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Career options 
Get a degree in interior design with this dynamic 72-credit-hour program ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in the furnishing and design industries. Take courses in interior design studio, history of furniture and interior architecture, materials and sources, interior detail/construction drawing, environmental design, kitchen design studio and more.
Work alongside skilled instructors who are experts in their fields and well-respected in the interior design industry. Study in Harper's design rooms, which are equipped with drafting tables, displays, a lighting lab and kitchen cabinetry. A computer lab specifically for interior design students features modern equipment and allows you to hone your skills using professional design programs like AutoCAD/CAD Studio. The Interior Design Resource Room gives you access to thousands of sample fabrics, floor and wall coverings, hard and resilient surface materials and design magazines.
This 72 credit-hour program is designed for students interested in careers in the furnishing and design industry. The program offers creative, artistic and challenging career opportunities. Graduates are trained to work as kitchen and bath designers, retail designers/salespersons, interior design assistants, assistant buyers of home furnishings, manufacturers’ representatives or Merchandise Mart showroom managers.
Periodic field trips are required and will help students learn about current design trends. Students are encouraged to have computers at home although campus computer labs are available for student use. AutoCad and CAD Studio courses are required courses.
The Associate in Applied Science degree in Interior Design may be used to meet the interior design education requirement for registration of interior designers, the curriculum provides an overview of topics tested by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam, which must be completed before interior designers may be registered by the State of Illinois. In addition, the program is endorsed by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).
By completing all required courses in this program, the World Cultures and Diversity graduation requirement has been met for this AAS degree.
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
First Semester | Hours | |
| ARC 116 | Architectural CAD I | 3 |
Description: Introduces computer hardware and state-of-the-art software as applied to applications in architecture, interior design and other related fields. Develops understanding of basic parameters for design and drafting technologies: entity creating and editing, printing and plotting, and file/data management. Projects are correlated primarily to architectural design issues. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| ART 121 | Design I | 3 |
Description: Introduces students to skills fundamental to two-dimensional visual organization. Explores elements such as line, shape and color, and principles such as unity, balance and variation. Provides a foundation for all areas of art and design. IAI ART 907 Lecture Hours: 0 Lab Hours: 6 Contact Hours: 6 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 100 | Theory and Fundamentals of Design | 2 |
Description: Introduces students to theoretical principles and nomenclature of design. Studies theories pertaining to elements and principles of design, color theory, psychology and color phenomenology as it relates to interior design. Studies human environment, proxemics and spatial behaviors. Examines universal design, designing for specific cultures and genders as well as other topical subjects. Covers the interior design profession, professional organizations and career employment. Recommended Corequisite: IND 101. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 101 | Interior Design Studio I | 3 |
Description: Studies interior design room arrangement and furniture selection. Investigates the elements and principles of design as they relate to interiors. Studies aesthetic aspects of interior design. Develops interior projects using space planning, furniture selection, the development of furniture elevations, and presentation techniques. (NOTE: Students will need to purchase a drafting kit in addition to textbooks. Expense estimate may exceed $100.) Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in IND 100 Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 103 | History of Furniture and Interior Architecture | 3 |
Description: Surveys furniture, design motifs and structures from antiquity to the present with an emphasis on European and American traditions, their history, and contemporary applications. Addresses the many types of furniture and architectural interiors as well as the historical and cultural factors that influenced their emergence. Investigates the role of manufacturing processes and innovations to deepen the students’ understanding of the furniture and interiors. Explores the history of the marketing and sale of furnishings as well as its relevance to contemporary commercial applications. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 106 | Materials and Sources | 3 |
Description: Studies the construction and finishing of materials other than those of a structural nature, including limitations, quality control, application, uses, installation methods, and quantity calculations. Examines sources available to the designer. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| Hours | 17 | |
Second Semester | ||
| IND 102 | Interior Design Studio II | 3 |
Description: Continues the study of interior space planning and furniture selection as it relates to a functional and aesthetic interior. Investigates the use of fabric, finishes, color, and texture to complement the interior. Explores aesthetic application of color in interior design. Prerequisite: IND 101, IND 103 and IND 106 with grades of C or better Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 107 | Interior Perspective and Rendering | 3 |
Description: Studies drawing and sketching methods of furniture and interior spaces. Develops drawing techniques for interior perspective views of buildings. Explores the use of axonometric drawing and the use of various media to present the three-dimensional delineation of interior design. Examines balance and proportions of interior items within a three-dimensional space. Uses drawing techniques and color to define light and shadow, textures, and material characteristics. Prerequisite: ART 121, IND 100 and IND 101 with grades of C or better. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 110 | Problem Solving and Design Communication | 2 |
