Why Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours)?
Push the boundaries of interior design and tackle complex, idea-driven challenges. With a focus on innovative, sustainable and inclusive human-centred design, explore advanced concepts that shape the future of interior spaces.
Learn to re-imagine how interior environments influence human behaviour, wellbeing and social interaction. Take your passion for design beyond aesthetics to create impactful spaces that cater to both the present and future needs of communities. Transform everyday spaces into ones that foster connection, creativity and sustainability.
Adelaide University's interior architecture degree follows the international guidance set by both the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers and the Interior Designers Educator's Association of Australasia for a four-year degree – equipping you with the depth and breadth of skills demanded across industry globally. Your design skills will go beyond simply creating, they’ll address real-world issues and set you apart in a dynamic industry.
Overview
The Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours) equips you with advanced design knowledge and practical skills. You’ll focus on creating innovative and impactful interior spaces.
Explore research-driven design practices. Master spatial planning, sustainability and the integration of modern technologies with human wellbeing at the core.
You’ll work on complex projects that address real-world challenges, gaining insights into the social, environmental and technological aspects of interior architecture.
Collaborative studio work and professional placements provide hands-on experience. You’ll enhance your portfolio and be prepared for specialised roles in the industry.
Graduate with the skills to pursue careers in areas like commercial design, sustainable design, adaptive re-use and placemaking.
Key features
Develop advanced research and design capabilities, focusing on innovative, inclusive and sustainable interior solutions. - Undertake complex design projects involving multiple stakeholders and diverse environments.
- Gain professional experience through an advanced placement, preparing you for roles in industry.
- Expand your expertise in human-centred design, creating spaces that enhance wellbeing and social interaction.
- Build a comprehensive honours-level portfolio showcasing your ability to integrate theory, technology and design.
- Graduate with honours and open pathways to specialised roles or further academic research in interior architecture.
What you'll learn
Over four years, your studies in the Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours) at Adelaide University will give you advanced skills to thrive in this dynamic industry.
In your first year, you’ll study the core principles of interior architecture, focusing on spatial design and the relationship between form and function. Through hands-on projects, you’ll begin to develop practical skills while exploring important issues such as sustainability in shaping contemporary design.
In your second year, you’ll explore the connections between design, human behaviour and the environment. Collaborative projects will challenge you to apply your growing knowledge to real-world settings, expanding your design portfolio.
In the third year, you’ll take on more complex projects. You’ll hone your ability to create functional, visually compelling spaces. Gain the communication skills required to work in teams in professional settings.
In your final year, you’ll deepen your expertise in research and design. The focus will be on advanced theories and technologies. You'll undertake a comprehensive project-based research project and explore topics like sustainability, adaptive re-use and technologies. The emphasis will be on tackling real-world challenges to prepare you for leadership roles or further study.
Graduating with an honours degree means you'll have the in-depth knowledge, practical experience and a standout portfolio, ready to make your mark on the industry.
Degree Structure: Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours)
Program code: HINAR
Complete 192 units comprising:
- 162 units for Core courses, and
- 12 units for all Work integrated learning, and
- 18 units for Electives
Study plan
A study plan sets out the courses you will need to complete and the recommended timing for each one. This will help to guide your enrolment in each study period, alongside any additional information provided below. If you have received a personalised plan or alternative advice from your Program Director, please refer to that guidance in the first instance, or seek help from your Program Director or Student Assist if you are unsure.
Enrolment information
Find details about the rules and notes that apply to your program, along with other essential information required for successful enrolment. Supplementary supporting resources may also be provided where applicable.
Courses
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
What courses you'll study
Complete 192 units comprising:
- 162 units for Core courses, and
- 12 units for all Work integrated learning, and
- 18 units for Electives
Complete 162 units comprising:
- 24 units for all Common core, and
- 138 units for all Program core
Common core description
Common core courses are interdisciplinary courses that build key graduate capabilities.
