Course Descriptions

The following courses are offered in the Interior Design program. Note: All course descriptions apply to both online and in-class delivery for the degree program. Courses up to term six apply to both degree and diploma (Interior Decorating) programs.

Please note: Course descriptions and codes may change slightly and are updated periodically.

TERM 1

• DIDS1003 Introduction to Interior Design Theory

  This course introduces the fundamental concepts and terminology of design, the analysis of space, form, and order, and relates them to the study and practice of interior design theory. Emphasis is on analysis and criticism through the study of fundamental design principles, and acquainting students with the design process and critical interior design theories related to the interaction of people and interior architectural space.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: none

• DIDS1004 Fundamentals of Space Planning

  This course introduces students to human factors and the composition of individual spaces within a variety of contexts. Programming methodology is introduced as an analytical approach to problem solving. Emphasis is on space planning skills as vehicles for the development of conceptual approaches to design. Students learn about furniture placement and ergonomics, and develop different approaches to spatial organization.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDT1301

• DIDV130 Digital Drawing & Colour Theory

  This course introduces basic computer applications for digital drawing and colour theory. Students will develop essential skills in the use of digital software applications while incorporating colour theory as it applies to design composition, human perception and environmental psychology.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: none

• DIDT1301 Introduction to Drafting

  In this course, the student will develop basic skills in architectural drafting and use of equipment, as well as terminology. The student will also develop drawing and sketching skills to allow them to illustrate ideas using architectural/design style graphic methods.

  3.0 Quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: none

• ENGL101 or ENGL102 Research & Composition

  This course builds on the conventions and techniques of composition through critical reading and writing related to the student’s program of study. Students apply principles of logic, strategic thinking, and synthesis to prepare sound arguments supported by relevant, well-documented research. The culminating activity is a persuasive and analytical paper referencing contemporary issues in technology where individual style and unique thinking are demonstrated.

  3.0 Quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: none

TERM 2

• DIDS105 Design Studio 1: Residential

  In this course, the student will develop an understanding of the concepts of space utilization and organization as well as the specific criteria of individual spatial problems. Students develop a conceptual approach to a small-scale residential space. Emphasis is on the integration of human behavioral theory within 3 dimensional spatial contexts and space planning.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS1004, Co-requisite: DIDV124

• DIDE140 Materials & Sustainability 1: Textiles

  This course creates an awareness of the implications of material use in a global context by exposing students to the characteristics, application and maintenance of interior materials and textiles through life-cycle analysis. Emphasis is on determining the criteria for evaluating material and textile usage based upon their inherent qualities, construction and manufacturing from a variety of perspectives.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: none

• DIDV124 Visual Communications 1

  In this course, the student is introduced to interior perspective drawing and basic rendering techniques using a variety of media. Emphasis is on the construction of perspective drawings, and the integration of color rendering to 2 dimensional plans and elevations and basic perspectives to illustrate materiality and spatial character. Students also learn fundamental presentation board layout and composition.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDV123, Co-requisite: none

• DIDT131 Drafting Standards

  In this course, the student will develop skills in preparing manually drafted working drawings and details. Emphasis is on the progression of skills learned previously and enhanced understanding of the graphic standards that comprise a set of construction drawings.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDT1301, Co-requisite: none

• GE160 History of Art 1

  In this course, the student will explore art history from early civilizations through the 15th century. The student will trace the development of civilizations through architecture, sculpture, painting, textiles and the decorative arts, with an understanding of critical analysis of the issues that influence art and architecture.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: none

TERM 3

• DIDS102 Design Studio 2: Workspace

  In this course, the student will work within the specific program requirement of a corporate office client to create an efficient, functional and comfortable work place. Emphasis is on programming and planning methodology for commercial spaces, using systems furniture and workplace ergonomics, and consideration of architectural limitations that apply to the design solution. Students will work in teams to conduct research and to assimilate information and data.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisites: DIDS105, DIDE253, DIDV125, Co-requisite: none

