Interior Design Program (T178)
Program Description
Program Overview
style="line-height: normal;">The three-year Interior Design advanced diploma program prepares you for a future in the interior design industry. This program not only helps you become a valuable member of a design team, but also gives you life skills that go well beyond the world of design.
style="line-height: normal;">Each semester, your main studio courses teach you how to develop conceptual designs for residential and commercial spaces, how to represent designs in 2D and 3D using a broad range of architectural drawing programs and how to communicate design intentions using construction drawings. In your project work, you’ll incorporate building code, sustainability, accessibility, lighting, textiles, furniture, colour and ergonomics. Although selection of finishes is part of what we do, this is not a decorating program.
Full Description
At George Brown College, our focus is on people-centred design, and we believe in nurturing creativity through education. While you don’t need a portfolio to join us, a strong enthusiasm and passion for design are essential. We’ll handle the teaching – you bring the curiosity!
Interior design listens, empathizes, learns, creates, excites and educates. Design is everywhere and affects everyone, and it is part of our everyday shared experiences. Interior design involves the integration of concepts and ideas, light fixtures, materials, textures, furniture and other elements to create innovative interior spaces that are functional and meet all required codes.
In the three-year Interior Design advanced diploma program, you’ll develop a thorough understanding of interior design theory, concept application and technical drawing. Using a conceptual approach, you’ll design for retrofits, renovations and new construction in studios with the most up-to-date equipment and software. For these studio projects, you’ll communicate the technical aspects of building interiors by developing plans, elevations, sections, renderings and 3D models.
As a graduate, your area of specialization might include, but is not limited to:
- interior design
- interior design technology (2D and 3D computer drawing)
- bathroom and kitchen design/build
- project management
- architectural software (rendering and modeling)
- product manufacturer sales
- specification writing
Note: If you enroll in the program in January, you must complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.
Computer requirements: We are a PC-based program and currently require you to use: Adobe Suite, AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Enscape and Vray. Gaming computers are a good choice to meet the program's requirement, and we recommend a laptop for in-classroom use. For exact specifications, please speak to your first year CAD professor after starting the program.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Courses
Required Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 1005 | Architectural Technology and Studio 1 |
| ARCH 1014 | Canadian Industry Practices |
| ARCH 1048 | Structural Systems 1 |
| ARCH 1050 | Visual Communications 1 |
| ARCH 1060 | Design Fundamentals |
| CADE 1012 | CAD Drawing 1 |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts* |
| MATH 1139 | Mathematics for Arch/IDT 1 |
Semester 2
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 1006 | Architectural Technology and Studio 2 |
| ARCH 1013 | Building Code and Regulations 1 |
| ARCH 1070 | Materials, Methods and Components 1 |
| ARCH 1109 | Building Systems – Mechanical and Electrical |
| ARCH 1164 | Fundamentals of Building Science |
| CADE1014 | CAD Drawing 2 |
| MATH 1149 | Mathematics for Arch/IDT 2 |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Semester 3
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 2009 | Practice Management |
| CADE 2032 | Digital Practices for Interiors 1 |
| COMM 1113 | Professional Communications for Building Technologies |
| DSGN 1103 | History of Western Design |
| DSGN 2001 | Interior Design Practices 1 |
| DSGN 2006 | Building Code for Interior Design |
| DSGN 2007 | Interior Design Studio 1 |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Semester 4
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 2033 | Visual Communications 2 for Interior Design |
| CADE 2042 | Digital Practices for Interiors 2 |
| DSGN 2011 | Interior Design Practices 2 |
| DSGN 2012 | Lighting and Acoustics |
| DSGN 2015 | Working Drawings & Materials 1 |
| DSGN 2017 | Interior Design Studio 2 |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Semester 5
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 3012 | Concentrations in Computational Design 1 |
| CADE 3042 | Digital Practices for Interiors 3 |
| DSGN 3001 | Interior Design Practices 3 |
| DSGN 3009 | New Technologies in Interior Design |
| DSGN 3017 | Interior Design Studio 3 |
| DSGN 3024 | Marketing Skills and Techniques |
| DSGN 3025 | Working Drawings and Materials 2 |
Semester 6
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 3018 | Specifications and Documentation |
| ARCH 3026 | Sustainable Rating Systems |
| ARCH 3032 | Concentrations in Computational Design 2 |
| CADE 3052 | Digital Practices for Interiors 4 |
| DSGN 3027 | Interior Design Studio 4 |
| DSGN 3030 | Residential Design and Budgeting |
*Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course.
