Interior designers and architects design meaningful spaces as a response to a variety of human factors including those typically studied in fields like psychology, physiology, and sociology. The creation of well-formed space is a multifaceted endeavor that marries design and technology, human comfort and sustainability, and durability and delight.
In recognition of the need for individuals with a wide-ranging set of professional skills, Lawrence Technological University offers a direct entry program leading to both a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design and a Master of Architecture. Students enter the Interior Design undergraduate program and then move seamlessly into the graduate Architecture program. Graduates with these degrees will be qualified design professionals and will have satisfied the educational requirements for certification in interior design and licensure in the profession of architecture. This program prepares students to become fully qualified architects who specialize in the design of building interiors. Due to the shared content between the two degrees, the M.Arch program can be completed as a 60 credit professional master degree in addition to the 121 credit professional Interiors undergraduate degree..
For specific questions about the direct entry, contact the Chair of Design, Philip Plowright, at pplowrigh@ltu.edu, or the Chair of Architecture, Dale Gyure, at dgyure@ltu.edu.
The Interior Design curriculum reinforces the multidisciplinary nature of design by placing value on environmental, psychological, cultural, social, economic, spiritual, sensory, technical and physical factors to comprehensively respond to human needs. Our approach centers on empathetic and human-centered design responses through collaboration with our clients and partners in allied design disciplines. Critical thinking and creativity are emphasized throughout the curriculum, stressing their role in professional applications.
The program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), giving students an important advantage when entering the workforce. The Interior Architecture Student Organization (IASO) is active on campus and connects students with both of the major interior design professional organizations: the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and the International Interior Design Association (IIDA).
For more information about the Interior Design Program, coursework, and faculty, please refer to the program website at this link.
The architecture program at LTU seeks to develop graduates committed to an articulate and thoughtful approach to socially relevant design. It supports creative inquiry and critical thinking as the basis for design insight, and clear communication as a design objective. The coursework is designed to provide a foundation for the development of architectural design skills and insights, technical training, social responsibility, environmental awareness, problem-solving abilities, and professional competence.
The program is primarily directed toward the practice of architecture, but it constitutes an excellent, broad-minded education and preparation for work in a range of essential fields in and beyond design, including teaching, research, product development and representation and development, and public service. In the Master of Architecture program, which combines the required undergraduate and graduate coursework, students earn the NAAB-accredited, professional degree required for architectural licensure in the State of Michigan and most other US states and jurisdictions.
For more information about the Architecture Program, coursework, and faculty, please refer to the program website at this link.
Course Name
Course #
Credits
College Composition develops students’ acquisition of the fundamental principles of academic writing. This course focuses on the development of writing thesis statements and main arguments, topic sentences, transitional words and phrases, supporting paragraphs, use of evidence, essay organization, and research skills. Extensive writing and research practice is required.
COM1103
3
Topics include, limits and continuity, differentiation of algebraic and transcendental functions, mean value theorem, applications of differentiation, anti-derivatives, indefinite integrals, inverse trigonometric functions, substitutions, definite integrals, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, applications of integration. Applications will be emphasized. In addition to regular class meetings, all students are required to participate in calculus lab sessions. The schedule, frequency, and modality of these labs may vary by section. Refer to the class schedule and course syllabus for details.
DES1022
2
Introduction to representational theory and practice within an architectural context. This coursework will introduce contemporary tools, application strategies, representational formats, and presentation methods with increasing complexity and consequence regarding design, technology, and practice. Students will utilize a precursory hybrid of digital and physical tools in the analytical representation of existing works of architecture. Course work visualizes architecture comprehensively as three-dimensional constructs and environments which become organized into two-dimensional visual information.
ARC1213
3
An introduction to formal and process principles that underlie all design disciplines. The course explores both fundamentals of visual interpretation as well as conceptual processes and tactics that are involved in building more complex methodologies. The focus of the course is on visual literacy, formal principles and the identification of relevancies as building blocks in design project significance and meaning.
