School of Media & Design

Our Program

This two-year Ontario College Diploma program is designed to provide students with the essential decorating skills, business, project management and client relations training required to succeed as an interior decorator.

Strong emphasis is placed on developing the hands-on component, which is offered through courses in colour theory, lighting, furniture and finishes. Students also study residential and commercial decor and retail display techniques.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Are imaginative and enjoy solving problems.
• Think visually and creatively.
• Are planners and enjoy putting plans into action.

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Your Career

Graduates may initially be employed at an assistant level performing duties, such as proposal writing, sample selection, presentation board preparation, client interviews and colour consultations. They may produce written
calculations and estimates for work rendered or provide advice for individual client needs.

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Courses

Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with online learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.

Level: 01		Hours
DSN5218	Colour in Decor This course provides an overview of colour properties, and the effects created by colour interactions. Areas of study include the physiological, psychological and cultural responses to colour. Through a series of exercises, students use paint samples to better understand the composition of colours. Students also use colour to create mood by preparing a colour scheme for a client.	45.0
DSN5219	Basic Drafting Skills This course enables students to draft accurate floor plans, elevations and furniture layouts to scale. Students learn how to use drafting tools, as they apply correct line weights, architectural lettering and rendering to their drawings.	45.0
DSN5220	Elements and Principles of Our Environment In this activity-based course, students focus on the elements and principles used in design and how they relate to the global environment around us. Through a combination of research and reflection, students expand their awareness of visual environments based on cultural context, appropriateness, aesthetics and function. Students explore the creative process that contributes to multicultural spaces and have the opportunity to evaluate the historical and modern development of these concepts and their impact on society.	45.0
DSN5224	Interior Finishes This course reviews interior finishes, such as flooring, wall treatments, upholstery, furniture finishes and their application. Students examine the durability, maintenance, use, aesthetic and physical properties and health effects of different finishes. Given client scenarios in which style preferences and practical considerations are specified, students select and coordinate finishes.	45.0
DSN5275	Drawing Techniques This is an introductory drawing course with a split emphasis on realistic graphite and marker rendering. Students learn how to execute professional concept renderings through executing visually correct and balanced compositions of furniture and interior finishes. Measurement, shading, balance, cropping, view selection and focal point analysis are studied.	45.0
DSN5279	History of Furniture I Students explore the history of furniture beginning with ancient civilizations through the Georgian period gaining an appreciation of different styles and how they are used in today's interiors. Social influences of each time period are introduced and students learn to identify and relate specific styles to interior decoration.	45.0
ENL1813M	Communications I Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.	45.0

Level: 02		Hours
DSN5221	Perspective Sketching This course includes the development and practice of one and two point perspective drawing, thumbnail sketching and the application of colour to finished interior drawings. Students learn to showcase their work using different presentation methods. Prerequisites: DSN5219 and DSN5275	45.0
DSN5223	Furniture and Layout This course focuses on selecting and arranging furniture for creative furniture layouts. Given a series of scenarios, students practise analyzing functional requirements, selecting furniture based on lifestyle, need, and preferences and coordinating with existing finishes. Topics include the construction and quality of furniture, how to mix different styles, and circulation and dividing rooms into functional zones when planning spaces. Prerequisites: DSN5219 and DSN5282	45.0
DSN5226	Window Treatments This course focuses on specifying window treatments, bedding, table, and chair coverings. Students learn how to consult with clients to determine practical requirements and aesthetic preferences, research and gather information about products and suppliers, calculate fabric requirements, and write work orders for sewing and installation. Students study many types of fabrics and materials, their appropriate uses, and industry terminology. Through the use of visual and oral presentations, students learn to communicate their decorating concepts effectively. Prerequisites: DSN5224 and DSN5281	45.0
DSN5280	History of Furniture II Students continue their exploration of different periods from the end of the Georgian period through to furniture designers of the 21st century. Construction methods and materials are covered in more depth and specific colour and fabric influences are explored. Exercises assist students in identifying specific styles and how they can be used in residential interiors. Prerequisites: DSN5279	45.0
DSN5281	Textiles Students gain an understanding of fabric composition and applications in interior decorating. Emphasis is placed on identifying finished fabrics, how to apply finished fabrics to end products, such as furniture and draperies. Topics include natural and man-made fibre construction, how to blend patterns, textures and colours into the style of the d?cor. Students demonstrate their knowledge by completing a research paper and textile identification binder. Prerequisites: DSN5224	21.0
DSN5298	Accessories This hands-on course explores the creative objects that provide practical and emotional support to a variety of decorating styles. In-class study includes exercises in the selection of, and approaches to, arranging accessories. Prerequisites: DSN5224	21.0
ENL1814M	Communications II This advanced course develops effective oral presentation techniques, and improves writing, grammar and persuasive skills in proposals to clients. Prerequisites: ENL1813M	45.0

