1. Programme Overview
The Diploma in Interior Design equips students with the creative, technical, and professional skills required to transform interior spaces into functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable environments. Combining design creativity with practical application, the programme prepares students to conceptualise, plan, and execute interior design solutions that meet the diverse needs of residential, commercial, retail, hospitality, and public spaces.
This programme provides students with a strong foundation in:
- Interior Design Principles
- Space Planning
- Architectural Graphics
- Computer-Aided Design (CADD)
- 3D Visualisation
- Furniture Design
- Lighting Design
- Building Construction
- Material Science
- Interior Design Project Management
Through studio-based learning, design projects, model making, site visits, and practical training, students will develop creative thinking, technical competency, and project management skills that are highly valued by the design industry.
Upon successful completion of the programme, students may pursue careers in the interior design industry or progress to related bachelor's degree programmes.
2. Programme Highlights
- Approved and accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).
- Develop creative and technical expertise in interior design, space planning, architectural graphics, and computer-aided design.
- Gain practical experience through studio projects, portfolio development, site-based learning, and practical training.
- Master industry-relevant skills in furniture design, lighting design, material selection, building construction, and project management.
- Build professional portfolios that showcase creativity, technical competency, and design thinking.
- Learn from experienced academic staff with industry knowledge and practical expertise.
- Prepare for careers in architecture, interior design, retail design, exhibition design, and other creative industries.
3. Why Study Interior Design?
- Interior designers play a vital role in creating functional, safe, and inspiring spaces that enhance people's quality of life.
- The growing demand for residential, commercial, retail, hospitality, and mixed-use developments creates diverse career opportunities.
- Students develop creativity, technical skills, communication, and project management capabilities valued by the design industry.
- Practical studio learning and portfolio development prepare graduates for professional practice and lifelong learning.
- Graduates can continue their studies in Interior Architecture, Interior Design, or related creative disciplines.
4. Industry Relevance
Interior Design combines creativity, technology, and practical problem-solving to create spaces that meet functional and aesthetic requirements. This programme is designed to equip students with industry-relevant skills that align with current design trends and professional practice.
The programme incorporates current industry practices including:
- Space Planning
- Computer-Aided Design (CADD)
- 3D Visualisation
- Lighting Design
- Furniture Design
- Building Construction
- Material Selection
- Interior Design Project Management
Industry-based projects, portfolio development, practical training, and professional design presentations ensure graduates are well-prepared for employment within the creative industry.
5. Progression Opportunities
Upon successful completion of the programme, students may progress to related bachelor's degree programmes, including:
- BA (Hons) Interior Architecture at Sunway University (advanced entry available, subject to entry requirements)
- BA (Hons) Communication
- BA (Hons) Advertising & Branding
Students may also pursue further studies at other recognised higher education institutions.
6. Career Opportunities
Graduates may pursue careers as:
- Interior Designer
- 3D Visualiser
- Design Consultant
- Furniture Designer
- Exhibition Designer
- Display Artist
- Retail Designer
- Set Designer
- Visual Effects Designer
Intake
January, April & August
Duration
2 Years 6 Months (Inclusive of Practical Training)
Assessments
Continuous Assessment & Final Examination
Entry Requirements
SPM / O Level: Pass with a minimum of 3 credits and pass a Portfolio Review conducted by Sunway College Ipoh.
UEC: Pass with a minimum of 3 Grade Bs and pass a Portfolio Review conducted by Sunway College Ipoh.
SKM: Pass a Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM) Level 3 or Certificate (Level 3, MQF) in a related field with a minimum CGPA of 2.00, together with a successful Portfolio Review.
Other equivalent qualifications recognised by the Malaysian Government.
Programme Structure
Year 1
- Life Drawing
- Creative Studies
- Basic Computer Graphics
- Art and Design History
- English for Business Communications
- The Entrepreneur
- Basic Photography
- Fundamentals of Design
- Architectural Graphics
- Interior Studies
- Material Science
- 3 Dimensional Studies
- Interior Design Project 1
- Building Construction
- Interior Design Project 2
Year 2
- Interior Design Project 3
- Basic CADD
- Environmental Science & Services
- Critical Thinking
- Advanced CADD
- Lighting Design
- Project Management, Tender & Contract Management
- Furniture Design
- Interior Design Project 4
- Professional Studies & Portfolio Development
- Principles of Marketing
- Final Project
Year 3
Additional MOHE Compulsory General Studies Subjects
Local Students
- Philosophy and Current Issues
- Bahasa Kebangsaan A (applicable to students who did not sit for SPM or did not obtain a Credit in SPM Bahasa Melayu) OR Study Skills (for students who obtained a Credit in SPM Bahasa Melayu)
- Integrity & Anti-Corruption
- Community Service Learning
International Students
- Bahasa Melayu Komunikasi 1
- Study Skills
- Integrity & Anti-Corruption
- Community Service Learning