Description: Introduces the process of visual communication for interior designers. Identifies interior and architectural challenges and examines the design process of problem-solving through space analysis and planning. Utilizes collaborative methods to develop appropriate design strategies and solutions. Applies research and the use of elements and principles of design to skillfully manipulate interior spaces. Utilizes conceptual sketching and oral presentation to communicate design solutions. Prerequisite: IND 100 and IND 101 with grades of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 114 | Codes for Interior Designers | 2 |
Description: Examines how interior building codes, governmental standards and federal regulations affect and are applied to interior design. References the International Codes, National Fire Protection Association standards and various accessibility requirements including the Americans with Disabilities Act. Prerequisite: IND 101 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 116 | Interior Detail/Construction Drawing | 3 |
Description: Studies the methods and materials of interior construction and the graphic methods of communicating this information. Practices fundamental drafting conventions and develops drawing skills necessary for the production of working drawings such as floor plans, elevations, sections, finish schedules, reflected ceiling plans, and details. Discusses methods of electrical, plumbing, and HVAC distribution. Prerequisite: ARC 116, IND 100 and IND 101 with grades of C or better. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 220 | CAD Studio | 3 |
Description: Covers advanced CAD techniques for two-dimensional space planning and interior elevations. Introduces 3-dimensional CAD and 3-D sketching to develop perspectives and walk-throughs of interior spaces. Emphasizes development of computer graphics to augment and represent interior spaces. Prerequisite: ARC 116 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| Hours | 16 | |
| ENG 101 | Composition I 1 | 3 |
Description: Emphasizes the writing of expository prose. Introduction to the critical reading of nonfiction prose. IAI C1 900 Prerequisite: ENG 096 with a grade of P or other placement options. https://www.harpercollege.edu/testing/english-placement-grid.php ESL students need one of the following options: ESL 073 and ESL 074 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 with a grade of B or better and required writing placement test score; or ESL 074 with a grade of B or better and required reading placement test score. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| SPE 101 | Fundamentals of Speech Communication | 3 |
Description: Theory and practice of oral communications. Development of poise, confidence and skill in speech organization and delivery. Emphasis on frequent speaking, development of standards of criticism and selection and organization of material. IAI C2 900 Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| Hours | 6 | |
Third Semester | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| ART 130 | Ancient and Medieval Art | |
Description: Follows the historical development of the visual arts produced by Western civilizations, focusing on major artistic styles, works of art and monuments. Works are examined as examples of the ideas, beliefs and practices of artists, cultures and societies. Covers the history of art from pre-history to the medieval age. IAI F2 901 Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| ART 131 | Gothic through Romantic Art | |
Description: Follows the historical development of the visual arts produced by Western civilizations, focusing on major artistic styles, works of art and monuments. Works are examined as examples of the ideas, beliefs and practices of artists, cultures and societies. Covers the history of art from the medieval age to the end of the eighteenth century. IAI F2 902 Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| ART 132 | Modern and Contemporary Art | |
Description: Follows the historical development of the visual arts produced by Western civilizations, focusing on major artistic styles, works of art and monuments. Works are examined as examples of the ideas, beliefs and practices of artists, cultures and societies. Covers the history of art from the nineteenth century to the present time. IAI F2 902 Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 203 | 3-D Design Studio | 3 |
Description: Studies advanced problems in three-dimensional interior design which concentrate on the development of relationships of interior furnishings, walls, floors and ceilings into a unified design. Applies principles and elements of design theory within a three-dimensional volume of space. Prerequisite: IND 102, IND 107, IND 114 and IND 116 with grades of C or better. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 206 | Architectural Lighting | 3 |
Description: Examines artificial and natural lighting in interior design. Considers environmental comfort, effects on colors and information required for selection and placement of luminaires. Reviews lighting sources, sustainability energ codes and human performance. Acquaints students with lighting documentation and calculation methods as they relate to the lighting design process. Prerequisite: IND 101 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 1 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 230 | Kitchen Design Studio | 3 |
Description: Examines the technical aspects and accessibility issues of designing kitchens. Practices fundamental drafting conventions including lettering, line work, dimensioning, and symbol usage. Develops drawing for the kitchen including floor plans, electrical and lighting plans, elevations, and cabinet sections using NKBA guidelines and graphic presentation standards. Prerequisite: IND 102, IND 114 and IND 116 with grades of C or better. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 281 | Environmental Design | 3 |
Description: Explores building systems and their impact on the environment. Indoor air quality, thermal control, lighting, acoustic and water systems will be studied including solar power, wind power and other sustainable design energy alternatives. Applies these systems to various sustainable design projects and practices. Investigates LEED certification and other legislative issues. Studies the physical and psychological implications of environmental stress, crowding and institutional living and applies them to projects. Prerequisite: IND 101 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 0 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| Hours | 15 | |
