10 answers
rina
Student
Doha, Qatar
1
Question
Asked
1481 views
Art or Design technology IGSCE?
so in my school, we have art and DT (design technology) as separate IGCSES, i want to be an architect/interior designer, technically, taking DT would be more useful and easier for me to take rather than art/both. i just want to know since im not entirely sure if it is necessary for unis n stuff!
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10 answers
Mauricio Chaves
Interior Designer
37
Answers
Doorn, Netherlands
Updated
Mauricio’s Answer
Dear Rina,
I totally understand why you’re thinking DT might be the more practical choice—it seems like the direct path to architecture and interior design. But let me share a bit of my own experience.
When I first started university, I studied Art. My classes covered everything from design, sculpture, painting, and drawing to marketing, psychology, and even languages. It was a broad and creative education, and I loved every part of it. But when I stepped into the job market, I realized I was missing something: technical skills in digital design and software. That gap limited my opportunities at first, and it became clear that the industry had shifted—technology had become an essential part of design.
Later, I did a postgraduate degree in interior design, and this time, the focus was heavily on software and digital tools. It was a reflection of how the industry had evolved, and it gave me the technical foundation I needed. But here’s what I learned: my background in Art was what made my work stand out. The technical skills can be learned at any stage, but creativity, originality, and a strong artistic vision are what truly set designers apart.
That being said, talent doesn’t come just from a classroom. Travel, experiencing different cultures, living abroad, and genuinely engaging with history and design—these are the things that shape your perspective and creativity. The most important factor isn’t whether you take Art or DT; it’s your motivation and what you do with what you learn. If you’re passionate about design, prepare yourself in the best way possible, but never lose sight of the artistic side of it—that’s what will make your work unique.
May the force be with you!
I totally understand why you’re thinking DT might be the more practical choice—it seems like the direct path to architecture and interior design. But let me share a bit of my own experience.
When I first started university, I studied Art. My classes covered everything from design, sculpture, painting, and drawing to marketing, psychology, and even languages. It was a broad and creative education, and I loved every part of it. But when I stepped into the job market, I realized I was missing something: technical skills in digital design and software. That gap limited my opportunities at first, and it became clear that the industry had shifted—technology had become an essential part of design.
Later, I did a postgraduate degree in interior design, and this time, the focus was heavily on software and digital tools. It was a reflection of how the industry had evolved, and it gave me the technical foundation I needed. But here’s what I learned: my background in Art was what made my work stand out. The technical skills can be learned at any stage, but creativity, originality, and a strong artistic vision are what truly set designers apart.
That being said, talent doesn’t come just from a classroom. Travel, experiencing different cultures, living abroad, and genuinely engaging with history and design—these are the things that shape your perspective and creativity. The most important factor isn’t whether you take Art or DT; it’s your motivation and what you do with what you learn. If you’re passionate about design, prepare yourself in the best way possible, but never lose sight of the artistic side of it—that’s what will make your work unique.
May the force be with you!
yes, i so agree!! and i have always wanted to travel around and brace other history and culture to broaden my understanding and experience, its always been a dream to incorporate different perspectives and cultures into certain things, whether its also for architecture or interior design, i think its important to grasp the art skills while i can with all the support i have, and i do take extracurricular in 3D software and how to manage stuff on it. thank you, this did really help me!
rina
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1334
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Rina! It’s awesome that you’re already thinking about your future as an architect or interior designer. Both are really super creative and exciting careers! So Firstly I am gonna tell you the pros of Art and Design Technology (DT) to help you decide and hope it helps you get somethings cleared out!
🎨 Art IGCSE (positives)
Boosts Creativity: Helps you develop original ideas and think outside the box—great for unique architectural designs.
Also, Many universities love to see a creative portfolio, and Art IGCSE gives you a head start. So it basically boosts your portfolio.
Architects often sketch their ideas and so this course helps refine your drawing abilities. Enhancing your hand and Sketching Skills.
Also you get to experiment with different materials and express your ideas visually. This way you get a higher Self-Expression.
This is really Great if you enjoy, Drawing, painting, and being imaginative with your designs. Then go for it!
🛠️ Design Technology (DT) IGCSE – Positives 🤓
It enhances your Practical Skills. Allows you to Learn how to create models and prototypes—super useful for architectural work.
DT teaches you how to find solutions and design functional spaces—key for architecture. Hence it boosts your problem solving skills as well.
