Math Courses Needed for Interior Design

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Students seeking a career in interior design must balance not just the artistic side of the profession, but also the technical. College programs for design require students to become familiar with several different topics in mathematics. These courses are designed to provide the foundation necessary for completing an education in interior design.

1 Prerequisite

A basic skills math course is needed for interior designers to be familiar with simple arithmetic such as division and multiplication. This is applied towards both the art and financial aspect of design.

2 Basic Skills

Algebra is required to gain an understanding of formulas and their application to design. For example, determining the amount of paint needed based on surface area divided by the coverage each can of paint provides.

3 Advanced

Geometry is needed for determining spacial relationships in a room as well as measurement. Also the calculation of angles and area are enforced.

4 Outside Courses

Interior design programs require the completion of a business-focused mathematics course. Topics covered include taxes, marking up materials, payment plans and other topics necessary to work with clients.

5 Application

Interior design students are encourage to become familiar with Computer-aided Design (CAD), a software program that uses the computer as an electronic canvas. CAD combines the above math disciplines into one application.

Dan Chruscinski has written pieces for both business and entertainment venues. His work has appeared in "Screen Magazine" as well as websites such as Starpulse.com. Chruscinski graduated in 2006 with a degree in English literature from Illinois State University.

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