Academic Departments & Divisions

Home » Academic Departments & Divisions » Design Department » Interior Design Program » Program Philosophy

Philosophy

Program Philosophy

 

As an open admission institution we value the individual learner and respect the differences in needs, strengths, and weaknesses in each person. The faculty strive to create an atmosphere that fosters individual learning, growth and success.

 

The faculty believe that effective design education promotes awareness of the intricate relationships that exist among people, and between individuals and their environment. As experienced interior designers the faculty instill a sense of responsibility for improving society, protecting the environment, and designing for all ages and stages of life.   The faculty are committed to developing the students' technical, creative and interpersonal communication skills .  

                                                                                        

The faculty embrace the definition of the professional interior designer as adopted by CIDA, NCIDQ and ASID. The faculty understand the overarching responsibility of the educational institution to develop the creative professional who can synthesize information, and analyze problems from many different perspectives. The faculty strive to maintain a balance between theoretical concepts and the provision of specialized and relevant content for practical application, in response to the ever-changing needs of the design profession.

 

Program Competencies

 

1. Develop an understanding of professional ethics, responsibility and accountability.  

2. Develop an understanding of design fundamentals.

3. Develop an understanding of human behavior and human reaction to the built environment.

4. Use critical thinking as a framework for decision making in the development of design solutions.

5.  Communicate effectively in oral, written and graphic presentations.

6.  Identify problems and client/user needs.

7.  Communicate ideas rapidly through sketching.

 

Program 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.  

Program 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 provided 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.   Seventy-five clock hours per credit are required, or two hundred twenty-five 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.