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Interior Architecture stands at the intersection of architec-ture, design of the built environment and conservation. The program addresses the design issues intrinsic to the re-use and transformation of existing structures through an innovative and progressive approach. In 2006 and 2007, it was ranked the top graduate program by Design Intelligence.

The department offers a three-year program which leads to the first professional degree, the Master of Interior Architecture (MIA) for applicants with undergraduate degrees in unrelated fields. Applicants who have earned a first degree in Interior Architecture, Architecture or a related subject may be considered for the two-year advanced standing program.

The design studio is the primary focus of the program. Working alongside undergraduate students in the depart-ment, graduates are introduced to a series of pathways that provide options as they progress on to advanced design studios. The common element in all options elected is a concern for spatial issues, informed by attention to detail. The core curriculum includes the study of history, theory, drawing, structures, materials, lighting and technology. It ensures that the successful student will have a sound grasp of all matters necessary to relate to fellow profess-ionals in the building industry and allied fields. To support this, students are encouraged to participate in studios and courses shared with other departments of the college.

While drawing and making abilities are highly valued, much of the work produced in Interior Architecture makes use of sophisticated computer programs. Applications currently in use in the department include VectorWorks, Cinema-4D, form·Z and Photoshop. Interior Architecture studios are linked to the RISD network through wireless and hard-wired connections. Students have access to a large-format printer/plotter in the department’s dedicated studio area as well as a fully equipped wood shop/3D model-making facility and rapid prototype machine.

The final year of the program culminates in a degree project that investigates interior architecture through a self-selected design program and existing structure. Through the high level of synthesis, invention and analysis manifested in the successful final project, students are poised to enter a diverse professional setting where many opportunities and directions are possible.

Summer Programs As the result of a newly formed partnership with Denmark International Study (DIS) in Copenhagen, students accepted into the MIA program with advanced standing are offered the opportunity to participate in a summer program in Denmark before the first fall semester of study. Students attending the program earn nine RISD credits, enabling them to earn an MIA in two years rather than the standard three. Students admitted to the three-year MIA program are required to attend the six-week summer program at RISD prior to the start of the fall semester.