• DIDE253 Building Systems 1: Power/HVAC

  This course emphasizes the function of environmental support systems as they relate to interior design practice and life safety support systems. Students learn to apply the underlying technical requirements for building systems (mechanical, electrical, and fire detection/suppression) and how they impact interior design decisions and construction drawings. Students also obtain an introduction to fundamental lighting criteria and considerations.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDT1311, Co-requisite: none

• DIDV125 Visual Communications 2

  In this course, the student will expand and refine their skills in perspective drawing and rendering techniques. Emphasis is on the progression of sketching skills, architectural diagramming, and the detailed construction of perspective drawings with an emphasis on complex three dimensional spaces. Students integrate illustrative techniques to represent scale, proportion, and advanced light modeling to portray the qualities of the built environment. The course builds upon previous knowledge in presentation composition to support design studio projects.

  3.0 quarter credits, Pre-requisites: DIDV124, Co-Requisites: none

• DIDT137 CADD 1

  This course provides the student with an introduction to the principles and uses of computer-assisted drafting and design (CADD). The course will focus on introductory to intermediate level commands and techniques using the current industry-standard version of AutoCAD. Emphasis is on the transfer of drafting knowledge from previous courses into CADD based skills through a series of in-class problem solving drawing exercises and through the production of architectural drawings.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDT131, Co-Requisites: none

  GE161 History of Art 2

  In this course, the student will explore the history of art from the 16th Century through the 18th Century, tracing the development of culture through architecture, sculpture, painting, textiles, interiors, and the decorative arts. Emphasis is on critical analysis of the work studied and the ability to relate art and architecture to the socioeconomic, cultural and political factors of the time.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: GE160, Co-Requisite: none

TERM 4

• DIDS200 Design Studio 3: Retail

  In this course, the student will acquire knowledge of retail design considerations and apply these principles to a commercial project focusing on the display and merchandising of products in a global marketplace. Emphasis is on programming skills, space planning and circulation strategies, and the creation of an interior environment that successfully focuses on the display and merchandising of product within established code and architectural limitations.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS106, DIDV225, DIDE244, Co-requisite: none

• DIDV222 Visual Communications 3

  This course builds on the drawing and rendering techniques developed previously through an investigation of advanced techniques, mixed media, and graphics software. Emphasis is on the use of appropriate media to support project type and illustrative intent. Students will refine their presentation skills though the use of advanced mixed media approaches to effectively convey design concept integration throughout project design and supporting presentation media.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDV125, Co-requisite: DIDS200

• DIDE244 Building Systems 2: Lighting

  In this course, students expand their knowledge of the principles and applications of lighting design and apply them to specific, specialized environmental situations. Emphasis is placed on creative lighting concepts, light level calculations, and the incorporation of custom lighting solutions and source design. Students also refine their skills in the development of architectural drawings related to lighting design.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDE253, Co-requisite: none

• DIDT237 CADD 2

  In this course, the student will continue to explore and utilize computer aided drawing and design technology. This course focuses on intermediate to advanced level commands, techniques, and protocols as well as productivity enhancing features with an emphasis on professional level utilization for 2 dimensional presentation and construction drawing types.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDT137, Co-requisite: none

  GE260 History of Art 3

  In this course, the student will explore the history of 19th and 20th Century art with an emphasis on the development of western culture through the study of architecture, sculpture, painting, textiles, interiors, and the decorative arts. Emphasis is on critical analysis of the work studied and the ability to relate art and architecture to the socioeconomic, cultural and political factors of the time.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: GE161, Co-requisite: none

TERM 5

• DIDS205 Design Studio 4: Advanced Residential

  In this course, the student will continue to develop their conceptual abilities and apply this process to a large-scale residential project. The student will develop an approach free of existing architectural context, in an effort to further strengthen their conceptual direction. The student will analyze spatial needs in terms of behaviour, life style and function and develop a design that integrates those needs with a focus on personal and social issues and theoretical constructs related to diverse concepts of home and living spaces.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS200, DIDV223, DIDE245, Co-requisite: none

