Who should do this course?
Anyone who is serious about becoming an interior designer who has an existing Foundation Degree or HND (or equivalent) in a relevant design subject may top-up to BA (Hons) Design for Outdoor Living. This top-up degree gives you the opportunity to gain a qualification in two distinct disciplines of interior design.
Mature students with extensive experience in the Interior Design profession can also receive recognition through this qualification.
This Degree is validated and awarded by Staffordshire University.
If you have to juggle family commitments, full-time or part-time work and want the flexibility offered by studying part-time by distance learning, then this is the course for you.
The National Design Academy is listed within the 'listed bodies' of Recognised UK Degrees, ensuring your qualification is Nationally and Internationally recognised, please CLICK HERE for further information
Image courtesy of Joan Grabel 'Urban Zen Retreat' www.parkslopedesign.net
Entry requirements
You will need to have achieved:
- A Foundation Degree in Interior Design (All NDA FdA Interior Design graduates are guaranteed a place on this BA (Hons) course)
- HND/HNC in Interior Design (HNC students may require access additional FdA Modules)
- An equivalent qualification
Students who have completed qualifications other than the NDA's Foundation Degree, may need to access additional FdA Modules.
Applications are welcome from those aged 21 with extensive experience in the interior design profession. Please submit a portfolio of evidence showing an entire project to include; sketches, plans, estimates and a final design pack.
Where can I study & how long will it take?
You can enrol at any time! The BA (Hons) Design for Outdoor Living is studied part-time, by distance learning through our specially created Virtual Learning Studios (VLS) via the internet using your computer. Here you can access thousands of links to design information, mail your tutor direct, meet new friends and keep in touch through the Student Forum.
Everyone is different; most students take between 12-18 months to complete the BA (Hons) Design for Outdoor Living. However, some students finish the course earlier and some take the maximum study time of 3 years.
What will I achieve?
BA (Hons) Design for Outdoor Living awarded by Staffordshire University
When can I start?
You can enrol at any time and set your own start date.
Assessment
You will not have to take an exam! Your tutor will assess your assignments as you submit them throughout the course and your portfolio is moderated by a Staffordshire University External Examiner. The course assignments are mainly practical and will not involve extensive essay or thesis writing.
Each Module is self-contained, and has its own assessment, it has distinctive educational objectives and clearly defined content.
After my course
Following successful completion at Level 6, you will be awarded a BA (Hons) Design for Outdoor Living and will be invited to attend the graduation ceremony.
You may choose to progress to a Masters Degree or PhD or access a host of graduate programmes.
You can become a freelance designer; start your own residential or commercial practice within a range of industries or work as a qualified interior or garden designer within an interior design or architectural practice. This top-up degree gives you the opportunity to gain a qualification in two distinct disciplines of interior design.
Course details
If you want to gain the BA (Hons) Design for Outdoor Living, you will need to complete three Modules. Modules 1 and 2 are worth 30 credits, with the Independent Study Module worth 60 credits.
It is estimated that the first 2 Modules should each take approximately 5 months with a further 6 months for the Independent Study Project.
These are:
Module 1 - Design Technology and Materials
Within this Module you will look at the principles that define outdoor living and transitional outdoor spaces with particular reference to materials and hard landscaping. The Module will commence with an overview or garden design and landscape architecture and an indication of current trends
Module 2 - Plants and Planting for Outdoor Living Space
Planting design is the art of composing plants to create a design and within this Module you will learn how to create effective designs for an outdoor living space using planting in raised beds, containers and habit other defined areas.
Module 3 - Independent Study
This Module is a double-length Module (60 credits) which will be based upon clear proposals with specific criteria. The subject area for assessment will be established in discussion with your tutor in addition to fulfilling criteria set down by Staffordshire University and the National Design Academy. Within the course of the Independent Special Study Project you will be expected to develop innovative ideas in response to a clearly defined brief appropriate to design for outdoor living.
Essential Equipment
- Laptop, PC or Mac to access the course online via the VLS
- Broadband internet connection
- Internet browser: Internet Explorer 7 (or above) or Firefox
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Digital camera
- Drawing pen and pencil
- Scale rule with 1:10, 1:20 and 1:50 scales (approx £8)
- Adjustable set-square (approx £16)
- Pastels, crayons, watercolours, etc.
- A3 paper
- A2 drawing board
- Recommended reading book list
All books, non-electronic equipment & other recommended equipment is available in our online Art Shop at special student prices.
