The Bachelor of Interior Architecture is a Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) accredited first professional interior design program consisting of 120 credits. The curriculum includes foundation courses in interior architecture, a dynamic studio sequence, an internship, electives, and an integrative capstone. The Bachelor of Interior Architecture prepares students for practice in an interior design or architecture firm.

Because of the technical requirements needed to run drafting and presentation software programs, students in the BIA program will receive special laptops on a University leasing program. Upon graduation, students are able to keep their laptop.

Students in the BIA program participate in the Fallingwater Residency Program. Typically offered in May after their first year of study, students have a unique opportunity to explore, study and experience Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece via a 5-day, 4-night on-site residency.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

• effectively locate and gather information associated with both practice and research through a variety of information media
• evaluate the quality and accuracy of information they locate
• extract information from sources associated with practice and research
• evaluate the quality and accuracy of written information
• critically evaluate the executed works of designers
• make informed design decisions based on aesthetics, building technologies, human needs and the health, safety and the welfare of the public
• exhibit a variety of design ideas, approaches and concepts with originality
• transform conceptual design ideas into a detailed solution that takes into account existing building constraints, user needs, cost, building codes and standards, and a program of spaces
• engage in problem solving with respect to design projects of varying type, size and scope
• communicate clearly in writing, in short papers for supporting coursework, concept statements and building programs in the design studios, specifications and schedules for construction documents and contracts and business-related documents
• formulate a point of view and have the ability to articulate and defend it in written form
• express ideas clearly in oral presentations and critiques with classmates, other instructors and professionals from the design community
• formulate a point of view and have the ability to articulate and defend it orally
• demonstrate  a sustainable approach to interior design
• think critically and see inquiry as the norm
• identify, research, and solve design challenges with a logical methodology
• demonstrate creative solutions and applied spontaneity
• understand how to conduct and apply research findings
• demonstrate strong professional communication skills and be able to present their design ideas and solutions with confidence
• Students will be globally-conscious interior designers

Chatham University Interior Architecture

Curriculum

+Interior Architecture Theory Minor Requirements

IAR105	Environment and Behavior Intended for interior architecture majors or potential majors, this course introduces students to significant theories concerning the interaction of people and interior architecture. Emphasis is placed on shared human needs and differences based on age, culture, gender, and occupation.	3
IAR202	Theory of Interior Architecture Studio This course is intended only for majors or potential majors and cultivates the ability to use formal architectural ordering to develop creative abstract designs that translate into three-dimensional compositions of space and form. Architectural theories and manifestos are explored through process tools and applied utilizing design exercises and projects.	3
IAR231	Green & Sustainable Design Global issues of energy use, resource depletion, and indoor air quality have promoted design professionals to re-evaluate design and construction processes. This course provides students with the knowledge of the US Green Building Council (USGBC) and Environmental Design (LEED) certification system to promote environmentally responsible design.	3
IAR232	Color and Textiles Studio I The first part of this residential studio examines theories of color in relation to light and space. In the second part, key topics include the selection, specification and application of textiles based on their properties and performance criteria, sustainability, installation methods, maintenance requirements, and regulations and standards.	3
IAR257	20th- and 21st-Century Architecture This course is designed to relate the impact of architecture on both public and private spaces throughout the twentieth century and provide a view towards the future of architecture in the twenty-first century. The course will guide you through the major styles of architecture of the twentieth century and investigate the socio-historic context of the works and determinants of that architecture. Emphasis will also be placed on the interior spaces, furnishings and the arts and artists of the day.	3
IAR259	History of Interior Architecture: pre-20th Century This survey course examines world architecture from prehistoric times through the 19th century, including the built environment of Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. Emphasis is placed on the role of interior spaces, furnishings, and art within architecture.	3

