FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions—Interior Design Major

How do I find out more about the Interior Design program at Texas Tech University?   

The best way to decide if Texas Tech's interior design program is a good fit for you is by visiting in-person. We recommend you visit us sometime during your junior year, or early in your senior year, of high school.  You can schedule an on campus visit by visiting this website or request information by completing this form.

Are there admission requirements? 

For admission to the interior design program, first year students must meet assured admission requirements, and transfer students must have at least a 2.7 GPA. Additional questions related to admissions can be directed to the College of Human Sciences Advising Office (hs.advising@ttu.edu).

What kind of scholarships are available to me? 

We encourage you to take advantage of applying for scholarships. For additional information, be sure to check out the TTU Scholarships Page, the COHS Scholarship Page, and the Department of Design Scholarship Page.

Is there a portfolio review process? 

Yes, there are two portfolio reviews throughout the program. The first portfolio review occurs after the first year. Students submit a portfolio with representative work from specific studio courses (ID 1385 and ID 2381).  A consensus of opinion by the faculty and a cumulative GPA of 2.5 from all interior design courses is required for the student prior to being admitted to ID 2487 and ID 3381. The second portfolio review occurs prior to the start of the senior year. Students are required to present a portfolio to be reviewed by a jury of design professionals. This experience provides the student with practice in critically evaluating, organizing, and presenting work.

How long is the program?  Can I graduate in less than 4 years? 

The program is designed to be completed in eight sequenced semesters. All interior design courses must be taken in sequence as indicated by the prerequisites and semester in which they are offered. Therefore, the program takes a full four years to complete. The only exception to this would be if a student received transfer credit from another institution. 

Can my interior design courses from another institution count for credit in the TTU interior design program?

Possibly. You will need to submit your previous studio work for evaluation against the content and skills that are taught in the TTU ID studios. You will be required to submit a portfolio including course syllabi, project statements, and work you've done in the courses you're hoping to substitute for required interior design courses. What we need to understand is what you have and have not learned so far. There is no automatic equivalency. For more information about transfer credit, please contact hs.advising@ttu.edu. 

How much does it cost to provide supplies and equipment for the studio courses? 

The faculty have worked with a local office supply company to package and economically price the basic supplies and drawing tools that are required to complete studio assignments. Students will be required to purchase two art kits (one for ID 1385 and one for ID 2381). These supplies will be utilized all four years of the curriculum and beyond. 
 
Other project expenses students should be aware of include frequent printing costs, presentation boards, materials for model construction, etc. These will vary depending on your choices, project assignments, and changes in the curriculum from year to year.

What kind of computer should I buy? 

We update our computer requirements each summer. However, we strongly recommend that you wait until the beginning of your second year before purchasing your laptop computer. Buying a computer at the beginning of your second year gives it a better chance of continuing to meet your needs through your fourth year in the program. 
 
You will not need any advanced computer software (AutoCAD, Revit, etc.) until your second year of study in our program. During your first year in the interior design program, you should be able to use a low-cost or older laptop. You can use the computers available in various locations on campus, with a portable external hard drive or a few USB thumb drives to manage your files. 
 
Please note that, according to the computer requirements, software programs that will be required for use in all upper-division courses are only available for Microsoft Windows, therefore computers with Microsoft Windows are preferred. However, if you choose to purchase an Apple Macintosh Computer, be aware that Windows will have to be installed on the laptop. Students are responsible for obtaining, installing, and maintaining operating systems on their computers.

Can you tell me more about the accelerated master's program? 

The Accelerated Bachelor to Master of Science Degree in Environmental Design degree program gives capable interior design students the opportunity to complete both a bachelor's and master's degree in five years.

Qualifying students complete the graduate application process during their junior year when 90 credit hours have been completed with a 3.0 GPA (4-point scale) or higher. If accepted, students begin graduate work during their senior year of the program to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees. 

Are there opportunities to study abroad and travel while in the interior design program? 

Yes, we try and offer regular opportunities for our students to travel both internationally and domestically. We have offered international study-abroad opportunities in Italy and England. In addition to these faculty-led opportunities, students can explore study abroad opportunities through the TTU Study Abroad offerings. Students will often complete electives or required courses abroad.

Additionally, we offer domestic travel opportunities. Past trips have included travel to Santa Fe, Dallas, New York, San Francisco, Boston, and Chicago. These will vary based on course requirements and changes in the curriculum from year to year.  

Will I complete an internship while I am in the program? 

Our interior design program provides excellent internship opportunities with top-notch firms throughout the country. Between your junior and senior years of college, you will get 150 hours of summer internship experience working in the interior design industry.