500 Seventeenth St NW
Washington, DC 20006-4804
The Master of Arts in Interior Design at the Corcoran College of Art + Design addresses the interests of those who wish to achieve expertise in this broad-based and deeply fulfilling profession, channeling their creative talents to this important component of the built environment. Recent college graduates or those about to graduate are eligible to apply for admission, as are adults whose college education has been completed and who are seeking a new professional direction. If necessary, applicants may be required to extend the two-year 60-credit program with the addition of undergraduate prerequisite courses. Students with prior undergraduate coursework in art history, drawing, design, color theory, and interior design will be evaluated for appropriate course waivers based on transcripts and portfolio submissions. From its first days the gallery was a major attraction for art students, who came in growing numbers for the purpose of studying and copying the works of art on display. In 1877 a talented local painter named E.F. Andrews (1835-1915) began to offer these pilgrims free formal instruction in painting and drawing. The next year Mr. Corcoran gave additional funds for the specific purpose of aiding in the establishing of a school of design in connection with the Gallery. As the number of students increased to the point where they obstructed the public's access to the works, the need for an alternative space for an art school was recognized. Corcoran's will included a bequest for this purpose, and in 1889 construction began on a small building behind the gallery. The Corcoran School of Art officially opened its doors in 1890 with two instructors and forty students.