+Major Requirements

27 courses, including

IAR105	Environment and Behavior Intended for interior architecture majors or potential majors, this course introduces students to significant theories concerning the interaction of people and interior architecture. Emphasis is placed on shared human needs and differences based on age, culture, gender, and occupation.	3
IAR202	Theory of Interior Architecture Studio This course is intended only for majors or potential majors and cultivates the ability to use formal architectural ordering to develop creative abstract designs that translate into three-dimensional compositions of space and form. Architectural theories and manifestos are explored through process tools and applied utilizing design exercises and projects.	3
IAR210	2D Visual Communication This course develops graphic literacy as a language and philosophy for observation, analysis, expression, and presentation of interior architecture. Students will develop an understanding of design thinking and visualization and the skills needed to generate design drawings communicating interior environments. One-point, two-point, isometric, and axonometric drawing methods will be covered.	3
IAR214	Digital Visualization I This course explores design principles related to color theory, typography, branding, web design, print design and layout relative to portfolio design, interior design presentation, communication and development. This course also explores basic human centered design and product design principles as a basis for portfolio and visual design. This course is designed to aid and mentor students in assembling a design portfolio for their academic and professional work. Students will learn graphic design techniques for both print and web including basic tools in Adobe Creative Suite.	3
IAR215	Digital Visualization II Students learn the basic computer drafting and drawing skills associated with AutoCAD software. Projects include creating work from scratch and working from existing files. An understanding of drawing layers, detailing, layout, and printing will be presented. Adobe Creative Suite and other rending software are covered. Additional Fee: Course Computing Fee.	3
IAR218	Building Codes Students learn and apply relevant building codes as they relate tot he health and life safety of the occupant. This course addresses energy laws, the principles of universal design and accessible code compliance.	3
IAR219	Drafting and Model Making Intended for interior architecture majors or potential majors, this course develops graphic literacy as a language and philosophy for observation, analysis, expression, and presentation of interior architecture. An understanding is developed of architectural scale, plans, elevations, and sections. Students will explore three-dimensional model making techniques.	3
IAR220	Interior Architecture II This studio addresses problem identification and problem solving in the context of small to medium scale projects of modest scope. Emphasis is placed on human factors, space planning, spatial experience, scale, materials, furniture, fixtures, equipment, and color with respect to user needs.	3
IAR225	Interior Architecture II This studio addresses problem identification and problem solving in the context of small scale projects of modest scope. Emphasis is placed on human factors, space planning, spatial experience, scale, materials, furniture, fixtures, equipment, and color with respect to user needs. Additional Fee: Course Computing fee.	3
IAR230	Interior Materials This course is intended only for interior architecture majors or potential majors and addresses architectural materials and finishes. Students learn to select, specify and apply architectural finishes. They create specifications, execute take-offs, and produce cost estimates for interior construction. Manufacturing processes, installation methods, maintenance requirements, code regulations, and testing standards are covered.	3
IAR231	Green & Sustainable Design Global issues of energy use, resource depletion, and indoor air quality have promoted design professionals to re-evaluate design and construction processes. This course provides students with the knowledge of the US Green Building Council (USGBC) and Environmental Design (LEED) certification system to promote environmentally responsible design.	3
IAR232	Color and Textiles Studio I The first part of this residential studio examines theories of color in relation to light and space. In the second part, key topics include the selection, specification and application of textiles based on their properties and performance criteria, sustainability, installation methods, maintenance requirements, and regulations and standards.	3
IAR262W	20th and 21st Century Architecture This course is designed to relate the impact of architecture on both public and private spaces throughout the twentieth century and provide a view towards the future of architecture in the twenty-first century. The course will guide you through the major styles of architecture of the twentieth century and investigate the socio-historic context of the works and determinants of that architecture. Emphasis will also be placed on the interior spaces, furnishings and the arts and artists of the day.	3
IAR261W	History of Interior Architecture: Pre-20th Century This survey course examines world architecture from prehistoric times through the 19th century, including the built environment of Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. Emphasis is placed on the role of interior spaces, furnishings, and art within architecture.	3
