Interior Design, A.A.S.

Overview

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Introduction to Interior Desing

The Interior Design program at MCC is centered on activity-based learning to develop technical, analytical and reasoning skills while simultaneously guiding the student’s own creative abilities. Exciting studio sessions will move the student through the process of real world project assignments while related courses will support the methods for communicating and implementing design solutions. Relevant industry-related learning, academic excellence and personalized attention by a dedicated faculty will provide the student with the skills needed to succeed in a career in interior design. The portfolio preparation course and an internship in the interior design field complete the course of study in preparing the student for career employment or for transfer to a bachelor’s degree program.

Curriculum content includes study in commercial and residential interior design, drawing techniques, AutoCad®, lighting, construction documentation, business practice and a field-related design internship.

Program Goal

The mission of the Interior Design program is to prepare the student with marketable skills for entry into a career devoted to the quality of designing the interior built environment.

Program Modality

Students have the option to complete the degree fully online or a hybrib of on campus and online courses.

Program Outcomes

Students who graduate from this program will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the process involved in the implementation of the interior built environment from concept development, presentation, construction documentation and final project completion
• Possess the technical knowledge and skills for professional entry-level employment opportunities within the field of interior design and the related construction industry
• Apply critical thinking and problem solving necessary for thoughtful, creative and innovative solutions for the interior built environment.
• Demonstrate competency in oral and written skills
• Possess knowledge of basic codes, life safety and ADA compliance for public safety and those with special needs
• Produce basic interior construction drawings using AutoCad® or other electronic mediums
• Demonstrate design intent through the use of visual methods such as sketches, perspective, rendering techniques and material choices on display boards
• Possess knowledge of business practices, professional standards and related work ethics as in the field of interior design
• Successfully complete an internship related to the business of interior design
• Assemble a well-rounded portfolio and resumé which exhibits meaningful skills to potential employers

Admission Requirements

In addition to college-wide admission requirements, applicants must have: a grade of “C” or better in high school level algebra, English, reading and writing.

Transfer Credit Policy

Appropriate transfer credits for courses within the major may be accepted within a five-year time frame. Transfer of courses more than five years old will be evaluated by the Interior Design Program Coordinator on an individual basis.

Employment Opportunities

Employment opportunities for the graduate reach across many industry sectors. Entry-level positions with interior design firms, architects or building construction contractors can be pursued within the New England area. Potential specialized career paths include contract/commercial design with jobs in offices, hospitality, retail and healthcare facilities, or residential design with opportunities as an individual practitioner, kitchen and bath, manufacturer’s representative and retail showroom consultant.

Technical Standards

Applicants must have:

• Effective communication skills that include the ability to orally communicate English at the college level.
• Basic computer skills.
• Ability to work in teams to find solutions for design problems.
• Ability to follow written instructions with minimal supervision.
• Ability to accept critique of designs and make changes based on constructive criticism.
• Ability to meet deadlines and work in a stressful environment.

The Interior Design Certificate program prepares students to identify, research and creatively solve problems relating to the functions and aesthetics of living and working environments. Students are expected to complete an internship. The internship experience and certificate training will prepare the individual for work as an entry-level interior design assistant.