About the Department
The Department of Interior Design provides an intellectually rigorous, studio-based experience grounded in the issues of interior architecture. One of the oldest programs of its kind in U.S., we offer a curriculum that balances academic study with professional training, helping students gain both conceptual knowledge and technical skill.
Our BFA in Interior Design and MFA in Design (Interior Environments) degree programs are accredited by CIDA, the Council for Interior Design Accreditation.
Our alumni are commercial designers, hospitality designers, residential designers, museum and exhibition designers and lighting designers.
We have over a hundred undergraduate and graduate students from all over the U.S. and abroad.
Degree Programs
This studio-based program focuses on creating conceptually driven, critical holistic three-dimensional spaces, with the principles of space, form, color and light serving as the foundations of your studies.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design
The department’s relationships with design firms nationwide offer opportunities and access to professional critiques, visiting designers and site visits. Upon graduation, a majority of students enter the field or pursue graduate programs in architecture, graphic design and industrial design.
Master of Fine Arts in Design with a concentration in interior environments: professional entry-level option
This program is for second-degree seekers who have a proven record of academic excellence and are interested in pursuing a career in interior design.
Master of Fine Arts in Design with a concentration in interior environments: post-professional option
This program educates designers to enrich the quality of life through the design of the near environment. Students with a bachelor’s degree in interior design are invited to apply.
Featured Student Work
Farrah El Sharif
Lydia Felton
Jee Yeon Choi
Lianna Bagtas
Erin Casey
Sarah Webb
Monica Shreves
Lu Dai
Student Experience
Meet our faculty, learn about professional preparation and get the information you need about requirements and policies.
Student Resources and Facilities
Get the information you need on materials, policies and facilities.
Meet our Faculty
The department boasts strong faculty with an active relationship with the professional community.
Internships and Careers
Students are required to serve internships in a professional design setting, part of the emphasis on real-world experience, and they receive training in all areas of design, including presentation and communication skills.
Interior Design News
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Contact Us
Pollak Building, Room 406
325 North Harrison Street
Mailing address:
Box 843086
Richmond, VA 23284-3086