• DIDE245 Building Systems 3: Structures

  This course provides the student with an understanding of basic structural theory and the major structural systems for buildings and an overview of building components with a focus on structural impact for interior design practice. Emphasis is on the application of knowledge through drawings and modeling as they relate to the concurrent design studio project.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDE244, Co-requisite: none

• DIDE250 Materials & Sustainability 2: Methods and Application

  In this course, students further their study of the implications of material use in a global environmental context. Emphasis is on comprehensive understanding of sustainable design philosophies, concepts, and approaches. Focus is on passive sustainable approaches to be applied in studio coursework, with an introduction to sustainable design and building rating systems.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite DIDE140; Co-requisite: none

• DIDV223 Visual Communications 4

  In this course, the student will focus on the refinement of advanced communication methodology using a variety of media and mediums that allows for a comprehensive integration of graphic communication theory and skills. Emphasis is on the application of graphic and visual theory into practice.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDV222, Co-requisite: none

• DIDH211 History of Furniture

  In this course, the student will focus on the study of furniture design and styles within the context of critical analysis and historic influence. Emphasis is on the knowledge of historic precedents to better understand furniture design, construction, production, and manufacturing.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: GE260, Co-requisite: none

TERM 6

• DIDS202 Design Studio 5: Adaptive Reuse

  In this course, the student will analyze, research, conceptualize and develop a design solution for the adaptive reuse of a multi-level historic building. Emphasis is on increasingly complex programming, planning and design development for mixed use occupancies within the confines of historic architectural limitations and considerations.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS205, DIDE4401, DIDV3200, Co-requisite: none

• DIDE4401 Codes & Regulations 1

  In this course, the student will study current building codes, regulations and standards as they relate to the practice of interior design. Emphasis is on understanding the intent and interpretation of code regulations and applying basic knowledge to interior projects.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: DIDS106

• DIDT235 Construction Drawings

  In this course, the student will develop knowledge and skills in the areas of architectural construction drawings and details. Analytical skills and processes provide a foundation for the application of knowledge from previous courses to technical architectural drawings using industry standards and tools. Emphasis is placed on the selection, specification and illustration of appropriate materials, assemblies and components for a set of construction drawings and within budgetary considerations.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDT237, Co-requisite: none

• DIDV3200 Digital Media

  In this course, the student will expand their presentation skills using digital software applications and apply those skills to the refinement of their work for portfolio purposes. Emphasis is on advanced image manipulation and refinement for page layout and presentation of their work to best represent their individual abilities and vision as designers.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDV223, DIDV130, Co-requisite: none

• DIDP250 Professional Practice

  In this course, the student is introduced to the scope and complexity of professional interior design practice in a global marketplace. Emphasis is on the development of project administration documents; business planning strategies; and marketing approaches within the context of legal and ethical obligations to the public. Students will also investigate and develop individual promotional materials for entry-level employment.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS200, Co-requisite: none

TERM 7

• DIDS300 Design Studio 6: Moving Spaces

  In this course, the student examines mobile, deployable and compact spaces with a focus on design solutions for highly specialized conditions. Emphasis is on the research, programmatic, and conceptual development of spaces that serve contemporary social issues for emergency shelter. Students apply integrated design team strategies for innovative and sustainable design solutions.

  3.0 quarter credits; Pre-requisite: DIDS205 Co-requisites: none

• DIDV321 CADD 3: 3D AutoCAD

  In this course, the student investigates wire-frame and solid modeling operations and operations to construct 3-dimesional architectural drawings using AutoCAD software. Emphasis is on creating 3-dimensional buildings and spaces using coordinate systems, commands and protocols to create realistic perspective drawings and model assemblies. Students also investigate AutoCAD rendering capabilities and apply them to AutoCAD based models.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDT230, Co-requisite: none

• DIDH310 Canadian Architecture & Design

  In this course, the student explores examples of vernacular architecture and notable practices to inform their understanding of historic and contemporary precedents in the provinces. Emphasis is on the investigation of precedents through research, observation and case study analysis to focus on the relevance of Canadian contributions to the study and practice of architecture and design and society as a whole.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisites: none

