If you are passionate about designing spaces that nurture the physical, social and psychological needs of a changing society, this four-year, CIDA accredited program prepares students for an in-demand career in commercial and residential design with professional interior design organizations.
Study problem analysis, concept development, design communication, lighting, acoustics, wayfinding, ergonomics, anthropometrics, technical working drawings and specifications, and cutting-edge design technology within a nurturing, collaborative environment where you can share and test your ideas. You’ll learn how to utilize innovative digital fabrication equipment to conceptualize (their) design parti, such as 3D printing, CNC fabrication, laser cutting and more. You’ll also experience your designs using virtual reality technologies, and learn to communicate and share your ideas with future clients by practicing verbal and visual presentation methods.
Interior designers focus on the planning, design and detailing of interior space to improve the quality of people's physical environment. The four-year Honours Bachelor of Interior Design program covers both commercial and residential design, providing comprehensive treatment of all facets of interior design including research, problem analysis, concept development, design communication, drawings and specifications, technology, verbal and visual presentation methods, construction, and business practice. The courses develop students' skills as creative designers who can formulate, propose and execute creative design solutions for the physical, social and psychological needs of a changing society. Principles of environmental sustainability and socially responsible design are embedded throughout the courses.
Apply your learning and make industry connections during two co-op work semesters in entry-level interior design. Graduate career-ready and prepared to make your mark on the world around you. *The co-op term takes place after third year, and is 425 hours of paid work experience before fourth year.
The Honours Bachelor of Interior Design program at Fanshawe College is recognized by the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO).
Laptop Requirement
Bachelor of Interior Design students are required to have a laptop for use in the classroom. The computer should meet or exceed the minimum system requirements to run the latest version of Autodesk AutoCAD and Revit. Please check Autodesk’s website for the minimum system requirements and specifications for the most recent software versions. Although a Mac will work in earlier years of the BID program, many students prefer a Windows based PC, as Revit only operates on Windows. (Revit is introduced in the Winter term of 2nd year).
Co-op Opportunities & Career Information
Co-op Opportunities
The Bachelor of Interior Design program offers a cooperative education component, which provides students the opportunity to gain invaluable first-hand workplace experience in their chosen field. Here are some co-op jobs that have kick-started the careers of some Bachelor of Interior Design students before even graduating!
Assistant Designer
Support Interior Designers with administrative duties, CAD work, materials acquisition, overseeing projects and hands-on assistance in the creation of the vision.
Research specialist
Source materials and design concepts to inform an upcoming project and make recommendations.
Project specialist
Working closely with the client, utilize CAD, health and safety protocol and client criteria to achieve project targets.
For more information regarding co-op, please check out our co-op site or contact the Co-op Office at coop@fanshawec.ca to connect with a consultant.
Career Information
Graduates of Fanshawe’s Bachelor of Interior Design program are well positioned to pursue careers as designers with interior design firms, architectural firms or corporate institutions. They may also work as freelance designers or as architecture and design representatives with resource alliance suppliers. They will be able to design offices, hotels/resorts, retail spaces, institutional facilities, health care facilities and residential settings.
The program incorporates an emphasis on sustainable practices giving graduates the creativity, visualization, interpersonal and problem-solving skills needed to let their artistic ability shine.
Did you know Fanshawe consistently ranks high in graduation employment rates among large colleges in Ontario?
Here are some examples of career opportunities for graduates of Fanshawe’s Honours Bachelor of Interior Design program:
Interior Designer
Create interior spaces that reflect clients’ needs and tastes and produce designs, plans and drawings for construction and installation.
Design Assistant
Use rendering software to create floor plans and other assets to help clients visualize design concepts. Source, shop and furnish the space.
Junior Project Designer
Support all phases of project detail from inception to post-installation. Be creative and passionate about workplace design and responsible for showroom duties.
Program Progression
Fall Intake Only
| Fall | Winter | Summer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Level1 | Level 2 | Off |
| Year 2 | Level 3 | Level 4 | Off |
| Year 3 | Level 5 | Level 6 | Work Term |
| Year 4 | Level 7 | Level 8 |
Image
"By combining practice and theory, I am becoming prepared for my career awaiting at the finish line. At the heart of the degree are professors and industry professionals who take the time to ensure your success, and support your creative ventures. I am happy to say, this is my community."
Andrew Zarkovich
Honours Bachelor of Interior Design Graduate
