BFA in Interior Design

The only accredited interior design program offered by a university in the Portland region, Marylhurst's BFA in Interior Design is a comprehensive four-year degree. Students with sophomore standing may finish the program in three years by completing a 15-credit summer intensive session.

The curriculum integrates architecture and art into the study of interior design. This interdisciplinary approach provides students with the practical knowledge, critical thinking and creative skills needed to succeed.

The BFA in Interior Design program at Marylhurst University prepares students to become practicing designers and to sit for national-level examinations for professional certification.

In addition, a Marylhurst education enriches students' lives with its strong foundation in the liberal arts. Graduates leave Marylhurst with a greater appreciation of the diversity of individuals and ideas, lifelong learning and the practice of environmental stewardship.

Emphasis on Commercial Design

The Marylhurst program focuses primarily on commercial interior design – skills which provide graduates with a greater variety of career options. Primary building types introduced in design studio include corporate, medical, educational, institutional, restaurant, hospitality and retail.

Marylhurst interior design graduates learn to design spaces integrating aesthetics and functional requirements while ensuring the health, safety and welfare of the occupants. Students develop professional work skills of individual responsiblility in synthesizing information, analyzing problems and proposing various solutions.

Students gain competence, knowledge and experience in:

schematic design, design development and construction documents
space planning
hand-drafting, drawing and computer-aided design (CAD)
lighting design
communication and presentation techniques
sustainable design

Students learn to define and analyze client needs for creating innovative, functional designs that meet building codes. They are provided many opportunities to collaborate with design professionals in the Portland area, in the design industry and construction trade.

Curriculum Integrated with Practical Experience

The heart of the curriculum consists of 12 design studio courses taken sequentially. Students integrate the tools and technologies of subject coursework into the creative studio environment. The studios become progressively complex and demanding, culminating in the self-directed fourth year.

During the fourth year, students complete an intensive program, developing an interior design project of their choice. This in-depth research project encompasses all design phases. Students also obtain portfolio building skills and hands-on experience through a professional internship.

The Marylhurst Experience

Marylhurst University is embedded in a design-rich community of vibrant leaders in sustainable design. They frequently participate in the interior design program as teachers, visiting critics and presenters.

The campus is located 10 miles south of Portland, Oregon, America's Greenest City according to Popular Science and SustainLane.

Marylhurst’s campus has a contemplative, natural beauty with wooded greenbelts encompassing its perimeter and a spectacular view of Mt. Hood. Its tranquil, inspiring environment enhances the learning experience.

At Marylhurst, students find convenience in a dynamic learning environment.

Small, seminar-style classes
Class schedule includes twilight and evening options
Diverse student body with rich work and life experiences with an emphasis on peer learning
Partnerships with interior design and architecture professionals
Applicable credits are easily transferred; Portland Community College interior design courses may be transferred

Excellence in Teaching

Marylhurst's interior design faculty is comprised of practicing interior designers, architects and related art and design professionals with degrees in the fields of interior design or architecture. They are dedicated to high standards, hands-on learning, integrity and professionalism.

Interior Design Faculty

Career Paths

Career opportunities range from full-service commercial and residential design to specializations in hospitality, medical, educational, institutional, retail and corporate design. Other careers include museum and exhibition designer, lighting designer, historic preservationist, facilities planner, showroom manager, product sales representative, project construction manager, journalist and architectural photographer.

Graduates of the bachelor's degree program are prepared to pursue a master's degree in architecture or design.