DSNI 445: Professional Practice & Ethics
Prerequisite: DSNI400 and 2.5 GPA in major; permission of instructor
Credit Hours: (2)
This course provides a study of business principles and professional ethics for the practice of interior design.
Note(s): Students cannot receive credit for both DSNI 445 and DSNI 490.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
The students are introduced to the business practices and procedures necessary for success in the profession of interior design. Specific topics addressed include: the interior design profession (licensing and ethics); project management (workplan, budgeting, specifying, ordering and follow-up); business relationships; business procedures and forms; fee development and contracts; and legal issues. Oral and written communication skills used in interior design profession are emphasized.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
Lectures, guest speakers, and group discussions are implemented in presenting this body of knowledge. Individual student assignments provide opportunity for the application of concepts and development of communication skills. This class also provides:
1.) Exposure to contemporary issues affecting interior design. (2d)
2.) Exposure to a variety of business, organizational, and familial structures. (2e)
3.) Exposure to legal recognition for the profession, the value of professional organizations,
and the need for life-long learning. (7g, 7h, 7i)
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will demonstrate:
1. Knowledge of issues related to professional ethics and conduct in interior design.
(7e)
2. Knowledge of standard business practices, procedures and forms used in the practice
of interior design (including business development, financial management, and strategic
planning).
3. Knowledge of project management issues, including budget, project management, project
communication, time management, scheduling, contract administration, information management,
square footage ratios and post-occupancy evaluation.
4. Knowledge of the contemporary issues impacting the profession including legal recognition
of the profession, professional organization, and understanding the importance of
continuing education and credentialing. (2d, 7g, 7h, 7i)
5. Competency in oral and written communication skills.
6. Students understand globalization and the implications of conducting the practice
of design within a world market. (2b) Students have awareness of team work structures
and dynamics. (5a)
7. The interior design program includes learning experiences that engage students
in interaction with multiple disciplines representing a variety of points of view
and perspectives. (5d)
8. Students understand the contributions of interior design to contemporary society.
(7a)
9. Students understand various types of design practices. (7b)
10. Students understand the elements of business practice (business development, financial
management, strategic planning, and various forms of collaboration and integration
of disciplines). (7c)
11. Students understand the elements of project management, project communication,
and project delivery methods. (7d)
Assessment Measures
Exams and quizzes will assess students’ knowledge of course content. Assignments will be utilized to assess the student’s ability to apply that knowledge to simulated professional practice scenarios.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
01/2011