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
An Ethically Rich Life
|
Course code
COREX001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Fact or Fiction: Data for Everyone
|
Course code
COREX002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Igniting Change: Ideas to Action
|
Course code
COREX003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Transforming Learning through First Nations Knowledges
|
Course code
COREX004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Responsible AI: Bridging Ethics, Education and Industry
|
Course code
COREX005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Building Belonging: Navigating Cultural Complexities
|
Course code
COREX006
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Studio (Foundation and Communication)
|
Course code
INTE1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior History and Context 1
|
Course code
INTE1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interiors Construction
|
Course code
INTE1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Studio (Materials)
|
Course code
INTE1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Environments 1
|
Course code
INTE1004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Digital Interior Practices
|
Course code
INTE1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Environments
|
Course code
ARCH2001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Studio (Detail)
|
Course code
ARCH2006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Detailing
|
Course code
ARCH2900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior History and Context 2
|
Course code
INTE2001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Studio (Digital Representation and Documentation)
|
Course code
INTE2002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Digital Interior Documentation
|
Course code
INTE2003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Environments 2
|
Course code
ARCH2008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Research Studies
|
Course code
INTE3000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Studio (Workplace)
|
Course code
INTE3001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Studio (Inclusion)
|
Course code
INTE3002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Professional Design Practice
|
Course code
INTE3800
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Honours Project 1
|
Course code
ARCH4001
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Honours Research 1
|
Course code
ARCH4002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Honours Project 2
|
Course code
ARCH4004
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Honours Research 2
|
Course code
ARCH1012
|
Units
6
|
Notes
-
Program core - For all students enrolled from 2026 - Honours coursework courses that will form the basis of the weight average mark for Honours classes (1st, 2nd and 3rd class):
INTE:1001 Interior History and Context 1
INTE 1004 Human Environments 1
ARCH 2008 Human Environments 2
INTE 2001 Interior History and Context 2
INTE 3000 Interior Architecture Research Studies
ARCH 4001 Interior Architecture Honours Project 1
ARCH 4002 Interior Architecture Research 1
ARCH 4001 Interior Architecture Honours Project 2
ARCH 4002 Interior Architecture Research 2
For students completing in 2026, both mid-year and end of year completing cohorts, transition equivalencies will be applied.
In addition to the above, this application also seeks to carry over the rules from the foundation program, Bachelor of Interior Architecture, specifically:
(Rule) 5. Any variations to the sequence of study requires approval from the Program Director.
(Rule) 7. Students are not permitted to enrol in two Design Studios or Interior Architecture Studios concurrently.
Work Integrated Learning description
WIL courses give you real‑world experience as part of your degree.
Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Professional Experience (Advanced)
|
Course code
ARCH4000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Interior Architecture Professional Experience
|
Course code
INTE3901
|
Units
6
|
Electives description
A flexible course choice within your degree.
Complete 18 units comprising:
- 18 units for all University-wide electives
Career outcomes
Graduates of the Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours) can pursue a range of advanced career paths. You could become an interior designer, creating both functional and aesthetically rich environments for residential or commercial spaces.
You are also well prepared for specialised roles such as a sustainability consultant, guiding organisations towards environmentally responsible practices. Or you could work as a design manager, leading multidisciplinary teams on complex projects.
Other career opportunities include:
- Adaptive re-use specialist
- Interior designer for heritage preservation
- Place maker with a focus on interior public spaces
- Exhibition or event designer
- Furniture or lighting designer
- Project manager.
Industry trends
Interior architecture is growing rapidly in areas like sustainability, smart technologies and adaptive re-use.
Green building practices, circular fitout and energy-efficient designs are driving demand for professionals who can create functional, eco-friendly spaces (Archify, Evolution of Architectural Trends, 2023).
As an Adelaide University graduate, you'll be ready to seize opportunities in this field, backed by a program that focuses on sustainability and spatial innovation.
Ready to apply?
Ask Adelaide University
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your program team
Mr Andrew Wallace
Program Director
College of Creative Arts, Design and Humanities
School of Architecture and Built Environment
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
