First Professional Master of Arts in Interior Design
The First Professional Master of Arts (MA) in Interior Design is suitable for master’s candidates interested in acquiring the skills to practice in the profession of Interior Design, but who do not have an undergraduate degree in the field or in a closely related design specialization.
Curriculum
The First Professional MA in Interior Design provides graduate-level studies in research methods, design process, human-centered approaches, and studio applications within interior design.
Iowa State’s First Professional Master of Arts in Interior Design program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
Recent Student Work
Microhome Project – yposkafa
ARTID 5690C
This Microhouse is inspired by the Greek islands’ Cycladic architecture and is located along the coast of the Aegean Sea on the island of Thira. This 180-square-foot home is influenced by historical construction practices known to the area and will incorporate natural materials and sources of energy.
Microhome Project – mIGLOO
ARTID 5690C
Located in Rovaniemi, Finland, this microhome is inspired by the forms and circulation of the traditional igloo dwelling. Named the mIGLOO for micro-igloo, this home emulates the spatial organization and heat circulation existent in traditional igloos. Through its arched structure and tiered spatial organization, the microhome’s intimate size is used to its advantage, and the internal warmth is maximized.
Restaurant Lighting and How it Effects Customers
ARTID 5520
Lighting and lighting systems are very important in interior design. Not only do light fixtures provide humans with the ability to see better, but they can also help create a mood and atmosphere in an environment and impact a person’s mental observations of a perceived environment. The research gathered focused on learning about the impact lighting has on young adult-to-adult customers in a restaurant and/or dining space.
Regenerative Housing – The Archway
DSNS 5460
The Archway is a center for young adults on the autism spectrum to transition to after high school. The design intends to nurture the lives of young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder in an environment that promotes individuality and connection. The space will allow residents to have a sense of security through the incorporation of natural lighting, calming colors, and curving features.
Regenerative Housing – The Bloom Community
DSNS 5460
The intent of the design is to create an environment for young adults with Autism Spectrum Discorder (ASD) that promotes interaction, growth, and happiness. The design team focused on making the living environment a comfortable space that is inviting and inclusive to all. To achieve this goal, a customized ASD-friendly app was created to assist the residents in everyday life.
Application requirements
Anyone applying for admission to the First Professional Master of Arts in Interior Design program must complete the Iowa State University Graduate College online application. As part of the application, you will be asked to provide:
- Official academic transcripts indicating a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) and a minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA
- Three letters of recommendation from individuals from your educational or professional background who can most directly speak about your ability to complete graduate-level course work and teaching duties
- You will be asked within the application to provide the names and email addresses for your three references; when you submit the application, the three individuals will receive an email notification from ISU Admissions with a link to the recommendation form
- A statement of academic and personal interest including your career goals and reasons for applying for the program (500-word maximum)
- Digital portfolio (PDF or website), including examples of your creative work
- A resume or CV
- English Proficiency Exam (international applicants only)
- Financial statement (international applicants only)
Consideration date
Please submit your application by February 1 for priority admission consideration and for graduate assistantship consideration. Spring entry is not available.
Additional resources

A Designer in the Making
Find your place at Iowa State University’s College of Design, where we like to ask questions, poke and prod, create something new, and make a difference through design.