Choose one from equivalencies:		Hours
GED6142	General Education Elective Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, Personal Understanding, and Science and Technology. Equivalencies: ARC9001 or DSN2001 or ENV0002 or FAM1218 or FIN2300 or GED5200 or GED5300 or GEN1001 or GEN1957 or GEN2000 or GEN2003 or GEN2007 or GEN2009 or HIS0001 or HIS2000 or HOS2228 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or PSI1702 or RAD2001 or SOC2003 or GED5002 or GED5004 or GED5005 or GED5006 or GED6022 or ENL7643 or GED1896 or GED5009 or PSI0003	45.0

Level: 03		Hours
DSN5228	Residential Decor Practicum Bringing together all of the previous courses, students practise developing imaginative solutions to decorating problems based on client needs. Emphasis is placed on innovative presentations of ideas and creative ways to coordinate furnishings and finishes. Through client projects, students learn how to cost out a concept, research sources and prepare estimates. Prerequisites: DSN5218 and DSN5219 and DSN5223 and DSN5224 and DSN5242 and DSN5279 and DSN5280 and DSN5282	45.0
DSN5265	Psychology This course introduces students to the investigation of behaviour and mental processes and explores how this information can be used by the interior decorator. Students interact with theories of the discipline of psychology and relate them to their work environments. Students also examine the theory of group dynamics to enhance personal and group performance.	45.0
DSN5266	Studio I This course develops projects in a studio atmosphere using a variety of hands-on situations and allowing the student to create solutions using two-dimensional and three-dimensional techniques. Studio critiques and team building workshops provide the framework for this course. Prerequisites: DSN5220 and DSN5221 and DSN5223 and DSN5224 and DSN5226 and DSN5279 and DSN5280	45.0
DSN5274	Kitchen and Bath This course introduces students to creating interesting and functional kitchen and bathroom areas. Students examine cabinet and counter materials, styles and industry trends. Through projects and critiques of layouts, students learn to optimize kitchen and bathroom components and arrangements. Prerequisites: DSN5219 and DSN5221 and DSN5275	45.0
DSN5276	Lighting This course analyzes practical uses of lighting, and lighting techniques for creating atmosphere. It includes discussions of the sources, characteristics, types, locations, and quantities of light, styles of fixtures, and the effects of light on people and colours. Students create a lighting plan for a residential project that embraces both practical and aesthetic considerations. Prerequisites: DSN5218 and DSN5219	45.0
DSN5296	AutoCAD for Decorators I This course introduces students to computer-aided drafting. Students learn how to produce floor plans and elevations for a residential setting. Prerequisites: DSN5219	45.0
MKT5210	Marketing Techniques This course focuses on the fundamental techniques of marketing and selling retail and wholesale merchandise. Students develop a comprehensive marketing plan for a proposed business venture. Emphasis is placed on producing promotional material geared toward attracting consumers to purchase products and services. Attention is placed on establishing a professional image and maintaining relationships with Clients. The psychology and professional practice of marketing is examined. Co-requisites: DSN5265	45.0

