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Home Catalog Programs of Study List of Programs Interior Design

Interior Design

Overview

Are you someone who loves wandering the aisles of home decor stores or spends hours creating the perfect dream home inspiration board? The American River College Interior Design Department offers certificates and an associate degree to help you turn your creative passion into a profitable career. The classes offered allow students to exercise their innovative abilities in design, like IDES 330 Beginning Interior Design Studio. In contrast, other classes hone in the practicalness of functionality, such as IDES 350 Codes and Universal Access for Interior Design. With the course catalog, students have the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of interior design, business practices, design history, and work on a guided portfolio to help land their dream job.

In addition to residential and commercial interior design, the IDES program at American River College pioneered Design4Life. This program promotes health and longevity in people's homes to ensure that they can safely live in their homes with different abilities and needs. Courses like IDES 355 Residences: Designed 4 Life and IDES 108 Lighting For Better Health advocate for the importance of an intentional and conscious design to increase the quality of life.

American River College's Interior Design Department is mindful of the challenges students may have with commitments outside of school. We offer online classes with various class times on three, six, and eight-week schedules to accommodate the diverse student population. When planning your course schedule, we recommend referring to the catalog to see how a class is offered and if the class alternates being taught in the fall or spring. Presently, we do not offer courses for this program during the summer semester.

Degrees and Certificates Offered

  • A.A. in Interior Planning and Design
  • Para Professional Interior Planning and Design Certificate
  • Green Building and Sustainable Design for Interiors Certificate
  • Interior Retail Merchandising Certificate
  • Sacramento Design History Certificate
  • Universal Design Certificate

Associate Degree

A.A. in Interior Planning and Design

This degree provides a foundation of education and skills in the expanding field of interior design. Topics include space planning, building and Life-Safety codes, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Additionally, it covers a variety of subjects ranging from architectural and furniture history to reading construction documents.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
IDES 300 Fundamentals of Interior Design 3
IDES 310 History of Interior Architecture and Furnishings I 3
IDES 312 History of Interior Architecture and Furnishings II 3
IDES 322 Materials of Interior Design 3
IDES 324 Interior Design Business Practices 3
IDES 326 Interior Design Sales 3
IDES 330 Beginning Interior Design Studio 3
IDES 332 Portfolio and Presentation in Interior Design 3
IDES 334 Interior Environment and Space Planning 3
IDES 340 Beginning CADD for Interior Design (3) 3
   or DESGN 301 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) (3)
IDES 341 Intermediate CADD for Interior Design (3) 3
   or DESGN 320 Three Dimensional Graphics and Design (3)
IDES 350 Codes and Universal Access for Interior Design 2
IDES 351 Codes and Universal Access Lab 1
A minimum of 3 units from the following: 3
ART 300 Drawing and Composition I (3)
ART 320 Design: Fundamentals (3)
ART 323 Design: Color Theory (3)
ARTH C1100 Survey of Art from Prehistory to the Medieval Era (3)
ARTH 308 Renaissance Tradition in Art (3)
ARTH 310 Modern Art (3)
ARTH 322 Art History of the Non-Western World (3)
FASHN 320 Textiles (3)
IDES 110 Estimating and Calculating for Interior Design (3)
A minimum of 1 unit from the following: 1
WEXP 498 Work Experience in (Subject) (0.5 - 4)
Total Units: 40

The Interior Planning and Design Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • incorporate the appropriate finishes and materials for commercial and residential interiors.
  • examine building types and occupancy classifications.
  • create construction and presentation drawings that meet California building codes.
  • assess client's needs and plans with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Life-Safety Codes and Universal/Barrier-Free Design.
  • analyze interiors to reflect the needs of the end user.
  • design spaces that are aesthetically pleasing and incorporate sound design principles.

Career Information

The field of interior design offers a variety of career options, including residential design by itself, or with a specialty such as Universal Design, Green/Sustainable, smart-home, home office, and home theater design. It also offers commercial design, which can include ADA compliance, hospitality (restaurant, hotel, cruise ship) design, set design, and contract space planning. Additional career opportunities are available in product design, retailer, buyer/purchaser, manufacturers’ representative, and facilities management.