Fourth Semester | ||
| IND 207 | Interior Design Internship | 3 |
Description: Provides an opportunity for selected students who meet the prerequisite requirements to work with professionals in approved residential and contract design firms, retail stores, wholesale stores and showrooms specializing in interior design and related products. Students are exposed to various aspects of the interior design field and present a report about their experience. Recommended preparation: ENG 101 or ESL coursework. Prerequisite: IND 203, IND 206 and IND 230 with grades of C or better, or consent of coordinator. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 11 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 209 | Contract Design Studio | 3 |
Description: Applies interior design skills and disabled access to contract interior projects, including floor plans, elevations or perspectives, cabinet drawings, lighting plans, selection of contract furnishings and finishes. Projects may include office spaces, restaurants and other public buildings. Prerequisite: ARC 116, IND 116, IND 203, IND 206, and IND 230 with grades of C or better. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 211 | Professional Practices for Interior Design | 3 |
Description: Examines the business principles required for a successful interior design practice, including establishing an interior design practice, design project business issues, billing, writing client contracts, interviewing and job opportunities. Prerequisite: IND 101 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 233 | Bathroom Design Studio | 2 |
Description: Examines the technical aspects and accessibility issues of designing bathrooms. Practices fundamental drafting conventions including lettering, line work, dimensioning, and symbol usage. Develops drawing for the bathroom including floor plans, electrical and lighting plans, elevations, and cabinet sections using NKBA guidelines and graphic presentation standards. Prerequisite: IND 102, IND 114, and IND 116 with grades of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 250 | Portfolio Development | 1 |
Description: Prepares students to enter the job market when completing this capstone course. Develops a professional presentation portfolio utilizing printed and multimedia applications. Explores, examines, and executes various presentation options. Discusses writing and designing a resume, cover letter, and interviewing techniques. Emphasizes organizing a strong body of work focused on a specific area of expertise dictated by the students' individual career goals. Prerequisite: ARC 116, IND 203 and IND 230 with grades of C or better OR ARC 116 and ARC 110 or ARC 213 with grades of C or better, or consent of program coordinator. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 1 Contact Hours: 2 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| Hours | 12 | |
| Mathematics 2 | 3 | |
| Elective - Select a 3-credit hour elective from the following courses: | 3 | |
| ARC 117 | Architectural CAD II | |
Description: Covers advanced CAD techniques and procedures developed in two-dimensional architectural drafting and detailing. Develops a working knowledge and understanding of command structures, detailed data management and manipulation techniques, and software customization procedures. Projects are correlated primarily to architectural construction, drafting and detailing issues. (formerly ATE 106) Prerequisite: ARC 116 with a grade of C or better, or consent of instructor. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| GRA 103 | Digital Imaging I | |
Description: Covers fundamentals of professional image-editing software (Adobe Photoshop). Emphasizes skills to manipulate photos using current software tools and special effects filters. Explores program tools, color correction, channels, layers and masks. Strong computer skills are required for success in this course. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 217 | Advanced Sketching and Perspective Drawing | |
Description: Reviews the development of two-point mechanical perspective drawing. Studies freehand drawing and sketching methods of interior and exterior spaces. Develops drawing techniques for interior perspective views of buildings. Explores the use of various media to define light, shadows, textures, and material characteristics. Prerequisite: ART 121 and IND 107 with grades of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| IND 232 | Kitchen and Bath CAD Studio | |
Description: Covers an introduction to kitchen and bath industry software techniques for two-dimensional space planning and interior elevations. Introduces 3-dimensional CAD to develop perspectives and walk-through of interior spaces. Emphasis is on the development of computer graphics to augment and represent kitchens, baths, and other interior space. Prerequisite: IND 230 with a grade of C or better, or consent of instructor. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| MGT 154 | Entrepreneurship | |
Description: Investigates positives and negatives of entrepreneurship and the process of concept to new venture. Analyzes typical venture errors and focuses on strategic management. Evaluates business ownership and franchising, pricing strategies, financing, location selection and human capital management. Discovers personal leadership traits. Assesses the personal entrepreneurial mindset. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 0 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| MKT 140 | Principles of Professional Selling | |
Description: Focuses upon the principal factors of successful selling of goods or ideas. Examines buying motives, sales psychology, customer approach and sales techniques. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 0 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | ||
| Hours | 6 | |
| Total Hours | 72 | |
An assessment test, available in the Assessment and Testing Center, must be taken before registering for ENG 101.
The mathematics requirement for this degree can be met with MGT 150 (Business Math) or Math Competency. See Math Competency options for information. Students who use Math Competency to meet the mathematics requirement must complete an additional three credit-hour AAS General Education elective. See full list of AAS General Education Electives.
Students who successfully complete this program will be able to:
Students interested in interior design may also be interested in:
For more information about the Interior Design AAS Degree program, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700, or submit a request information form. You can also apply online.