DES1213
3
Quadratic equations, functions and graphs, systems of equations, inequalities, logarithms, trigonometric functions, identities, equations. No credit after completion of MCS1224 or MCS1414. Calculus
MCS1074
4
Total Credits:
15
Course Name
Course #
Credits
A historical survey that develops students’ abilities to critically engage texts of the ancient global world, placing an emphasis on the way these texts reflect their context and human experience. Readings may draw from philosophy, history, literature, visual art, and more. Class activities include reading of primary sources, seminar discussion, and writing in various genres. May be taken concurrently with COM 1103.
HUM1213
3
Description not available.
PSC1143
3
Advanced representational theory and practice within an architectural context. This coursework will deeply examine contemporary tools, application strategies, representational formats, and presentation methods with increasing complexity and consequence regarding design, technology, and practice. Students will utilize an advanced hybrid of digital and physical tools in the analytical representation of existing works of architecture. Coursework visualizes architecture comprehensively as three-dimensional constructs and environments which become organized into two-dimensional visual information.
ARC1223
3
Advanced application of basic principles in dynamic situations that include multiple disciplinary interests and priorities. Students are introduced to working methodologies that are used in design contexts practice to ideate, generate, explore, propose, and finalize works of design. Disciplinary-specific contexts are introduced within larger project-based delivery. (Studio)
DES1223
3
“Algebra based kinematics and dynamics of particles, work, energy, bodies in equilibrium, rotational motion, thermal energy and thermodynamics.
3 Credit Hours. Lect. 3 hrs.
PHY2213
3
Introductory laboratory covering experiments to complement College Physics 1. 1 Credit Hours. Lab 2 hrs. The following course can be taken concurrently with this course: PHY 2213.
PHY2221
1
Total Credits:
16
Course Name
Course #
Credits
A historical survey that develops students’ abilities to engage texts of the modern global world, placing an emphasis on the way these texts reflect their context and human experience. Readings may draw from philosophy, history, literature, visual art, photography, film, digital media, and more. Class activities include reading of primary sources, seminar discussion, and writing in various genres. May be taken concurrently with COM 1103.
HUM1223
3
An exploration of the societal role of interior design as a profession and a survey of interiors to the present. The course will examine the temporality of interior space and the embodiment of culture, community, and identity through the expression of aesthetics, form, objects, materials, and decorative elements.
INX2313
2
This course will focus on physical and cognitive ergonomics. Students learn to observe and examine the behaviors and skills of humans and specifications for our designed environment.
IDD3713
3
An introductory interior design studio centered on how humans create and occupy space. The introduction of Interior-specific vocabulary, skills, techniques, contexts and practices, extending from fundamental design elements and principles focused on the design process, scale and the human body in space, access, and navigation.
INX2513
3
This course is a comprehensive introduction to the study of visual communication. Projects develop visual communication techniques that explore the relationship between type and image, information graphics (infographics), composition, sequencing, and design systems. Students develop a vocabulary to engage with project workflow, as well as a working process that is rooted in design thinking.
GRA2523
3
Total Credits:
15
Course Name
Course #
Credits
An investigation of the physical properties and application of materials for interior construction systems, assemblies and components. Exploration into current and emerging materials will be emphasized along with the impact in larger systems such as sustainability, life cycle, well-being, and historical positioning.
INX2323
3
An exploration of the influences of environments on human behavior, including a study of the methods and tools used to evaluate psychological response and human needs.
INX2413
3
Introduction to the theory and practice of prototyping and fabrication. The course advances the production of physical outcomes focusing on the relationship between information and morphology. Multiple levels of design development and implementation are addressed using current industry standards and state-of-the-art fabrication processes.
ARC3823
3
Topics include, but are not limited to, solving first and second-order differential equations and first-order linear systems of differential equations by various techniques such as separation of variables, integrating factors, substitution methods, variation of parameters, and Laplace Transforms. Emphasis will be placed on applications of differential equations arising from engineering applications and the natural sciences.
INX2523
3
The course is a one-time portfolio submittal during the second semester of the sophomore year. It is administered by the Directors of the respective programs. Used for advising, faculty from the programs will review the contents of the portfolio to guide students towards a successful completion of their chosen degree path. Students will be provided a template to inform the content of their portfolios.
DES2020
0
This course covers descriptive statistics, probability, and probability distributions with an emphasis on statistical inference such as confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression, chi-square tests, t-and F-distributions, and selected nonparametric tests.
