Interior-Design-group

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Interior Design

Bowling Green State University is recognized as one of the best schools for interior design in the Midwest.

Interior design is about more than just choosing colors, fabrics and furniture. It’s understanding how spaces should function, how they should feel  – and how to shape them in ways that enhance the experiences of all who enter.

A bachelor of interior design is a gateway to a gratifying career that blends art with function, beauty, practicality and creativity. Our graduates go on to structure spaces in which their clients love to live, work and play. They create more calming waiting rooms, vibrant shopping centers, luxurious living areas, eco-friendly entertainment venues and dynamic learning facilities. 

Why study interior design at BGSU in Ohio?

  • Design your own career path. Our graduates get hired in interior design and architectural firms with a broad range of specializations, such as residential design, healthcare design, retail design, hospitality design and office design. 
  • NASAD accreditation. BGSU is a standout among accredited interior design schools in Ohio. We meet the rigorous accreditation standards of the National Association of the Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). 
  • Build an impressive portfolio. Students comparing good schools for interior design choose BGSU because they know they’ll build a great resume. In addition to the comprehensive ID core curriculum, students gain valuable experience in co-ops and field experiences with big-name employers. For a glimpse, see our Gallery of Student Work.
  • Learn from the best. Our top-rated interior design faculty are accomplished and committed to student success. 
  • Take advantage of cutting-edge tech. Interior design requires proficiency in art, science and technology. We have all the tools you’ll need in our state-of-the-art labs with computerized work stations, large-format plotters and more.
  • Study abroad. Interior design students have numerous opportunities to study abroad. Check out opportunities organized by the University's School of Applied Human Development, Department of Architecture and Environmental Design, School of Art and international programs and partnerships.
  • Join the interior design community. Get involved in the BGSU student chapter of the American Society of Interior Design (ASID). Become a LEED Green Associate. Take advantage of countless opportunities to attend trade shows, site visits and workshops, often organized in collaboration with the Toledo City Center of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA).

100% of Interior Design graduates report they're employed, in graduate school or starting a business within six months of graduation.

Career - what can you do with an interior design degree?

BGSU graduates get hired! Some think of BSID as an “interior design director degree” because our graduates often accept leadership positions at well-known interior design and architectural firms. Many specialize  in areas such as residential design, commercial design, healthcare design, retail design, institutional design and hospitality design. 

Visual impact is often what strikes people first about interior design. Yet some of the most valuable contributions may be less glaring: The improved efficiency, safety, social engagement and overall mood. Smart leaders in virtually all industries recognize this. That’s why they’re willing to invest in the level of interior architecture salary required to ensure this work is done well. 

The BGSU bachelor of interior design is structured to prepare graduates to meet these growing demands. Our students are poised to successfully take on the many diverse and challenging opportunities that come their way with their in-depth understanding and hands-on practice in areas like:

  • Color theory
  • Spatial arrangements
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Sustainable design practices

Career paths

  • Interior design firms
  • Architecture firm interior design departments
  • Facility planning and management
  • Furniture dealership interior design departments
  • Office/residential furniture consulting and sales
  • Project management

Quick Facts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

View average salaries

Curriculum

This program prepares graduates to step into the interior design industry and creatively address the aesthetic, functional and technical aspects of a wide range of interior environments. 

The curriculum prioritizes:

  • Hands-on, studio-based education
  • Comprehensive coursework
  • Professional practice

It encompasses:

  • Design elements
  • Principles and methods
  • Functional and pragmatic applications, such as construction systems, building codes and selection of appropriate finishes, materials and furnishings. 

The curriculum also touches on relevant insights like human behavior science, economics, Western art and professional practice. Ultimately, graduates are capable of viewing design decisions within the parameters of ecological, socio-economic and cultural contexts. 

Our interior design bachelor’s program also takes to heart what top interior design professionals have long known. In this business, experience is often the best education. Our students gain a competitive edge when it comes to landing prime interior architecture jobs after graduation because of experiences like:

  • Team studio project designs
  • Site visits to the Chicago Merchandise Mart
  • Co-ops in a variety of professional design environments
  • International educational opportunities 

Required courses

Interior Design student working

Sample courses

  • Design Principles
  • Computer-based Rendering for Interiors
  • Modern Architecture
  • Introduction to Construction
  • Green, Sustainable and Universal Design for the Built Environment

Updated: 10/15/2024 01:32PM