• DIDE345 Materials & Sustainability 3: Advanced Strategies and Systems

  In this course, students further their study of sustainable design based on foundational premises in previous courses. Emphasis is on the integration of advanced critical thinking approaches to environmentally responsible processes and systems through the study of active design strategies and systems thinking with the integration of rating systems for high performance buildings.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDE250, Co-requisite: none

Term 8

• DIDS302 Design Studio 7: Hospitality

  In this course, the student applies advanced design methodology using collaborative approaches to a hospitality project. Emphasis is on the integration of evidence-based design research and design criteria governing the planning, spatial articulation, and materials use for the renovation of an existing boutique hotel. Design development is informed by a comprehensive design concept and presentation media that illustrates advanced processes, and architectural definition within the context of the Triple Bottom Line.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS300, Co-requisite: none

• DIDH312 Global Architecture and Design

  In this course, students investigate global architecture and design with a focus on understanding the interrelationships between the built environment and underlying social, cultural, economic, political, technical and environmental issues. Emphasis is on the investigation and understating of architecture and design as a reflection of the values and events that form a society, and the role that design has to influence change.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: none

• DIDV3221 CADD 4: Computer Rendering

  In this course, the student will learn to use a variety of professional level computer rendering software programs to enhance their ability to produce realistic illustrations of 3 dimensional models. Emphasis is on the production of detailed drawings that accurately represent materiality and spatial quality through realistic lighting and environmental influences. Students also learn to use computer modeling and rendering as a tool to investigate and evaluate design solutions as part of the design process.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite DIDV321, Co-requisite: DIDS302

• DIDE344 Applied Lighting

  In this course, the student will apply previously learned lighting design principles to a variety of specific and specialized lighting situations. Emphasis is on the integration of creative lighting solutions with technical criteria related to user needs, source specification and layout, and building systems coordination. Students develop advanced drawings, details, and specifications to illustrate lighting intent, installation and construction coordination with related disciplines.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDE244, Co-requisite: DIDS302

  General Education Studies

  3.0 quarter credits

TERM 9

• DIDS303 Design Studio 8: Collaborative

  In this course, the student participates in an interdisciplinary collaborative project as approved by the department chair. Emphasis is placed on the creative aspect of the chosen project, the ability of the team to provide a cohesive rationale for the project’s exploration and desired outcome, and a program for their research that culminates in the final project results.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS300, DIDV3221, DIDE344, Co-requisite: none

• DIDH311 Research Methodology

  This course addresses the role of quantitative and qualitative research design methods in interior design identifying the relationship between research and practice in the profession. Emphasis is on the investigation of research methodologies with a focus on critical analysis of research data, and the examination of gaps in the current body of knowledge for interior design.  

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS300, Co-requisite: none

• DIDV3222 Revit

  In this course, the student is introduced to the principles and uses of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software as utilized in the profession. Emphasis is on the use of modeling commands and protocols resulting in professional level deliverables including presentation drawings and construction documents.

  3.0 quarter credit: Pre-requisite DIDV3221, Co-requisite: none

• DIDE342 Restoration

  In this course, the student is exposed to the methods and strategies of historic restoration as they relate to interior and exterior architecture. Emphasis is on developing an awareness and understanding of the impact that the preservation of historic structures has within social, economic, and sustainability contexts.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: none

TERM 10

• DIDS400 Senior Thesis 1: Programming

  In this first of the thesis course series, the student begins the research phase of their thesis project. Emphasis is on the analysis of information using research strategies based in the social sciences and design methodology as applied to a topic and project of personal and professional relevance. The resulting research and programming documentation informs the conceptual and design development of the project in subsequent courses.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS302 & DIDE345, Co-requisite: DIDE4402

• DIDH420 Philosophy of Design

  In this course, the student will be exposed to a variety of theoretical and philosophical constructs related to the study of architecture and design. Emphasis is on building an awareness and understanding of the relevance of design, and social theories within the context of the built environment.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: none

