Bachelor of Science in Interior Design

Program Overview

The Interior Design program at San Francisco State University prepares students for careers in interior design and related industries through a holistic approach that combines industry standards, scientific methods, and experiential learning. Students develop technical skills, design solutions considering individual needs and sustainability, and research and apply findings to their designs. Upon graduation, students are eligible for the IDEX California Exam and entry-level interior design practice.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Interior Design program at San Francisco State University prepares students for careers in interior design and closely related industries. It utilizes a holistic approach that integrates industry standards, scientific and experimental methods, and experiential learning to develop students' broad skill sets and professionalism. The program focuses on both residential and commercial interior design and includes curricula that build on rigor within the transition from foundational courses through advanced-level practicum courses. Program study includes a culminating experience within the final semester of study, the Senior Thesis Project. Students earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design are equipped to engage in entry-level interior design practice and are eligible to sit for the IDEX California Exam immediately upon graduation.

Program Learning Outcomes:

• Students will exhibit technical and professional interior design graphic communication skill sets and abilities.
• Students will plan interior design solutions considering individual and family needs including health, wellness, and lifecycle changes.
• Students will plan interiors considering cost analysis and construction methods and approaches.
• Students will develop design process methods that include application of theory, current methods and technologies, and understanding of diversity and global needs.
• Students will consider sustainability and eco-sensitivity within interior design study and solutions.
• Students will exhibit the ability to research, investigate, synthesize and apply findings to the interior design solutions.
• Students will identify and evaluate issues of social responsibility, professional behavior, and ethics.

Mandatory Advising:

Interior Design majors must meet with their program advisor to discuss a Graduation Plan which outlines their individual course sequence. Students who wish to substitute credits earned at another institution for courses offered for the major at SF State must get approval from their major advisor and the Department Chair.

Writing Competence:

Writing skills are necessary for success in the major. ID 340GW should be taken at the beginning of the sequence of upper-division ID courses, which fulfills the Graduate Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR).