Interior Design: AAS (CTE)

Associate of Applied Science CTE

Gail Miller Business School

Program Overview

SLCC Interior Design students learn the theory and practice of Interior Design from conceptual explorations of space and eco/environmental issues to computer-aided drafting design and rendering. Students explore how to creatively combine materials, textiles, color, decorative arts, lighting, and more while applying their own creative sensibility to residential and commercial applications. Projects in the program encompass a variety of interior spaces e.g. residences, offices, hotels, restaurants, retail, and historic preservation.

The program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.

The Interior Design program will prepare students to:

Analyze clients' needs, goals, and life safety requirements and integrate them into a comprehensive design solution.

Formulate preliminary design concepts that are aesthetic, appropriate, functional, and in accordance with codes and standards.

Develop and present final design recommendations through industry standard presentation media.

Prepare working drawings and specifications for non-load bearing interior construction, reflected ceiling plans, lighting, interior detailing, materials, finishes, space planning, furnishings, fixtures, and equipment in compliance with universal accessibility guidelines and all applicable codes.

Collaborate with professional services of other licensed practitioners in the technical areas of plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and load-bearing design as required for regulatory approval.

Design interior spaces that support the health, safety, and well-being of the public.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program will have the skill and knowledge to work as:

Residential & commercial interior designers; Computer aided drafter and modelers; Home stagers; Color consultants; Interior Design entrepreneur; Sales/design in any interior related industries e.g. lighting, furniture, flooring, window treatments, cabinetry, etc.; Kitchen & bath designers; Manufacturing representatives for Interior Design industry products and materials; Historic restoration and preservation designer

What You Will Learn

  • Demonstrate entry level professional skills for employment in the Interior Design industry.
  • Evaluate and solve design problems visually and volumetrically to create functional and creative spaces through conceptualizing, diagramming, and space planning.
  • Produce industry standard documents required for Interior Design presentations and communication utilizing industry technology and software.
  • Evaluate and specify lighting, textiles, and materials for interiors regarding appropriate use and impact on the environment.
  • Demonstrate professionalism through quality presentations, effective sales techniques, efficient organization, and working in a collaborative and constructive manner.
  • Apply entry level industry knowledge of local and national building and accessibility codes relating to residential and commercial Interior Design projects.
  • Create high quality printed and electronic portfolios to use for job applications. The portfolio will reflect class work and projects completed during the program.
  • Create interior design solutions that consider human factors regarding the health, safety and well-being of occupants.

Estimated Cost

Course fees: $214

Textbooks: $730. Options are available for renting, used, or digital texts which can lower this price.

Supplies: $255. Most of the supply expenditures occur in the first semester courses, with the supplies being used throughout the program.

Note: Fees vary based upon specific registration and are subject to changes.

Career Outlook

Some careers shown require further education beyond this program.

Additional Information

This degree provides educational credits to qualify for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam. This exam is used nationally and in parts of Canada for licensing, registration, and title requirements depending on the state or province. In Utah, it is the exam to become a licensed Commercial Interior Designer.

Licensure Information

We have made a good-faith effort to collect state licensure requirements for the SLCC programs of study that lead to professional licensure. You can view additional information about state licensure requirements on our Professional Licensure webpage.

Laptop Recommendation

The Interior Design program has a computer lab with the software required for our courses and current industry requirements. However, students may wish to have a computer to work from home. Windows is required to run all AutoDesk products, including AutoCAD and Revit. If you purchase an Apple computer, you must also purchase and install Parallels and Windows onto your machine in order to use any AutoDesk products. For current computer specs please contact the Interior Design Department.

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