Master of Arts in Interior Design

The Master of Arts in Interior Design (M.A.I.D.) is a terminal professional degree which prepares the graduate to enter professional practice and take NCIDQ exam; to pursue career paths in research and higher education; and to matriculate into a Ph.D program. The philosophy of the Interior Design program is based on a concern for human beings and the creation of interior settings that support human activities and values. We are focused on how design excellence and innovation can tackle issues surrounding the human condition in the built environmental, especially around health and well-being and environmental stewardship. Additionally, we are deeply interested in how qualities of spatial design impact human experience and performance. The degree offers two tracks for completion (non-thesis project or thesis):

The Non-Thesis Project Track combines studio experiences with qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to further the understanding and increase awareness of the interface between human behavior and interior environments. Students undertake a design-research project, developing creative, theoretical, and/or analytical frameworks in the pursuit of discoveries that solve design problems.

The Thesis Track focuses on developing and executing an applied or theoretical research investigation which contributes to the interior design body of knowledge. Students should align research interests with faculty expertise. Students on this track are well prepared to enter the Individual Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program (IIDP). To learn more go to the IIDP website.