Program Overview

This distinctive course, offered by Arts University Bournemouth, integrates research and practical application with creative theory, emphasizing sustainability and design for wellbeing, including biophilic design principles. The comprehensive curriculum of the MA in Interior Design explores interior design within a broader context, fostering innovative thinking and problem-solving. Through theoretical exploration and evidence-based design solutions, students develop a thoughtful approach to designing interiors, installations, and buildings, considering occupants' needs and diverse environments. Additionally, topics like collaboration, inclusivity, and diversity are addressed, guiding students to create inspiring and sustainable interior design solutions.

Online

Arts University Bournemouth

January, May and September

24 months

• You’ll have a BA (Hons) degree graded at 2.2 or above, or an equivalent UK or international qualification in your chosen subject or a related discipline.

  As an overseas applicant, you’ll need to validate your proficiency in English. We accept a range of English language qualifications:

  • Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) grade C

  • Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) grade C

  • Certificate of Attainment in English (London Board) level 5 or 6

  • IELTS score of 6.0 or above with at least 5.5 in each band

  • TOEFL iBT score of 80 or above with 19 in speaking, and 18 in listening, reading and writing

  • Pearson PTE score of 64 and over, with a score of 59 in each component

  IELTS, Pearson, and TOEFL scores must be less than two years old at the time the course commences to be valid.

Requirement

Tuition Fee

£8,500

Course Type

Master's degree

Modules

Introduction (15 credits)

This introductory module will equip you with the knowledge needed to tackle your studies with confidence. We’ll go over the programme structure, research and academic standards, learning and assessment methods, project outcomes and expectations, and evidence-based design techniques.

Specialism / Practice (15 credits)

We’ll investigate the different forms of interior design across various sectors, such as retail, hospitality, leisure, education, exhibition, and healthcare design. You’ll get to explore your own specialist practice interests and define a personal research focus for your studies.

Sustainable Futures (15 credits)

With this module, you’ll focus on how to implement a sustainable approach to domestic and commercial design projects. You’ll learn about identifying and sourcing materials, fixtures and fittings for sustainable wellbeing, plus concepts such as biophilic design and passivhaus approaches to deliver net-zero-ready new and existing buildings.

Collaboration (15 credits)

As its title suggests, the Collaboration module focuses on developing a collaborative, practice-based approach to interior design. We’ll look at integrating interior design techniques with healthcare and lifestyle living, and what can be accomplished from collaborative usability.

Experience (15 credits)

This module focuses on the interior design of commercial spaces – from the initial concept stages through to planning and interior detailing. You’ll study the principal aspects of commercial interior design including function, aesthetic, user requirements, and constraints of the building envelope.

Reinvent (15 credits)

Together, we’ll explore the meaning of reinvention within interior design and how designs can be enhanced by transforming old features into new ones. Through this module, you’ll understand how to make creative, sustainable work by repurposing materials, styles, spaces, and structures.

Transition (15 credits)

Your lessons and coursework for this module will introduce you to a different view about how we use the five senses - vision, hearing, smell, taste and touch - to enhance the user experience. Alongside this, we’ll explore complex theories around spatial awareness, premonition, intuition, and meanings of interiority, space and time.

Inclusivity (15 credits)

During this module, you’ll learn about designing for diverse occupancy within domestic, work, and educational environments. By examining cultures from across the world, we’ll also research how designers can create spaces that support multigenerational and community living.

Research Methods (15 credits)

The Research Methods module will help you investigate and select a strong, original topic for your Master’s Project. You’ll be introduced to a range of approaches to research design and how to make effective links between theoretical frameworks and their practical application.

Master's Project (45 credits)

As the final part of the course, your Master’s Project will require you to work independently under supervision, to produce a research-informed project on a topic chosen by you. It’s your opportunity to further explore your specialism of interest and showcase all the knowledge you’ve gained.

Innovative world-class study experience

Elevate your career in interior design with the MA in Interior Design at Arts University Bournemouth. Tailored for graduates and professionals, this program provides a comprehensive platform to hone your skills and expertise. Gain a competitive edge in the industry by mastering contemporary design concepts, sustainability principles, and wellbeing standards. Whether envisioning yourself as an in-house designer, consultant, or contractor, this program equips you with the versatility and knowledge to thrive in diverse roles. Seize the opportunity to make your mark in this dynamic field.

Who is the course aimed at?

Designed for graduates, professionals, and aspiring interior or architectural interior designers, the MA in Interior Design online program offers a comprehensive platform to excel in various design disciplines. Whether interested in commercial or domestic design, interior spatial design, or specializing in research within interior products or textiles, this program caters to diverse career aspirations.

Why the Arts University Bournemouth?

• Fastest-growing creative and digital hubs in Europe

• Supporting more than 7,500 digital jobs

• Top 20 best UK universities