Interior Design at Vancouver Island University is offered as a 4-year Bachelor of Interior Design by the Art and Design Department and is intended for students who wish to pursue a professional career in this creative multi-faceted discipline. Over nine semesters, including a paid internship term, scheduled in the summer between third and fourth year (sixth and eighth semesters), the program, which is recognized by the Provincial Professional Charter, IDIBC, provides a balanced range of theoretical, intellectual, communication, experiential, applied and other skills, needed to deal effectively with the responsibilities of interior design professional life.
The structure of the degree combines focused specialized curricula with broad elective courses. The interior design curriculum features lecture, studio, critique, and computer lab instruction; independent and collaborative projects; formal and informal presentations; field trips; an internship and a final major project spanning two semesters. The elective study in the Liberal Arts and Sciences provides an excellent foundation and structure for lifelong learning and ensures that students develop quantitative reasoning and critical thinking skills.
Our students are eligible for membership in IDIBC and upon graduation and two years of approved, related work experience, may write the professional exams set by NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) in order to become Professional Registered Interior Designers. Learn more about becoming a Professional Registered Interior Designer.
See Instagram photos and videos from VIU Interior Design @viuinteriordesign
Elevate – Interior Design Showcase 2026
The Year-End Student Showcase (YESS) is a student-led celebration of creativity, featuring the work of every student in the VIU Interior Design program.
This year's showcase, Elevate — Design with Intention, reflects a year of refining ideas, questioning assumptions, and designing spaces that respond meaningfully to human needs. The work on display demonstrates how thoughtful design can elevate experiences, enrich communities, and transform the built environment.
Explore the showcase website to experience the creativity, passion, and resilience of the next generation of interior designers.
Open House + Portfolio Nights
Thinking about joining our program? We’d love to meet you!
Our faculty will be hosting two Open House + Portfolio Night events, with both in-person and online options available. These evenings are a great opportunity to meet some faculty, learn more about the program, ask questions, get feedback on your portfolio or application and get a feel for what you can expect as a student.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore the program or are getting ready to apply, we’d be happy to connect with you!
Please RSVP to Coralie Taylor at Coralie.Taylor@viu.ca if you’d like to attend. If you choose the online option, a meeting link will be sent to you.
November Dates
Thursday, November 12, 2026, 6:00 p.m.
- In Person: VIU Nanaimo Campus, Building 325, Room 110
- Online: RSVP by email and we’ll send you a meeting link.
January Dates
Thursday, January 14, 2027, 6:00 p.m.
- In Person: VIU Nanaimo Campus, Building 325, Room 100
- Online: RSVP by email and we’ll send you a meeting link.
We look forward to meeting you and helping you learn more about the program!
Department Mission Statement
“Our mission is to provide a supportive learning environment for our students by fostering diversity, inclusivity, and equity. The program aspires to graduate proficient and dedicated individuals who are prepared for the evolving practice of Interior Design.”
The Gift of Giving
To make a donation to our Interior Design program and its Year-End Show, please visit Gift of Giving.