Interior Design Courses

The Starting Your Program course is designed to help you make a smooth transition to Penn Foster, including learning how to use all the tools and resources that are available to you. The goal is to help you become a confident, independent learner.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Further express your goals and expectations
• Navigate the Penn Foster learning environment, including your Student Portal
• Describe what it takes to be a successful online learner
• Identify your preferred study aids and learning styles
• Determine personal financial goals
• Practice some important study and time management skills
• Access and use helpful resources, such as the Penn Foster Virtual Library, and various help features

(1 CREDIT)

Information literacy is a fundamental skill of writing and recording research. In this course, you’ll learn what it means to formulate correct and effective research questions. You’ll also learn how to go about conducting and refining that research for any given project.  

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Identify how to formulate focused and specific research questions and the need for information
• Explain the different types of research tools, how they’re used to conduct different searches, and how to evaluate the quality and usefulness of the information found
• Explain how to cite sources properly using various citation styles in consideration of academic integrity,
  plagiarism, and ethical use of resources

(3 CREDITS)

Microsoft® Office allows people to create documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and databases. This course will teach you how to use three popular tools from the Microsoft® Office Suite — Word™, Excel®, and PowerPoint®. In this course, you'll learn how to use Word™ to create and edit text documents, insert figures and tables, and format pages for a variety of uses. You'll then learn how to use Excel® to organize and format data, including charts, formulas, and more complex tables. Next, you'll learn how to use PowerPoint® to create and deliver slide shows. Finally, you'll complete a graded project, which will test the skills acquired in Word™, Excel®, and PowerPoint®.

By the end of this course, you'll be able to:

• Create various Microsoft® Word™ documents.
• Produce a thorough Microsoft® Excel® spreadsheet.
• Identify the basic skills needed to use Microsoft® PowerPoint®.
• Synthesize what you’ve learned by integrating Word™, Excel®, and PowerPoint®.

(3 CREDITS)

In this course, you’ll learn about the relationships among colors and how you can use these relationships to your advantage. You’ll develop knowledge of the different factors you should think about before starting your next project or design, along with an understanding of how you can use color to communicate to your viewers.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Categorize the different components and principles in the color studies
• Point out the elements of color interaction, application of color principles, and color harmony
• Analyze the various components of color research, experience, and computer application in the color studies

(3 CREDITS)

This introductory course provides a chronological examination of interior design. Focus is on architectural details, furnishings, and decorative objects.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Discuss the archeological evidence of patterns and design in prehistoric living spaces
• Identify the architectural design structures of classical Greece and Rome, including arches, vaults, and domes
• Provide an overview of the features of early Christian, Byzantine, and Romanesque design
• Discuss the architectural and interior design features of the churches, fortresses, castles, monasteries, and abbeys of the Dark Ages
• Explain how Islamic and Asian traditions influenced interior design
• Discuss the elements of Gothic style, including construction techniques of cathedrals, churches, and secular buildings
• Outline the major elements of Renaissance style, including elements of the Humanism and Mannerism movements
• Identify furniture styles and other interior features of the Baroque and Rococo periods
• Provide the features of Colonial, American Georgian, and Federal design styles
• Identify the major elements of Victorian style in both Britain and the United States
• Compare the Arts and Crafts movement in Britain with the Craftsman style in the United States
• Characterize the Art Nouveau and Eclecticism movements
• Identify pioneers of the Modernism, Art Deco, and Industrial Design movements
• Discuss the features of contemporary design trends, including postmodernism, deconstructivism, and
  sustainable/green design

(3 CREDITS)

In this course, you’ll learn the basic vocabulary and principles behind this timeless form of communication. As is the case with every course in this program, the goal is to prepare you to work in the interior design field as an assistant. You’ll need to work alongside a licensed interior designer as an assistant before becoming eligible for licensure with the title interior designer. Mastering the information in this course is a key step in enabling you to be a strong candidate for the position of design assistant.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Describe the principles and benefits of the art of sketching
• Understand and demonstrate the use of line, light, and texture
• Incorporate conceptual/bubble diagrams into a design
• Use the concept of perspective drawing
• Use the concept of one- and two-point eyeball perspective in design
• Enhance your drawings using the overlay method
• Incorporate elements of entourage into drawings
• Create a client-ready presentation board

