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: August 10, 2026

Manual Drafting

This course introduces students to foundational manual drafting skills used in interior design and architectural drafting. Students will learn how to read and produce basic construction drawings while developing accuracy, precision, and technical communication skills essential to the industry. Key topics include line weight, hand lettering, dimensioning standards, and drafting conventions. Students will produce a basic set of architectural working drawings, including floor plans, site plans, elevations, sections, and plan obliques. Emphasis is placed on understanding and correctly applying both Metric and Imperial measurement systems.

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

Learning Objectives

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

Read and interpret basic architectural and construction drawings, including floor plans, elevations, sections, and site plans.

Apply standard drafting conventions such as line weights, dimensioning, and hand lettering in technical drawings.

Accurately use and convert between Metric and Imperial measurement systems in drafting work.

Produce clear and properly scaled manual architectural drawings following industry standards.

Demonstrate an understanding of spatial relationships and basic building form through drafted plans and elevations.

Develop foundational technical drawing skills required for interior design and architectural building technology.

Course Delivery

In-person

Next Start Date

August 10, 2026

Class Time

Thursday
8:30pm - 5:00pm

Course Length

6 weeks
(Total 48 hours)

Tuition

$990 (CAD) tax incl.

Meet your instructor

Jennifer Risk

INSTRUCTOR – Building Technology & Interior Design

Dany is an Industrial Designer from Mexico who began as a painter and muralist. He later studied Interior Design in Montreal and now runs a furniture design workshop while working with several contractors in Victoria. Outside of work, he enjoys sports and spending time with his dog, Lula.