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.

student experience

Academics

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Important Dates 2026–27 (September Intake)

Term 1

Sept 22-23-24 ORIENTATION
Sept 28 Term 1 start
Sept 30 Campus Closed

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Oct 12 Campus Closed

Thanksgiving
Nov 11 Campus Closed

Remembrance Day
Dec 18 Term 1 END

Winter Break: Dec 19, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027

Term 2

JAN 4 TERM 2 START
Feb 15 CAMPUS CLOSED

Family Day
March 26 Campus Closed

Good Friday
March 25 Term 2 end

Spring break from March 26 –April 4, 2027

Term 3

APR 5 TERM 3 START
May 24 Campus closed

Victoria Day
June 25 TERM 3 END

Summer Break: June 26 - July 25, 2027 (ABT & FD)

Term 4

July 26 Term 4 start
Aug 2 Campus Closed

BC Day
Sept 6 Campus closed

Labour Day
Sept 17 Term 4 End

Fall Break: Sept 18 - Sept 26, 2027

Term 5

Sept 27 TERM 5 START
Oct 11 CAMPUS CLOSED

Thanksgiving
Nov 11 Campus Closed

Remembrance Day
Dec 17 Term 5 end

Program Ends (ABT & FD)

APR 5 TERM 3 START

Term 1

Sept 21-22-23 ORIENTATION
Sept 27 Term 1 start
Sept 30 Campus Closed

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Oct 11 Campus Closed

Thanksgiving
Nov 11 Campus Closed

Remembrance Day
Dec 17 Term 1 END

Winter Break: Dec 18, 2026 – Jan 2, 2027

Term 2

JAN 3 TERM 2 START
Feb 21 CAMPUS CLOSED

Family Day
March 24 Term 2 end

Spring break from March 26 –April 4, 2027

Term 3

APR 3 TERM 3 START
Apr 14 Campus Closed

Good Friday
May 22 Campus closed

Victoria Day
June 23 TERM 3 END

Summer Break: June 26 - July 25, 2027 (ABT & FD)

Interior design students working in studio – Interior Design Diploma Victoria BC

Learning Resources

At Pacific Design Academy, we are committed to supporting our students throughout their educational journey. We offer a range of comprehensive support services designed to help both domestic and international students thrive academically and professionally.