(3 CREDITS)

In this course, the student will gain an understanding of artistic media, historical periods and artistic movements, the roles of the artist and the viewer, and the principles of art criticism.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Define the language, visual elements, and principles of design of art
• Identify two-dimensional media
• Identify three-dimensional media
• Explain the evolution of art from ancient Mediterranean cultures through eighteenth-century Europe
• Identify features and popular examples of art throughout the history of African, Asian, Pacific, and American cultures
• Compare the genres of the modern and postmodern eras of art from around the world

(3 CREDITS)

This course teaches the skills and techniques of effectively developing, drafting, and revising college-level essays toward a specific purpose and audience: active reading, prewriting strategies, sentence and paragraph structure, thesis statements, varied patterns of development (e.g., illustration, comparison and contrast, classification), critical reading toward revision of structure and organization, editing for standard written conventions, and use and documentation of outside sources. You’ll submit two prewriting assignments and three essays (process analysis, classification and division, argumentation).

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Use writing skills to construct well-written sentences and active reading skills to understand and analyze text
• Develop paragraphs using topic sentences, adequate detail, supporting evidence, and transitions
• Describe the revision, editing, and proofreading steps of the writing process
• Distinguish between different patterns of development
• Use prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing to write a formal, college-level essay
• Recognize how to determine the reliability of secondary sources and to give proper credit to sources referenced in an essay
• Use prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing to write a formal, college-level essay
• Use techniques of drafting, evaluating, and creating a sound written argument

(3 CREDITS)

This course covers the basics of the profession for both commercial and residential environments. Topics covered include space planning, environmental sensitivity, and multicultural design.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Discuss the history of interior design and the fundamental principles of the design process
• Explain the basic space-planning process for both residential and commercial interiors
• Identify major building systems and codes that affect the design process
• Explain how to choose furniture, fabrics, and background elements for interior spaces
• Provide examples of environmentally friendly materials
• Identify professional organizations within the interior design field, as well as the typical career trajectory for
  beginning designers

(3 CREDITS)

As you work through this course, you may be amazed at the different ways textiles apply to your life. Textiles are much more than just upholstery fabric and silky drapery. In fact, your textbook is packed with information related to textiles.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Describe textiles and their various uses and applications
• Explain how yarn is processed and classified
• Identify the legal, sustainability, and environmental issues related to textile production

(3 CREDITS)

In this course, you’ll work your way through the designs and uses of furniture from ancient times through today. As is the case with every course in this program, the goal is to prepare you to work in the interior design field as an assistant. You’ll need to work alongside a licensed interior designer as an assistant before becoming eligible for licensure with the title of interior designer. Mastering the information in this course is a key step in preparing you to be a strong candidate for the position of design assistant. Additionally, this course will aid in preparation for the exams required by your state to acquire licensure as an interior designer.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Discuss the development of furniture styles throughout history
• Identify furniture styles from the ancient world and the Middle Ages, including classical Greece and Rome
• Identify furniture styles from the modern world, including the Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical, and Victorian periods
• Compare and contrast furniture construction techniques from the ancient and modern worlds
• Explain the impact political and cultural events had on furniture and architectural development
• Discuss how historical furniture styles related to interior room settings
• Discuss the technological advancements that impacted furniture design and construction

Earth Science

(3 CREDITS)

This course covers a number of topics which are concentrated in four main categories: geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. Geology is the study of Earth, its minerals and rocks, and the many varied processes that formed our planet and continue to reform it today. Oceanography is the study of Earth’s oceans. Meteorology is the study of Earth’s atmosphere and astronomy is the study of Earth’s place in space and all things related. These four elements combined make up the Earth and are essential in understanding how the world works and how it’s evolving.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Categorize the matter, minerals, and materials that compose the Earth
• Distinguish between the various theories about the forces behind the Earth’s history
• Differentiate between the elements and their ways of sculpting the landscape
• Point out the geological features of oceans and the important concepts of geology
• Categorize the causes and effects of various phenomena affecting Earth’s atmosphere
• Analyze the components of the solar system and the universe
• Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamentals of earth science by completing an open-book proctored exam