MCS2124
4
Total Credits:
16
Course Name
Course #
Credits
SSC Elective
2XX3
3
Training in a systematic method for producing effective technical communication, written reports, letters, and memos as well as oral presentations. Lecture 3 hours. 3 hours credit
COM2103
3
History and philosophy of architecture in a context of related arts, crafts, and designed setting, studied in significant periods of the western world of antiquity, the Middle Ages (including Byzantine and Islamic extensions), and the Renaissance and Baroque eras.
ARC3613
3
A comprehensive survey of the furniture and millwork industry. The selection, specification and procurement processes of residential and non-residential furniture will be introduced. Knowledge of the design and construction, with an emphasis on application of materials and components, and the technology used to fabricate furniture and architectural millwork, will be developed. Topics include ergonomics, performance standards, code implications, universal design principles, sustainability and parametric design.
INX3313
3
This interior design studio will explore the comprehensive applications of the design process in historic and/or global settings. The course will integrate user needs along with the functional and aesthetic design of an interior environment through means of installation, insertion and/or intervention. The studio focuses on connecting users to community, heritage, ritual, societal narratives, and issues surrounding historic structures.
INX3513
3
Total Credits:
15
Course Name
Course #
Credits
LLT Elective
2XX3
3
History and philosophy of architecture and related design studied in significant periods in Asian, Pre-Columbian cultures and in the modern world from the 18th century. Lect. 3 hrs. Prerequisites: ARC 3613 (min. grade D-).
ARC3623
3
Building construction and systems for interiors and will address structural systems, construction materials, thermal comfort, lighting and visual comfort, sound and acoustical comfort, plumbing and water systems, electrical and data requirements, and building safety systems and considerations.
INX3213
3
This project-based course will emphasize the collaborative nature of the professional working environment where teamwork is standard practice. Projects can be generated either by a sponsored project from an external source or by the team of faculty.
DES3623
3
This course centers on the development of a comprehensive drawing set through the engagement of construction documentation, system and assembly detailing, and the specification of furniture, fixtures, equipment, materials and interior components. Construction documents will be prepared to industry standards and applicable code regulations.
INX3223
3
Total Credits:
15
Course Name
Course #
Credits
The study of the interior design profession; theoretical and practical functions of commercial/contract practice as a business including management, planning, marketing, or organizational structure, firm activities and scheduling, professional contract interior services and ethics, business liabilities and legal responsibilities.
INX4313
3
This course focuses on leadership skills specific to the allied disciplines of design within the College of Architecture and Design. Students will engage models of leadership relevant to a dynamic and evolving professional context. Course content will include typologies of leadership organization, principles of successful teamwork and collaboration, viable economic frameworks, ethics and design entrepreneurship.
DES4112
2
A survey course of design theory that presents theoretical and philosophical cultural belief systems that affect the production of objects and environments. Studies explore multiple points-of-views and attitudes towards knowledge construction in society as understood through historical and contemporary positions.
DES4643
3
Radical empathy in a human-centered design approach is introduced through an investigation of the extent to which interior design can support and shape behavior for a diverse set of users with varying, complex requirements. The course explores preconceived notions around the nature of design, not as a luxury but as a human right. Emphasis will be on the development of ethically conscious design decisions in space typologies that range from permanent, provisional, mobile and transient installations.
INX4513
3
An approach to solving complex interior design issues is defined through theoretical, social, cultural and physical responses. Qualitative and quantitative data from primary and secondary sources of research will be analyzed to support the understanding and impact of the project context. Diverse research methodologies will be introduced with an emphasis on written, diagrammatic and graphic content as a method of communication.
INX4213
3
Total Credits:
14
Course Name
Course #
Credits
Elective
LLT/PSY/SSC
3/4XX3
3
CoAD Elective
XXX3
3
CoAD Elective
XXX3
3
CoAD Elective
XXX3
3
An interior design studio focused on the synthesis of information learned throughout the curriculum as applied to a significant, complex interior project. Projects will engage high-performance building and material systems that support ecological sustainability, and the health and well-being of the intended users.
INX4523
3
Total Credits:
15
3.0 min. overall UG GPA required for assured admittance into the graduate program.
