Is the accelerated diploma the same as the standard Interior Design diploma?

Yes. The accelerated program covers the exact same 1440 instructional hours and full curriculum as the standard Interior Design Diploma. The difference is the timeline — you complete it in 15 months instead of 33 months, with a more intensive weekly schedule and no summer break.

How many hours per week is the accelerated program?

The accelerated program runs 20–30 hours per week. This is more intensive than the standard program's 20 hours per week, which is how the same diploma is completed in significantly less time. Students should plan to fully commit to their studies during the program.

When does the next accelerated intake start?

The next intake for the Interior Design Accelerated program starts April 6, 2026, with an expected graduation date of June 18, 2027 — a full year earlier than the standard program's September 2026 intake.

Can I work while enrolled in the accelerated program?

Because the accelerated program is intensive at 20–30 hours per week, working full time alongside your studies is not recommended. Part-time or casual work may be manageable depending on your schedule, but students should prioritize their coursework to get the most out of the program.

What software will I learn in the Interior Design program?

Students learn industry-standard design software including AutoCAD, Revit, Vectorworks, SketchUp, and Lumion. You will also develop manual drafting and space planning skills alongside digital tools, preparing you for professional practice in BC and across Canada.

Can I continue my education after graduating from PDA?

Yes. PDA has a strong relationship with Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU). Each year, Interior Design graduates are accepted into CIDA-accredited programs at KPU. Graduates are also eligible to write the NCIDQ exam after completing three years of full-time work experience.

Design Skills & Technology Courses

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Next intake: April 07, 2026

Materials & Specifications

This course develops student's ability to consolidate a broad range of Interior Design concepts and aptitudes to achieve intelligent and compliant solutions. Students will use the foundational skills and software knowledge developed in other classes to learn about various construction materials. This class will focus on designing with an environmentally conscious purpose and the application of various sustainability standards in building.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the successful student will have reliably demonstrated the ability to:

Distinguish between various materials..

Understand specifying materials on sheet sets.

Identify costing for materials and prepare a rough budget.

Describe and understand the properties of materials like glass, wood, ceramics, paint, stones, mortar, cement and concrete.

Course Delivery

In-person

Next Start Date

April 07, 2026

Class Time

Tuesdays
10:00am - 12:00pm

Course Length

12 weeks
(Total 24 hours)

Tuition

$500 (CAD) tax incl.

Meet your instructor

Donna Dowling

INSTRUCTOR – Interior Design

Donna’s background in psychology, education, and instructional design led her to teach Interior Decorating at Algonquin College, sparking her transition to design. After studying art and architecture at Carleton, she launched a residential decorating firm and online consulting service, working with clients across Munich, San Diego, and Ottawa.