Master of Fine Arts - Interior Architecture and Design

The MFA program focuses on advanced techniques and theory of interior architecture and design. The curriculum—designed and taught by industry professionals—focuses on research, concept and design development, traditional and digital media, innovative ideas, and global issues. The interior design program leading to the Master of Fine Arts [MFA] in Interior Architecture & Design is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation. The CIDA-accredited program prepares students for entry-level interior design practice, for advanced study, and to apply for membership in professional interior design organizations. The Master of Fine Arts [MFA] in Interior Architecture & Design granted by Academy of Art University meets the educational requirement for eligibility to sit for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination (NCIDQ Exam). Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria: Human & Global Centered Design Apply concepts of environmental psychology in the creation of interior environments addressing the interplay of humans and their physical environments enriching the quality of life Design Process & Conceptual Thinking Produce a problem statement for the development of a thesis project contributing to the needs of a community or specialty area of design Research user needs to inform the programming document Produce schematic design solutions that meet programmatic requirements and conceptual intent culminating in the creation of volumetric spaces Create refined and holistic design solutions culminating in a design development presentation Produce construction documentation of interior buildings and FF & E specifications, based on the holistic design solutions Furnishings & Materiality Apply furnishings, fixtures, & equipment, and interior construction materiality that enhance the aesthetic and ecological qualities of the design while providing for the programmatic requirements and conceptual design intent Fundamentals of Design Apply aesthetics responsive to the programmatic requirements and design intent through the elements and principles of two- and three-dimensional design, including color principles and theories, across all platforms in design solutions and visual communications Demonstrate an understanding of movements and traditions in interior design, architecture, furnishings, and the visual arts and consider their relationship in design solutions Integrated Design Demonstrate an understanding of major construction types and construction systems, through design decisions Demonstrate an understanding of the laws, codes, and federal regulations impacting life safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency through application of these professional standards to design solutions Oral, Visual, & Written Literacy Communicate and defend design solutions in oral and written presentations that support the project requirements and design intent, and exhibit a logical sequencing and hierarchy of information Demonstrate use of a wide range of visual media with professional craftsmanship to communicate ideas and solutions, including freehand & digital drawing and drafting, three-dimensional models, rendered presentations, and ideation sketching Produce a formal research document implementing IRB requirements and APA style methodologies in the final thesis project Professional Practice & Collaboration Demonstrate an understanding of professional practice, business and contract procedures, and business ethics Collaborate with other disciplines on processes and solutions to produce a creative interior environment Produce a portfolio, including the incorporation of a thesis project, and identity system to qualify for a design position in interior architecture and design *Note App Fee Waiver in effect for ApplyBoard to reduce the application fee to $50*