Certificate of Achievement

Para Professional Interior Planning and Design Certificate

This certificate provides a foundation of education and skills in the expanding field of interior design. It focuses on the fundamentals of both residential and commercial design. A variety of topics taught for this certificate include space planning, building and Life-Safety codes, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and architectural and furniture history. This certificate includes an internship within the interior design industry.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
IDES 110 Estimating and Calculating for Interior Design 3
IDES 300 Fundamentals of Interior Design 3
IDES 310 History of Interior Architecture and Furnishings I 3
IDES 312 History of Interior Architecture and Furnishings II 3
IDES 322 Materials of Interior Design 3
IDES 324 Interior Design Business Practices 3
IDES 330 Beginning Interior Design Studio 3
IDES 332 Portfolio and Presentation in Interior Design 3
IDES 334 Interior Environment and Space Planning 3
IDES 340 Beginning CADD for Interior Design (3) 3
   or DESGN 301 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) (3)
IDES 341 Intermediate CADD for Interior Design (3) 3
   or DESGN 320 Three Dimensional Graphics and Design (3)
IDES 350 Codes and Universal Access for Interior Design 2
IDES 351 Codes and Universal Access Lab 1
WEXP 498 Work Experience in (Subject) 0.5 -4
A minimum of 3 units from the following: 3
ART 300 Drawing and Composition I (3)
ART 320 Design: Fundamentals (3)
ART 323 Design: Color Theory (3)
ARTH C1100 Survey of Art from Prehistory to the Medieval Era (3)
ARTH 308 Renaissance Tradition in Art (3)
ARTH 310 Modern Art (3)
ARTH 322 Art History of the Non-Western World (3)
FASHN 320 Textiles (3)
IDES 326 Interior Design Sales (3)
Total Units: 39.5 - 43

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • categorize building types and occupancy classifications.
  • create construction and presentation drawings that meet California building codes.
  • appraise the client's needs and plans with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Life-Safety codes and Universal/Barrier-Free Design.
  • distinguish historical periods and styles of architecture and interior design.
  • identify sales proposals.
  • select textiles for the appropriate end use.

Career Information

This certificate offers a variety of career options, including residential design by itself or with a specialty of home office and home theater design. It also offers commercial design opportunities, which include space planning, hospitality (restaurant, hotel, cruise ship) design, set design, and historical and adaptive re-use design. Additional career opportunities are available as product designers, retailers, buyers, manufacturers' representatives, and facilities managers.

Certificates

Green Building and Sustainable Design for Interiors Certificate

This certificate provides students with expertise in the requirements for designing green and sustainable interiors.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
IDES 300 Fundamentals of Interior Design 3
IDES 302 Introduction to Green Building and Sustainable Design in Interiors 3
IDES 381 Interior Lighting and Electrical Components 3
Total Units: 9

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • describe the history and development of the green movement as it applies to interior design
  • choose appropriate materials and finishes to achieve a green and sustainable interior
  • identify the skills that are required to apply for certification as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional and describe the process for receiving LEED certification for projects.
  • assess the role of the interior designer as part of a team of professionals involved in creating green buildings and sustainable design

Career Information

This certificate offers additional opportunities for an interior designer specializing in green design. It helps students be more employable by demonstrating a more focused skill set.

Interior Retail Merchandising Certificate

This certificate provides a foundation of education and skills in the expanding field of interior design. Topics include the materials of interior design, architectural (global and regional) and furniture history, business practices, and event planning.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
IDES 300 Fundamentals of Interior Design 3
IDES 310 History of Interior Architecture and Furnishings I 3
IDES 322 Materials of Interior Design 3
IDES 324 Interior Design Business Practices 3
IDES 330 Beginning Interior Design Studio 3
Total Units: 15

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • select the appropriate finishes and materials for commercial and residential interiors.
  • analyze interiors that reflect the needs of the end user.
  • design spaces that are aesthetically pleasing and that incorporate sound design principles.

Career Information

This certificate offers a variety of career options in residential design. Additional career opportunities are available as product designers, retailers, buyers, manufacturers' representatives, and Sacramento architectural and interiors historians.

Sacramento Design History Certificate

This program covers Sacramento’s architectural heritage of more than 150 years. The students will compare and contrast various regional styles from Old Town to 21st century modern. The styles of Julia Morgan, Frank Lloyd Wright, the Greene Brothers are analyzed.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
IDES 130 Sacramento Design History - Architectural Gems 0.5
IDES 131 Sacramento Design History - Old Sacramento 0.5
IDES 132 Sacramento Design History - Victorian 0.5
IDES 133 Sacramento Design History - Bungalows 0.5
IDES 134 Sacramento Design History - Fabulous Forties 0.5
IDES 135 Sacramento Design History - Mid-Century Modern 0.5
IDES 136 Sacramento Design History - Modern and Contemporary 0.5
IDES 312 History of Interior Architecture and Furnishings II 3
Total Units: 6.5

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • catalogue various styles and periods of architecture in Sacramento.
  • research some of Sacramento's vast periods and styles of architecture.
  • locate some of Sacramento's architectural gems.
  • distinguish specific architectural details on Sacramento structures.

