Bachelor of Applied Interior Design

• Directed Field Studies - General Information
• What kinds of work term opportunities may be available?
• How do I prepare for my Directed Field Studies?
• Who is responsible for what? Student, Employer, Faculty and Coordinator roles
• What about expenses?
• How do I contact my Work Experience Coordinator?

What kinds of work term opportunities may be available?

As an Interior Design student, you could be offered a work term position in Calgary, throughout Alberta, across Canada and internationally. It is expected that students will be prepared to relocate for work experience opportunities. To date, Interior Design students have completed Directed Field Studies positions in Calgary, Vancouver, Toronto, Edmonton, New York, Arizona and Mexico.

The interior design industry includes a vast network of inter-related businesses and professions dedicated to the successful installation of interior environments. Some of these businesses include not only interior design and architectural firms, but also contractors, wholesalers, retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, dealers, leasing agents, developers, facility managers, and numerous consultants including mechanical, electrical, and structural engineers.

An important component of becoming an effective contributor to the interior design industry is an understanding of how these various and diverse professions collaborate to realize interior design projects. Also important is learning how to create positive relationships within this vast network of people.

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How do I prepare for my Directed Field Studies?

Students receive information and assistance in various areas that prepare them for their DFS experience. The Directed Field Studies Preparation component aims to:

• Familiarize students with the interior design workplace
• Present issues of professionalism and ethics as it relates to workplace responsibilities
• Conduct self assessment to identify strengths, areas requiring further development, interests, skills, etc.
• Assist students in the preparation of effective cover letters, resumes and portfolio preparation
• Familiarize students with the employment interview process
• Facilitate opportunities to practice and develop confidence in interview situations
• Familiarize students with self marketing/networking strategies to build contacts within the industry
• Orient students to the process of job applications through posting competitions

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What about expenses?

By starting to plan now, you can be financially prepared for your work terms. Expenses include:

• Directed Field Studies course fees - see Mount Royal Calendar
• Relocation expenses will be incurred by the student when completing a work term position in a town or city outside of Calgary. Budget and plan for travel expenses to and from the workplace location and paying rent in a different place to live for four months.
• Many work terms require the use of a vehicle.

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