Florida International University

What you'll study

This programme emphasises a synthesis of conceptual thinking, technical knowledge and hands-on making. Teaching is organised around design studios, seminars and practical workshops that cover the planning and design of interior environments at multiple scales.

• Design studios: iterative, project-based studios that explore residential, commercial, cultural and adaptive reuse projects, with an emphasis on spatial strategy and material expression.
• Technical systems and detailing: building systems, structure, lighting design, acoustics, environmental controls and construction detailing appropriate to interior architecture.
• Materials and fabrication: material research, prototyping, digital fabrication and furniture/fixture design to test ideas and resolve assemblies.
• Codes, regulations and accessibility: life-safety, building codes, accessibility standards and the regulatory context for interior projects.
• Digital media and representation: advanced drawing, 3D modelling, visualisation, BIM workflows and presentation techniques.
• Professional practice and project management: business practice, contracts, cost control, procurement methods and client engagement.
• Research methods and final project/thesis: research methods in design and a substantial culminating project or thesis that demonstrates advanced competence and a cohesive portfolio.

Programme delivery typically blends design charrettes, studio crits, lectures, and collaborations with industry partners and the wider College of Architecture and the Arts.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in architecture, interior design, or a related discipline. Candidates with other design or practical experience may be considered if they can demonstrate strong potential through their portfolio and statement of purpose.

• Academic transcripts: official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• Portfolio: a curated portfolio demonstrating design ability, technical drawings, visual communication and any built or fabricated work. Portfolios should show conceptual thinking and a capacity for three-dimensional design.
• Personal statement: a statement of purpose outlining design interests, professional goals and reasons for pursuing graduate study.
• Letters of recommendation: academic or professional references commenting on the applicant’s suitability for advanced study.
• CV / résumé: summarising relevant education, work experience and skills.
• English language proficiency: for applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of proficiency is required in accordance with university policy (e.g. recognised tests or institutional equivalency).

Admission is competitive and may include review by faculty; some applicants may be invited to an interview. Specific minimum requirements and application materials follow the university’s graduate admissions policies.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a range of professional roles that bridge interior design and architecture. Typical career paths include:

• Interior architect or interior designer in design studios and architectural firms
• Project designer or project manager overseeing interior construction and fit-out
• Specialist roles in lighting, furniture and product design, or materials consultancy
• Exhibition and set design for cultural institutions, events and theatre
• Visualisation and computational design specialist in digital practice
• Facilities and workplace strategy roles within corporate, hospitality and healthcare sectors
• Further academic research or teaching in design and architecture

Graduates are prepared to work in multidisciplinary teams and to pursue professional certification or licensure where applicable; requirements for professional registration vary by jurisdiction.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University’s programme sits within a college that brings together architecture, design and the arts in a civic and cultural context. The school benefits from strong ties to the local design and construction industry, providing opportunities for internships, community-engaged projects and collaborative research.

• Studio culture: intensive studio learning with faculty who combine professional practice and research interests.
• Location: the university’s urban and subtropical setting offers a rich context for studying climate-responsive design, coastal resilience and culturally diverse interior environments.
• Facilities: access to workshops, digital fabrication labs, model-making resources and advanced visualisation tools to support experimental and technical work.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: collaboration with allied departments across the university, including architecture, urban planning, art and sustainable design initiatives.

These elements position graduates to develop a versatile, practice-ready portfolio and to contribute to contemporary challenges in interior architecture and the built environment.