Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
The mission of Virginia Tech's Interior Design program is to enhance quality of life by excellence in design, professionalism, and public service. The curriculum gives equal weight to history, building technology, ethics, innovation, creative skills, and business acumen, so that Tech graduates are able to make positive contributions to the industry as soon as they become part of it. In keeping with the objectives of the Council for Interior Design Accreditation norms, critical thinking skills and creative problem solving are stressed, along with an awareness of codes that serve the health, safety and welfare of end users. Because Virginia Tech is CIDA-accredited, students are able to sit for the NCIDQ examination after they have completed the required work experience, and then upon passing it, can become licensed interior designers in Virginia. Practical courses include: Business Procedures, Building Systems, Lighting Design, Construction Documents and Computer Applications. Students can take advantage of study abroad possibilities at Virginia Tech's Center for European Studies and Architecture in Riva San Vitale, Switzerland. Upper-level students are strongly encouraged to use the Virginia Tech network to secure an internship.