Course Name
Course #
Credits
Intensive study and application of research methodologies used for academic, theoretical, and design practice. The course will include historical and current methods of research in behavioral sciences, building sciences, and environmental design. The course utilizes computer applications and engages case studies in design research. Sources of research include those utilized in educational, governmental, professional, and legal environments.
ARC5013
3
This course is an introduction to the behavior, analysis, and design of structural members and systems. It provides a basis for the understanding of elementary force flow in structural systems and an intuitive understanding of how systems react to and resist loads. This course introduces the theory of statics with analytical and graphical solutions. Topics include the determination of loads, the resolution of force systems, and equilibrium analysis; and structural principles related to shape (centroids and moment of inertia), the properties of materials (stress, stiffness, and modulus of elasticity), shear and bending moments, deflection, column theory, and elementary indeterminate structures. Instructional methods include lectures, advanced digital media, video, in-class problem solving, demonstration models, and the investigation of historical precedents. The course provides the knowledge of structural theory which is the basis for the code based procedures in subsequent courses.
ARC5513
4
Total Credits:
7
Course Name
Course #
Credits
A historical and theoretical study of the transformation of European and American architecture in the 20th century. Study topics may include the effects of urbanism and suburbia, architecture of commerce and everyday life, and everyday and political expression through building. Lect. 3 hrs Prerequisites: ARC 3623 (min. grade D-).
ARC5063
3
Intermediate Structures expands on the general principles and methods of analysis presented in Basic Structures and prepares students for Advanced Structures with both quantitative and qualitative approaches to structural principles. Coursework includes studies of steel, timber, and concrete and masonry structural systems, the evaluation of structural members in linear frame systems, and addresses building codes and industry standards (IBC, ACI, NDS, ASIC). The course will consider force and load transfer in systems and help students develop an intuitive understanding of how systems react to and resist loads. Students will evaluate a series of small, project-based, structural systems. Instructional methods include lecture, advanced digital media, video, in-class problem solving, demonstration models, and the investigation of historical precedents.
ARC5523
3
The Architecture Foundation Studio sequence is a series of three courses intended to introduce students to the principles and processes of architectural design. All courses in the AFS sequence address the elements of architecture and their contextual relationships as well as design tools, techniques, and processes. The first course in the sequence, Architectural Foundation Studio 1 (AFS-1), concentrates on the introduction of architectural elements and their relationships. The studio will develop architectural intentions using formal strategies at multiple scales. Varied digital and analogue techniques of visualization and representation will be explored. The primary purpose of studio will be to introduce students to the principles that operate within architectural design.
ARC5014
4
Total Credits:
10
Course Name
Course #
Credits
Investigation of ecology and ecological systems in specific relation to design and the built environment. The course will explore both historical and current issues that illuminate global and societal concerns regarding ecology. Issues will be examined from a social, political, biological and practical perspective and address the current and future development of architecture. The professional role and ethical responsibility of the architect will be examined to foster ecological awareness and understanding of responsible practice. Case studies, readings, reports, and projects generate discussion around ecology and faculty lectures define relevant topics for debate and review.
ARC5423
3
Introduction to the theory and practice of information modeling, simulation, prototyping and fabrication within an architectural context. This course will introduce how information is structured and used in multiple levels of design development and implementation and the application of that information in formal and fabrication processes through generative and performative modeling. Students will be introduced to building information modeling and manipulation, parametric modeling, scripting, simulation, and analysis methods, as well as current standards in fabrication workflows.
ARC5823
3
The Architecture Foundation Studio sequence is a series of three courses intended to introduce students to the principles and processes of architectural design. All courses in the AFS sequence address the elements of architecture and their contextual relationships as well as design tools, techniques, and processes. The second course in the sequence, Architectural Foundation Studio 2 (AFS-2), brings greater emphasis to meaning and process in architectural design. The studio will use principles developed in the previous studio to develop an understanding of the various priorities in the organization of architectural form through the application of method. Formal and phenomenological elements are examined alongside cultural and social issues of meaning. The primary purpose of studio will be to develop student knowledge of processes and sequences of design focused on decision-making.
