Interior Design at the College for Creative Studies
The Interior Design course at the College for Creative Studies equips students with the tools to design environmentally conscious spaces that also meet client’s needs.
Course details
School: College for Creative Studies
Course: Interior Design
Type: Undergraduate
Location: Detroit, Michigan
Course dates: September 2027 to May 2028
Application deadline: February 2027
Course overview
The College of Creative Studies (CCS) Interior Design programme is an immersive journey where creativity meets purpose. Students are empowered to design spaces that not only resonate aesthetically but also address client needs and environmental responsibility.
With an emphasis on design thinking, research, trends and sustainability, students develop their unique style while mastering the art of creating impactful, functional spaces.
These environments subtly influence how we live, work and connect, impacting our health, education, productivity and overall quality of life.
Through collaborative projects, industry partnerships and citywide exhibitions, student work takes centre stage – pushing boundaries, forging connections and drawing on Detroit’s energy to shape bold ideas and future creative leaders.
This programme is an intimate experience that emphasises how to develop concepts and master creative thinking.
What will I learn during this course?
Students develop a holistic approach to creating environments that function and respond effectively to the way people live their lives at home, at work and as part of communities.
Students develop the skills to integrate research and current trends with environmental function, design and sustainability.
What are the requirements?
You can apply directly through CCS’s free, native application portal or add CCS to your common app.
If they choose, students may submit a portfolio that includes five to 12 pieces of their strongest visual artwork in any medium. Work does not need to relate to the intended major.
Applicants with a cumulative 3.0 GPA or higher (first-year) or 2.5 GPA or higher (transfer) are eligible for admission based on GPA alone.
Applicants with a cumulative GPA below these averages will be required to submit a portfolio for admission consideration.
Students seeking to transfer studio course credit from another college-level programme may need to provide a set of work examples for review. Your admissions counsellor will let you know what is needed after you are admitted.
Provide official high school or college transcripts or mark sheets, along with a certified English translation if the original documents are not in English. Full admissions requirements can be found on the CCS website.
What facilities and resources are available?
CCS has some of the best facilities for all students to use, including:
- 24-hour studio spaces
- industry-level technology and equipment
- state-of-the-art foundry
- shops and material libraries
- 3D printers
- large-format plotters
- an extensive colour and materials library with more than 30,000 physical samples of materials for designers to use in their work
What career prospects can I expect upon graduating?
Students can have possible careers in the following fields:
- automotive colour and trim designer
- colour and materials designer or specialist
- colour and trend forecaster
- colour and trim designer
- commercial or corporate interior designer
- design account manager
- display, exhibit or experience designer
- furniture designer
- facilities design manager
- interior or retail or hospitality interior designer
- lighting designer
- space planner
- spacial brand consultant
Who teaches this course?
Sandra Olave, chair of interior design.
