Interior architecture and design
Bachelor of Interior Architecture and Design
Designing for lifestyles
Interior architecture and design is about more than creating attractive interiors; it's about solving problems to improve the way people live, work and play.
In this program, you will study the science of combining materials, lighting, colors, furnishings and other design elements to create spaces that are both functional and beautiful. Intensive design studios will give you valuable practice designing for real-world clients. Pair this with a minor in architecture to be more competitive in the job market.
Accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA), this professional degree program is one of only few Bachelor's of Interior Architecture and Design (B.I.A.D.) programs in the nation.
Highlights of the Bachelor of Interior Architecture and Design program include:
- Tight-knit studio culture and student organizations offer a collaborative community of peer mentoring.
- Faculty-student ratio of 15:1 translates to personal attention from committed faculty who are leaders and experts in their fields.
- Students can complete the first two years of undergraduate coursework at U of I Boise before transferring to our Moscow campus, or they can complete their entire degree in Moscow.
- Option to earn a seamless Master of Architecture (M. Arch), the degree required to practice as a licensed architect, exists with an additional two to three years of coursework.
Overview
Related Topics
Create functional and beautiful spaces
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Are creative and imaginative
- Like to design experiential environments
- Enjoy watching interior design shows on TV
- Are a good project manager
- Have strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills
Degree prep
To prepare for courses required to earn a degree in interior architecture and design, we recommend you:
- Have an interest in finishes, lighting, color and sustainability
- Take courses in humanities, languages and social sciences
- Appreciate the value of architecture and how it influences design
Degree roadmap
Students who graduate with a degree in interior architecture and design will complete 91 required credits toward the degree in addition to University of Idaho core requirements.
Professional licensing
Completion of the program makes you eligible to sit for the Licensed Interior Designers, Registered Interior Designer, Certified Interior Designer; National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination (NCIDQ Exam) and certificate administered by NCIDQ.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,864 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and starting salaries
- Postsecondary Architecture Teachers
$48,689 - Architectural and Engineering Managers
$122,156 - Interior Designers
$34,470 - Commercial and Industrial Designers
$46,286 - Set and Exhibit Designers
$19,362
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho! When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that students can apply for to help pay for college.
Explore available scholarships on our Scholarships website.
Professional fee
- All full-time students (10-20 credits) - $716 per semester
- Part-time undergraduates (1-9 credits) - $72 per credit
- Part-time graduate students - $80 per credit (neither to exceed $716)
The Professional fee supports College of Art and Architecture studios and equipment, student organizations, field trips and student services.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Organizations and clubs
Organizations and clubs connect students, create community and help shape future leaders.
- American Institute of Architecture Students
- American Institute of Graphic Artists
- American Society of Interior Designers
- Freedom by Design
- Integrated Designers, Educators, and Artists
- Virtual Design Society
- National Association of Educators of Art
- New World Design Build
- Student Chapter of American Society of Landscape Architecture
- Student Congress of Art & Architecture
- Visual Arts Community
- Tau Sigma Delta - Honor Society
Internships
The College of Art and Architecture has strong industry connections providing internship and networking opportunities that are crucial as you establish your career.
- Museums
- Galleries
- Libraries
- Public schools (teaching practicum required for art education majors)
- Public agencies
- Private firms in architecture, landscape architecture, interior design or graphic design
- Art nonprofits
- Community centers
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.