College of Arts and Letters, Department of Design

Program Description

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture has been developed to prepare students for professional practice and/or preparation for admission to graduate level study. The degree is intended for students who want to pursue careers in interior design, interior architecture and architecture. 

The program’s foundation is a lower division core that introduces students to the history and theory of design, and, through a series of studio classes, to design practice. Because the lower division core is shared with the Design Department’s other three programs (Design Studies, Graphic Design and Photography), students will have a rich experience that combines an in-depth knowledge of design history with an appreciation for the creative design process. The breadth of courses in the program reflects the importance of both a liberal arts background and professional preparation in the design field. 

The Interior Architecture curriculum equips students with the technical, creative, and critical thinking skills needed to practice in a variety of roles and provides comprehensive coverage in all the major areas of training, including concept development, design, communication, presentation, construction, and professional services. 

Many of the course assignments are based on actual design projects. Guest lecturers and professional panel critiques and discussions as well as building tours of outstanding projects are all important parts of the curriculum. Community service projects also help to maintain a strong connection to the community and profession.

Upper division studios will provide interior architecture students with the design and technical skills needed to practice interior design and to sit for the NCIDQ exam and become Certified Interior Designers.

When students begin taking upper division studio courses they are required to own a laptop computer and the appropriate software to create two and three dimensional drawings and renderings. Before purchasing, please consult your major advisor or the department office for specific minimum requirements for the laptop computer and software.

Degree Program

BFA in Interior Architecture

Accreditation

In addition to California State University, Sacramento's full accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture is also accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Notice to Students RE: Professional Licensure and Certification

California State University programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student for California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the California State University and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.

The California State University has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether, if they complete a California State University program, they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C).

Special Features

• The Interior Architecture program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The four-year major leads to a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Interior Architecture.
• Sacramento State Interior Architecture students have been award winners in numerous design competitions.
• Students are often involved in community design projects as well as projects on our growing campus.
• The Interior Design program at Sacramento State has an active student club (PRINTS) representing the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). Monthly meetings feature guest speakers from the professional community and include workshops and field trip events.
• California State University, Sacramento, located in the state capital, is less than 100 miles from the San Francisco Bay Area. This location offers a wealth of professional employment opportunities. Graduates from our program at California State University, Sacramento have secured positions in architectural firms, interior design firms, government agencies, private corporations, furniture manufacturing companies, and design.

Career Possibilities

Residential and/or Commercial Interior Designer · Space Planner · Corporate Designer · Interior Design Showroom Manager · Manufacturer's Representative · Contract Interior Designer · Freelance Design Consultant