August 21, 2009

Interior design program receives accreditation

SEARCY, Ark. — The interior design program in the department of art
and design at Harding University has received accreditation for six
years from the Council for Interior Design Accreditation.

CIDA conducted a site visit at the University in April. The process
included a vigorous evaluation of each project, course and curriculum
structure in relation to CIDA standards for interior design programs.
Those standards include design process, technical drawing skills,
building codes, environmental sustainability, construction knowledge,
aesthetics and business practices. Other considerations included
faculty qualifications, physical space and technology, and
administration support.

Site visitors reviewed course contents and interviewed administration,
faculty, support staff and students. After a four-day assessment, they
recommended accreditation, and the final decision was made by the
Accreditation Commission in early August. Six-year accreditation is
the maximum allowed.

Having a CIDA-accredited program indicates Harding’s commitment to
promoting high academic standards. It ensures that interior design
students receive a high level of education with a program that has met
the rigorous requirements of accreditation and also helps prepare them
for the competitive work force.

CIDA is an independent, nonprofit accrediting organization for
interior design education programs at colleges and universities in the
U.S. and Canada.