MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy
The MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy program at London Metropolitan University is desi...
BA (Hons) Interior Design and Decoration
Aldgate
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
This undergraduate degree provides a comprehensive education in interior design and decoration, emphasizing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of creating engaging interior environments. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to work professionally in the interiors industry. It caters to those interested in the "decorative interior environments," exploring how to create sensory and aesthetically sophisticated spaces that resonate emotionally, culturally, socially, and physically with their occupants. The program often appears in rankings for interior design courses in the UK, showcasing its strong reputation within the field.
Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a progressive learning experience, building from foundational design principles to advanced project work. In the initial stages, students delve into the fundamental elements of interior design, including drawing, making, and understanding the design process. Key modules often include "Design Principles for Interiors," "Interior Design Communication and Techniques," and "Spatial Design Development." As the course progresses, students engage with more complex design challenges, exploring "Design Details," "Human Scale," and "Interior Technologies and Production." A significant component of the final year is the "Major Project Realisation: Interior Design and Decoration" and a "Critical & Contextual Studies: Dissertation (Interiors)," where students undertake in-depth, self-directed research and design projects. Throughout the program, there is a strong emphasis on developing both graphic and applied decorative making skills, using a variety of materials and techniques, including both traditional and digital methods.
Research Focus: The program encourages students to develop a critical understanding of the discipline and its broader context. The "Critical & Contextual Studies" modules, culminating in a dissertation, foster research skills and an awareness of the historical, theoretical, and social issues that shape interior design practice. Students are encouraged to investigate issues of sustainability, equity, and accessibility in relation to the built environment. This research component allows students to develop a personal area of expertise and a well-informed approach to their design work.
Industry Engagement: London Metropolitan University's location in a vibrant creative hub provides ample opportunities for industry engagement. The program often incorporates live projects in collaboration with businesses, associations, museums, and galleries, giving students valuable real-world experience. Students may have the opportunity to undertake work placements at leading design practices, further enhancing their practical skills and professional network. The curriculum is designed to make graduates "job ready" by putting job prospects at the heart of the learning process.
Global Perspective: While the program is based in London, the curriculum often encourages a global perspective. Students may explore design precedents from various cultures and historical periods, and the "Critical & Contextual Studies" modules often examine the global and previously marginalized contexts of the discipline. This helps students develop a broader understanding of the diverse influences and applications of interior design and decoration in a globalized world. The University itself boasts a diverse student body, fostering an international learning environment.
Location
Aldgate
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19250
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
London Metropolitan University offers a variety of scholarships and financial support options designed to assist international students with the cost of tuition fees and living expenses while studying in the UK. These scholarships aim to support talented students, regardless of their financial background, and encourage diversity in the university’s student body.
International Scholarship: London Metropolitan University provides an International Scholarship for non-UK students who are enrolled in full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs. This scholarship is designed to help reduce the cost of tuition fees and make studying at the university more affordable. The scholarship amount varies depending on the program and student eligibility, typically covering a partial reduction of tuition fees. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit, and students are assessed upon application for the program.
Regional Scholarships: To encourage students from diverse regions to study at London Metropolitan University, the university offers Regional Scholarships. These scholarships are designed to attract students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The scholarships are often based on merit and financial need and offer varying amounts of financial assistance to help cover the costs of tuition fees.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students can explore external scholarships offered by organizations, government bodies, and foundations. Some notable external scholarships include those offered by the British Council, Chevening Scholarships, and Commonwealth Scholarships, which provide significant funding to international students pursuing higher education in the UK. London Metropolitan University encourages its international students to apply for these prestigious scholarships in addition to institutional funding opportunities.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Interior Design and Decoration program at London Metropolitan University possess a versatile skillset that opens doors to a wide array of career opportunities within the creative and design industries. The program's focus on both the aesthetic and functional aspects of interior spaces, coupled with its emphasis on practical skills and industry engagement, prepares graduates for diverse and fulfilling roles.
Interior Designer: This is the most direct career path. Graduates can work for established interior design firms, creating and implementing designs for residential, commercial (retail, offices, hospitality), and public spaces. They are involved in all stages of a project, from initial concept development and space planning to material selection, furniture procurement, and on-site supervision.
Interior Decorator: For those with a strong passion for the aesthetic and decorative elements, a career as an interior decorator is an excellent option. This role primarily focuses on the surface treatments, furnishings, lighting, and accessories of a space to enhance its visual appeal and create a desired ambiance. They may work with clients on a project basis or for retail establishments offering decorating services.
Exhibition Designer: Graduates with an interest in creating temporary but impactful spaces can specialize in exhibition design. This involves designing and building temporary structures and displays for trade shows, museums, galleries, and events, considering visitor flow, visual communication, and the overall experience.
Set Designer (Film, TV, Theatre): The program's emphasis on creating immersive and visually compelling environments makes set design a natural fit for some graduates. They work with directors and production teams to design and create the sets and backdrops for films, television shows, and theatrical productions, bringing the narrative to life through the physical environment.
Visual Merchandiser: In the retail sector, visual merchandisers are responsible for creating attractive and engaging in-store displays that encourage sales. This role requires a strong understanding of design principles, color theory, and the psychology of consumer behavior, all of which are covered in the Interior Design and Decoration program.
Furniture and Product Designer: With a solid understanding of materials, fabrication techniques, and the relationship between objects and space, graduates can pursue a career in furniture or product design. They may design individual pieces of furniture or a range of products for the home or commercial spaces.
Textile Designer: Given the program's focus on textiles in interior decoration, graduates can specialize in designing textiles for interiors, such as upholstery fabrics, curtains, carpets, and wall coverings. This can involve working for textile manufacturers or as a freelance designer.
Lighting Designer: Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the mood and functionality of an interior space. Graduates can specialize in lighting design, working with architects and interior designers to create effective and aesthetically pleasing lighting schemes for various projects.
Retail Design Consultant: Graduates can work as consultants for retail businesses, advising on store layout, visual merchandising, and creating an overall brand experience through the physical environment.
Freelance Designer/Decorator: Many graduates choose to work independently, offering their design and decoration services to clients on a freelance basis. This provides flexibility and the opportunity to build a personal brand,
