Master of Fine Arts in the Field of Interior Architecture

Students in the master of fine arts (MFA) program in the field of interior architecture learn about habitable environments ranging from residential interiors to larger, more complex commercial and institutional spaces. With projects focusing on current design issues as well as lectures and visits from professionals to enhance assignments, the curriculum is a carefully sequenced series of courses building on theoretical, technical, and creative competencies. Students explore theory and research as they build toward a culminating final project.

Because of the program’s location in Washington, DC, students benefit from viewing exhibitions at the National Building Museum, pursuing research at the Library of Congress, attending trade shows such as NeoCon East, attending lectures offered by the Washington Design Center, and visiting organizations such as the U.S. Green Building Council. Taking advantage of these offerings moves learning outside the classroom and into the industry with practicing professionals in interior design.

This program is for candidates who have completed undergraduate work at an accredited institution in an area of study other than interior design, interior architecture, or architecture.

Visit the program website for additional information.

Visit the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences website for application requirements.

Supporting documents not submitted online should be mailed to:

Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Office of Graduate Studies
The George Washington University
801 22nd Street NW, Phillips Hall 107
Washington DC 20052

For additional information about the admissions process visit the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences Frequently Asked Questions page.

Contact for questions:

askccas@gwu.edu
202-994-6210 (phone)
Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday

The following requirements must be fulfilled: 

The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Graduate Programs.

60 credits in required courses.

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Required
CIAR 6100	Studio 1–Graduate
CIAR 6125	Graphic Communications
CIAR 6150	Sketching Architecture and Design
CIAR 6200	Studio 2–Graduate
CIAR 6220	Interior Design History and Culture
CIAR 6250	Digital Drafting and Modeling
CIAR 6300	Studio 3 (Graduate) (8-week session)
CIAR 6320	Interior Materials and Color Theory
CIAR 6350	Sustainability and the Built Environment (6-week session)
CIAR 6400	Studio 4 (Graduate)
CIAR 6425	Lighting and Acoustics
CIAR 6450	Research Seminar for Studio 5
CIAR 6500	Studio 5–Grad
CIAR 6525	Practicum
CIAR 6550	Structures and Building Systems

Optional MFA courses:

CIAR 6560 Advanced Topics in Interior Architecture: Interested students can enroll when the department offers a study abroad program or a unique topic as an elective.

CIAR 6570 Independent Study can be taken on a topic approved by a faculty member. Enrollment is highly selective.