The Interior Design program aims to teach students how to analyze design factors based on understanding the project objectives, goals and end user requirements. The course work includes design, analysis, construction and job administration. Students will be expected to conduct a wide range of research and on-site examination of areas selected for project work.
The primary objective of the interior design courses in the American University in the Emirates is to equip students with creative awareness, professional attitudes, imagination and technical knowledge required for this profession. Interior Design is a multifaceted profession in which creative and technical solutions are adopted within the building to maintain and achieve an interior environment through systematic design processes and techniques. The program objectives are as follows:
The College has large design studios, state-of-the-art facilities provided with the latest electronic media and printing equipment and an extensive library filled with the latest tutorial educational resources relevant to interior design. They are all available for students to use in an engaged learning environment.
Students will be studying under the direction of experienced architects, engineers and tutors. Students will work towards projects in both commercial and residential interiors, developing a sense of how people function inside and outside these spaces. They will develop a range of live projects with themes including leisure and public interior spaces.
| Course Category | Total Number of Courses | Total Number of Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| General Education Courses | 10 | 30 |
| Core Courses | 11 | 33 |
| Specialization Courses | 21 | 63 |
| Total | 43 Courses | 126 Credit Hours |
| Course Name | Course Code | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing | ENG 101 | 3 | This course provides students with advanced writing skills in English so that they can successfully pursue their studies in various academic specializations. It helps students to develop, improve, and upgrade their writing and structure skills, and it also acquaints students with technical writing, research papers, and essays since brief research methods are applied in student projects and assignments. |
| Arabic Composition | ARLAA 105 | 3 | This course is designed to enable students to analyze multiple texts in various fields of knowledge. In order to be able to distinguish between texts despite their difference of contents, it also enables student to simulate those texts in a correct way, and to transform the information into skill and behavior. And since writing is an integrated building process, and that the building is affected by its parts, therefore student needs models, linguistic laws, planning, cohesion and goals including: news and inquiries, demand and influence of the recipient. |
| Arabic for Non Arab Speakers | ARLNA 100 | 3 | This course is based on the principle that "Education" is an accumulative task especially when it comes to language learning. This process undergoes specific stages to assist the non-Arabic speakers to reach the ultimate goal which is to acquire the required skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing) easily and accurately. To achieve this aim, text-based dialogues are provided as head start for the non-Arabic speakers to continue to the higher levels. The course also provides basic elements for reading, writing, dialogues, and listening to assist the learners to confidently interact with the Arab community |
| Basic Design | DES 101 | 3 | This course is one of the fundamental courses in which the students will be introduced to the visual elements of design comprising of: point and line; shape and form; surface and texture; color and value; light and shadow; negative and positive space. The students will practice design principles: unity and variety; similarity; emphasis and point of interest; scale; proportion; and balance. This course is designed to give the students a strong understanding of 2D and 3D visual communications. |
| Communication Skills in Arabic | ARLAA 100 | 3 | This course is designed to enable the Arabic-speaking student with the necessary language skills, especially focusing on the steps of writing reports, official letters and systematic research. To achieve this, and to develop the student's abilities to understand correctly what he reads and listens, and to gain the ability to write articles, reports, meeting minutes and recommendations of conferences and seminars in a sound manner, the course was concerned with training the student in basic writing skills; such as multiple spelling rules, punctuation marks, paragraph system, and essay writing progressively. |
| Contemporary Arab Art | DES 104 | 3 | This course explores Arab art and aesthetics from the beginning of the twentieth century till date. The students will learn about the contemporary art and design movement in Arab countries, the expression of cultural identity, as well as the factors involved and changes in aesthetics from Islamic to Arabic art. They will also study and analyze the role of pioneer artists from various generations with emphasis on their influence on contemporary Arab art. |
| Emirati Studies (formerly UAE and GCC Society) | ASC 208 | 3 | The course is designed to introduce the UAE and GCC society with its historical background and uniqueness. It is aimed at enabling students to understand the specific features of the society along with its customs, traditions and lifestyle. The course will introduce the processes and the challenges of development as well as the future aspirations of the UAE and GCC Society. |
