COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design at University of New Haven provides an intensive 72-credit professional curriculum that combines artistic creativity, technical expertise, digital technology, and practical industry preparation. The program begins with foundational courses such as Visual Thinking, 3D Design, Architectural Drawing, Color Theory and Application, and Visual Communication for Interior Design, helping students develop strong creative and conceptual design skills. As students progress, they gain technical proficiency through courses in AutoCAD Architecture, Revit Architecture, Construction Documents, Architectural Millwork and Detailing, and Digital Fabrication Art, preparing them to work with industry-standard design technologies and architectural processes. Studio-based learning forms the core of the curriculum through a sequence of Interior Design Studios I through V, where students solve increasingly complex residential, commercial, and public-space design challenges while integrating sustainability, accessibility, aesthetics, and functionality into their work. Additional coursework in Interior Materials and Specifications, Lighting Design and Specifications, Building Systems, and Building Codes for Interior Design ensures that students understand the practical, structural, and regulatory requirements involved in creating safe and effective interior environments. Courses in the History of Architecture and Interior Design help students understand the historical and cultural influences that shape contemporary design practices, while Professional Practices for Interior Designers prepares them for the business and ethical aspects of the profession. The curriculum also includes Portfolio Design and Production, enabling students to graduate with a polished professional portfolio showcasing their creative and technical abilities to employers or graduate schools. Experiential learning is emphasized through internship opportunities in interior design and allied fields, allowing students to gain real-world industry experience and professional networking opportunities. Students may also pursue independent study projects tailored to their individual interests. With additional free electives, students can further personalize their education through interdisciplinary coursework. Overall, the program prepares graduates with advanced technical knowledge, creative problem-solving abilities, professional communication skills, and practical experience necessary for successful careers in interior design, architecture-related industries, design consulting, and advanced graduate study.