As defined by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ), “Interior design is a multi-faceted profession in which creative and technical solutions are applied within a structure to achieve a built interior environment. These solutions are functional, enhance the quality of life and culture of the occupants, and are aesthetically attractive. Designs are created in response to and coordinated with the building shell and acknowledge the physical location and social context of the project. Designs must adhere to code and regulatory requirements and encourage the principles of environmental sustainability. The interior design process follows a systematic and coordinated methodology, including research, analysis and integration of knowledge into the creative process, whereby the needs and resources of the client are satisfied to produce an interior space that fulfills the project goals. Interior design includes a scope of services performed by a professional design practitioner, qualified by means of education, experience, and examination, to protect and enhance the life, health, safety and welfare of the public."
For additional information about the scope of services provided by Interior Designers as defined by NCIDQ please see the link below:
The Division of Interior Design is part of the Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture. Interior Design students have the opportunity to collaborate with Architecture, Construction Science, Environmental Design, Landscape Architecture, and Regional and City Planning students and faculty. Students study many aspects of their field including:
Diverse faculty, engagement with interior design industry professionals at award winning and globally recognized design firms, service learning and community engaged design projects, state-of- the-art technology, design competitions, and study abroad opportunities are just a few reasons why students choose to study interior design at OU. Recent averages of 96% of students graduating from the program have been employed within six months of graduation. For a detailed list of job placement rates please see the link below.
Interior design students typically have interests in:
High school preparation could include graphic skills, technical design, and art.
OU’s interior design program in College of Architecture maintains an international reputation and has graduates practicing globally. The University of Oklahoma Division of Interior Design provides a design education within student-centric learning environment emphasizing excellence in education, research and service to the community. The Bachelor of Interior Design degree is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation and was recently ranked by DesignIntelligence as 7th nationally in the category of “Most Hired From.”
Interior design courses include:
Interior Design students have the opportunity to participate in travel study through a variety of programs:
Professional Interior Designer working for:
The interior design program leading to the Bachelor of Interior Design is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation, 206 Grandville Avenue, Suite 350, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503.
The CIDA-accredited program prepares students for entry-level interior design practice, for advanced study, and to apply for membership in professional interior design organizations. The Bachelor of Interior Design granted by The University of Oklahoma, Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture meets the educational requirement for eligibility to sit for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination (NCIDQ Exam).
Erin Nance, Academic Counselor
Phone: 405-325-2444
Email: erinnance@ou.edu
Website: arch.ou.edu
