Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design

Young woman stands with interior design work

It’s time to tap into your knack for design and begin your journey of creating functional, beautiful and uplifting spaces. Brenau’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior design combines elements of creativity and critical thinking, equipping you with the knowledge and experience you need to become a successful interior designer. You’ll graduate prepared to join a design firm, start your own business or pursue advanced study in the field.

Brenau’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design program has been continuously accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) since 1993. Because of this accreditation, you’ll receive the educational standards to earn your interior design license and accomplish your goals in your professional career.

Duration: 8 semesters
Start term: Fall
Class type: On-ground
Location: Gainesville

Student opportunities

  • Execute creative designs using a variety of media, techniques and software
  • Learn from professors who have practiced interior design professionally
  • Utilize specialized studio courses to explore different areas within the industry, focusing on specific details and knowledge involving the design of healthcare, hospitality, commercial and residential spaces
  • Take courses that support principles from Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and The WELL Building Standard
  • Explore sustainability’s role in historic preservation
  • Understand how to effectively use critical interior design software including AutoCAD, Autodesk Revit and Lumion
  • Receive individualized support and personalized advising in a small classroom setting
  • Be able to knowledgeably select and specify furniture, fixtures and finishes
  • Build awareness of the history of interiors, architecture and art
  • Develop professional ethics and best business practices
  • Cultivate a global perspective to better weigh design decisions
  • Travel to design firms and showrooms around Atlanta and learn from active professionals

The BFA in Interior Design degree granted by Brenau University meets the educational requirement for eligibility to sit for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination (NCIDQ Exam). For more information about NCIDQ Exam eligibility, visit cidq.org/eligibility-requirements.

Potential careers

  • Residential interior designer
  • Commercial interior designer 
  • Hospitality interior designer
  • Health care interior designer 
  • Set designer 
  • Facilities planner

Accreditation status

The interior design program leading to the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation, www.accredit-id.org, 206 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW, Suite 350, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

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 Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design granted by Brenau University meets the educational requirement for eligibility to sit for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination (NCIDQ Exam). For more information about NCIDQ Exam eligibility, visit their Eligibility Requirements webpage.

Have questions?

Contact Michael Kleeman, Chair of the Interior Design Department & Professor of Interior Design, at 770-534-6266 or mkleeman@brenau.edu.

Related programs

  • College of Fine Arts & Humanities, Interior Design

    Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design

    Graduate / MFA