Overview

This unique program, the first in Western Canada, offers you a university-level certificate in the art of interior decorating. Recognized as an excellent career-entry program by the Decorators & Designers Association of Canada (DDA) and industry professionals, the Residential Interiors Certificate program is a comprehensive study of residential interior fundamentals and applications.

Using principles of the related fields of visual arts, architecture, and business, our instructors effectively combine design theory and practice to ensure that students gain the experience and skills needed in the ever-changing field of residential decorating.

Audience

If you have a flair for making a house a home and like living environments that reflect a homeowner’s story and style, you may want to consider pursuing studies in residential interiors. Our student body is diverse, from recent high-school graduates to individuals seeking a career change. Some characteristics common to our students are a keen interest in fashion and home décor, good spatial perception, and the ability to work well with all types of people.

Program Plan

Transferability

As a Residential Interiors student, you may apply for admission to the University of Alberta’s B.Sc. in Human Ecology (major in clothing, textiles, and material culture) and, if accepted into that program, have core Residential Interiors credits apply toward a minor in interiors.

Qualifications & Admission

Enrolling in the program is a requirement if you want to earn the certificate. Your application may be submitted before, during, or after completing the course Introduction to Residential Interiors, but you must apply before commencing your second course. 

To enrol, you must have a high school diploma (minimum 100 credits) or equivalent, including English 30. If you attended a high school in Alberta, transcripts may be ordered from Alberta Education at 780-427-5732; if you attended high school outside of Alberta, contact the provincial department of education. 

You are still invited to apply if you do not meet the admission requirements. Your qualifications will be reviewed, and conditional entrance may be granted. For details, please contact the program office at 780-492-3034.

This program is currently open for enrolment—apply now!

Tuition & Fees

• A one-time application fee of $100 is required for admission into the program.
• Tuition is paid on a course-by-course basis as you register for your classes; courses are GST-exempt.
• Materials and textbooks are not included in course fees. For most courses, expect to spend an average of $100 per course; materials for Basic Drawing, Drafting, and Presentation cost around $450.
• This program is eligible for the Canada-Alberta Job Grant.

Courses Offered

You can register for the first course, Introduction to Residential Interiors without enrolling into the program. However, before taking the second course, you must apply and be accepted into the Residential Interiors Certificate Program.

Classes are held at Enterprise Square, downtown Edmonton, Alberta.

Course schedules are also available in printer-friendly PDF format.

Core courses

Elective courses