Master of Arts in Interior Design
The Master of Arts (MA) in Interior Design degree provides a broad understanding of current interior design issues and design research, preparing graduates for special analytical aspects of design practice.
Curriculum
The MA in Interior Design degree is a research-focused program that requires a minimum of 34 graduate credits including coursework in research methods, advanced topics in interior design, human-centered design, and studio. Candidates focus on research in an area of specialization, culminating in a written thesis of research results.
Iowa State’s Bachelor of Master of Arts in Interior Design program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
Recent Student Work
Waiting area in Healthcare Facilities
ARTID 552
Waiting has been a critical topic in healthcare research and design since it is a frequent occurrence among people seeking healthcare. Through research and findings, results found that all design strategies could be related to humanistic sensory design. All the positive visual distractions, green elements, art, music, and technology in the general waiting area improve patient satisfaction.
Hotel Restaurant
ARTID 668
Application requirements
Anyone applying for admission to the 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
The priority application submission date is February 1.
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.