About Interior Design
Our Interior Design program offers students a specialized studio-oriented education that prepares them for careers as professional interior designers or for graduate studies.
Students gain a thorough knowledge of design processes and technical skills, including computer-aided design and traditional drafting and rendering. They leave with an understanding of various period styles of architecture and design, the principles of design, as well as standards for construction. Throughout the program students develop self-discipline, professional standards, and a good work ethic.
Students who major in interior design at Buffalo State are looking for an excellent and affordable fully accredited program that provides an enriching visual arts experience in a liberal arts setting.
Interior Design Studies, Minor
Drafting Technologies for Interior Design, Minor
Interior Design-Fundamental Theory & History, Micro-credential
Degree Information
Interior designers are not just decorators. They also read blueprints and consider building codes, inspection regulations, and accessibility standards. Many interior designers specialize in types of buildings, such as homes, hospitals, or hotels; specific rooms, such as bathrooms or kitchens; or specific design styles, such as contemporary or vintage.
Some designers work for home-furnishing stores, helping customers choose materials and furnishing; some produce designs, plans, and drawings for construction and real estate companies; and some open individual firms and help clients on a one-on-one basis. Not all graduates become interior designers. Some decide to pursue a master’s degree in architecture or go into a related filed that requires a good sense of aesthetics and special imagination, such as:
- Architectural Photographer
- Art Critic
- Artist
- College Professor
- Color Theory Consultant
- Commercial Designer
- Design Consultant
- Display Manager
- Environmental Designer
- Facilities Planner
- Furniture Designer
- Furniture Salesperson or Manager
- Historical Preservationist
- Industrial Designer
- Museum Curator
- Museum Technician
- Production Designer
- Set Designer
- Technical Illustrator
American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): Through the local chapter of the national organization, students can gain access to real-world scenarios and information provided by visiting professionals, as well as network with others in the field. ASID also provides information on conventions, innovations, and research in the field. Students also can enter competitions.
Explore Buffalo Partnership: The Interior Design Department partners with the community organization Explore Buffalo, which provides students with an unparalleled look at Buffalo’s unique architectural heritage.
Study abroad: Interior design students have opportunities to study abroad including in Italy, Denmark, Canada, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.
Czurles-Nelson Gallery: This campus art gallery is open to students within the Art and Design disciplines to exhibit their work.
Undergraduate Research: Researching alongside faculty members or through an independent study is a life-changing experience. They can present their findings at the college’s annual Research and Creativity Forum.
Learn about Undergraduate Research
Internships: Students are also encouraged to complete internships before graduation. Some of the companies where interior design students have landed internships include:
- Uniland
- Canon Design
- Sylvesti Architects
- Pier One
- Kitchen and Bath
Find Your Flair
Do you have an innate flair for color, pattern, and spatial arrangements? Do you enjoy learning about the architecture of a building? You might love our Interior Design Program.
Excellent Reputation
The Buffalo State interior design program has been continually accredited for more than 10 years and is one of the most highly regarded in Western New York.
Our Location
Because Buffalo State is located in New York's second-largest city, students have access to more than 21 museums, galleries, art studios, and art centers.
Faculty
Our faculty hail from across the globe. They hold terminal degrees from prestigious universities and have a record of research and practical experience.
Small Class Size
The maximum number of students within the major is 16, meaning that each student receives individualized attention from professors.
Design Competitions
Students can participate in multiple design competitions, including the Queen City Architecture Run & Costume Contest; the Steelcase Student Design Competition; the ASID Student Design Competition; and the Sherwin-Williams STIR Student Design Challenge.
Minor Option
The drafting technologies for interior design minor focuses on manual and computer-aided drafting, along with mode-making and color rendering, which provides students with wider professional and academic opportunities available upon graduation.
Scholarships
The Art and Design Department offers 12 scholarships and there are also more than 100 scholarships available to students demonstrating outstanding leadership qualities, academic abilities, and/or financial need.
Professional Affiliations
We are professionally affiliated with several interior design organizations, including the Interior Design Educators Council, the American Institute of Architects, and the Buffalo Architecture Foundation.
We're Accredited
We are accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation and National Association of Schools of Art and Design, therefore, students are eligible to apply and sit for the professional, nationally-recognized licensing exams, earning a "certified interior designer" designation and a right to practice in New York State.