Interior Design Fundamentals

This one-year certificate program, geared towards 2nd career candidates, HGTV lovers, and continuing education enthusiasts, will provide an introduction to the field of Interior Design. It includes the history of Interior Design, graphic communication skills, and criteria for choosing furnishings for an interior. Students can build on this certificate towards a Technical and Residential Certificate in Interior Design or an AA degree in Interior Design.

Approximately 15-20 students will complete this program per year. Program intends to increase class size of some sections to accommodate additional students.

1. Identify what skills are necessary to become a professional Interior Designer

2. Evaluate materials and lighting to create residential/commercial interiors

3. Analyze the history of architecture, interiors, and furnishings for a better understanding of current design trends

4. Demonstrate how to hand-draft to scale in order to communicate with sub-contractors and clients

The program requires 12 units of coursework in the area, providing entry level skill development and employment in Interior Design as well as a foundation for further education in Interior Design. With further study, this begins the preparation for entrance into multiple bachelor degree programs in Interior Design.

Course	Title	Units	Year/Semester (Y1 or S1)
INDE 20	Introduction to Interior Design	3.0	Y1
INDE 50	Interior Design Drafting and Drawing	3.0	Y1
INDE 63	Interior Design: Products, Materials, and Lighting	3.0	Y1
INDE 62	History of Interior Design	3.0	Y1

Existing programs include the Interior Design: Technical Certificate (17 unit), the Interior Design Certificate (37 units), and an Associate of Arts degree in Interior Design. The certificate being proposed introduces students to Interior Design so that they can use these skills in the workforce or towards earning additional certificates in Interior Design.

Neither College of Marin nor Napa Valley College has a similar program.