Interior Design

Interior Design at Vancouver Island University is offered as a 4-year Bachelor of Interior Design by the Art and Design Department and is intended for students who wish to pursue a professional career in this creative multi-faceted discipline.  Over nine semesters, including a paid internship term, scheduled in the summer between third and fourth year (sixth and eighth semesters), the program, which is recognized by the Provincial Professional Charter, IDIBC, provides a balanced range of theoretical, intellectual, communication, experiential, applied and other skills, needed to deal effectively with the responsibilities of interior design professional life.

The structure of the degree combines focused specialized curricula with broad elective courses. The interior design curriculum features lecture, studio, critique, and computer lab instruction; independent and collaborative projects; formal and informal presentations; field trips; an internship and a final major project spanning two semesters. The elective study in the Liberal Arts and Sciences provides an excellent foundation and structure for lifelong learning and ensures that students develop quantitative reasoning and critical thinking skills.

Our students are eligible for membership in IDIBC and upon graduation and two years of approved, related work experience, may write the professional exams set by NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) in order to become Professional Registered Interior Designers. Learn more about becoming a Professional Registered Interior Designer.

See Instagram photos and videos from VIU Interior Design @viuinteriordesign

Synergy Showcase 2023 Logo

Interior Design Student Showcase 2023

For Showcase 2023, it was decided that the theme would be related to the environment and society.

Graduating students produced the Showcase name - Synergy.

In a nutshell, synergy means working together to create a total effect that is greater than the sum of its parts.

Interior Design Student Showcase 2023
Emerge - VIU Interior Design Showcase: Transformation & Inclusivity

Interior Design Student Showcase 2022

This year students were asked to share their thoughts or a quote about inclusivity. Check out what each student shared about inclusivity, then, view each student page to learn a little bit about them and view their work.

Interior Design Student Showcase 2022
Interior Design Student Showcase 2021

Interior Design Student Showcase 2021

We are delighted to feature the work of our students from all four years! Just make yourself comfortable and explore their beautiful projects and celebrate our students with us.

Interior Design Student Showcase 2021

Portfolio Night

Portfolio Night Poster

Our Faculty Professors are hosting an Online Portfolio Night on
Monday, November 20, at 6pm

and an In-Person Portfolio Night on
Monday, November 27, at 6pm, in Building 325

both, to answer any questions you may have and to meet you!

Please RSVP to Patrick Foster at Patrick.Foster@viu.ca

Department Mission Statement

“Our mission is to provide a supportive learning environment for our students by fostering diversity, inclusivity, and equity.  The program aspires to graduate proficient and dedicated individuals who are prepared for the evolving practice of Interior Design.”

The Gift of Giving

To make a donation to our Interior Design program and its Year-End Show, please visit Gift of Giving.