BA in Interior Design

Course Overview
Demonstrate your creativity, technical ability and problem-solving expertise with this exciting learning opportunity
If you are looking for a well-respected, challenging Interior Design Course in Dublin, the Griffith College Interior Design course is the one for you.
Why Study Interior Design at Griffith College?
The BA in Interior Design is a three-year level 7 degree course that can be taken as either a full-time or an evening access programme. All candidates for the evening access programme should be 23 years or older. This course takes the student from initiation through to successful completion to produce an Interior Design graduate who can create, design, problem solve and act professionally in all related working environments. Successful Interior Design graduates are industry ready, and creatively and technically proficient to propose innovative solutions and problem-solving expertise within the built environment.
Like the honours degree, this Interior Design programme has been created with consultation from industry professionals and is staffed by practising Designers and Architects and subject specialists. Amended in 2013 to current best practice within the industry and approved by QQI, the programme now includes Revit, AutoCAD 3-D, AutoCAD, as well as traditional communication tools such as model making and free-hand drawing.
- Develop skills in a broad range of design disciplines including creativity in design; competence in communication in a variety of media; an ability to draw; technical understanding; and organisation
- You will receive training from teaching staff with strong industry links, including practising architects, designers, and art historians.
- Experiential learning is an important part of the course with class trips abroad now a big part of the curriculum.
- The calibre of work produced by the Design Faculty has been recognised numerous times through industry awards and exhibitions.
- Gain extensive experience in creating, analysing and interpreting project briefs, skills which will enable graduates to problem-solve complex design issues and work independently and in groups to find solutions.
- Develop advanced skills in space planning; design detailing, materials selection and specification
- Full access to Student Adobe Creative Cloud - All Apps plan, which gives you 20+ cutting-edge creative tools for desktop, mobile, and web
- This programme is validated by the European Council of Interior Architects (ECIA) and the Institute of Designers in Ireland (IDI).
- 100% continuous assessment means learners do not need to sit written exams.
Graduate Showcase
Griffith Creative Show 2022
If you would like to attend the 2022 Graduate Showcase, it will be launching on June 9th - more info is available here.
Course Highlights
- Industry standard software (Adobe, Revit, AutoCAD)
- 100% Continuous Assessment course work – no exams
- Offered both full-time and part-time
- Taught by practicing Designers and Architects
- Commercial Interior Design focus
Questions? Have a look at our FAQ section.
Intake Dates
The next intake for this course will be:
- September*
*subject to sufficient numbers
Are you applying through the CAO?
Read our CAO Guide for everything you need to know about applying through the CAO!
Course Codes
- Dublin: GC490
What our students say

"I achieved a distinction in my degree and also received Griffith College’s Best Academic Achievement Award in 2014. These results and the encouragement I received from my tutors gave me the extra edge when applying for jobs. I soon found myself working as an interior designer at Henry J Lyons Architects."
BA in Interior Design

The programme is excellent, I've always been very passionate about architecture and interior design and I think Griffith College provided everything I needed to fulfill that passion that I have. The course was very intensive but I couldn't recommend it enough. I submitted my final project for the IDI Awards and was shortlisted for two categories and it felt fantastic to be nominated.
BA in Interior Design
Course Details
Year One
Learners assemble relevant information and research to assist in idea generation in order to develop and create original images and to observe, record and respond, exploring a wide range of art and design practices. Learners learn to apply visual methods, communicate ideas via freehand drawing, technical drawing and graphics arts and identify primary and secondary visual research methodologies.
Learners observe, record and analyse the physical environment, visually explaining concepts, ideas and three-dimensional space through sketching and applying sketching as a tool in the design process.
Learners use computers to create and manage files and system commands, storing and retrieving files, activating programs, using system utilities. Learners use image manipulation to enhance their design skills using vector-based graphics applications and composite layered image-making.
Learners use specific design terminology in relation to design principles and their application, using conceptual themes in the creation and use of shapes and volumes. Learners use academic referencing to support and communicate their research work.
Learners get to understand the importance of contextual references, to solve problems by applying knowledge and experience, to be able to initiate research and independently select media and to present a final major project and portfolio of work.
Learners draw/trace and colour optical illusions, simple sketches using grid paper, render sketches with pencils and/or felt markers as a means of enhancing sketches, to use one, two and three-point perspective to sketch room interiors adding colour, draw/trace orthographic views of simple models on grid paper, complete orthographic views from 3D sketches and trace/redraw isometric views on grid paper by interpreting 2D drawings.
Learners use image manipulation to enhance their design skills using vector-based graphics applications and composite layered image-making. The module also integrates the graphic image with page layout and designing visual documents for web and print.