Career Information

1. Historical preservationist. 2. Architectural docent. 3. Tour guide.

Universal Design Certificate

This certificate prepares students to work in the field of interior design with an emphasis on Universal Design. Multi-generational or universal design addresses the needs and abilities of people of all ages. Universal Design gives careful consideration to space planning, accessibility, security, and privacy issues, to create an environment that promotes independent living for every member of the household.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
IDES 108 Lighting For Better Health 0.5
IDES 322 Materials of Interior Design 3
IDES 330 Beginning Interior Design Studio 3
IDES 334 Interior Environment and Space Planning 3
IDES 350 Codes and Universal Access for Interior Design 2
IDES 351 Codes and Universal Access Lab 1
Total Units: 12.5

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • assess the client's interior space planning needs.
  • design residences that will successfully meet the needs of most people.
  • analyze how Universal Design is used in a floor plan.

Career Information

Students who have completed this certificate may work in full residential design. They may also specialize in residential kitchen and/or bath design.

Interior Design (IDES) Courses

IDES 101 Interior Design Careers

  • Units:1
  • Hours:18 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores a variety of career options in the multi-faceted field of interior design. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 102 Working with Clients

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers methods for effectively working with clients. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 103 Furniture Markets

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides an opportunity to learn about seasonal markets and view upcoming interior design offerings. Trends, markets, budgets, and products are discussed. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 104 Home Staging

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a basic introduction to the process of staging homes for sale. Topics include model homes and resale. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 105 Color and Interior Design

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a basic introduction to color and how it relates to interior design. Topics include basic dynamics of color, its principles, fundamentals, psychology, and applications. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 108 Lighting For Better Health

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces better lighting design that could improve your health. New research shows that properly designed lighting can enhance our human biology and overall good health. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 109 Interior Design Specifications

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is a basic introduction to the process of specifying interior fixtures, furniture, and equipment. Topics include selection, documentation, and industry standards for specification writing. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 110 Estimating and Calculating for Interior Design

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course includes techniques for accurately calculating yardage and materials of interior products for residential and commercial installations. Field trips may be required.

IDES 120 Seasonal Decorating

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces the basics for changing decor according to various seasons and holidays. Resourcing for props, elements, and accessories are included. This course covers both commercial and residential applications. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 121 Event Planning for Interior Designers

  • Units:1
  • Hours:18 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a basic introduction to event planning and how it relates to interior design. Topics include fund raisers, corporate events, and private events such as weddings and parties. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.
Pass/No Pass only.

IDES 130 Sacramento Design History - Architectural Gems

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores the rich architectural and interior design history in the Sacramento area. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.
Pass/No Pass only.

IDES 131 Sacramento Design History - Old Sacramento

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores the rich architectural and interior design history of Old Sacramento. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 132 Sacramento Design History - Victorian

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores the styles of Victorian architectural and interior design history in the Sacramento area. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required. Pass/No Pass only.

IDES 133 Sacramento Design History - Bungalows

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores the architectural and interior design history of bungalows in the Sacramento area. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required. Pass/No Pass only.

IDES 134 Sacramento Design History - Fabulous Forties

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores the architectural and interior design history of the Fabulous Forties area in Sacramento. Virtual and/or in-person field trips are required. Pass/No Pass only.

IDES 135 Sacramento Design History - Mid-Century Modern

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores mid-century modern architectural and interior design history in the Sacramento area. Virtual and/or in-person field trips are required. Pass/No Pass only.

IDES 136 Sacramento Design History - Modern and Contemporary

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:9 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores the Modern and contemporary architectural and interior design history in the Sacramento area. Virtual and/or in-person field trips are required. Pass/No Pass only.

IDES 300 Fundamentals of Interior Design

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This introductory survey course addresses various aspects of the interior design industry and profession. It includes the study and application of design principles and elements; influences of historical, cultural, and functional design factors; the selection and arrangement of interior furnishings and materials; and an overview of career options in interior design. Sustainability impact is emphasized throughout the content. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 302 Introduction to Green Building and Sustainable Design in Interiors

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces the basic principles of green building and sustainable design (GBSD) and focuses on applications in the practice of commercial or residential interior space planning and design. It includes a historic perspective and the appropriate application of these principles in the profession and also introduces the requirements for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 310 History of Interior Architecture and Furnishings I

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L3; Cal-GETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers global historical relationships between the decorative arts, period furniture, and interior architecture from antiquity through the 1800s. Emphasis is on style development as it relates to socio-economic and political factors of the times, as well as identification of specific furniture styles and architectural features. Field trips may be required.

