Hands-on training for interior designers

This series is for individuals who are interested in learning about interior design/decorating, including those who work as designers, aspire to have a career as a professional designer, or even choose to take the program to assist them in decorating their own spaces. Participants will learn design concepts for both residential and commercial application, important industry standards, and how to start and run an interior design business. 

This is a hands-on, interactive series uses actual textiles and other materials that you, as a designer, would utilize in your commercial or residential projects. Course handouts outlining the various finishes and their applications included in the program can then serve as a resource to you as a new designer or as a seasoned professional. At the end of this 16-week course, you will be able to prepare a professional design board with room layouts and researched specifications of paint colors, fabrics, window treatments, furniture, flooring, and lighting using samples provided.

About the instructor

The series will be lead by Jean Swanson, a professional interior designer with over 25 years experience in Pittsburgh. She has worked extensively on hundreds of projects from color consultations to new construction projects, both residential and commercial. Ms. Swanson is very passionate about the design business and very supportive of those who aspire to a career in it. She developed this program to teach not only the esthetics of design, but how to start and run a business. 

Topics

  • Color theory
  • The design process
  • Design standards
  • Furniture
  • Flooring
  • Lighting
  • Fabrics
  • Kitchen design
  • Bathroom design
  • Design for outdoor spaces
  • Business essentials

Initial Interior Design Series

Spring 2023 (weeks 1-8) *

  • Dates: April 15 - June 3, 2023
  • Time: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Penn State Beaver 
  • Cost: $659
  • Register: Spring Interior Design

Fall 2023 (weeks 9-16) *

  • Dates: TBD
  • Time: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Penn State Beaver 
  • Cost: $659
  • Register: Fall Interior Design Coming Soon

*Both sessions must be taken to complete the series.

**Advanced Interior Design Series Details

  • Dates: April 15 through May 6, 2023
  • Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
  • Location: Penn State Beaver
  • Cost: $319
  • Register: Advanced Interior Design

**Both Spring and Fall Sessions of the Initial Interior Design Series must be completed to enroll in the Advanced Series.

Information

For more information or to register, please contact the Continuing Education Office at 724-773-3700 or [email protected].

Cancellations and refunds

Payment is due upon registration. Students may request a registration cancellation through the start date of the course. A $25 cancellation fee will apply. No refunds will be given for withdrawal requests after the course start date. The University reserves the right to cancel course selections. If the course is cancelled, the student will be issued a full refund.