| English Literature | ENG 200 | 3 | This course will provide the students with a comprehensive overview of English literature in the United States. It will familiarize the students primarily with early Anglo-American writers and the different literary movements that took place in the United States. Today American literature includes many minority literary works, but the historical matrix remains Anglo-Saxon if we are to consider the dominant culture as the starting historical point. |
| Environmental Science | ASC 211 | 3 | The ‘Principles of Environmental Science’ course is designed to introduce the fundamental concepts of Environmental Science to undergraduate students. It includes topics from different areas of study such as ecology, biology, soil science and atmospheric science. The course aims at raising environmental awareness among students and providing them with the scientific knowledge and skills to identify, prevent and solve environmental problems. Additionally, it deals with ecological concepts, organism interactions, communities and ecosystems. The course focuses on key areas of population dynamics, biodiversity, human activities and the environment managed ecosystems, air quality, water and solid waste management. |
| General Mathematics | MAT 100 | 3 | This course is designed to develop a good understanding of the fundamental concepts of mathematics. It also stresses on crucial cognitive transferable skills such as the ability to think logically and concisely. Mastering this course will give students the confidence to go on and do further courses in mathematics and statistics. |
| General Psychology | ASC 200 | 3 | An introduction to the science of psychology, its theories and foundations. The course is focused on principles and research methodologies, including the following topics: history of psychology, the biology of mind, memory, learning, child and personality development, psychological disorders and therapy. The aim of the course is to introduce the basis of psychology, provide the foundational knowledge to pursue the subject in more depth in the future, and build an ongoing interest in the application of psychology in everyday life. |
| History of Islamic Art | DES 105 | 3 | This course aims to focus on the evolution of Islamic Art through a chronological overview of various ?trends and approaches throughout history. Students will explore and analyze the rise and influence of ?Islam leading to the formation of a new artistic culture the world over.? |
| Innovation and Entrepreneurship | MGT 604 | 3 | This course marks students’ introduction to the theory and practice of innovation and entrepreneurship. Whether they are creating an opportunity or seizing an existing one students explore the core concepts and tools for creating new products or services, new businesses, or new markets from a multilayered perspective. The course examines the fundamentals of innovation in a multitude of settings, operationalizing the entrepreneurial spirit via a comprehensive business plan, and making decisions in the areas of strategic planning, financing, marketing, process improvement, and management with an awareness of the opportunities and challenges of working in an increasingly complex environment regionally and internationally. |
| Introduction to Anthropology | ASC 102 | 3 | This course provides an understanding of anthropology, the study of human beings throughout time and space. Anthropology is a broad discipline that studies human from a holistic perspective looking at both biological and cultural aspects. Anthropologists use different methods in order to understand and study humans. During this course, students will experience ethnographic fieldwork. |
| Introduction to Geography | ASC 206 | 3 | This course will provide the students with a comprehensive overview of geography. Emphasis is on concepts that are necessary to understand global, regional and local issues. This course also includes topics on both human and physical geography. |
| Introduction to Philosophy | ASC 201 | 3 | This course will introduce the students to the key concepts of philosophy and its principle tools. The course will discuss the schools of philosophical thought, and will apply philosophical analysis to the topics of knowledge, religion, mind, freedom, responsibility, and ethics. |
| Introduction to Political Science | ASC 202 | 3 | This course will introduce the students to the key concepts of Political Science and its principal tools. The course will discuss the role of main political actors in the field of politics and their function. |
| Introduction to Research | ASC 207 | 3 | The intent of this course is two-fold. First, it introduces students with the basic research terminologies. Second, it familiarizes them with the process of research from choosing a topic to writing the proposal. Students will be immersed in hands on experience where they will be introduced to research concepts that will help them understand, interpret, and review a journal article. Contents to be covered include the language of research, types of research, elements of scientific research proposal, writing an academic research proposal using APA style, research ethics, identifying data collection instruments, and interpreting data. |
| Introduction to Social Sciences | ASC 110 | 3 | This course serves as an introduction into the interdisciplinary and multifaceted social sciences. The content on the course covers the range of different disciplines that social sciences consists of, namely: anthropology, sociology, psychology, political science, economics and to a lesser extent also history and geography. The secondary aim of the course is moreover for students to develop their critical thinking skills by engaging actively with material about social issues, social change and social institutions. |
