Start date
February
July

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
DBIR

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 35,600 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

English Language Requirements
  • IELTS total [6.0]
  • IELTS reading [6.0]
  • IELTS writing [6.0]
Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
024202C

Degree overview

  • Shape the way people live, work and thrive in built environments.
  • Learn how design influences, impacts and improves how people live their lives.
  • Gain valuable workplace experience when you complete an industry placement.
  • Study at a university that is top 5 in Australia for graduate skills in Architecture1.
  • Get matched with a professional design mentor in your final year.
  • Get the opportunity to publicly exhibit your work twice a year.
  • Participate in international and national study tours and field trips.
  • Learn from practicing, award-winning designers.
  • UniSA is home to Australia’s only architecture museum filled with over 200,000 items, including records, drawing and photographs.

 1 Ranked #4, ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21 – Architecture and Built Environment – Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). Public universities.

Snapshot

Snapshot

With a focus on design research, theory and practice, this degree will prepare you for a rewarding career in the creative interior architecture industry.

The curriculum is closely aligned with industry and you will learn about and gain practical experience in interior design practice along with furniture design and placemaking.

Real-world experience is a major focus, and during your fourth year you will be paired with an industry mentor who will support you as you prepare to transition into the workforce. During your third and fourth year, you will undertake work placements.

What you'll learn

What you Learn

This degree will see you graduate with the confidence and practical capabilities needed to succeed in this competitive field. You will:

  • gain a solid foundation in the theoretical aspects of design, and through valuable hands-on projects and industry placements you will also gain practical knowledge and skills that will see you transition with ease into the workplace
  • gain an understanding of industry trends – delve into the world of workplace design, as well as the expanding field of furniture design with hands-on experience in the production and fabrication of furniture
  • apply design processes and strategies to a range of interior architecture projects, many of which are professional projects with real clients; alternatively you may choose to complete workshop-based courses where you can create furniture prototypes.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
Course name
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 2)
Design Studio (Foundation) ARCH 1034 9 Note(s): 3
Interior Architecture Construction Principles BUIL 1019 4.5
Design, Culture and Environment ARCH 1021 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 5)
Interior Architecture Studies ARCH 1031 4.5
Interior Construction and Materials BUIL 1020 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 6)
Interior Architecture Studio 2 (Materials and Practices) ARCH 1035 9 Note(s): 3
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 2)
Theory of the Modern Interior ARCH 2056 4.5
Digital Representation COMP 2029 4.5
First Semester (Study Period 3)
Interior Architecture Studio 3 (Multi Media) ARCH 2047 9 Note(s): 3
Second Semester (Study Period 5)
Interior Detailing BUIL 3005 4.5
Digital Documentation COMP 2016 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 6)
Interior Architecture Studio 4 (Detail) ARCH 2057 9 Note(s): 3
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 2)
Interior Architecture Workplacement 1 ARCH 2058 0 Note(s): 1
Interior Architecture Research Studies ARCH 3057 4.5
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 2
First Semester (Study Period 3)
Interior Architecture Studio 5 (Multidisciplinary) ARCH 3047 9 Note(s): 3
Second Semester (Study Period 5)
Interior Technologies ARCH 3059 4.5
Professional Management ARCH 4016 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 6)
Interior Architecture Studio 6 (Workplace Environments) ARCH 3058 9 Note(s): 3
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 2)
Interior Architecture Workplacement 2 ARCH 3060 0 Note(s): 1
Interior Architecture Research Studies Advanced ARCH 4007 4.5
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 2
First Semester (Study Period 3)
Interior Architecture Studio 7: Atmospheres ARCH 4011 9 Note(s): 3
Second Semester (Study Period 5)
Design Studio Research ARCH 4051 4.5
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 2
Second Semester (Study Period 6)
Interior Architecture Studio 8: Advanced (Social Sustainability) ARCH 4012 9 Note(s): 3
FOURTH YEAR (Honours)
Note(s): 4
First Semester (Study Period 2)
Interior Architecture Workplacement 2 ARCH 3060 0 Note(s): 1
Research Methods (Creative) CREA 4004 4.5 Note(s): 4
Research Practices (Creative) CREA 5001 4.5 Note(s): 4
Honours Research 1 (Creative) CREA 4001 9 Note(s): 4
Second Semester (Study Period 5)
Honours Research 2 (Creative) CREA 4002 9 Note(s): 4
Honours Research 3 (Creative) CREA 4003 9 Note(s): 4

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Assessment

Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

  • projects
  • presentations
  • essays and reports
  • online quizzes

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Global opportunities

Why Bachelor of Interior Architecture

Why this Degree

This dynamic degree is the ideal introduction to the creative world of interior design.

