Diploma in Interior Design

“The field of Interior Design is multifaceted and involves many disciplines of thoughts, actions and reactions”. (ChrisYap, President, Malaysian Institute of Interior Designers, 2004) We live in the 21st century, an age where knowledge and information and computers pose great challenges for everyone to compete, learn and improve their standards of living. Corporations and consumers have become more sophisticated in their tastes and the changing perception of lifestyles. This scenario has great impact on the profession of Interior Design. Many would argue that their roles not only encompass ‘filling in’ spaces with nifty colours and materials, but also the need to satisfy basic human needs – how the space responds psychologically and emotionally to the user and vice versa. All these require a comprehension of our sensorial needs and what it takes to elicit a response through the senses, critical as well as creative thinking.

In addressing this additional responsibility, the new wave of Interior Designers would have a better understanding of a building’s structure and its mechanics, knowledge and technical know-how within the bigger picture of the design process which incorporates a variety of disciplines ranging from psychology, sociology, history, management to business practices. The School of Design at KBU International College can assist students to turn this dream into reality.

To prepare students for the new challenges, the Diploma in Interior Design programme includes very challenging and stimulating learning subjects such as Interior Design, Architectural Graphics, Building Material Studies, Building Studies, Temporary Structure Design, Project Management, Design History, Visual Culture, Creative Studies, Photography and Digital Imaging, Design Communication, Professional Practice, Furniture Design as well as various computer applications and software. Besides, the programme also develops a range of transferable skills and techniques such as interpersonal communication and presentation skills that are essential for successful performance in professional working life.

The global economic climate positively contributes to the long-term success for Interior Designers. The prospects and future seem bright for graduates who are equipped with skills of exceptional quality – the visionary and creative leadership qualities – that give them the professional strengths to continually push the boundary of design for the betterment and quality of life.

• Duration: 2 ½ years at KBU.
• Intake: January, April and May.
• Entry Requirements: 3 relevant credits in SPM, GCE O-Level or equivalent qualifications.
   

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

Year 1

Semester 1 (* Elective Subjects - select one)

• Interior Design 1

• Architectural Graphics 1

• Design History 1

• English for Academic Writing

• Creative Studies *

• Life Drawing 1 *

• Bahasa Kebangsaan A*/
  Bahasa Kebangsaan B*

Semester 2 (* Elective subjects - select one)

• Interior Design 2

• Architectural Graphics 2

• Design History 2

• Computer-Aided Design: 2D

• English for Academic Purposes *

• Colour Studies *

Semester 3 (* Select one or two)

• Photography & Digital Imaging *

• Building Material Studies

• Temporary Structure Design *

• Introduction to Visual Culture *

Year 2

Semester 4

• Interior Design 3

• Building Studies 1

• Furniture Design 1

• Design Communication

• Pengajian Malaysia*

Semester 5

•  Interior Design 4

•  Building Studies 2

•  Furniture Design 2

•  Professional Practices

•  Computer Aided Design: 3D

Semester 6 (* Select one)

• Industry Placement *

• Industry Placement- Simulation *

Year 3 (one semester only)

Semester 7

• Interior Design 5

• Design Thesis Report

• Project Management

• Tender & Contract Documentation

(LAN Compulsory Subject)

Career Prospects

Graduates of this programme can competitively be absorbed into the various design professions such as interior design companies, theatre and stage design studios, furniture design companies, lighting and exhibition design house etc.