Interior architects offer creative, proactive and innovative design solutions for the exciting developments occurring across all areas of contemporary life.

In this degree you will develop a strong foundation in critical design thinking and theory relating to human occupation.

You'll explore how human experience is central to interior architecture, particularly as the ‘innovation economy’ is calling for change to the designs of environments where we learn, work and live.

From the start of your course you will develop the knowledge and technical skills required for professional practice. Through work-integrated learning opportunities, you'll work on real projects, undertake site visits, create site documentation and deliver client briefings. You may also pitch design concepts to real clients and practitioners.

You will learn key career skills including communication, creative problem solving and collaborative work practice.

In your second year, you may have the opportunity to undertake a studio field trip to Bali, and in your third year you may participate in a studio field trip to Melbourne. There are also scholarships available where you can gain three month's work experience with our practice partners, including Hassell in Singapore, Hong Kong and Shangai.

Students must complete at least 80 hours of relevant work experience before graduating. Curtin provides you with opportunities to work with real clients. Our students have contributed design solutions for organisations such as Victoria Park Centre for the Arts, and worked with industry consultants Hassell, Geyer and Cox.  

Why study

Work-integrated learning and industry partnerships are prioritised in this course. You will have the opportunity to be involved in a variety a work experiences, including professional placements, networking events, travel, and simulated and real client projects.

Curtin is the only university in Western Australia to offer a four year interior architecture degree, making graduates eligible for membership of IDEA (Interior Design / Interior Architecture Educators Association).

You will be taught by a select group of award-winning academics with significant industry and teaching experience.

You may the opportunity to showcase your work in the end-of-year exhibition, and undertake immersive local and global field trips.

How this course will make you industry ready

• Completion of 80 hours' work experience in the industry is required to graduate, ensuring you develop the relevant skills and practical competence employers are looking for.
• Strong engagement with industry is embedded throughout the course, including real and simulated client projects.
• Opportunities exist for local and international studio field trips, broadening your professional experience and cultural awareness.
• The course is taught by dedicated professionals who are active in research and practice, thereby ensuring your education is industry relevant.
• You will develop independent thinking and critical awareness skills, which are transferable across diverse career sectors.

Professional recognition

This degree is recognised by the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers.

Students and graduates are eligible for membership to the Design Institute of Australia.

Careers

• Interior designer
• Specialist designer (lighting, furniture, kitchen, bathroom)
• Exhibition and event designer
• Interior design writer/critic
• Set designer

Industries

• Interior design and architecture
• Building and construction
• Local government
• Housing
• Retail and hospitality
• Exhibition and events
• Publications