Our Bachelor of Interior Architecture offers a blend of hands-on experience with solid theoretical knowledge, ensuring you graduate with the tools needed for a successful career in this competitive field. Learning will be further enhanced when you:

  • work with community groups on real-life projects in Australia and overseas
  • gain valuable workplace experience with an industry placement
  • are matched with a design mentor who will support you as you complete your studies and prepare to embark on your transition into professional practice
  • have the opportunity to benchmark your work nationally and internationally through publicly exhibiting your work twice a year
  • have the opportunity to join study tours and field trips, where you will visit international and national design practices, exhibitions and significant interiors
  • take part in the annual inFORM program, where you have the opportunity to be involved in a range of activities that enable you to apply your practical, theoretical and philosophical knowledge to professional design practice.

 

Real-world connections

There is a large practical component to this degree. Work placements throughout your studies mean you will gain valuable practical experience while building a network of industry contacts. In your fourth year of study you will be matched with a design mentor who will support you during your final year and as you prepare to transition into the workforce. UniSA offers an extensive range of career-related events and workshops online, on campus and around Adelaide to develop your skills and increase your knowledge.

Study Interior Architecture at UniSA

Hear from Clare about her journey studying Interior Architecture at UniSA.

UniSA Video

Career outcomes

Your career

This degree consistently records high graduate employment rates. You could typically find work in architectural practices, interior design practices, building companies, or other organisations supplying the design and building industry, such as corporate furniture suppliers. Careers to consider:

  • interior designer: design, document and manage the implementation of interior spaces
  • event designer: oversee and direct the overall look and visual appeal of an event
  • furniture designer: develop design concepts, experiment with different materials, liaise with clients, and build sample models for either mass produced furniture prototypes or one-off exclusive pieces
  • project manager: manage the design process, liaising between client, consultants and builders
  • design manager: work within major organisations developing and delivering design strategies to enhance the organisations brand and business strategies

Professional accreditation and recognition

Graduates of this program are eligible for Graduate Membership of the Design Institute of Australia. The Bachelor of Interior Architecture does not confer qualifications in Architecture and the South Australian Architectural Practice Act legislation (2009) restricts the use of the title `Architect' to those registered by the Architectural Practice Board of South Australia.

Industry facts

line-graph-growth

Employment for interior designers in Australia is projected to increase by 19.1 per cent by November 20261.

1Australian Government, National Skills Commission, Occupational Employment Projections 2021

money-trees

The architectural services sector in Australia is projected to grow and reach $7.1 billion in annual revenue by 20201.

1IBISWorld’s Architectural Services market research report 2017

column-chart-growth

Employment for architects, designers, planners and surveyors in Australia is projected to increase by 17,000 (16.8 per cent) by November 20261.

1Australian Government, National Skills Commission, Occupational Employment Projections 2021

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including: 

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including: 

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Student services

Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

  • career advice and mentoring
  • help with student visas and health cover
  • personal counselling
  • academic counselling
  • fees and finance help
  • common rooms
  • prayer rooms
  • security officers
  • accommodation services 
  • as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Student services

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

Your study spaces

As an interior architecture student, you will have access to:

  • dedicated design studios
  • Australia’s only Architecture Museum
  • digital and traditional workshops
  • specialised computer suites
Your study spaces

Your program director

Interior design fundamentally deals with how the built environment effects people, how they work, play, learn, heal and live; our program distinguishes itself through its balance between practice and theory and learning through doing and making.

Mr Andrew Wallace

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Mr Andrew Wallace
Portrait image for Mr Andrew Wallace

Mr Andrew Wallace

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

    You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

    Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

    If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

    Postgraduate study by research
    For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.

  • Is there a closing date for applications? minus-thick plus-thick

    There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.

  • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

    You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

    The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

    The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.

  • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

    UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

    Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

    We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.

More FAQs

What others are saying

Studying at UniSA has been a good experience and the City West Campus is going through a renovation at the moment, which is very inspiring for an interior architecture student. Facilities such as classrooms, lecture theatres and the Jeffrey Smart Building are all very good and have the latest technologies.

Eduardo Sanz

Bachelor of Interior Architecture

Eduardo Sanz

Eduardo Sanz

Bachelor of Interior Architecture

The highlight of my studies was a study tour to Italy and Denmark. It was an incredible experience, not only in terms of the sights and places, but in the friendships forged between the group.

Coby Costi

Bachelor of Interior Architecture

Coby Costi

Coby Costi

Bachelor of Interior Architecture