IAR310	Digital Visualization III This advanced course focuses on Building Information Modeling (BIM) that integrates and synchronizes three-dimensional building modeling for use in all phases of the design process. Students are introduced to Revit and Sketch-up. Graphic rendering skills are also developed to help students communicate interior spaces Additional Fee: Course Computing fee.	3
IAR315	Construction Documents Construction techniques are studied through the production of a set of construction documents. Issues addressed include the selection and assembly of materials, construction methods, detailing of interior finish systems and cabinetry, building codes, and accessibility. Additional Fee(s): Course Computing fee.	3
IAR316	Portfolio This course will allow Interior Architecture students to solidify their professional portfolio for prospective internships and employment. Students will produce a physical and digital portfolio.	3
IAR320	Interior Architecture III This advanced studio addresses concept development, design development, and detailing of medium- and large-scale projects. Emphasis is placed on program analysis, user needs, space planning, three-dimensional spatial development, design language and composition, materials and assemblies, color, lighting, acoustics, environmental systems, and building codes and life safety.	3
IAR325	Interior Architecture IV This advanced studio addresses concept development, design development, and detailing of medium- and large-scale projects. Emphasis is placed on program analysis, user needs, space planning, three-dimensional spatial development, design language and composition, materials and assemblies, color, lighting, acoustics, environmental systems, and building codes and life safety. Additional fee(s): Course Computing fee.	3
IAR330	Construction Systems & Methods This course provides an overview of architecture building systems including exterior and interior construction methods and terminology. This course provides an overview of environmental control systems, including HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, power distribution, security, and data/voice telecommunication. Emphasis is placed on energy consumption, conservation, human comfort, and health and safety.	3
IAR335	Lighting & Acoustics This course is an introduction to lighting and acoustics. Emphasis is placed on the psychology of lighting, visual comfort criteria, measurement and calculations, available technologies in lighting design, the selection of fixtures, and the application of computer-aided lighting simulation tools. Principles of acoustics, acoustic properties of materials and building systems in relation to building structures, sound transmission between rooms, and design methods in room and building acoustics are also addressed. Additional Fee(s): Course Computing fee.	3
INTIAR301	Internship - Interior Architecture Internship - Interior Architecture	1
INTIAR302	Internship - Interior Architecture Internship - Interior Architecture	2
INTIAR303	Internship - Interior Architecture Internship - Interior Architecture	3
IAR443	Community Service Encouraging engagement with the surrounding community, students are required to participate in a community service project under the supervision of a field leader or faculty member.	1
IAR445	Professional Practice In this course, students are introduced to the specialized services provided by the professional interior designer. Emphasis is placed on office operations and personnel issues, marketing strategies, project management, contract documents, ethics, and the legal and financial aspects of professional practice.	3
IAR470	Immersive Research Design This writing based course introduces research methods and tools as the foundations of evidence based design. This course is a review and analysis of published research in the disciplines of interior design and architecture. Students are introduced to various methods of gathering information and conducting research with emphasis placed on the selection and utilization of data collection strategies and tools, culminating in the development of a research paper.	3
IAR490	Integrative Capstone The integrative capstone, undertaken by the student during the senior year, is an extended project that helps the student complete their transition from an undergraduate student to a world-ready professional.  The study usually centers on the student’s major and may be conducted, at least in part, in the context of a group experience.  Such programs are crafted to meet the unique needs of each major, and could include, for example, fieldwork, theater production, creative work in the arts, independent research, or independent readings. The integrative capstone in an interdisciplinary major must have the approval of both academic programs.	3
ENG355	Advanced Writing and Stylistics This is an advanced writing class which concentrates on style, meaning, and effect. It is designed for upper-level students, and emphasizes the skills of writing more effective sentences, paragraphs and essays. The course focuses on writing academic papers, applications, proposals, and personal statements across the disciplines in appropriate formats.	3
IAR213	Special Topics Special Topics	3
3 courses (9 credits) from any program

Contact