| Introduction to Sociology | ASC 104 | 3 | This course introduces the science of Sociology. Students will examine Society, Institutions and the relationships that make up a social context. The scientific methodology used to study social interactions, stratification and other elements of sociological enquiry will be discussed to emphasize the core concept of sociology as a systematic study of societies and social structures. |
| Islamic Civilization | ASC 106 | 3 | The course is designed to give an in-depth understanding of the Islamic civilization. It deals with the universal principles that went into the making of the Islamic civilization. It examines the basic ideas of Islamic civilization besides exploring their contemporary relevance and challenges. The course seeks to effectively address the notion of the ‘clash of civilizations. |
| Islamic Culture | ASC 105 | 3 | This course will expand students’ knowledge to enable them to understand the Islamic culture and its characteristics. It analyzes the sources of legislation in Islam. It offers a review of the history of Islam and how it is currently the fastest growing religion in the world. |
| Middle East History | ASC 204 | 3 | This course provides an overview of Middle-Eastern History, including the sources of Middle Eastern History. The course will conclude with discussions about perspectives on Middle-Eastern History. |
| Natural Science | ASC 210 | 3 | The natural science course incorporates a wide range of subjects of sciences such as astronomy, geology, biology, chemistry, and environmental science. The course will present the scientific facts of astronomy, the Earth and its weather, water, and environment, biology, and nutrition with the chemicals of life. The course emphasizes understanding the core principles of different branches of science and their effects on our lives. Moreover, the course explores the scope of natural phenomena, changing environment conditions, general health rules of nutrition, and the variety of living organisms. The course helps the students to acquire skills in observation, critical thinking, analyzing, interpreting, understanding and discussing scientific terminology and facts. |
| Sustainable Energy | ASC 212 | 3 | This course gives a thorough introduction to sustainable energy, conservation, and energy efficiency within the UAE and the world. It will explore the relationship between energy, environment, economy and ecological well-being. It will discuss energy production from the biology, natural science, environmental science and social sciences perspectives. A variety of topics will be introduced including global warming, climate change, sustainable food production, solid waste management, environmental and natural resources laws. The course includes the growing challenges of climate change and energy crisis and proposes solutions to overcome them. |
| University Life | ASC 101 | 3 | The purpose of this course is to facilitate the process of transition into a new academic and cultural environment for the new students enrolled in the AUE. Furthermore, it aims to promote their confidence so that they can succeed and meet the academic requirements. The course assimilates academic content with interactive in class activities to ensure an understanding of curricular options and begin to develop a future career plan through self-reflection. |
| World History | ASC 203 | 3 | This course provides an overview of World / General History. The course will conclude with discussions about perspectives on World History. It surveys the history of humankind since 250CE till 1990 CE. In addition, interregional, comparative, cross-cultural, transnational, and historiographical topics will be considered. The objective of the course is to explore the roots of contemporary globalization and to develop historical thinking and writing. |
| Course Name | Course Code | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3D Design | DES 212 | 3 | In this course, students will learn various techniques to construct objects in digital 3D space, as well as physical 3D solutions. Students will follow a concept development process of research and sketching, to generate designs for 3D production. A final original design, related to each student’s major, will be constructed using industry-standard 3D software. |
| Art History I | DES 122 | 3 | This course is a chronological survey of art and design offering students an in-depth understanding of the role of art throughout history with a strong focus on aesthetic values, socio-cultural influences and technical terminology. Architecture, sculpture, painting, decorative arts, prehistoric art, design of the ancient world, the world beyond Europe, early Christian and Islamic art and the art of the Middle-Ages and Gothic period form the foundation of the course material spanning a period from 40,000 BC to 1300 AD. |
| Art History II | DES 211 | 3 | This course covers the extensive cultural shifts from the early Renaissance through to the 20th century. Students will study painting, sculpture, furniture architecture as individual works in relation to their geographical, social, political, and religious environments. Also, analysis and comparative study of periodic decorative elements, strong designs and architectural features will be conducted. |
| Collaborative Design Studio | DES 414 | 3 | The course is designed to promote interdisciplinary collaboration in design. Graphic, Interior, Fashion Design and Digital Animation are brought together into one studio environment to allow students with different skills and strengths work as a team solving a relatively complex design problem. Students develop a research plan followed by the establishment of intent and context for the topic and identification of stakeholders, leading to concept exploration and creation of a holistic design solution in cooperation with other specializations, institutes or with professionals from the industry. |