The aim of the module is to enable learners to compare and contrast different historical periods and styles in art and design and understand their evolution through time. This subject area will also develop the learner’s skills in visual analysis that will be required in other modules in the programme. The objectives are to introduce learners to key historical styles and periods in European art and design from Neoclassicism (c.1790) up to early Modernism (c.1914). Time will also be dedicated to academic referencing and essay research.
Year Two
This module enables learners to apply their learning to Interior Spatial Projects. Learners will develop and design two projects, which will equip them with creative design solution skills by formulating a problem-solving approach and presentation skills to successfully represent their vision. The module content is implemented in two (2) projects.
This module advances the learners’ skills in Bitmap and Vector Graphics applications such as Adobe Illustrator. The learners are also taught how to combine work in 2D, 3D and Photoshop to illustrate designs on graphic layouts.
This module presents two-dimensional drawings using pencil and ink, architectural drawings, axonometric drawing, written script by hand and an appreciation of graphic layout that supports the correct intent of relevant documentation.
This module enables the learners to identify and evaluate the key stylistic periods of interior design from ancient to modern times and decoration periods on contemporary practice.
This module covers the role and application of ergonomics in the design of interiors and basic knowledge of the different elements of a building acting as an interrelated system.
This module enables learners to apply their learning to Interior Spatial Projects. Learners will develop and design two projects, which will equip learners with creative design solutions skills by formulating a problem-solving approach and presentation skills to successfully represent their vision. The module content is implemented in two (2) projects.
This module teaches the learner to creatively apply the architectural 2D drawing tool, AutoCAD. They will learn how to set up projects, drawings sheets and draw plans, sections, elevations and detailing.
This module addresses the requirements of the Technical Guidance Documents Part B, K and M in the design of interiors, the basic legal responsibilities of a designer of interiors and Designer Risk Assessments when completing Interior Design projects.
This module covers traditional and modern elements of building construction, provides detailed knowledge of materials and finishes used in designing Interiors, furniture and fittings and ethical, social and community implications in sustainable, responsible and inclusive design in construction.
This module provides a common core of design culture and theory taken by all learners on the design undergraduate programmes. While the learning outcomes are the same no matter which of the programmes you are following, your output from this module will reflect the media and approaches of your chosen programme. This module brings together students from all undergraduate programmes to give you the opportunity to engage in analysis of your own and others’ ideas in a challenging and creative environment. Learners will be introduced to the ways in which the contemporary design context and theory inform design practice. It will introduce them to ways in which designers engage with ideas, encourage the learner to explore your own work through critical reflection on the debates and practices of design and see the applicability of these to your own discipline. You will explore the significance of context in relation to the movements after Modernism and appraise different contributions to modern architecture and design. The module prepares learners critically and theoretically for the thesis in the final year of their honour degree.
Year Three
This module enables learners to examine and present their design ideas as a cohesive and successful interior design project using the integration of regulations, CAD and demonstrative skills. Learners will develop and design two projects, which will equip learners with creative design solutions skills by formulating a problem-solving approach and presentation skills to successfully represent their vision. The module content is implemented in two (2) projects.
This module uses Revit to construct basic 3D models in the built environment and of interiors, to produce 2D documentation and to render a proposed design.
This module presents the basic knowledge of the design, manufacturing and sourcing process in relation to furniture including concept creation, development and detailing. The learners will create drawing details for a selected piece of furniture as appropriate for costings and subsequent manufacture. The learners will also attain basic knowledge of social, community and ethical issues such as sustainable, responsible and inclusive design with regard to furniture and history of modern furniture design.
The Design Futures module has been designed with the intention of accommodating emerging methodologies, knowledge and skills, which are developing as a response to the increasing complexity of contemporary culture and design practice. In this module, we will explore how practice is informed by context and theory. This module can be taken by students from all of the design programmes. The learning outcomes are the same regardless of the discipline of design you are following, the learners' output from this module will reflect the media and approaches of your programme’s disciplines and subject areas. There will be opportunities for the learner to critically analyse, debate and address key current issues and debates associated with design as they relate to their discipline-specific practice. The module is designed to challenge and develop your ability to critically reflect upon competing concepts and contemporary debates associated with design and related creative practices, as well as their impact within local and global contexts.
This module covers the nature and role of marketing in a design business. They will learn to identify the environmental variables, segmentation, targeting and positioning, marketing mix for a creative brand, and create a marketing plan.
This module advances the learners’ ability to realise cohesive and successful interior design projects using the integration of regulations, CAD and demonstrative skills. Learners will develop and design one project, which will equip learners with creative design solutions skills by formulating a problem-solving approach and presentation skills to successfully represent their vision. The module content is implemented in one (1) project.
This module advances the learners’ skills in Revit to construct complex 3D models in the built environment and of interiors. Learners produce 2D documentation and light and render their proposed design.
