Successful interior designers need more than just good taste — they must draw on a unique set of competencies to ensure every space they create is beautiful as well as functional.

In the College of Arts and Sciences' 36- to 48-month part-time and flexible online Interior Design program, students are guided toward their professional goals while becoming part of a tight-knit community.

“We really get to know each other in this program,” said Program Director and Independent Interior Designer Robert A. Hardy, ASID, IDEC, NCIDQ, who has more than four decades of industry experience. “It’s online but it’s very personal and we want to know who you are, and lead you through the advising process.”

At either of two virtual open house sessions taking place at 10 a.m. and again at 5 p.m. on Thurs., July 22, participants can expect to learn more about the curriculum, hear about the interior designer certification process, meet other potential classmates and community members, and have their questions answered one-on-one.

Over the course of their studies, interior design students will be given the opportunity to develop a robust portfolio of design work, hone their eye for detail, learn about fundamental construction and safety requirements, and receive individualized training from experienced faculty members. They will also have the opportunity to become NCIDQ (National Council of Interior Design Qualification) certified and to become members of The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) or the International Interior Design Society (IIDS). Students can also earn a residential or professional interior design certificate while working toward their master's degree.

Prospective or accepted students interested in learning more about the master’s or certificate programs are encouraged to attend either of two Interior Design Open Houses on Thursday, July 22: the first from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., and the second from 5 to 7 p.m. Please R.S.V.P. to Rob Hardy at rhardy@fairfield.edu with your preferred session time.

To learn more about Fairfield University’s new master’s degree in interior design, please visit fairfield.edu/design.