Articulation Agreement
We have articulation agreements with Yorkville University (Toronto) and Lawrence Technological University (Detroit.)
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Adhere to building and accessibility codes, regulations, standards and practices that protect the health, safety and welfare of the public.
- Produce accurate construction and detailed drawings with accompanying specifications to fully convey the design proposal.
- Employ principles of sustainability in the specification of new and conventional materials, equipment and technologies to create objects, interiors and assemblies.
- Develop design solutions considering the use of space, the physical environment, accessibility needs, and preferences to meet client needs.
- Employ the principles and elements of design, and the relationship between form and function to create the design solution.
- Communicate design ideas, concepts and trends for various projects, reflecting the use of theory and contemporary practice in the design solution.
- Develop plans for design objects and space using appropriate volumetric manipulation conventions and technologies to create design solutions.
- Effectively manage time, budgets and workloads to achieve the desired design solution.
- Employ business ethics and professional practices in all design work for establishing and maintaining organizational and practitioner reputation.
- Employ verbal, written, visual and digital communication skills to formally present well-articulated design proposals and solutions to a client, and/or other involved parties.
- Employ professional communication practices in interaction, negotiation and collaboration with coworkers, consultants, contractors, clients, end-users and others.
- Evaluate designs on the basis of concept, appropriateness, effectiveness, sustainability, codes and regulations, accessibility, user experience, and cost for the development of design solutions that will meet client needs.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in the Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall of 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Architectural Studies
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4365
Email: architecturalstudies@georgebrown.ca
Our office hours are 8 a.m.–4 p.m., room D303
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus information session. You’ll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it’s like to be in a George Brown College classroom.
Interior Design Program (T178)
Program Description
Program Overview
The three-year Interior Design advanced diploma program prepares you for a future in the interior design industry. This program not only helps you become a valuable member of a design team, but also gives you life skills that go well beyond the world of design.
Each semester, your main studio courses teach you how to develop conceptual designs for residential and commercial spaces, how to represent designs in 2D and 3D using a broad range of architectural drawing programs, and how to communicate design intentions using construction drawings. In your project work, you'll incorporate building code, sustainability, accessibility, lighting, textiles, furniture, colour, and ergonomics. Although selection of finishes is part of what we do, this is not a decorating program.
Full Description
At George Brown College, our focus is on people-centred design, and we believe in nurturing creativity through education. While you don't need a portfolio to join us, a strong enthusiasm and passion for design are essential. We'll handle the teaching—you bring the curiosity!
Interior design listens, empathizes, learns, creates, excites, and educates. Design is everywhere and affects everyone, and it is part of our everyday shared experiences. Interior design involves the integration of concepts and ideas, light fixtures, materials, textures, furniture, and other elements to create innovative interior spaces that are functional and meet all required codes.
In the three-year Interior Design advanced diploma program, you'll develop a thorough understanding of interior design theory, concept application, and technical drawing. Using a conceptual approach, you'll design for retrofits, renovations, and new construction in studios with the most up-to-date equipment and software. For these studio projects, you'll communicate the technical aspects of building interiors by developing plans, elevations, sections, renderings, and 3D models.
As a graduate, your area of specialization might include, but is not limited to:
- interior design
- interior design technology (2D and 3D computer drawing)
- bathroom and kitchen design/build
- project management
- architectural software (rendering and modelling)
- product manufacturer sales
- specification writing
Note: If you enrol in the program in January, you must complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.
