Chatham University

What you'll study

The programme emphasises a balance of conceptual design, technical competence and professional practice. Core learning is delivered through progressive design studios that address residential, commercial, institutional and adaptive-reuse typologies. Typical subject areas include:

• Design Studios — iterative, project-based studios that develop spatial problem-solving, user research and representational techniques.
• History and Theory of Interiors — investigation of cultural, social and historical precedents that inform contemporary practice.
• Building Systems and Construction — assemblies, structure, MEP coordination and detailing specific to interior architecture.
• Materials and Finishes — material properties, specification, detailing and life-cycle thinking.
• Sustainability and Environmental Design — passive strategies, daylighting, healthy materials, and performance-based design approaches; the programme encourages integration of sustainability into design solutions.
• Digital Tools and Fabrication — advanced CAD/BIM workflows, 3D modelling, rendering and digital fabrication techniques for prototyping and communication.
• Lighting Design and Acoustics — principles and strategies for lighting, sound control and user comfort in interior environments.
• Professional Practice and Ethics — project management, codes, contracts, business practices and preparation for collaborative practice with other design professionals.
• Capstone/Thesis Project — a final research-informed design project that demonstrates synthesis of technical, aesthetic and theoretical knowledge.

Instruction typically combines small studio reviews, seminars, hands-on workshops and field studies. Students build a professional portfolio and are encouraged to collaborate with local firms, community partners and interdisciplinary faculty.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in interior design, architecture, fine arts, industrial design or a related discipline. Typical admissions materials include:

• Academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A curated portfolio of design work demonstrating creative and technical ability.
• A personal statement outlining design interests, goals and reasons for pursuing the degree.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• For international applicants, evidence of English language proficiency where required.

Applicants with degrees in unrelated fields but with relevant professional experience or a strong portfolio may be considered for admission, sometimes with prerequisite coursework. The programme may offer full-time and part-time pathways to accommodate different backgrounds and schedules.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Interior Architecture pursue a broad range of careers across the built environment. Common roles include:

• Interior architect or senior interior designer in commercial, residential, hospitality or institutional practices.
• Healthcare, education and workplace specialist focusing on evidence-based design.
• Sustainable design consultant, materials specialist or environmental performance analyst.
• Project designer, design manager or director within multidisciplinary architectural firms.
• Exhibition, retail or lighting designer and roles in experiential design.
• Fabrication and prototyping specialist working with digital fabrication labs or maker spaces.
• Continuation to professional registration or licensure pathways where applicable, and academic or research roles for those pursuing further graduate study.

Chatham’s curriculum and portfolio emphasis are intended to help graduates move into practice, leadership roles or specialised niches that require both conceptual rigour and technical proficiency.

Why study at Chatham University

Chatham University offers a personalised, studio-focused education with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship. The university’s commitment to sustainability — including programmes and resources centred on environmental design at its campuses — complements an interior architecture curriculum that foregrounds healthy materials and performance-based design.

Students benefit from Chatham’s connections to the Pittsburgh design and construction community, opportunities for practicum and collaborative projects, and access to fabrication workshops and digital labs. The programme’s emphasis on research-informed practice and professional readiness helps graduates build competitive portfolios and transition into diverse design careers.