ARC5024
4
This course is the first in a sequence of two that address building construction systems. The course introduces principles of construction materials and assemblies based on their properties, performance, and environmental impact. Course content will engage criteria for defining appropriate building structure and enclosure systems in response to qualities of durability, aesthetics, thermal performance, and energy resources. The course will also introduce building systems and life safety systems guided by standards of practice and building code regulations. Students develop construction drawings, models, and outline specifications to demonstrate ability and understanding of the course content and objectives.
ARC5313
3
Total Credits:
13
Course Name
Course #
Credits
CoAD Elective
5/6XX3
3
The course reviews the theories of sound perception, analysis of architectural acoustics, room acoustics, sound isolation, sound absorption, electronic sound reinforcement, and the study of acoustic properties of materials and room shapes to provide speech privacy, enhance speech clarity, enrich music spaces and control noise. The course also addresses basic electrical theory, utility connection options, emergency backup, distribution, and safety considerations as they relate to building construction. Electrical lighting is studied as part of an assimilated section covering the fundamentals of illumination, integrating natural daylighting and electrical lighting design for energy conservation. Class projects include investigations into course subjects to further enhance understanding of real work applications.
ARC5443
3
Total Credits:
6
Course Name
Course #
Credits
The course address issues of human comfort; principles of heat transfer emphasizing calculation of heat loss and heat gain; heating, ventilating and cooling equipment, system selection and sizing; spatial requirements; moisture migration; air pressurization; psychrometric analysis; and sustainable design including acceptable indoor environmental quality (IEQ), low embodied energy material selection and energy conservation. The course includes an overview of water supply and waste water systems, domestic hot water, plumbing layouts/fixtures; and the basics of fire protection, including smoke control and automatic extinguishing water-based systems. Group class project work includes analysis of heat loss/heat gain and domestic hot water (DHW) equipment and HVAC system investigation for an existing structure.
ARC5413
3
This course is the second in a sequence of two that address building construction systems. The course focuses on principles of sustainable construction assemblies based on performance and environmental impact. Course content will engage criteria for defining appropriate building structure and enclosure systems in response to variables of geography, climate, thermal performance, and energy resources. Course content also includes building service systems and application of life safety systems through egress, accessibility, and code compliance. Students develop construction drawings, models, and outline specifications to demonstrate ability and understanding of the course content and objectives.
ARC5323
3
Students complete an advanced-level design project that includes guided research, a design process, and a design proposition. The projects will respond to a specific studio topic determined by the instructor so that students can develop an understanding of the theories and principles of design, practice, and sustainability with a demonstrated ability to synthesize and integrate these understandings.
ARC5814
4
Total Credits:
10
Course Name
Course #
Credits
An overview of the professional architectural practice from a regulatory, procedural and ethical perspective. The course addresses the NAAB standards for a professional degree program, the NCARB standards including the Intern Development Program, and the state laws governing requirements for licensure and professional practice. Topics include the history of the profession, professional services, contract documents, legal relationships, professional ethics and codes of conduct, governmental regulations, regulatory codes, and professional firm organization.
ARC5913
3
Students complete a comprehensive site and building design project through demonstration of investigative and design skills engaged with site conditions, historical traditions and global culture. Each project integrates environmental, structural and spatial ordering systems and addresses issues of sustainability, accessibility, and life safety in the design. The course focuses on skills in required technical documentation and producing a set of architectural drawings delineating the project. This course meets the NAAB accreditation standards for a comprehensive architectural design studio and is supported by professional consultants who provide expertise, through lectures, demonstrations, reviews and other activities, in the content areas required for the course. The studio component of the course emphasizes the fully-integrated architectural proposition. The consulting/lab component conducts technical research, computation, and documentation in support of the studio.
ARC5126
6
Investigation of ecology and ecological systems in specific relation to design and the built environment. The course will explore both historical and current issues that illuminate global and societal concerns regarding ecology. Issues will be examined from a social, political, biological and practical perspective and address the current and future development of architecture. The professional role and ethical responsibility of the architect will be examined to foster ecological awareness and understanding of responsible practice. Case studies, readings, reports, and projects generate discussion around ecology and faculty lectures define relevant topics for debate and review.
ARC5423
3
Total Credits:
12
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