FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is interior design?

Interior design is the balance of art and science to understanding people’s behavior creating functional spaces within the built environment.

Interior design is NOT decorating, although decorating can be a part of interior design. Designers can decorate, but decorators cannot design. Interior design is the sculpting of space three-dimensionally, not just the selection of applied finishes, materials, and furniture. Interior designers ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public and any user of space.

• When does the term start for the interior design program?

Students may begin the interior design program in the Fall or Spring term.

See the official Academic Calendar for more important dates.

• Is there a portfolio review?

There is currently no portfolio review requirement for admission to the Interior Design program at Belmont.

• What laptop/software will I need for my coursework?

Students are encouraged to bring a laptop (preferably a PC) for use in and outside of the classroom.

Software needed for coursework includes Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD (downloadable student version,) Sketch Up (downloadable student version) and Revit. Most architectural software is designed for PCs, not Macs.

   

• I have a degree in another field. Can I transfer my current credits toward this degree?

We have many students who hold associate or bachelor’s degrees prior to enrolling in the Interior Design program. All credits from a previously earned associate or bachelor's degree program are evaluated on an individual basis by the Office of the Registrar and applied as appropriate toward the B.F.A. degree.

While credits earned from previous coursework may be transferred in, it is important to note that earning a B.F.A. in Interior Design will likely take 7-8 semesters as studio courses must be taken sequentially and the curriculum is planned as a four-year degree program.

• Will I be able to obtain a professional license with a B.F.A. in Interior Design?

Yes! Students who complete Belmont's Interior Design program, and fulfill the required years of work experience, are eligible to take the NCIDQ examination for state licensure.

• What is NCIDQ?

National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Certification is the industry's recognized indicator of proficiency in interior design principles and a designer's commitment to the profession. Professional interior designers who possess the NCIDQ Certification have distinguished themselves by demonstrating a specific set of core competencies, supported by verified work experience and a college degree. NCIDQ Certification is required for the practice of many types of interior design in regulated jurisdictions throughout North America and enables designers to easily validate their knowledge, experience and skill to employers and clients alike.

Students who complete Belmont's Interior Design program, and fulfill the required years of work experience, are eligible to take the NCIDQ examination for state licensure.

• What is CIDA and why is it important?

The Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) is an independent, non-profit accrediting organization for over 150 interior design education programs at colleges and universities in the United States and abroad. In order to receive accreditation through CIDA, an interior design program must meet a set of high academic standards and maintain those standards through a rigorous process of program self-evaluation and peer review.

Attending a CIDA-accredited interior design program ensures that you are receiving a quality education that will prepare you for entry into the profession upon graduation and lay the foundation for your future growth as an interior design professional.

Belmont University's O'More College of Architecture, Art & Design (formerly known as the O’More College of Design) has maintained CIDA accreditation (formerly known as FIDER) since 1984.