Academic Programs and Services

Interior Design

This program leads to the Associate in Arts degree in Interior Design, with graduates prepared to transfer to baccalaureate institutions. However, after graduation from the Community College of Philadelphia, students may choose to enter the work force as junior or assistant designers, or as materials librarians. After four years of this employment, they are qualified to take the NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) professional examination.

The primary goal of the program is to teach students to be imaginative, responsible and knowledgeable interior designers. Within the context of the multi-disciplinary learning environment of the Architecture, Design & Construction Department, students develop, explore and apply the broad intellectual, visual and graphic capacities required to compete successfully in the challenging and rewarding field of interior design.

The curriculum and faculty are dedicated to providing each student strong design and technical experiences early in his or her education. The Interior Design program is built upon a sequence of design studios. It is here that design fundamentals are acquired, and technical, historical and theoretical concepts are synthesized and applied. Students increase their spatial visualization capabilities and are guided in developing a design process and a personal creative vision. At the same time, they learn to work as part of a design team. The design projects are organized to build aesthetic understanding, technical abilities, sensitivity to human needs and awareness of the social consequences of design decisions.

At the College, the study of interior design reflects the diverse, evolving roles and responsibilities of the design professional. The program provides a broad liberal arts education, drawing upon art, science, humanities, social science and the history of architecture and interior design. This is the vital foundation that leads to the ability to produce lasting, beautiful and functional design work.

Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this program graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of programming, planning and designing interior spaces by solving specific design problems, synthesizing and applying technical, historical, cultural and theoretical concepts.
• Develop design drawings and models utilizing freehand drawing and modeling, mechanical drawing, and computer drafting and modeling.
• Demonstrate knowledge of various finish materials and methods, furnishings and related interior products.
• Communicate effectively and work as part of a team, using graphic, oral and written modes.

Program Entry Requirements:
Interior Design is a select program. To be accepted into the program, students must complete ADC 109 – Design Studio I with a minimum grade of "C." Students should begin their program of study in the non-select Computer-Assisted Design Technology (CADT) program which requires the same first semester departmental course (ADC designations). Students listing Interior Design as their intended field of study on their application to the College will be placed into the CADT program. When ADC 109 has been completed with a "C" or better, students will be accepted into the Architecture program. Students with college-level design work can be evaluated on an individual basis by the department faculty for admission prior to completing ADC 109.

Interested high school students should complete a year of geometry, two years of algebra and two years in art-related areas (drawing, sculpture, photography or related areas). Mechanical drafting or Computer Assisted Design is also advantageous.

Students are required to take the College’s placement tests at the time of admission. Students identified as needing developmental coursework must satisfactorily complete the appropriate English and mathematics courses prior to enrolling in courses required by the degree program.

Program of Study and Graduation Requirements:
To qualify for the A.A. degree in Interior Design, a student must complete a minimum of 67 credits as prescribed, and attain a minimum grade point average of 2.0 (“C” average).

Download a printable degree description (PDF File) that includes a recommended course sequence grid.