Computer requirements: We are a PC-based program and currently require you to use: Adobe Suite, AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Enscape, and Vray. Gaming computers are a good choice to meet the program's requirement, and we recommend a laptop for in-classroom use. For exact specifications, please speak to your first year CAD professor after starting the program.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 1005 | Architectural Technology & Studio 1 |
| ARCH 1014 | Canadian Industry Practices |
| ARCH 1048 | Structural Systems 1 |
| ARCH 1050 | Visual Communications 1 |
| ARCH 1060 | Design Fundamentals |
| CADE 1012 | CAD Drawing 1 |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts** |
| MATH 1139 | Mathematics for Arch/IDT 1 |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 1006 | Architectural Technology & Studio 2 |
| ARCH 1013 | Building Code and Regulations 1 |
| ARCH 1070 | Materials, Methods and Components 1 |
| ARCH 1109 | Building Systems – Mechanical and Electrical |
| ARCH 1164 | Fundamentals of Building Science |
| CADE 1014 | CAD Drawing 2 |
| MATH 1149 | Mathematics for Arch/IDT 2 |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 2009 | Practice Management |
| CADE 2032 | Digital Practices for Interiors 1 |
| COMM 1113 | Professional Communications for Building Technologies |
| DSGN 1103 | History of Western Design |
| DSGN 2001 | Interior Design Practices 1 |
| DSGN 2006 | Building Code for Interior Design |
| DSGN 2007 | Interior Design Studio 1 |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 2033 | Visual Communications 2 for Interior Design |
| CADE 2042 | Digital Practices for Interiors 2 |
| DSGN 2011 | Interior Design Practices 2 |
| DSGN 2012 | Lighting and Acoustics |
| DSGN 2015 | Working Drawings & Materials 1 |
| DSGN 2017 | Interior Design Studio 2 |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 5
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 3012 | Concentrations in Computational Design 1 |
| CADE 3042 | Digital Practices for Interiors 3 |
| DSGN 3001 | Interior Design Practices 3 |
| DSGN 3009 | New Technologies in Interior Design |
| DSGN 3017 | Interior Design Studio 3 |
| DSGN 3024 | Marketing Skills and Techniques |
| DSGN 3025 | Working Drawings and Materials 2 |
SEMESTER 6
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 3018 | Specifications and Documentation |
| ARCH 3026 | Sustainable Rating Systems |
| ARCH 3032 | Concentrations in Computational Design 2 |
| CADE 3052 | Digital Practices for Interiors 4 |
| DSGN 3027 | Interior Design Studio 4 |
| DSGN 3030 | Residential Design and Budgeting |
**Based on the results of your placement tests, you may be required to take COMM 1000 (Introduction to College Communication) before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre for more information.
Articulation Agreement
We have articulation agreements with Yorkville University (Toronto) and Lawrence Technological University (Detroit.)
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Adhere to building and accessibility codes, regulations, standards and practices that protect the health, safety and welfare of the public.
- Produce accurate construction and detailed drawings with accompanying specifications to fully convey the design proposal.
- Employ principles of sustainability in the specification of new and conventional materials, equipment and technologies to create objects, interiors and assemblies.
- Develop design solutions considering the use of space, the physical environment, accessibility needs, and preferences to meet client needs.
- Employ the principles and elements of design, and the relationship between form and function to create the design solution.
- Communicate design ideas, concepts and trends for various projects, reflecting the use of theory and contemporary practice in the design solution.
- Develop plans for design objects and space using appropriate volumetric manipulation conventions and technologies to create design solutions.
- Effectively manage time, budgets and workloads to achieve the desired design solution.
- Employ business ethics and professional practices in all design work for establishing and maintaining organizational and practitioner reputation.
- Employ verbal, written, visual and digital communication skills to formally present well-articulated design proposals and solutions to a client, and/or other involved parties.
- Employ professional communication practices in interaction, negotiation and collaboration with coworkers, consultants, contractors, clients, end-users and others.
- Evaluate designs on the basis of concept, appropriateness, effectiveness, sustainability, codes and regulations, accessibility, user experience, and cost for the development of design solutions that will meet client needs.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in the Fall 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall of 2024 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Architectural Studies
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4365
Email: architecturalstudies@georgebrown.ca
Our office hours are 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., room D303
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus information session. You'll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it's like to be in a George Brown College classroom.