Introduction to Biology

(3 CREDITS)

Few subjects can teach you as much about the world around you as biology. During this introductory course, you’ll gain insight into the origin of life, the relationships among all living organisms and the environment, and even how your own body works. You’ll learn how a significant number of organisms are structured and how they work to enable you to discuss intelligently the various forms of life and their processes.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Analyze cells and their processes for obtaining energy and reproducing
• Explain how traits are passed on from one generation to the next
• Explain how different species of living things have evolved and are classified
• Write responses to fundamental biology essay prompts
• Identify the characteristics and behavior of plants and animals
• Diagram the anatomy and physiology of the human body
• Describe the ecology of living things

Nutrition

(3 CREDITS)

Nutrition is the science that investigates how the body takes in, breaks down, and uses foods. The course will provide you with basic information on how these processes take place, including information about nutrients and how they contribute to the way the body functions. This will help you to have a better understanding of your decisions about food and diet. You’ll also learn about physical activities that can contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Because a central focus of nutrition studies is on health promotion, suggestions for individual nutrition choice will be discussed, as well as tactics for maintaining a healthy weight and keeping food supplies safe. 

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Describe how nutrition supports a body's wellness
• Recognize the body's use of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins 
• Identify the body's use of water, minerals, and micronutrients
• Discuss what nutritional needs are for a healthy weight and for an athletic lifestyle 
• Define food safety and the nutritional needs of humans over a lifetime
• Prepare a research paper on a nutritional topic 

(3 CREDITS)

CAD for Interiors uses a step-by-step approach to teach beginning interior designers how to create professional floor plans for their design projects. Students will learn how to draw a base plan; add text, dimensions, and layers; and create interior sections and elevations.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Utilize the AutoCAD user interface to format and customize designs
• Apply the commands to layout drawing for print and get organized
• Choose the appropriate command to create schedules, curves, rendering, and annotations

(3 CREDITS)

In this course, you’ll develop a core understanding of the various systems within a home or building. Having this foundation of knowledge will allow you to do the following:

• Work as part of a design team with architects and engineers
• Understand the conversations and decisions made on a job site with subcontractors
• Be an effective designer for your clients

There’s currently a huge emphasis on eco-friendly design solutions. It’s not satisfactory or acceptable to simply erect a building and call it a day. Serious thought must be given to how that building will affect the environment in both the short and long term, as well as how it will impact human health and safety. This course will help you recognize what you, as an interior designer, should consider and do so that the building you help design will leave a positive impact on tomorrow.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Explain how the structure and design of a building impacts the environment and human health and safety
• Recognize how various building components can promote energy conservation
• Describe how acoustical design enhances a building’s sound quality
• Explain how water and waste systems can be used to conserve and recycle water
• Identify eco-friendly methods to heat, cool, and ventilate a building
• Recognize ways to decrease a building’s reliance on electricity to improve environmental quality and resource conservation
• Identify the unique needs of multiple building systems in terms of fire safety, conveyance, security, and communications

(3 CREDITS)

In a previous course, you studied the systems that make up a building and its interior spaces. This course will now build on that knowledge and walk you through the finishing materials that you’ll deal with regularly. You’ll learn about materials used for floors, walls, ceilings, and other components, and the myriad of choices that are available.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Explain the products, properties, and uses of nonstructural design materials, such as flooring, wall coverings, and paint
• Select materials for a project based on characteristics such as durability, sustainability, price, and style
• Identify the proper methods of installation and disposal of interior materials
• Discuss the need for environmentally conscious design and identify products and manufacturers who participate in the recycling process
• Describe the materials commonly used in kitchen and bath design
• Locate manufacturers and distributors of design materials