You’ll work with design software and tools, which is useful for computer-aided design (CAD). Tech Savvy!
Also you’ll handle real-world design tasks, which helps when working on client projects later. So you will be managing projects.
If you enjoy Building things, working with technology, and solving design challenges. Then you can give this a shot.
🎯 Which One Should You Choose? Ofcourse you had ask this! 😏
If you can only pick one which would it be?
Want to focus on creativity and visuals? → Art
Prefer technical skills and practical design? → DT
Now Rina, if you can manage both, go for it! Many universities love a balance of artistic flair and technical knowledge—both are valuable in architecture and interior design.
You could also check out university architecture programs you're interested in and see if they prefer one over the other—but either way, you're on the right track!
And if you are still unsure what to do just do a few days Volunteering into the field and see which you think you will need.
All the best and good luck Rina, you got this and you can always count on clicking away a little doubt if you get! 💪😉
🎨 Art IGCSE (positives)
Boosts Creativity: Helps you develop original ideas and think outside the box—great for unique architectural designs.
Also, Many universities love to see a creative portfolio, and Art IGCSE gives you a head start. So it basically boosts your portfolio.
Architects often sketch their ideas and so this course helps refine your drawing abilities. Enhancing your hand and Sketching Skills.
Also you get to experiment with different materials and express your ideas visually. This way you get a higher Self-Expression.
This is really Great if you enjoy, Drawing, painting, and being imaginative with your designs. Then go for it!
🛠️ Design Technology (DT) IGCSE – Positives 🤓
It enhances your Practical Skills. Allows you to Learn how to create models and prototypes—super useful for architectural work.
DT teaches you how to find solutions and design functional spaces—key for architecture. Hence it boosts your problem solving skills as well.
You’ll work with design software and tools, which is useful for computer-aided design (CAD). Tech Savvy!
Also you’ll handle real-world design tasks, which helps when working on client projects later. So you will be managing projects.
If you enjoy Building things, working with technology, and solving design challenges. Then you can give this a shot.
🎯 Which One Should You Choose? Ofcourse you had ask this! 😏
If you can only pick one which would it be?
Want to focus on creativity and visuals? → Art
Prefer technical skills and practical design? → DT
Now Rina, if you can manage both, go for it! Many universities love a balance of artistic flair and technical knowledge—both are valuable in architecture and interior design.
You could also check out university architecture programs you're interested in and see if they prefer one over the other—but either way, you're on the right track!
And if you are still unsure what to do just do a few days Volunteering into the field and see which you think you will need.
All the best and good luck Rina, you got this and you can always count on clicking away a little doubt if you get! 💪😉
Natalie Goodman, NCIDQ NEWH
Commercial and Hospitality Interior Design
7
Answers
Boulder, Colorado
Updated
Natalie’s Answer
Hi Rina,
That is a great question!! I am a professional interior designer.
Interior design is both creative and technical. One problem I see in recent graduates is th inability to sketch ideas. Being able to quickly communicate thought on paper is critical when collaborating or brainstorming ideas. You often have to sketch in from of clients to communicate ideas.
Mauricio is spot on with his response. The field is competitive and you need to stand out. A course like Rapid Visualization teaches how to draw fast but focusing only on what is important.
Good luck with your journey and always remember to enjoy it!
Best regards,
Natalie
That is a great question!! I am a professional interior designer.
Interior design is both creative and technical. One problem I see in recent graduates is th inability to sketch ideas. Being able to quickly communicate thought on paper is critical when collaborating or brainstorming ideas. You often have to sketch in from of clients to communicate ideas.
Mauricio is spot on with his response. The field is competitive and you need to stand out. A course like Rapid Visualization teaches how to draw fast but focusing only on what is important.
Good luck with your journey and always remember to enjoy it!
Best regards,
Natalie
thank you! i was just talking to my mom about having to practice and being able to quickly draw and deliver ideas, this has actually helped me decide that i might actually do both, i am not starting fresh w art skills and i do have prior knowledge and skills and so i think the creative side of fine arts and technical side of DT will help me with either architecture or interior design. thank you again!
rina
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
483
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Rina,
If you plan to study in Qatar, VCUarts is an option for Interior Design (link below).
You find the application requirements here:
https://qatar.vcu.edu/admissions/undergraduate-admissions/application-requirements/
You'll need to submit an art portfolio with your application. So, taking art might be a good idea. You'll get training and feedback in art and you'll have a number of pieces that you can use for your portfolio. If you can do Art and Design Technology without overloading your schedule, why not do both?