• DIDE4402 Codes and Regulations 2

  In this course, the student will continue the study and application of current building codes, regulations and standards as they relate to the practice of interior design. Emphasis is on the advanced analysis, application and documentation of regulatory information to interior design projects.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDE4401, Co-requisite: DIDS400

• DIDP450 Internship 1

  In this course, the student engages in experiential learning opportunities in a professional environment. Students spend one day per week in a monitored professional environment to gain the necessary experience to transition from student to professional. Emphasis is on diversified learning experiences and exposure to a variety of career options and individual pathways to careers available. The student will also gain alternate points of view in their approach to their thesis program.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDH311, Co-requisite none

  General Education Studies

  3.0 quarter credits

TERM 11

• DIDS401 Senior Thesis 2: Concept & Design

  In this second of the thesis course series, the student builds on the foundation and successful completion of Senior Thesis 1: Programming. The student will develop advanced conceptual frameworks to inform the direction of the design and presentation of their thesis project. Emphasis is on the development of a comprehensive design concept that is integrated theoretically and spatially through the development of schematic diagrams and sketches and refined using industry standard architectural and design drawings.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS400, Co-requisite: DIDT430

• DIDT430 Advanced Specifications

  In this course, the student develops advanced knowledge and skill in the writing of specifications for an interior design project. Emphasis is on understanding the issues involved in specifying, identifying appropriate documentation formats, and practical application of that knowledge in their thesis project.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: DIDS401

• DIDP451 Project Coordination

  In this course, the student is introduced to project administration and coordination. Emphasis is on the understanding of processes related to project administration within the context of the interior design profession. Students investigate project scheduling, administration and coordination through analysis of purpose, applications, benefits and the role played by the interior designer.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS303, Co-requisite: none

• DIDP452 Internship 2

  In this experiential course, the student builds upon the experiences acquired in previous intern contacts to further enhance their transition from student to professional. . Emphasis is on diversified learning experiences and exposure to a variety of career options and individual pathways to careers available. The student will also gain alternate points of view in their approach to their thesis design.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDP450; Co-requisite: none

TERM 12

• DIDS402 Senior Thesis 3: Completion

  In this final of the thesis course series, the student develops the final presentation and construction documentation of their thesis project. Emphasis is on the documentation of the project as a whole using a planned methodology to illustrate all phases of the design process. The final project represents the student’s highest achievement demonstrating the assimilation of knowledge and skill as a pre-professional designer.

  3.0 quarter credits; Pre-requisite: DIDS401, Co-requisite: DIDS431, DIDT432

• DIDT431 Advanced Estimating and Budgeting

  In this course, the student investigates the issues and process involved in the preparation of a cost estimate budget for an interior design project. Emphasis is on development of a comprehensive cost estimate package relating to the focus of their thesis design project.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite DIDS402

• DIDT432 Documentation

  In this course, the student examines commercial building construction and detailing with a focus on integration of building systems with interior construction. Emphasis is on the completion of details, interior construction, and finish drawings for their thesis design project.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDS401, Co-requisite: DIDS402

• DIDP453 Marketing Professional Services

  In this course, the student investigates the marketing process as a means to understanding how to best present themselves as a design professional. Emphasis is on the refinement of a comprehensive pre-professional portfolio that illustrates their knowledge, skill, and individual vision as a precursor to degree completion.

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: DIDP250, Co-requisite: none

  GES450 Design & Society

  Design thinking is a creative problem solving method used in a wide variety of disciplines. This course gives students a broad conceptual understanding of the theories and philosophies that form the foundation of the design thinking process, building towards a practical application of the methods.

   

  3.0 quarter credits: Pre-requisite: none, Co-requisite: none

   

  This program is offered under the written consent of the Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities for the period from 11/03/2011 to 11/03/2016. Prospective students are responsible for satisfying themselves that the program and the degree will be appropriate to their needs (e.g., acceptable to potential employers, professional licensing bodies or other educational institutions.)