(3 CREDITS)

This course will teach you the basics of lighting as well as many practical applications for various spaces and industries. As an interior designer, you’ll typically work within one area of design, although you may be asked to consult on any number of spaces. It’s important to understand the different goals and functions of each space in order to design appropriately for it. If you’re a commercial designer, you may work on mixed-use buildings. This course may even spark in you a love of lighting, leading you to pursue a career in lighting design.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Discuss the functions of illumination in interior spaces
• Identify lamps and luminaires that are available for different lighting projects
• Compile a list of lighting needs and questions for your clients
• Explain what’s meant by the term daylighting
• Install and use lighting and special effects controls
• Select appropriate lighting fixtures for residences, workspaces, classrooms, health care facilities, hospitality establishments, and retail spaces
• Draw a reflected ceiling plan and write lighting specifications

(3 CREDITS)

This course covers the psychology of biology and behavior, consciousness, memory, thought and language, intelligence, personality and gender, stress, and community influences.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Describe the science of psychology, basic structure and function of the human nervous system, and basic structure and function of the sensory system
• Explain various states of consciousness, learning theories, and thought processes and development
• Summarize the nature of human motivation and development, the human development cycle, and approaches to understanding and assessing personality
• Prepare an essay on the topic of conditioning, memory, or motivation and emotion
• Recognize psychological disorders and available treatments
• Explain social psychology as it relates to attitudes, influences, behaviors, and stress
• Use critical thinking skills to determine the likely causes of behaviors of individuals and groups discussed in
  case studies

(3 CREDITS)

This course teaches beginning interior designers to develop effective marketing strategies for their businesses. Course topics include establishing a professional brand and profile, targeting and qualifying clients, building strong and lasting client relationships, creating contracts, handling complaints, and charging for services.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Design specialized promotional resources
• Establish a company profile that attracts clients
• Find clients who are likely to want your services
• Budget marketing efforts accurately to avoid unnecessary expenses
• Handle complaints diplomatically and with minimal problems
• Build better relationships with clients
• Create proper contracts and letters of agreement
• Set appropriate prices for your services

(3 CREDITS)

This course will take you through the steps needed to design rooms and spaces in a home. You’ll study relevant building codes, mechanical and electrical systems, and other factors related to residential spaces. The focus is on the minimum requirements for certain spaces and rooms to function usefully. Sustainability and accessibility information is included in each chapter. Additionally, this course will help you prepare for the exams required by your state to acquire licensure as an interior designer. You’ve reached the point at which you can apply your knowledge to a tangible space—your own home.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Explain the functionality and design needs of entrances, as well as circulation, social, and leisure spaces
• Identify the requirements and design components of both kitchens and bathrooms
• Discuss the design issues related to bedrooms, utility and work spaces, as well as frame construction and remodeling

(3 CREDITS)

In this course, you’ll learn the basic information and skills required of you to design several types of commercial projects. The textbook for this course contains a lot of information, so it has been divided to create two courses. This first course covers three types of facilities: offices, lodging facilities, and health care facilities. The second course, Commercial Design 2, is offered as an elective. The goal of the Interior Design program is to prepare you to work as an assistant under the supervision of a licensed interior designer. You must work as an assistant before you’re eligible for licensure with the title interior designer. Mastering the information in this course is a key step in becoming a strong candidate for the position of design assistant. In addition, this course will help you prepare for the exams required by your state to acquire licensure as an interior designer.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Explain commercial interior design terms and concepts
• Describe the functional and organizational influences on the office environment
• Describe the needs and concepts surrounding the design of health care facilities

(3 CREDITS)

