Interior Architecture and Design MS

Degree Awarded: Master of Science (MS) 
Minimum Required Credits: 33    
Co-op Option(s): None      
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 15.1301
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 27-1025 

About the Program

The Drexel University Interior Architecture & Design program offers a Master of Science degree that prepares students to become leaders in the field of interior design. Anchored in problem solving design studios, and supported by seminars and electives, the program provides students opportunities to engage with a range of project types—public, commercial, residential, and institutional—while learning to address aesthetic, social, physical, and psychological dimensions of interior environments. Coursework emphasizes both hands-on and research-driven methods, culminating in a comprehensive master’s thesis that synthesizes design inquiry and applied practice.

Students benefit from close affiliation with graduate programs in Design, Construction Management, and Urban Strategy within the Department of Architecture, Design and Urbanism, as well as access to interdisciplinary opportunities across the University. Professional engagement is embedded throughout, including design juries, thesis advising, and practice-based experiences. As a CIDA and NASAD-accredited program, the degree supports pathways toward licensure and prepares graduates for diverse roles across the interior architecture and design profession. We cultivate students who acknowledge their responsibilities to the safety and well-being of the public and the stewardship of the environment to lead a multifaceted profession in an ever-changing world.

The Interior Architecture & Design graduate program is consistently ranked among the top programs in the country and in the survey by DesignIntelligence of “America’s Best Design Schools.”

There are three pathways for students to enter the program:

A 75-credit, 3-year first professional pathway for students entering with non-design or unrelated undergraduate backgrounds. The curriculum provides a rigorous and comprehensive sequence of foundational and advanced coursework that builds core competencies in spatial design, technical systems, and conceptual development.

A 43-credit, 2-year first professional pathway for students with interior design, architecture, or closely related backgrounds. This accelerated professional pathway builds on existing knowledge while delivering a focused sequence of advanced coursework in spatial design, technical systems, and conceptual development.

A 33-credit, 1.5-year post-professional pathway is offered for individuals with prior academic training in interior design from an accredited institution. This advanced track emphasizes critical inquiry, specialization, and research-driven design practice.

Admission Requirements

Same as Drexel Admissions-Portfolio Optional.

Degree Requirements

First Professional pathway for students entering from non-design or unrelated undergraduate backgrounds.

Accelerated Professional pathway for students with prior academic experience in Interior Design, Architecture, or closely related disciplines.

Post-Professional pathway for students with prior academic training in Interior Design

Program Learning Outcomes