Introduction

The Interior Designer, working to the client's specification creates 3 dimensional spaces, enriching them with an in-depth knowledge of lighting, colour, materials, space planning and construction details.

The work involves conceptual design, presentation drawings, materials specification, lighting and furniture presentations, overseeing site construction, and contract implementation. Knowledge of business management is a distinct advantage. Computer Aided Design has become an essential tool in the process. This course will also give learners the knowledge, skills and competences to create an individual interior which also integrates all the sustainable design issues using environmental materials and finishers.

 

 Career Opportunities

The Interior Designer's work includes domestic, corporate and industrial projects. The Designer seeks to create an appropriate environment for living and working.  Graduates can work as an;

• Interior Designer
• Colour Consultant
• Design Consultant
• Interior Architect
• Set Designer
• CAD Operator

Course Structure

This two-year course builds upon the basic knowledge provided at Certificate in Interior Design FETAC level 5. The course is designed to enable graduates to undertake independent professional work in both commercial and domestic markets.

Studio projects are completed on a continual assessment basis throughout the year to develop design skills, critical faculty and presentation skills. In addition, participants further develop Computer Aided Design (CAD) skills learnt in the first year.

 

Core Elements

Year 1 of the Higher National Diploma in Interior Design

• Design Principles
• Design Methods
• Construction Technology
• Graphic Techniques
• Drawing Techniques and Approaches
• Properties of 3d Materials
• Commercial Model Making
• Lighting Design
• Historical and Contextual Referencing
• Furniture Design
• Autocad and Photoshop

Year 2 of the HND in Interior Design

• Interior Design 
• Properties of 3d Materials 
• Critical Studies
• Digital Portfolio
• Professional Studies
• Contemporary Art and Conceptualisation 
• Sustainable Design
• Autocad and Photoshop
• Work Experience 

Support elements 

• Field trips/visits to sites and buildings.
• A European city is visited annually.
• Study Skills
• Career Advice and CV Preparation
• Enterprise Workshop

Work experience

A two-week work placement takes place in the second year of the this course. While the College will provide assistance, it will be the leaner's own responsibility to secure suitable work experience.

Assessment and Certification

• This course is certified by BTEC/EDEXCEL.
• SCD staff continually assess project work throughout the year.  All work submitted by students becomes the property of the College.
   

Progression
 

• Graduates can apply for advanced entry to the BA Design (Interior & Furniture) in DIT.
• Graduates can apply for entry to the final year of the BA (Hons) Interior Design in Griffith College.
• Graduates can transfer directly to the final year of the BA (Hons) Interior Design in Writtle College*, University of Essex.
  *awaiting approval
  While most of our graduates enter into full time employment, a number of students have continued their studies in
• Interior Architecture in Griffith College.
• English Universities studying interior design or architecture.
• DIT and Carlow IT studying architectural technology.
• DIT studying interior architecture.

Entry Requirements

Year 1

Applicants must have successfully completed the Certificate in Interior Design FETAC level 5 qualification or its equivalent and have created a comprehensive portfolio of relevant work.

Year 2 

Applicants must have successfully completed year 1 or equivalent.
 

Fees
 

• There are no tuition fees for EU students. At course commencement, students are required to pay for books, exams, €200 PLC Government Levy (unless exempt), a Student Services fee and where applicable professional body registration fees.
• Students will also be required to purchase certain items, such as drawing equipment.