This module presents traditional and modern elements of building construction considering the use of materials, services and building techniques in new and existing buildings. They will learn to apply basic requirements of the Building Regulations, best practice ergonomic and accessible design, Health and Safety and other legislation to the design of construction details. They will communicate Interior construction design detailing effectively in drawings and notation. They will be introduced to detailed knowledge of the design, construction and specification of Interiors including development and detailing.
This module presents lighting design, its history, evolution and modern applications. The learners will obtain knowledge of practical solutions to the lighting design of a given environment through the creation of drawings and schedules.
This module addresses key factors to be considered when starting a small business, entrepreneurial theories, business concept through planning a feasibility project and a lean start-up style canvas and customer analysis.
Timetables
The part-time course will run 6.30pm to 10pm two evenings per week and 2 x Saturday’s per month – 10am to 5pm.
How to Apply
Entry Requirements
There is NO portfolio requirement for this course.
Advanced Entry:
Applicants with a Level 6 qualification in a related discipline may be eligible for advanced entry onto this course. Candidates will be asked to provide relevant transcripts and a portfolio of work in support of their application. Pending the strength of the portfolio, candidates may be eligible for entry onto year 2 or year 3 of this programme.
All candidates with a Level 6 qualification, regardless of age, will need to apply directly here.
*Please note, advanced entry applications are assessed on a case by case basis and offers are made at the discretion of the faculty.
English language:
Applicants from countries where English is not the first language will also be required to provide evidence of sufficient English language abilities.
Griffith College is accepting the online Duolingo English Test (DET) as valid proof of English proficiency. Please see here for further details.
For more information on any of the above, please contact [email protected].
How to Apply
Applicants under 23 years of age:
Applicants under 23 years of age on the 1st January the year the course begins must submit a copy of their Leaving Certificate results. Candidates will need to have obtained a minimum of five subjects at grade O6/H7. These results must include a language (English or Irish) and either Maths or Art.
Candidates with equivalent grades from FETAC colleges and those holding awards including BTEC qualifications will also be considered.
Applicants under 23 years of age on 1st January the year the course begins must apply through the CAO system. Please consult the CAO website for details on key dates for applications.
Applicants over 23 years of age (Mature students):
Applicants who are 23 years of age on or before the 1st January the year the course begins are considered mature learners and will be asked to submit a copy of their ID (passport or driving license) only.
Fees
For purposes of fee calculation, residence is counted from time of application.
Tuition Fees
General Fee Information
An Academic Administration Fee of EUR250.00 and a 2% Learner Protection Charge is applicable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below. The fees below relate to Year 1 fees only.
Study Mode: Full-Time
Dublin
EUR 6,450.00
Study Mode: Part-Time
Dublin
EUR 3,750.00
Cork
EUR 3,750.00
General Fee Information
An Academic Administration Fee of EUR250.00 and a 2% Learner Protection Charge is applicable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below.
Study Mode: Full-Time
Please refer to the Irish/EU Living Abroad Fees.
General Fee Information
An Academic Administration Fee of EUR250.00 and a 2% Learner Protection Charge is applicable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below.
Non-EU students: a Student Services and Administration fee of EUR200 is payable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below.
Study Mode: Full-Time
Please refer to our Non-EU Tuition Fees section.
Direct Debit Scheme
Students wishing to pay for their fees monthly may avail of our direct debit scheme. Please view our Fees information page to review the payment plan schedule and how to apply.
Sponsorship
Is your company paying for your course?
They will need to complete a Griffith College Sponsorship Form and send this to the Student Fees Office:
- Post: Student Fees, Griffith College Dublin, South Circular Road, Dublin 8
- Email: [email protected]
2% Learner Protection Charge
All QQI accredited programmes of education and training of 3 months or longer duration are covered by arrangements under section 65 (4) of the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012 whereby, in the event of the provider ceasing to provide the programme for any reason, enrolled learners may transfer to a similar programme at another provider, or, in the event that this is not practicable, the fees most recently paid will be refunded.
QQI Award Fee
Please note that a QQI Award Fee applies in the final year of all QQI courses. To find the relevant fee for your course level, please see the Fees page.
Progression
Academic Progression
Graduates of this course have the option to continue their studies at Griffith College. We offer a number of options including:
You can contact our admissions team to discuss what progression options are available to you.
Career Progression
Through the BA in Interior Design, you will have gained valuable design experience, built a strong foundation of creativity skills, and covered a diverse range of topics. There is a wide range of career options for our graduates including:
- Interior Designer
- Interior Stylist
- House Showroom Designer
- Residential Interior Designer
- Retail Store Designer
- Film and Set Designer
- Hospitality Designer
- Exhibition Designer
- Display Designer
- Office Designer
- CAD Technician
- Design Account Manager