| Color Theory and Practice | DES 100 | 3 | This course examines color theory as an aid to communication, control and expression in traditional and contemporary design. The fundamental course allows students to explore color topics including color theory, color interaction, and color psychology. Students will study a wide range of creative and technical aspects of color and its use in design, experimenting with traditional mediums and digital applications. |
| Design Thinking | DES 210 | 3 | This course introduces students to human centered design thinking methods and practices through a variety of hands-on activities. DT is a methodology used by designers for the identification of problems and the definition of innovative solutions. Students will engage in processes for idea generation including sketching and diagramming, concept mapping and low-fidelity prototyping infusing visualization techniques and empathic tools into their design process. |
| Drawing I | DES 121 | 3 | This course provides a core introduction to drawing, covering a wide range of basic and intermediate practical and technical skills. Students will explore approaches and concepts to the subject through manual practice using a comprehensive range of media and with reference to great masters in the field. Traditional and objective drawing skills in the use of line, tone, form and perspective provide the foundation for learning in this course. Students are required to develop their ability to observe, perceive and interpret through drawing the world around them, reflecting their understanding of 2D and 3D space. |
| Drawing II | DES 123 | 3 | This course introduces students to different drawing concepts and skills through observation and exploration of several drawing techniques. In this course, students will develop the ability to express themselves, learn problem solving, and exploring portraiture, figure drawing, landscape drawing, and advanced compositions. Critical thinking skills, problem-solving, and a self-directed improvement capability are essentially required for this course. |
| Fundamentals of Graphic Illustration and Digital Imaging | DES 102 | 3 | Fundamentals of Graphic Illustration and Digital Imaging introduces students to the use of a computer as a powerful digital drawing and imaging tool. The focus of the course is on basic computer skills and use, mastering fundamental digital illustration and imaging skills, and developing efficient working styles. The course learning experience incorporates a variety of visual artwork strategies including but not limited to, color/ texture enhancements, typography, pen/ brush tools, , perspective tool, using different color schemes. This course involves considerable hands-on instruction and multiple projects using Adobe Photoshop/ Illustrator. |
| Internship | DES 301 / FAD 300 / FAD 305 | 3 | The college considers students’ internship as an essential channel that brings together the college, the students, and the job marketplace. Furthermore, internship is a method that integrates the instructional theoretical backgrounds to real existing practice. The training allows them to work under the observation and guidance of the field supervisor without replacing any regular employee. The internship is closely monitored by a college faculty member as an academic supervisor. |
| Course Name | Course Code | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Building Information Modeling | IND 317 | 3 | This course is an in-depth exploration in using building information modeling systems and application in interior design practice. Students will be using Industry- standard software to expand the skills attained in the pre-requisite course and to design 3D model of an interior space. Topics include but not limited to 3-dimensional modeling, furniture design, materials and textures, rendering and presentation. |
| Building Systems and Codes | IND 306 | 3 | In this course, students will be introduced to the interior design construction and service systems according to the building codes and regulations and the ways they affect interior design. Students will learn technical terminology of the built environment and the relationship between design, construction, services and codes and the way this relationship influences design decisions. The importance of designing a functional and safe interior environment for all users will be emphasized. |
| Capstone Graduation Project | IND 423 | 3 | The capstone graduation project is the representation of the students’ in-depth learning and understanding of their field of specialization through a long-term project accomplished in a professional manner. They are evaluated on their ability to complete this project with originality and quality, applying the skills, techniques and methodologies they have learnt during their course of study. The student is assigned to develop a comprehensive design based upon the concept design proposal already delivered in the Capstone Seminar. The topic could range from academic research to school/ community service, student-developed business or any other area of personal interest. The student communicates regularly with his/ her academic-capstone advisor for review, while working constantly to improve the outcome by building upon previously gained expertise. The academic-capstone advisor contributes through meaningful feedback and setting expectations of standards, offering an opportunity for open-ended learning through self-reflection and improvement. The process is documented, findings are compiled and presented orally as well as in writing through a capstone report. The project is divided into three distinct phases: 1. Research and topic selection. 2. Conceptual and design development. 3. Design execution/ design presentation, with necessary documentation and a comprehensive report. |
