A long-time provider of interior design education, the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) has added a Bachelor of Interior Design to its well-respected certificate and diploma offerings.
The program provides graduates a direct path to becoming a Registered Interior Designer. This is an important step, because in 2015 the Interior Designers Institute of BC (IDIBC), along with all other self-regulatory provincial design associations across Canada, will require a bachelor degree in interior design as the minimum requisite education for those wishing to pursue registration in interior design.
“The next seven years will see growing recognition in North America of the important role Registered Interior Designers play in building healthy environments, contributing to the safety and welfare of the public, and supporting a strong economy. The new Bachelor of Interior Design degree at BCIT is timely in assisting meeting the future demand for qualified professionals,” says Alyssa Myshok, president of IDIBC.
The bachelor’s degree program is offered in an accelerated, 16-month full-time program and builds on the current diploma. In 2015 it will also be offered in part-time studies.
“This Bachelor of Interior Design fills an important place in the process of having our students attain professional practice in this growing sector in our province,” says Wayne Hand, associate dean, Building Design and Construction Technology at BCIT. “We will continue to work with our faculty and our industry partners in the interior design field to ensure we provide relevant and timely education contributing to interior design and construction in British Columbia.”
An optional eight-month co-op placement allows for hands-on learning, as does its integration with trades programs associated with the industry.
“The interdisciplinary nature of the degree program provides great exposure to the various trades involved in the industry including construction, electrical, and plumbing,” says Tiia Manson, program head for Interior Design Parttime Studies and program champion for the new degree.
The degree also offers an optional international component allowing students to study abroad for a term.
For more information visit www.bcit.ca