Student Handbook

This handbook is intended to help students admitted to the Department of Interior Architecture & Industrial Design (IAID), and those in other departments within the College of Architecture, Planning & Design comprehend the wide variety of opportunities available in the department and to provide assistance in career planning.


Introduction

The department’s two program tracks, namely Interior Architecture and Industrial Design, are structured to respond to design needs related to enclosed human activities and interactions at multiple scales, as well as to broader design and development challenges. In order to stay abreast of the present and future demands of the market, there is a close and continuing working relationship through the Professional Advisory Board, industry sponsors, and professional accreditation organizations (e.g., CIDA). The Department of Interior Architecture & Industrial Design has a long term tradition of marketplace response, a tradition which was initiated by becoming one of the first interior programs to be nationally accredited by CIDA.

Currently the Interior Architecture track is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and is approved by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The Industrial Design track is approved by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

 

Admission Process

First-year students enrolled in the Environmental Design (ENVD) program must go through an Academic Progress Review as part of the process to advance from the first year to the second-year, into the degree-granting programs in the college.

Admission to either the Interior Architecture (IARC) or the Industrial Design (INDD) tracks from the ENVD program is determined through this review process. The review primarily considers the student's cumulative GPA at Kansas State University (KSU) and their continued success in completing the requirements of their chosen ENVD track.

The Academic Progress Review serves as a checkpoint to ensure students are making satisfactory academic progress and are prepared to transition into the more specialized degree programs.

Learn more about the Academic Progress Review

 

Facilities

The Department of Interior Architecture and Industrial Design (IAID), as part of the College of Architecture, Planning & Design, is housed in the updated Seaton/Regnier Complex. Completed in 2017, this building is a comprehensive renovation of the college's pre-existing structures within Seaton East (1908), Mechanics Hall (1874 – now Regnier Hall), and a new connecting addition to accommodate the college's future needs. The building showcases a harmonious blend of historical and contemporary elements but also reflects the institution's commitment to its land-grant legacy.

Beyond fulfilling the educational, research, and outreach objectives of the college by providing state-of-the-art facilities and conducive learning environments, this LEED Silver Certified complex is strategically leveraged as an educational resource. It exemplifies sustainable design through its incorporation of solar shading devices, rainwater harvesting systems, bioswales, green roofs, optimized natural lighting, indigenous vegetation, and locally sourced materials, thereby serving as a tangible model of environmental stewardship for students.

 

Program Progression

The Department of Interior Architecture and Industrial Design (IAID) offers two separate master degree tracks. One that focuses on Interior Architecture (MIARC), and another on Industrial Design (MINDD). These degrees engage our students to (re)envision building interiors and the consumer products of the future. Furniture design is interwoven into both degree paths, resulting in a comprehensive and unique degree offering. Our students are instructed in the essential process of inquiry, design and the making of space and form. With innovative curriculums, our degrees prepare our students to become professional leaders in their industry, to shape places we live and work and the products we use every day.

In addition to the majors, a Furniture Design certificate and an Industrial Design minor offer focused studies that allow students to delve deeper into specific areas of interest, equipping students with a comprehensive education that is both broad and deep.

 

Student Support

 

Student Life

The Department of Interior Architecture and Industrial Design (IAID) greatly values student participation in college and department committees and all students are invited to serve as they are formed. Previous IAID students have had opportunities to serve on college committees including the College Committee on Planning (CCOP), Diversity, Building and Facilities Management, Environmental Health and Safety, Responsible Stewardship, Technology, Weigel Library, Interdisciplinary Studies and Service Learning, Design Expo/Mock Interview, and Open House. Students who are interested in participating in a college or department committee should make their interest known to the Department Project Coordinator Crystal Miller.

 

Closing Note

The Department of Interior Architecture and Industrial Design (IAID) recognizes the need for occasional policy updates or new policy introductions to reflect the evolving educational landscape. We commit to the timely dissemination of any changes to students through official channels. Students are responsible for staying informed and adhering to these updates, which are vital for maintaining a conducive learning environment.

Our department is dedicated to fostering an adaptable, informed, and engaged student community. Your cooperation and active participation help us collectively enhance the educational experience for all.

 

Looking for information about Interior Design?

Visit the link below to view the Student Handbook for Interior Design, located on the program's webpage.

Interior Design Student Handbook