Degree Overview: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree in Interior Design
Majors Overview March 29, 2014Students will be prepared for jobs as interior design assistants with an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree program in Interior Design. Students will be taught about creating health care facilities, hotels, personal residential spaces, and other locations. Those who graduate usually have knowledge about design styles, architectural terminology, professional communication techniques, and building code basics.
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S) Degree Programs in Interior Design
Students enrolled in associate degree programs in Interior Design are taught how to design interiors to satisfy clients’ and employees’ needs, in addition to promoting products or creating desired moods. Students will become adept at blending textures and colors, designing lighting ideas, reading structural blueprints and incorporating cohesive design themes. They are also imparted the skills necessary to communicating with contractors, architects, interior designers and customers.
Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma.
Coursework
Most AAS degree programs in Interior Design cover topic areas in business practices, design styles, and design technology. Students are also required to create portfolios showcasing their interior design projects with visual examples. Coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Blueprints and construction documents
•Drawing interiors
•Interior design history
•Textiles
•Lighting
•Color theory
•Furniture and architecture
•Design materials
•Drafting interiors
Career Choices
After successful completion of the AAS in Interior Design program, a graduate can seek the designation of interior design assistant. Professionals employed in the interior design field may seek occupations in various specializations, such as:
•Commercial spaces
•Furniture
•Residential spaces
•Lighting
•Wall coverings
Licensure and Continued Education Choices
For interior designers to obtain licensure, completion of a bachelor’s degree program is needed. Bachelor’s degree graduates can avail interior design apprenticeship programs that apply design theory to real-world situations. The National Council for Interior Design Qualification hosts the Interior Design Experience Program where graduates and students of Interior Design can connect with design mentors.
An apprenticeship program is devised to train students, whereby they learn to write up client contracts, develop design ideas, create design schematics and run design businesses. Interior designers are required to obtain licensure in some states. The National Council for Interior Design Qualification facilitates licensure, which can be obtained by gaining a minimum of six years of work experience, in addition to at least two years of postsecondary education.