Interior Design - Professional Program

Purdue University in West Lafayette

Interior design is the comprehensive, professional practice of creating interior environments. It is the art and science of planning creative, sustainable, safe, and functional interior spaces. The role of an interior designer is to create environments that promote the health, safety, and welfare of the public while making informed decisions about styles and aesthetics. 

Purdue's accredited Interior Design program delivers a strong foundation for the interior design profession. The comprehensive curriculum emphasizes the systematic and coordinated methodology of the design process, including research, analysis, and the integration of knowledge to satisfy the interior environment needs of residential and commercial clients. Equally important is the design of code-compliant, accessible, and inclusive interior environments that address well-being while considering individuals' physical, mental, and emotional needs. Students develop interdisciplinary skills to formulate, communicate, and execute evidence-based solutions appropriate for meeting the growing demands of a diverse and global society. 

Students in Purdue's interior design program develop analytical skills and gain experience in planning commercial, institutional, healthcare, retail, and residential interiors. This program aims to develop students as creative designers who can formulate, propose, and execute innovative design solutions for the physical, social, and psychological needs of a changing society influenced by rapid technological changes. Purdue's interior design program is accredited by Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). Students will graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA).  

Special note regarding portfolio review - An art portfolio is not required to begin this major. However, students must pass a selective portfolio review in the spring of their sophomore year to advance to upper-level design courses and complete this major. Selection is competitive and is based on the student's work in Purdue art and design courses and development as a designer. Students not selected for upper-level Interior Design work with their academic advisor to change to their second choice major.

All liberal arts majors prepare students with the skills identified as contributing to managerial success:  communicating and listening well, possessing insights into others, creative/critical thinking, problem-solving, and making connections across complex ideas.