New York School of Interior Design


Academic Credit Courses

Embark on your journey towards a degree in interior design by enrolling in courses on a non-matriculated basis. As a non-matriculated student at New York School of Interior Design, you can take up to 12 credits at the undergraduate level without having to apply or be accepted to a program. The credits you earn can also be applied to one of our undergraduate programs, so you can start working towards your degree right away. 2026U
2026F



157 - Hand Drawing and Rendering I

In this course, sketching and rendering skills will be developed as tools for design and graphic communication. Students will draw freehand from observation, in situ, and master quick perspective sketching techniques, using various media.


Credits: 2
Course cost: $2,760.00
Registration fee applies.
Online Sections Available

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DE119 - Integrated Environments I: Textiles

Textiles are an integral element in the interior environment. Students will develop an understanding of the art and science of textiles through the examination of fiber content, dyeing techniques, and methods of weaving, and finishing. This knowledge of the physical characteristics and properties of textiles will inform students' knowledge of textile application, installation, and code compliance in both residential and contract interiors.


Credits: 2
Course cost: $2,770.00
Registration fee applies.
See schedule for other fees.


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DE125 - Design Fundamentals

This first studio will introduce students to the fundamental concepts, principles, and elements of design and design thinking. Through a series of two- and three-dimensional exercises, students will learn to analyze the designed world, synthesize their insights and knowledge, and to use the specific vocabulary of design as they create, develop, and present their work.


Credits: 2
Course cost: $2,770.00
Registration fee applies.
See schedule for other fees.
Online Sections Available

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DE128 - Graphic Communications I Basic Drafting

This course provides students with hands-on experience using both traditional and digital tools to explore and express design ideas. Key topics include hand sketching and an introduction to industry-standard software such as AutoCAD for 2D drafting, SketchUp for 3D modeling, and Adobe Photoshop for image editing. Students will create dimensioned, scaled plans, elevations, sections and other drawings and placing these within a standardized drawing template with title block and other information.


Credits: 3
Course cost: $4,150.00
Registration fee applies.
See schedule for other fees.
Online Sections Available

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DE141 - Color for Interiors

This studio course explores color for interiors with the goal of training students in color discernment, visualization, and application. Various color theories regarding the characteristics and relationships of colors based on pigment, dyes, and light will be explored. Students will use gouache paints to select colors for walls, floor coverings, window treatments, upholstery, accessories, and accent areas as they create color schemes for a variety of room settings.


Credits: 2
Course cost: $2,760.00
Registration fee applies.
Online Sections Available

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DH120 - Design History I 2000 BCE - 1350 CE

This course traces a history of design and decoration as seen in furniture, interiors, and architecture from the second millennium BCE through the thirteenth century CE. It considers design within the broader cultural, economic, and political contexts of each region, with special attention paid to early empires, spiritual traditions, and material technologies; beginning with Ancient Egypt and culminating with the rise of the Ottoman The onsite section of the course uses a blended format of online lectures, group discussions, and field trips to major collections. The online section combines video lectures with fully online discussions; students will be required to visit cultural sites and museums within their geographical region independently. A supplemental fee to cover academic-related expenses for this course such as, but not limited to, site and museum admissions, tours, guides, and/or local travel may be required in addition to tuition.


Credits: 2
Course cost: $2,770.00
Registration fee applies.
See schedule for other fees.
Online Sections Available

CLICK TO REGISTER


FA157 - Hand Drawing and Rendering

In this course, hand drawing skills will be developed as tools for design and graphic communication through utilizing the traditional design tool of a sketchbook, journal, or notebook. Students will draw freehand from observation, in situ, and master quick perspective sketching techniques, using various media in a range of scales.


Credits: 2
Course cost: $2,760.00
Registration fee applies.
Online Sections Available

CLICK TO REGISTER


LA114 - Introduction to Sustainability and the Built Environment

This survey course introduces students to the theories, principles, and concepts of sustainability and provides the context for design decisions in the 21st century. Students will develop an understanding of why current and future makers of the built environment must think differently than in the past and the reasons for concern about resource limitations, climate change, and environmental health.


Credits: 2
Course cost: $2,770.00
Registration fee applies.
See schedule for other fees.


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PC040 - Pre-College I: Intro to Interior Design

This interactive two-week course is designed to immerse you in the creative and rewarding world of interior design. Open to high school sophomores, juniors, seniors and others interested in learning more about the profession, the course will introduce you to interior design and help you explore career possibilities. You will attend lectures by designers, demonstrations of architectural drawings, and workshops on color and materials. Taught by a team of faculty, the course takes full advantage of NYSID's prime location in the nation's design capital, including field trips to contract and residential firms, and notable showrooms. The mentored studio component will enable you to explore interior design in a relaxed atmosphere and complete a small residential design project that can be added to your portfolio. This course is available on a Pass/Fail basis only. Students who successfully complete this course can apply one elective academic credit to a degree program at NYSID.


Credits: 1
Course cost: $0.00


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PC041 - Pre-College II: Hospitality Design

Take your basic interior design knowledge to the next level by exploring chic retail and hospitality spaces in the heart of the nation’s design capital. This two-week course will introduce the principles of “branding” and its integration into the interior design process. Students will get to experience the design of a small café and/or hotel lobby, with emphasis on developing additional skills to express ideas graphically and verbally. Field trips to stylish retail spaces and picturesque hotel lobbies will be complemented by guest speakers to help students further their understanding of a complex interior space. 040 Pre-College I is a prerequisite. This course is available on a Pass/Fail basis only. Students who successfully complete this course can apply one elective academic credit to a degree program at NYSID. Prerequisite: PC040 or 040


Credits: 1
Course cost: $0.00


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