Conestoga’s Bachelor of Interior Design program has been reaccredited until 2030 by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). This reaffirms that the program meets CIDA’s professional standards for post-secondary interior design education, and permits graduates to pursue registration as interior designers with the profession’s provincial regulator.
“I’d like to acknowledge the dedication of the students, staff and faculty who were involved in the submissions, assessments and interviews that this accreditation review entails. It speaks to the talent we have in our program, and ensures that our curriculum remains relevant, modern, and appropriately geared towards producing career-ready graduates,” said Diane Burchett, who is the Interior Design program’s chair.
Reaccreditation of the program was confirmed following a comprehensive self-study, submission of a program report, and an on-site assessment by a CIDA team that included an evaluation of facilities, interviews with faculty and students, and a review of students’ work.
Conestoga is one of only five Ontario colleges to host CIDA-accredited programs.
“This reaccreditation affirms our ability to deliver exceptional programming that meets the highest professional standards and prepares students for industry certifications, paving the way for successful careers,” said Tony Thoma, executive dean, School of Engineering & Technology.
CIDA is the independent, non-profit accrediting organization for post-secondary interior design programs throughout North America and internationally. Its professional standards, which describe specific student learning outcomes and program expectations for high quality educational experiences, measure whether an interior design program will prepare graduates with the skills and knowledge required to meet the demands of the interior design industry.
In Ontario, use of the title “Interior Designer” is reserved exclusively for registered members of the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO). The provincial regulator of Ontario’s interior design profession, ARIDO sets the standards for membership, including education and experience standards, professional development requirements and adherence to a Code of Ethics and Practice Standards. Successful completion of a bachelor’s degree from a CIDA-accredited program is an essential education requirement for registered membership.
Conestoga’s Bachelor of Interior Design program provides students with the theoretical, practical and technical skills that reflect the interior design profession. Through a comprehensive curriculum delivered by an interdisciplinary faculty, the program prepares students to apply an integrated approach to interior design solutions for the built environment and its occupants, and meet the demands of technological changes and currency with respect to sustainability, universal design, and health and safety.
The four-year program includes two co-operative education work term opportunities that provide students with relevant experience to complement their academic studies.
The program is available through the School of Engineering & Technology, which offers a comprehensive suite of programs with a wide range of credentials in areas including architecture, civil, construction, mechanical and electronics.