Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture | Norman
The University of Oklahoma’s Division of Interior Design offers a student-centered Bachelor of Interior Design program focused on excellence in education, research, and community engagement. Accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation, the curriculum prepares students for professional practice through industry-relevant coursework and interdisciplinary collaboration. Recently ranked among DesignIntelligence’s "Most Hired From", the program equips graduates with the skills and connections to thrive in a competitive field.
Design with Purpose. Create for People. Unite Through Learning
Interior design is the art and science of shaping spaces to improve how people live, work, and interact. It goes beyond choosing colors and furniture. Designers plan and manage projects that meet building codes, safety regulations, and accessibility standards. They blend creativity with technical skill, considering lighting, materials, acoustics, and human behavior to support well-being. Using research-based methods, designers address physical and emotional needs. Every choice influences how people feel in a space. Through education, experience, and certification, designers are trained to create safe, inclusive environments.
At the University of Oklahoma’s Gibbs College of Architecture, this philosophy drives a student-centered, accredited interior design program. Ranked among DesignIntelligence’s “Most Hired From,” the curriculum combines studio work with theory to prepare students for real-world challenges. Students collaborate across disciplines and use resources like a materials library and lighting lab. Small class sizes allow for personalized mentorship, and alumni contribute through lectures and critiques. Graduates are equipped to shape environments that enhance lives from the inside out.
Norman, Oklahoma
Our Interior Design students learn alongside peers in architecture, construction science, landscape architecture, city planning, and environmental design—all within the Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture. This collaborative environment fosters meaningful, interdisciplinary connections that reflect the way design professionals work together in practice.
Our program is supported by state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance creativity and skill development:
Interior Design students at Gibbs College take part in the annual Furniture Design Build Studio, where they design and build full-scale furniture prototypes. Led by Professor Chelsea Holcomb, this hands-on experience blends creativity, craftsmanship, and design innovation while connecting ideas to real-world execution.
How Long You'll Be Here
On average, 4 years
Faculty-to-Student Ratio
15 students per faculty member
Median Salary
$75,850
Salary information obtained from: Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics,
Interior Designers
The Interior Design program at the University of Oklahoma offers a 120-credit-hour curriculum, with 76 hours dedicated to major coursework. Studio courses form the foundation of the program, emphasizing project-based learning that reflects professional design practice. Each studio focuses on a different sector of the industry, including residential, retail, hospitality, education, healthcare, and workplace environments. This broad approach ensures students gain experience across the full spectrum of interior design. In addition to studio work, students take specialty courses in lighting and furniture design, expanding both their technical knowledge and creative range.
Any student who is admitted to the University of Oklahoma can declare Interior Design as their major. However, admission to the third and fourth years of the Bachelor of Interior Design (BID) program requires meeting specific academic standards. Students must maintain a minimum 2.50 OU and combined retention GPA for admission to the upper-level program. Admission is limited and based on students meeting both the GPA requirement and a portfolio review requirement. All first and second year courses must be completed before students can apply for admission to the third and fourth years of the program.
Learning from others and engaging with my peers has allowed me incredible insight and helped me in my approach to innovative design. Networking and creating relationships with industry professionals have assisted me in finding my current job.
Sarah Ketabi
Class of 2014
The interior design program leading to the Bachelor of Interior Design is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation, 206 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW, Suite 350 Grand Rapids, MI 49503-4014.
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). Learn more about NCIDQ Exam eligibility.