In this course, you’ll make your way through your textbook to learn why understanding building codes is crucial for interior design and the business of design. You must make sure your designs meet local code requirements. The goal of this course is to teach you the importance of following the correct procedures to create safe environments for your clients.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Describe the various trades that are involved in the interior design industry
• Explain the legalities of building codes that you must follow, based on the location of a particular project
• Cite code publications, federal regulations, and standards organizations that pertain to interior design
• Determine occupancy classifications and occupant loads for interior spaces
• Locate codes for construction types and building sizes, fire barriers, smoke barriers, and fire protection systems
• Identify codes for means of egress, including exit accesses, capacities, widths, distance, lighting, and signage
• Determine the plumbing and mechanical requirements for kitchens and baths
• Determine electrical and communication requirements for interior spaces
• Identify types, finishes, and tests of interior furnishings
• Discuss the codes enforcement process, including research, review, permits, and appeals

(3 CREDITS)

This course will teach you what you need to know to establish and grow your own practice. That includes effective marketing and business development techniques, as well as managing finances, projects, employees, and more. You’ll also focus on the details of being an interior designer as you examine project compensation and agreements and the project management process. After you’ve built a solid foundation in these topics, you’ll get tips on how to land your next, or first, job.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Identify what makes for a good interior designer, as well as the different phases of the project management process
• Describe how interior design businesses meet their legal and ethical obligations
• Identify what information a design contract needs to be valid and protect the interior design practice
• Differentiate among various promotional and marketing methods interior designers use to generate business
• Identify various accounting terms and methods interior designers use for managing finances and calculating prices and fees
• Identify the various nuances that are part of creating and managing an interior design business
• Discuss ways interior designers should present themselves when applying for and obtaining a job, as well as opportunities that would allow interior designers to further their careers

(3 CREDITS)

Algebra is the mathematical language used to interpret and represent patterns in numbers by using variables, expressions, and equations. Algebra is an essential tool used in business, science, and computer technology. Throughout this course, you’ll be introduced to algebraic concepts, along with real-world application problems from a variety of fields. In addition to providing a springboard to the discovery of underlying mathematical properties, these applications illustrate the importance of mathematics in your world.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Solve algebraic equations, linear equations, inequalities, and absolute value equations
• Solve and graph linear equations and inequalities
• Solve polynomials
• Apply algebraic operations to rational expressions and rational equations
• Solve problems involving radicals and complex numbers
• Solve quadratic equations, rational inequalities, nonlinear equations, and nonlinear inequalities
• Calculate exponential and logarithmic functions
• Solve binomial expansions, sequences, and arithmetic and geometric series
• Prepare for the final exam

Commercial Design 2

(3 CREDITS)

In this course, you’ll learn the basic information and skills required to design several types of commercial projects. This study guide and course cover four types of facilities—food and beverage, retail, senior living, and recreational. In addition, the course includes information on research, project process, and project management. As is the case with every course in this program, the goal is to prepare you to work in the interior design field as an assistant.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Demonstrate effective written skills
• Demonstrate a high level of inquiry, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Demonstrate computer and information literacy
• Explain the planning and design process for food and beverage facilities, including entry and waiting areas, dining areas, kitchen spaces, beverage facilities, and bathroom accommodations
• Explain the planning and design process for retail and senior living facilities
• Describe the research process and the project management process
• Describe the planning and design process for recreational facilities

Kitchen and Bath Design

(3 CREDITS)

In this course, you’ll study the importance of understanding the subspecialties of interior design—in this case, kitchen and bath design. The goal of this course is to help you to understand the appropriate function of kitchens and baths and to use space planning to choose proper materials for these areas.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:

• Describe basic construction methods for kitchens and bathrooms, including codes and standards, foundations, and framing requirements
• Define ergonomic design and identify several ergonomic solutions for kitchens and bathrooms
• Explain the basic components of kitchen design, including cabinet and countertop dimensions, space planning solutions, food storage and preparation spaces, fixtures, and appliance selection
• Explain the basic components of bathroom design, including cabinet and countertop dimensions; space planning solutions; storage spaces; fixtures; and sink, toilet, and shower facilities
• Identify pertinent codes for kitchen and bathroom design projects, such as plumbing, electrical, lighting, and HVAC codes
• Compare and contrast the different types of surfaces used in kitchens and bathrooms
• Summarize conservation and recycling opportunities for kitchen and bathroom materials