IDES 312 History of Interior Architecture and Furnishings II

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:Local GE L3; Cal-GETC Area 3A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the historical relationship between the decorative arts, period furniture, and interior architecture from the American Colonial periods through Modern and Contemporary. Emphasis is on style development as it relates to socio-economic and political factors of the times, as well as identification of specific furniture styles and architectural features. Asian, African, Mid-Eastern, and other global styles are also included. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 322 Materials of Interior Design

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the industry, technology, products, and specification issues of interior finish materials. Textiles, floor coverings, paint and wall coverings, window treatments, furnishings and surface materials, and lighting are included. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 324 Interior Design Business Practices

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the business and practical aspects of interior design. Topics include ethical practices, methods of compensation, establishing clients' budgets, estimating costs, purchasing, billing, marketing, and sales. In-person or virtual field trips may be required.

IDES 326 Interior Design Sales

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers various aspects of selling proposed residential and commercial design projects. Included are personal presentation, selling techniques, making the sale, closing the deal, job completion, and follow up. Field trips may be required.

IDES 330 Beginning Interior Design Studio

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers basic construction, layouts, products, and materials. Topics include floor plans, structural elements, and interior space planning. Presentation methods are explored. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 332 Portfolio and Presentation in Interior Design

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:IDES 330 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers procedures for developing finished presentations in interior design. It includes methods of visually communicating with clients. It also covers both traditional and technology-based portfolio preparation. Virtual or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 334 Interior Environment and Space Planning

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:IDES 330 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:IDES 350
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the analysis and application of design concepts and space planning techniques. It includes resources necessary to creatively solve problems relative to the function and quality of human environments. Topics include the integration of barrier-free design, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), resource management, and environmental psychology design. Field trips may be required.

IDES 340 Beginning CADD for Interior Design

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:IDES 330 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course employs beginning computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) for interior design projects. It also emphasizes the creation of floor plans, space planning, elevations, and perspectives. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 341 Intermediate CADD for Interior Design

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:IDES 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:IDES 334
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a continuation of the computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) skills developed in IDES 340, utilizing a different CADD program. It also includes placing floor plans into view ports, adding attributes, and the creation of customized tool bars. Field trips are required.

IDES 350 Codes and Universal Access for Interior Design

  • Units:2
  • Hours:36 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course explores California building codes and standards, federal regulations concerning life-safety issues, and barrier-free access relative to residential and contract design. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Universal Design are detailed. Attention is given to the interior designer’s liability for the public's health, safety, and welfare.

IDES 351 Codes and Universal Access Lab

  • Units:1
  • Hours:54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:IDES 330 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:IDES 350
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course applies the content and skills from IDES 350 to various design scenarios requiring Universal Design, Barrier-Free design and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance. Projects are drafted following prescribed criteria.

IDES 381 Interior Lighting and Electrical Components

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces green and sustainable lighting design in both commercial and residential interiors. Topics include Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, photometrics, light sources, and effective lighting control. Virtual and/or in-person field trips may be required.

IDES 412 Specifications for Interior Design

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces the process of specifying interior fixtures, furniture, and equipment. Topics include selection, documentation, and industry standards for specification writing. Field trips may be required.

IDES 494 Topics in Interior Design

  • Units:2 - 4
  • Hours:36 - 72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:CISC 300
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is designed to provide an opportunity to study topics in Interior Design not included in current course offerings. Examples include kitchen & bath design; barrier-free design; in depth period style design. Virtual and/or in-person field trips are required.

IDES 495 Independent Studies in Interior Design

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

Independent Study is an opportunity for the student to extend classroom experience in this subject, while working independently of a formal classroom situation. Independent study is an extension of work offered in a specific class in the college catalog. To be eligible for independent study, students must have completed the basic regular catalog course at American River College. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval. Only one independent study for each catalog course will be allowed.

IDES 498 Work Experience in Interior Design

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Before students can participate in the Work Experience program, Los Rios Community College District must have a signed Employer Agreement on file with the student’s employer. If the employer already has an active agreement with the district (viewable at losrios.edu/wexpemployeragreement), no further action is required. In addition, students must have a paid or unpaid internship, volunteer position, or job that aligns with their career goals and a cooperating worksite supervisor who will sign all required course documents. Dual enrollment students are not permitted to enroll in Work Experience courses. Students are advised to consult with the Interior Design Department faculty to review specific certificate and degree work experience requirements.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides students with opportunities to reflect on their current skills, knowledge and abilities and explore how these are work assets and how these can be enhanced and/or developed to increase employability within the field of interior design. It is designed for students interested in work experience and/or internships in transfer-level degree occupational programs. Course content includes understanding the application of education to the workforce, completion of Title 5 required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at an approved worksite, and developing workplace skills and competencies.

Students new to Work Experience will be required to engage weekly while returning participants may meet individually with the instructor as needed. All students are required to attend the first course meeting.

Students may take up to 16 units total across all Work Experience course offerings.This course may be taken up to four times. Students are encouraged to develop new or expanded learning objectives in consultation with their employer when the course is repeated. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

IDES 499 Experimental Offering in Interior Design

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

Catalog