Don't be surprised if the next time you read about the top 100 CEO's in Canada, several of them are registered interior designers! The interior design profession is quickly becoming the profession of choice for industry leaders because of its ability to educate graduates who are exceptional and creative strategic thinkers.

To keep pace with this exciting direction Algonquin has restructured its interior design program. Our new 4 year curriculum continues to be accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (formerly FIDER) and will offer students an even more dynamic and fast-paced learning environment. Emphasis is on both the traditional interior design curriculum, as well as critical thinking and applied research. Graduates of this program will have taken part in a 20 week paid co-op work term ( in their fourth year of study) and will have trained to become leaders in a rapidly evolving field. They will be eligible to become registered members of ARIDO (Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario) and will be able to pursue post-graduate studies in interior design or allied fields should they so desire. Algonquin's BAA - Interior Design is one of only 6 degree programs in interior design offered in Canada.

The interior design profession is complex because it deals with the three dimensional design of the built environment - i.e. all the spaces which we inhabit and occupy in our lives. Designers create spaces which function appropriately, are in conformity with relevant life safety laws and which are aesthetically pleasing. You might wish to think of it as "interior architecture".

Interior designers are first and foremost exceptional problem solvers and professionals who think clearly and effectively. Coupled with this is the ability to create - to "think nowhere near the box" in order to design environments and interior elements which respond appropriately to various user groups and situations. Successful designers work well in teams and are working with other design professionals such as architects, industrial designers, engineers and facilities managers.

Why choose Algonquin?
We recognize that you may be considering several choices for the next phase of your education, and so it should be. We would do the same! Consider the following in making your decision - we think that for many reasons, Algonquin is the college of choice:

• 4 year baccalaureate degree credential
• 20 week paid co-op in fourth year of study
• 97% employment rate (in industry) for graduates
• community-based design component throughout three years of study
• specialization seminars and professional electives in healthcare, retail, hospitality and corporate design
• a specific focus on international interior design facilitated by our unique location in Canada's capital.
• For both 2004 and 2005 one of our graduating students has won the ARIDO Provincial $2000 scholarship. Each of these winners competed against 10 other ARIDO recognized interior design programs for this award. We are naturally very proud!
• The city of Ottawa is rich in culture and heritage with its many national institutions, parklands, waterways and historic architecture. It's also a safe, manageable city.

Lastly - Algonquin has consistently been ahead of the pack in terms of delivering a unique, forward-thinking curriculum. Our faculty are dedicated individuals who are truly excited about their profession and who want to give students the opportunity to become successful. We would love to have you study with us -come visit us to see our program in action. Our current student body is waiting for you!