Interior Architecture and Design Degree Advancement Design Scenario
All eligible students seeking to advance to the second year of the Interior Architecture and Design Program will participate in the Design Scenario. Design Scenario is an advancement evaluation practicum conducted by the faculty of the Interior Architecture and Design program.
Design Scenario Frequently Asked Questions:
What do you do for the Design Scenario?
Design Scenario is a series of evaluations where you demonstrate skills that assist the faculty in impartially determining a cohort of students who demonstrate the necessary skills and readiness required for successful study in the major. We want you to succeed at CSU! Your skills in writing, sketching/drawing, problem-solving, and conceptual ideation will be evaluated.
When is Design Scenario?
Design Scenario happens each year in early to mid-April.
The 2025 Design Scenario will be Friday, April 4- Sunday, April 6!
Current students, check the DM Advising Canvas for more details!
How many students advance into the second year of the major?
There is not a set number that advances each year, but it is typically between 50-60 students. This allows students in the major to have a fulfilling and enriching experience in the CIDA accredited program with individualized feedback from faculty and instructors.
What can I do to prepare for the Design Scenario?
Leaders from all of the student groups in the Interior Architecture and Design Major come together to coach and mentor first-year students through the Design Scenario process. This includes a large amount of training and Q and A sessions as well as a practice Mock Scenario which allows you to know what to expect from the process.
What happens if I don’t get accepted into the program after Design Scenario?
If you don’t make it through Design Scenario, your journey at CSU doesn’t end! This is not a reflection of your future potential; it is only a reflection of your current skills. You can take more courses to help you build and improve those skills and take the Design Scenario a second time. Some students have taken Design Scenario a second time and successfully advanced into the IAD major.
You also have the option to switch your major to Product Development in the Department of Design and Merchandising or a minor in Design Thinking.
Are there any tips or tricks for Design Scenario?
Yes – check out this Source Article from Elena Trage, an upperclassman. She shares her experience sitting through design scenario as a student as well as her experiences mentoring students as they prepare for Design Scenario.
Whatever happens, remember you’re not alone. Faculty and instructors will meet with you one on one to provide feedback on where you need to improve your skills for next time. The department also has two fantastic Academic Success Coordinators that can help you find the right path where you will be happy and successful.
More questions? contact: designscenario@colostate.edu