| Capstone Seminar | IND 418 | 3 | The Capstone Seminar is a preparatory course to deliver a design dissertation subject to be further developed in the Capstone Graduation Project. Students will be introduced to different research methodologies in the field of design. They are expected to identify a meaningful topic to be explored in their research according to their interests, attitudes, strengths, and career aspirations. The research process will proceed by developing a literature review, targeting a potential innovative design scope, choosing the appropriate research methodology and finally delivering the final proposal. The outcome of such process should be also supported by a meta- project (e.g. concept design/preliminary design) as integral part of the final delivery. It will identify key elements which will constitute the base and starting point of the design phase to be developed in the Capstone Graduation Project. |
| Computer Aided Design (CAD) | CET 103 | 1 | This hands-on laboratory course is dedicated to developing practical skills in Computer-Aided Drawing (CAD). Students will navigate industry-standard CAD software to create and manipulate both 2D and 3D drawings. Special emphasis is placed on engineering applications, ensuring students gain a comprehensive understanding of industry standards. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises, students will develop proficiency in utilizing CAD tools effectively. The course aims to bridge theoretical concepts with real-world applications, empowering students to apply CAD techniques to engineering problems. |
| Contemporary Design Theory | IND 318 | 3 | This course considers the changing role of theory with respect to the design practice over the course of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Examining key designers, movements, and texts, this course delivers an outline of the major theories that have informed, energized, or undermined recent architectural, interior and product design discourse. The course, especially considers the development of design knowledge as a factor that contributed to the main social, political, cultural, and technological changes of the time. |
| Detailing | IND 411 | 3 | This course explores advanced concerns in design and detailing of interior finish structures. The course is planned to highlight the importance of detailing as part of the evolving design. The students will produce interior millwork drawings, and construction documents, through which they will be able to understand the assimilation of building codes and life safety subjects. They will also realize the possible methods through which they can communicate their design goals to the contractor or fabricator in order to achieve a successful and efficient execution of the design project. They will learn the importance of being part of a design team through projects that involve group collaboration. |
| Drafting Lab | IND 122 | 3 | This course is an introduction to spatial organization of interior space. The students willdevelop basic skills in documenting interior design concepts, analysis and conceptualdevelopment. The focus will be on design inquiry, process and presentation throughdrafting, orthographic drawings, use of tools, sketching, lettering, dimensioning, fi nishdrawings and models. |
| Furniture Design | IND 415 | 3 | The course will introduce furniture design and fabrication as they represent the hallmark of the human engagement with the material realm. Students will learn about furniture as a vehicle to understanding the smaller scale of form and space that engages human occupation and use, and as a scaled object of the evolving relationship between form, material and assembly. Another aspect that the students will be exposed to is the interplay between furniture design and the principles of anthropometrics and ergonomics, which will lead to a better understanding of the essence of universal design. The role of technological advancements in CAD fabrication will be emphasized as they represent new challenges and new opportunities in the exploration of the craft. Both historical and contemporary material and fabrication processes will be explored, through which, students will work together to research material form and assembly process, producing design solutions and finished projects of furniture fabrication. Students will work in groups and will use various methods to develop furniture design pieces using wood as a primary material for fabrication. |
| History of Interior Design | IND 222 | 3 | This course will introduce design as a product of the age and cultural context in which it was created. Design will be demonstrated as a representative of the political, religious, aesthetic, socioeconomic, or other ideals that prevailed at a certain time and place in history. On the other hand, design will be revealed as a tool that was intentionally used to achieve specific goals: political, cultural, religious, in order to influence societies. Through the examination of the history of design, students will develop a critical view of historical examples, gain an informed understanding of today’s built environment and apply this knowledge into their practice of design. An overview of the history of interior design will be offered and its direct relationship to other design products including architectural and decorative art products. The material will span the time from ancient civilizations to the twenty first century, and will touch on a worldwide geographical are. |
