Applied Design, Interior Design, A.A.S.

Rachel Beach, Applied Design Program Coordinator
(304) 367-4367
Rachel.Beach@pierpont.edu

Program Purpose

The Interior Design Concentration prepares students for professional service in careers focused on interior design.  Students have opportunities to explore and apply principles and elements of interior design while creating functional and aesthetic user-centered interior environments. Interior Design includes a study of design; functional space planning and compliant access; construction fundamentals; furnishings and accessories; materials and components; and technical rendering and presentation skills in conjunction with commercial application. This AAS degree in Applied Design’s Interior Design meets the academic requirements for ASID allied and professional membership from the student membership. Although West Virginia does not require professional interior designers to be licensed, many states do require a CIDQ License. This Applied Design Interior Design degree will satisfy the academic requirement to begin the extensive process of enrolling and preparing to take the IDFX exam to begin the pathway to successfully earning the CIDQ License. This professional licensure is nationally recognized and requires 1500 justified hours of identified domain application in the field. Students should consult the ASID and CIDQ websites for further details regarding ASID membership and states requiring licensing.

https://www.cidq.org/  = Council for Interior Design Qualification

https://www.asid.org/belong/apply/students  =  American Society of Interior Designers, Student Page

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the AAS degree, graduates will be able to do the following:

• Apply knowledge of design theory in conjunction with the elements and principles of design through organizing, manipulating, and solving design problems related to the fields found in the Interior Architecture & Design Industries

• Identify historical periods, materials, components, and products that impact current trends and issues in the fields of study in Interior Architecture & Design

• Communicate and create, through written, oral and visual presentation and portfolio development, the details, inspiration, problems, solutions, and the vision of the design with consideration to professional compliance and standards within the industry

• Demonstrate an understanding of business practices, work ethic, professionalism, and consumer marketing principles as related to the products and services of the fields found within Interior Architecture & Design Industries.

Opportunities 

1. ASID Membership and CIDQ Licensing:
   • The AAS degree in Applied Design’s Interior Design concentration meets the academic requirements for ASID allied and professional membership.
   • While West Virginia does not require professional interior designers to hold a CIDQ license, many states do require various forms of proof of licensure.
   • The degree satisfies the academic requirement to begin the process of enrolling and preparing to take the IDFX exam, the first step towards obtaining the CIDQ License.
   • The CIDQ License process involves passing three exams (IDFX and IDPX) and accumulating a minimum of 1500 hours of applied work in identified categories to complete the Practicum Exam.
2. Career Opportunities for Interior Design Graduates:
   • Interior Design graduates are prepared to enter the job market at entry-level positions and pursue careers in various professions, including but not limited to:
     • Junior Interior Designers
     • Home Staging Consultants
     • Independent Contractors
     • Draftsmen
     • Showroom Assistants
     • AEC Manufacturer Representative
     • Marketing Support
     • Retail Furniture and/or Home Improvement Sales
     • Kitchen and Bath Designers
     • Designer Associates
     • Designer Assistants
   • Many new graduates begin their careers in small to medium-sized architectural design firms and dealerships, where they may work as sales associates, drafting assistants, or assistant designers, with opportunities for advancement.

Overall, the placement of students in interior design careers is described as excellent, indicating the program’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for professional success in the industry. Students are encouraged to consult the ASID and CIDQ websites for further details regarding membership, licensing, and career opportunities in the field.