloo. The college also offers a variety of online programs and courses.
Entry Requirements:
High School Diploma or Equivalent:
- Applicants must possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent with a minimum average of 70%.
- The OSSD must include six Grade 12 courses, including:
- English (ENG4U or equivalent)
- Mathematics (MDM4U or equivalent)
- One additional English or mathematics course, at the university or college level
- Two courses from the Arts and/or Social Sciences (at least one course must be at the university or college level)
- One additional course from any subject
Secondary School Portfolio:
- Applicants are required to submit a portfolio showcasing their creative skills and abilities.
- The portfolio should demonstrate a strong foundation in art and design principles, including drawing, composition, and perspective.
International Applicants:
- International students must possess equivalent academic qualifications as outlined above, along with:
- Proof of English language proficiency meeting the minimum requirement for admission. Accepted tests include:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall band score with a minimum of 6.0 in each band
- TOEFL: 88 internet-based test score
- CAEL: 70 overall score
- PTE Academic: 58 overall score
- A valid study permit if they are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Additional Considerations:
- Applicants with relevant experience in the design field may be considered for mature student admission.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- All applicants, regardless of their citizenship or country of origin, must demonstrate proficiency in English.
- The required level of proficiency depends on the applicant's intended program of study and their academic background.
- For Bachelor of Interior Design (Honours), the minimum English language proficiency requirements are:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall band score with a minimum of 6.0 in each band
- TOEFL: 88 internet-based test score
- CAEL: 70 overall score
- PTE Academic: 58 overall score
Note:
Applicants with English as their first language or who have completed their most recent degree in an English-speaking country may be exempt from the English language proficiency requirements.