| Interior Design Profession | IND 326 | 3 | This course will introduce the students to the principles of interior design professional practice. Students will learn the basics of professional ethics and project management. Types of business contracts will be demonstrated and ways to enhance the design career will be stressed. |
| Lighting for Interior Design | IND 322 | 3 | This course is an introduction to the principles of lighting design, including lamps, luminaires, lighting techniques, and applications for residential and commercial projects. It provides students with a specific approach related to light, color, texture and form, and places a special emphasis on sustainable methods and opportunities. It introduces fundamentals of lighting design including technical terminology, criteria, calculations, planning and layout. |
| Materials and Finishes | IND 225 | 3 | This course introduces the materials and finishes used in the design of interior spaces and the basis of their prospective impact on the function and aesthetics of architectural interiors, the users’ wellbeing and safety and the environment at large. He students will explore the wide range of interior building materials, which will develop their prospects for creativity in design solutions. Technical vocabulary and systematic concepts associated with materials’ sourcing, manufacturing and evaluation will be stressed. Finally, the students will be aware of their role as interior and product designers in preserving natural resources and improving the quality of interior built environments for the users through studying examples of best practices. |
| Special Topics in Interior Design | IND 420 | 3 | This course provides an opportunity for students to focus on various issues in fashion design and to study advanced techniques and processes. Course content vary each time the course is offered. The course emphasizes research analysis and the creative process that leads to innovative solutions and allows students to pursue individual projects related to the subject of the course. The course may include lectures, discussions, individual projects and critique, depending on the nature of the topic. |
| Studio I – Introduction to Interior Design | IND 214 | 3 | This course introduces students to design elements and their context, relationships and role in establishing the functionality, organization, and aesthetics of interior spaces. In addition, the students will grasp the physical and cultural background of interior designs and the way program requirements may materialize to fulfil the needs and aims of its users. |
| Studio II – Residential | IND 226 | 3 | This course is an introduction to the planning of interior residential spaces. The students will be introduced to the methodology used by interior designers to conceptualize, analyze, and develop workable solutions to residential applications. Students will examine existing floor plans, study furniture placement, construct a model and develop layouts for residential spaces. An emphasis will be placed on sustainable design concerns, users’ requirements and cultural influences. |
| Studio III – Office Design | IND 316 | 3 | This studio course will introduce the students to the elements of commercial design. Emphasis will be placed on concept development for the design of office space for specific clients, using creativity to enhance the space while maintaining the identity of the client/brand. Students will critically analyze the workspace requirements and user needs then apply evidence based design in their office layout techniques and furniture, lighting, and finishing selection. Considerations of the relevant accessibility codes, universal design topics and sustainability are integrated in the course material. |
| Studio IV - Sustainable Design | IND 328 | 3 | This course aims to focus on the sustainable design approach and its holistic effect. Students will develop an understanding of various sustainable elements and factors including materials, water usage, indoor air quality, thermal comfort and the principles of alternative energy. The current status of sustainable practices will be analyzed. Hands-on projects using environmentally conscious materials are implemented in the course. The designer’s ethical responsibility in the context of sustainable design is stressed. |
| Studio V - Hospitality Design | IND 414 | 3 | Students will gain understanding of various factors related to the design of hospitality space. They will be exposed to topics that include types of lodging, food facilities, circulation, furniture layout, and materials selection. Emphasis is placed on the application of universal design principles and the needs of the general population. Sustainably considerations will be highlighted throughout the course. Through research and case studies, best practices will be illustrated. |
| Textiles for Interior Design | IND 224 | 3 | This course will introduce students to the different fiber qualities and properties, yarns, weaving methods and how they affect the performance of textile products and applications. The course material is presented within the context of sustainability awareness and the role of design professionals in preserving natural resources and preventing pollution. Applications in interior design will be emphasized through hands-on projects and assignments. |
| Time Based Media for Interior Design | IND 325 | 3 | This course will introduce students to the process of taking plans created earlier on a CAD software to an advanced presentation level of 3D modeling and rendering through the use of time based media software such as 3D Studio Max. Small practice projects are used to explore topics such as the import of CAD drawings, building a 3D model, materials and textures, lighting, rendering, cameras and animation. |
For undergraduate degree completion, undergraduate students must satisfy the following requirements:
