Interior Design: Frequently Asked Questions
Is a portfolio required for admission?
No, many high schools do not teach art classes and our Foundation Design Studios (ARCH 1015, 1016) provide the art experience needed to be a successful designer. Admissions are primarily based on grades and a student’s SAT or ACT score.
I am in high school, what classes should I take to best prepare for majoring in Interior Design?
Advanced placement courses in math, science, and English are the best preparatory courses. These classes show dedication to one’s learning and are the best preparation for taking the SAT exam. Art and architectural classes are a nice bonus but not essential.
What is the foreign language requirement for Interior Design?
Students who do not complete 2 units of a foreign language in high school must earn 6 credits of a college foreign language, these credits are in addition to those normally required for graduation.
If you are a high school student trying to decide on a foreign language, we strongly recommend Spanish. Interior Designers work closely with people in the construction industry, and increasingly, construction workers speak Spanish as a first language. Italian is also a good choice. Many of our study abroad opportunities travel through Italy due to the rich tradition of design excellence in Italy.
I am a student currently enrolled at Virginia Tech and I would like to transfer into the interior design program. What is the process for acceptance?
We refer to currently enrolled Virginia Tech students wishing to change their major and transfer into Interior Design as “internal transfers”. Applications are required and available in the School of Architecture + Design office at the beginning of the spring semester. You may pick up an application in 121 Burruss Hall or access an application online. Please review the internal transfer process for further information. (Internal Transfer Process)
If I am accepted in to Interior Design through the internal transfer process what happens next?
Students enrolled at Virginia Tech who are accepted through the internal transfer process are all required to take the Summer Qualifying Design Lab during the following first and second summer session.
I am not a student at Virginia Tech and would like to transfer into the program. I have a previous undergraduate degree, or I am a student at another University or Community College. What do I need to do?
You would be classified as an “external transfer student”. You need to apply for admission through the Virginia Tech Undergraduate Admissions Office. Students admitted through the external transfer process will be required to take the Summer Qualifying Design Lab during the first and second summer sessions prior to entering the fall semester of the academic year in which application has been made. Placement during the fall semester will be determined upon completion of the second summer session.
Online Application for External Transfer Students
What is the computer requirement for interior design students?
Please see our web page on the computer requirement.
Last updated September 2005