Level: 04		Hours
DSN5267	Visual Display This course builds on the Accessories course. Students learn and apply window and showroom floor displays using two-dimensional and three-dimensional techniques. Lectures cover the principles of visual display of merchandise. Students learn through a series of lectures, guest speakers, workshops and team directed projects. Prerequisites: DSN5218 and DSN5219 and DSN5220 and DSN5221 and DSN5275 and DSN5298 Co-requisites: DSN5268 and DSN5269 and DSN5270	45.0
DSN5268	AutoCAD for Decorators II This course builds on the fundamentals of AUTOCAD. Students prepare detailed floor plans, elevations and rendered drawings to support their Commercial Decorating course. Emphasis is be placed on communication of concept through to completion. Prerequisites: DSN5218 and DSN5296 Co-requisites: DSN5269	45.0
DSN5269	Commercial Decorating This course focuses on the decorating environment of commercial installations. Students learn space planning techniques and finishes used in commercial settings. Custom-built cabinetry is examined and the various materials required are introduced. Prerequisites: DSN5223 and DSN5224 Co-requisites: DSN5268 and DSN5270	45.0
DSN5270	Studio II This course is designed to allow students to work on projects in a studio setting using three-dimensional model building and professional presentation techniques. Focus is geared toward kiosk and display techniques in a commercial setting. Prerequisites: DSN5218 and DSN5219 and DSN5220 and DSN5221 Co-requisites: DSN5267 and DSN5268 and DSN5269	45.0
DSN5297	Field Placement To help the transition from classroom to workplace, this experience gives students the opportunity to work in the decorating field. Students apply the knowledge and skills they have gained in the classroom to professional practice. Prerequisites: DSN5218 and DSN5219 and DSN5220 and DSN5221 and DSN5223 and DSN5224 and DSN5226 and DSN5275 and DSN5276 and DSN5279 and DSN5280 and DSN5281 and DSN5298	56.0
MKT5205	Business Skills for Decorators The course explores business options students have upon graduation. Students prepare curriculum vitae, business forms and portfolios. Class discussions include aspects of managing projects, scheduling, types of businesses, tax, and legal obligations and record information. Topics include communication, conflict resolution, building networks, presentations and decorating codes of ethics. Special attention is given to the importance of organization and communication. Prerequisites: DSN5218 and DSN5219 and DSN5224 and DSN5242 and DSN5276 and DSN5279 and DSN5280 and DSN5282	45.0

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Fees & Expenses

Approximate 1st Year Costs

Tuition/Fees $ 3,124
Books/Supplies: $ 2,040
Incidental Fees: $ 0
Total: $ 5,164



Tuition Fees listed are in effect for the 2011-2012 academic year.

Tuition Fees: $1,212.20 per term in Levels 01 and 02 and $1,206.40 per term in Levels 03 and 04.

Incidental Fees: $30 in Levels 03 and 04.

Information Technology Fee: $62 per term. *

Student Activity/Sports Fee: $190.50 per term.

Student Centre Building Fee: $17.50 per term.

Health Service Fee: $10 per term.

Health Plan Fee: $114.50 paid once annually. **

A $35 graduation fee is payable in the final term.

A $25 transcript fee is payable in the first term a student attends Algonquin College.

International Students pay all relevant Canadian fees plus an International Premium of $4,400 per term.

* Students paying the Information Technology fee are provided with a network account, an email address, and Internet access. For more information please visit our website at www.algonquincollege.com/its/services/it_fee.htm

** Students who have coverage with another plan can request a refund by supplying the Students' Association with documentation supporting the
request. This request will have to be made annually.

Books and supplies cost approximately $1,600 in the first year and $1,300 in the second year. Equipment: a portable drafting table will be required for students for the Fall of 2010. The drafting table and Borco surface will be available from the College bookstore costing approximately $115. There are three equipment kits required for first year at a total cost of $325.

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Admission Requirements  2012/20132011/2012

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Application Information

Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:

ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228

Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should contact their Guidance Office to apply. For all other applicants, applications are available online at ontariocolleges.ca. A $95 fee applies.

Applications for Fall Term, Winter Term and Spring Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.

International applicants applying from out-of-country can obtain the
International Student Application Form at
https://xweb.algonquincollege.com/FormIE/index.aspx or by contacting the Registrar's Office.

For further information on the admissions process, contact:

Registrar's Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave, Room C150
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Email: askalgonquin@algonquincollege.com

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Additional Information

For more information, please contact SJ Normand, Program Coordinator, at 613-727-4723 ext. 5868 or normans@algonquincollege.com.

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