Master’s in Interior Architecture & Design
Duration: 2 years
Degree: Certified Interior Architect – Designer, RNCP Level 7
Dates: The first year (M1) starts around September 20 and ends in late May
Objectives of the Master’s in Interior Architecture & Design
1st Year
- Develop a personal project that links key issues and conceptual thinking
- Assert a personal approach to Interior Architecture and Design
- Cultivate a critical perspective on your own practice
2nd Year
- Foster autonomy
- Strengthen your identity as an interior architect and designer
- Express your professional vision through a final project
Program Overview
1st Year
The first year of the Master’s program is dedicated to reinforcing the knowledge and skills gained during the ESAM Design Bachelor’s in Interior Architecture & Design or from a similar program at another institution.
You begin to shape your identity as both a designer and a project leader. This year focuses on affirming your individual approach and building a critical view of your profession, particularly through socially engaged projects. You take part in practical workshops and may assist 2nd-year Master’s students on their final diploma projects.
From the first year, you have the opportunity to follow the program through a work-study format, gaining direct experience alongside professionals.
You may also participate in national and international design competitions.
2nd Year
The second year marks the culmination of the program, where you reach full autonomy in project management. You sharpen your skills in digital design, material use, and eco-construction.
You may again choose a work-study format and attend a seminar focused on launching your career.
Throughout the year, you work under supervision on two major personal projects: one in interior architecture and one in design. These are accompanied by a thesis, which you defend before a panel of industry professionals. Preparatory mock presentations help fine-tune your approach and project throughout the year.
A Practice-Based Master’s Program
The Master’s in Interior Architecture & Design is rooted in hands-on learning. Over two years, you deepen your theoretical understanding while applying your skills through practical work.
From the 1st year, your projects integrate societal issues, connecting creativity with real-world challenges. The 2nd year builds on this, culminating in two final projects and a thesis defense.
Both years are available in work-study format, alternating between school and company placements, allowing you to gain on-the-job experience guided by professionals.
Admission Requirements
Admission into the Master’s in Interior Architecture & Design is only possible in the 1st year.
If you completed the ESAM Design Bachelor’s program, you are automatically admitted into the Master’s.
If you studied elsewhere, you may apply to enter without completing the Bachelor’s cycle. You must take a one-day remote equivalency assessment, followed by a motivation interview and portfolio review with the academic team.
The program is open to students from DN MADE (space design), architecture schools, and fine arts schools.
Courses & Curriculum
The program is primarily focused on project-based learning, so theoretical courses are fewer than in the Bachelor’s. Technical and professional culture instruction remains important.
1st Year – Technical Courses
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3D Digital Design
2nd Year – Technical Courses
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Digital Design
1st Year – Professional Culture
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Pre-thesis Supervision
2nd Year – Professional Culture
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“My Small Business” Career Seminar
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Materials and Eco-Construction
The 1st year includes three design projects. The 2nd year includes three supervised projects: interior architecture, design, and thesis.
Courses build on prior training and sharpen 3D modeling and CAD skills. Professional culture courses complete your understanding of the sector and prepare you for the workforce.
Recognition of the Degree
The 2nd year of the Master’s program awards the title of Interior Architect / Designer. It is recognized by the French government and the professional world.
The degree is listed in the RNCP (reference 38776) at Level 7, equivalent to a Master’s degree. It is also recognized by the CFAI (French Council of Interior Architects), which ensures high standards of quality and ethics in the profession.
For the class of 2023, the employment rate was 90 percent. The success rate has been above 90 percent in recent years, and the dropout rate was 0 percent in both 2023 and 2024.