Program Mission & Goals

Mission

The mission of the Interior Design program is to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in interior design, and to provide the fundamental educational foundation necessary for eventual NCIDQ certification. To advance the mission of the program, curriculum is designed to develop the abilities of the graduate to identify, analyze and creatively solve problems related to the utilization of interior space. The program recognizes the need for the designer to understand and apply the elements and principles of design, to be an effective communicator, and to understand building systems and interior materials. The program recognizes the need for the designer to understand and apply appropriate codes, regulations and standards necessary for the health, safety and welfare of the public. The program also recognizes the need for the design professional to understand basic business, professional and ethical practices.

Goals

To provide intensive, career-focused education in order to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in interior design.
The program supports Brookdale’s Mission and the Educational Services Master Plan by providing opportunities for career planning and life-long learning. The program provides a curriculum that is responsive to the ever-changing needs of the design profession. The curriculum is designed to develop necessary career skills, critical thinking and problem solving abilities in entry-level designers.

To meet CIDA standards and guidelines and achieve accreditation.
The program is designed to conform to the FIDER 2002 standards.

To provide students with general education.
The program requires 30 credits of general education. General education courses introduce students to areas of knowledge outside of their subject area. These courses enhance their potential and can help them function more fully as contributing members of society. General education courses stress the acquisition and integration of theoretical knowledge as well as concentration on attitudes and experiences rather than the application of acquired skills.

To address relevant Brookdale core competencies.
Brookdale has identified the following core competencies as essential for all graduates. These competencies are integrated into courses across disciplines in order to provide students with opportunities to develop and reinforce these skills and areas of knowledge.

To prepare students for transfer to a four-year institution.
The program supports the College Mission to provide access to post-associate degree learning, and the Educational Services Master Plan strategy to strengthen and expand educational partnerships. Brookdale has a signed articulation agreement with Kean University, the only four-year institution in New Jersey offering a BFA in interior design. Faculty at both institutions collaborated to align curriculum to insure seamless transfer opportunities. Faculty from each institution serve on each other’s Advisory Boards.

To provide interaction with design professionals and professional organizations.
The program capitalizes on its geographic proximity to New York City with frequent field trips to museums and design showrooms. Local professionals serve as guest speakers and jurors. The Student Chapter of ASID actively participates in NJASID Chapter events including Career Days, Trade Shows, and mentoring programs. Several ASID members serve on our Advisory Committee, and several of our students have served as Student Representatives to the NJASID Board. Students participate in activities of NJCIDL (New Jersey Coalition for Interior Design Legislation).

To serve as a resource for the professional design community.
The program serves the design community by providing interns and graduates as entry-level designers. At the request of NJASID, we provide a short-term computer training session for professionals, as well as meeting space for strategic planning sessions, NJ Chapter meetings, and Career Days. Faculty have served on the NJASID Strategic Planning Task Force for the purpose of improving communication between the design community and New Jersey educational institutions.

To provide opportunities for design work experience.
Students are strongly encouraged to complete design internships as a part of their curriculum. Students may register for one to three credits. 75 clock hours per credit are required, or 225 hours for three credits. Internships and co-op experiences are coordinated through the Office of Career Services.

To provide opportunities for community service.
The program seeks opportunities to provide experiences that will develop the students’ appreciation of the value of community service.