Interior Architecture & Design (AAS)

People walk and children play on a grassy courtyard with playground swings, surrounded by modern buildings.

The School of Interior Architecture & Design's AAS program is designed to provide students with a foundation in design theory, technique, and technical skill in line with today's industry standards. Graduates of the program are equipped for a seamless transition into the BFA program.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree
Core Classes

This program is available online and on campus

School of Interior Architecture & Design

FND 113

Sketching for Communication Core/3

Communicate your ideas through sketching by applying classical design principles to depict objects and environments accurately in scale and perspective. Develop strong compositional strategies to create clear, compelling visuals.

FND 122

Color Fundamentals Core/3

Explore color as a powerful tool in digital media. Learn how color psychology, contrast, light temperature, composition, and harmony enhance imagery, while applying various color schemes to create visually compelling artwork.

FND 149

Introduction to Design Thinking Core/3

Unlock your creative potential by harnessing the power of the creative process. You will generate ideas to solve physical and conceptual design problems. Learn from faculty across different disciplines and engage with your peers to create innovative solutions through collaborations.

IAD 140

Introduction to Construction Documents Core/3

Hand-draft your interior architectural construction documents, including floor, lighting, electrical, furniture, and finish plans. You'll apply lettering, line weight, dimensions, and graphic symbols to interior sections, elevations, details, and schedules.

IAD 200

Spatial Development Studio Core/3

The power of dynamic space planning propels design. You will gain problem-solving, idea extrapolation, and commercial and residential spatial development skills through schematic design tools such as diagramming, bubble drawings, and model-making. Plus, explore how factors such as circulation, accessibility, adjacencies, and universal design impacts human beings and their environment.

IAD 210

Digital Imaging Core/3

Enter the gateway into imaging software. You will develop skills to enhance presentations, create graphic layouts, and integrate various media into your design projects.

IAD 240

Building Codes and Systems Core/3

Gain technical experience with building codes and systems while working on a commercial building renovation. You'll learn about structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and acoustical systems. Develop your skills in detailing, fire ratings, and zoning and coordinating holistically with a design team.

IAD 245

Materials Core/3

Cultivate your sense of materiality. You'll gain knowledge to select and specify finishes, fabrics, and furnishings based on aesthetics, durability, environmental attributes, and industry standards.

IAD 260

Computer Aided Drafting Core/3

Enhance your drafting and design skills with CAD. You'll create construction documents for a design project.

Degree Requirements

Unit Requirements	Units
Core	24
Sophomore Portfolio	3
Major	18
Liberal Arts	15
Total	60

AAS INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

Minimum grade of C- in all major coursework.
Minimum 2.0 GPA and the following general education requirements:
1 Art Historical Awareness: Western Art course
1 Art & Design Communication course
1 Quantitative & Human Factors course
1 Employment Communications and Practices course

After above general education requirements are met, take Liberal Arts electives as needed to fulfill the Liberal Arts unit requirement.

Additional Information

Liberal Arts

Program Learning Outcomes

Undergraduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

Interior Design Skills

Demonstrate creative approaches to spatial organization, use of material and lighting
Demonstrate a basic understanding of the laws, codes and standards that impact fire and life safety by correctly applying professional standards to space planning and layouts
Demonstrate a basic understanding of ADA and Universal Design principles in interior design solutions
Demonstrate a basic understanding of human factors and behavior in the built environment by creating informed design solutions
Create construction drawings and documents
Demonstrate an understanding of movements and traditions in interior design, architecture and furniture by applying precedents design solutions

Problem Solving Skills

Present design solutions by creating ideation sketches, bubble diagrams and preliminary drawings

Technical Design Skills

Effectively apply principles of two and three dimensional design through both traditional and digital media
Effectively apply color in all aspects of visual communication
Visualize basic concepts through sketching and space planning

Communication Skills

Communicate design ideas using accurate design vocabulary

Building Systems

Demonstrate an understanding of both basic construction and non-structural systems such as ceilings, flooring and interior walls in design ideas

Global Perspective

Demonstrate an understanding of social, economic and cultural influences in interior designs

Professional Readiness

Produce basic materials required for an entry-level job search

Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:

1. Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
2. Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
3. Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their field.
4. Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
5. Use professional terminology to evaluate their work and work in the field.
6. Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
7. Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design.
8. Engage with a variety of communities beyond the classroom through internship opportunities, study abroad programs, student interest clubs, and participation in collaborative, civic, and pro bono projects.

*Semester plans are subject to change at any time. Semester breakdowns displayed are suggested and additional options are available to help customize your educational experience. Speak to an admissions or student services representative for more information. Please see our catalog for more details at: https://catalog.academyart.edu