Art & Design

Interior designers specialise in the creative and decorative elements of space. This established course covers the design of interior environments from concept to delivery, considering colour, lighting, materials and fashion trends.

You look at how spaces can be changed through surface treatments and furnishings as well as learning about professional practice. You develop your creative abilities and, by using the latest computer-aided design packages, you can visualise your concepts in a virtual setting. Visits to buildings and exhibitions are included to inspire you in your own work.

What you study

Year 1 focuses on traditional design presentation and concept development skills, key software applications, and principles of spatial and surface design skills. In Year 2 you develop your personal approach to design through reflective practice and develop key software applications further in the context of professional presentation. In Year 3 you negotiate a topic of your own choice for the final major project and dissertation and you are given opportunities to work on live projects and competition briefs.

How you learn

The practice-based elements of all our art and design courses are taught in a studio environment, supported by a full range of digital resources and workshop facilities. This provides real hands-on experience using equipment and processes which are up to date. In addition to this, independent and student-centred learning are encouraged. Theoretical work is primarily delivered through illustrated lectures and seminars where there is opportunity for collective discussion.

How you are assessed

The work produced is the work assessed; there are no separate written examinations and the use of design projects is a key feature. The process of assessment is undertaken against carefully defined criteria and often involves a critique of project-based assignments - this is a process widely used in the design field and allows for both staff and peer group appraisal.

Professional development

A specifically designed programme runs in each of the three years to encourage the development of professional links and contacts. Study trips are also on offer to heighten professional understanding.

Career opportunities

You might pursue a career in interior design or as a designer in the retail, exhibition, set design, leisure, surface pattern, merchandising or housing areas, or you might continue to postgraduate study, including teacher training.

Entry requirements

A typical offer is 240-280 tariff points (2011) or 280 tariff points (2012) from at least two A levels (or equivalent) – one must be in an appropriate discipline. And we attach considerable importance to your portfolio of work.

More information

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