You can look up similar information for other schools. When you have narrowed it down, speak to a student advisor to confirm.
I hope this helps! Good luck!
KP
If you plan to study in Qatar, VCUarts is an option for Interior Design (link below).
You find the application requirements here:
https://qatar.vcu.edu/admissions/undergraduate-admissions/application-requirements/
You'll need to submit an art portfolio with your application. So, taking art might be a good idea. You'll get training and feedback in art and you'll have a number of pieces that you can use for your portfolio. If you can do Art and Design Technology without overloading your schedule, why not do both?
You can look up similar information for other schools. When you have narrowed it down, speak to a student advisor to confirm.
I hope this helps! Good luck!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Yashar Jafari
Graphic Designer
2
Answers
Tehran, Tehran Province, Iran
Updated
Yashar’s Answer
Hi Rina :)
If your goal is architecture or interior design, DT might be a better choice since it focuses more on technical skills, practical design, and materials, which are really useful for your career path. However, many architecture universities value a (strong portfolio), and art can help you build that.
If possible, taking both would be ideal, but if you have to choose one and DT feels easier for you, go for it—just make sure to also work on your hand-drawing and creativity skills on the side. Most importantly, before making a final decision, check the(requirements of the universities you're interested in), as some might place importance on art as well.
If your goal is architecture or interior design, DT might be a better choice since it focuses more on technical skills, practical design, and materials, which are really useful for your career path. However, many architecture universities value a (strong portfolio), and art can help you build that.
If possible, taking both would be ideal, but if you have to choose one and DT feels easier for you, go for it—just make sure to also work on your hand-drawing and creativity skills on the side. Most importantly, before making a final decision, check the(requirements of the universities you're interested in), as some might place importance on art as well.
Abhishek Bhatt
Architecture and interior designer
1
Answer
Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
Updated
Abhishek’s Answer
It's great that you're thinking ahead about your IGCSE choices and how they relate to your future career! Here's a breakdown to help you decide between Art and DT for your architecture/interior design path:
Why DT is Highly Relevant:
Technical Skills: DT focuses on design processes, technical drawing, model making, and understanding materials and construction. These are fundamental skills for architects and interior designers.
Problem-Solving: DT projects often involve solving design challenges, which is a core aspect of architectural work.
Practical Application: DT gives you hands-on experience in bringing designs to life, which is valuable for understanding how things are built.
Why Art Can Be Beneficial:
Visual Communication: Art develops your ability to express ideas visually, which is important for sketching, concept development, and presenting designs.
Creativity and Aesthetics: Art helps you understand composition, color theory, and visual balance, which are essential for creating aesthetically pleasing spaces.
Why DT is Highly Relevant:
Technical Skills: DT focuses on design processes, technical drawing, model making, and understanding materials and construction. These are fundamental skills for architects and interior designers.
Problem-Solving: DT projects often involve solving design challenges, which is a core aspect of architectural work.
Practical Application: DT gives you hands-on experience in bringing designs to life, which is valuable for understanding how things are built.
Why Art Can Be Beneficial:
Visual Communication: Art develops your ability to express ideas visually, which is important for sketching, concept development, and presenting designs.
Creativity and Aesthetics: Art helps you understand composition, color theory, and visual balance, which are essential for creating aesthetically pleasing spaces.
yes!! i was just doubting taking both due to workload but im not new to art and my mom is an artist too, so now im definitely going to take art and dt, yesterday i learnt more about our DT coursework and the final work of the year (which is 50% of the grade) is started at the end of year 10 and finished in second term of year 11, but thank you for your words and helping me finalise!
rina
Bright Komor
Nurse
261
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
IGCSE choices for architecture/interior design aspirations can be divided into two categories: Design Technology (DT) and Art. DT focuses on the design process, problem-solving, technical drawing, and understanding materials and construction, which are crucial skills for architects and interior designers. It provides hands-on experience with design software, model making, and basic construction techniques. It also serves as a foundation for further study, providing a strong foundation for A-levels in Design and Technology or specific architecture-related courses.
Art, on the other hand, nurtures creativity, visual communication, and understanding of composition, color theory, and aesthetics. It contributes to a portfolio needed for university applications, especially for architecture programs that emphasize artistic skill. Art skills can enhance design sensibility and allow for more artistic expression.
If you can only choose one, DT is likely the more practical and directly relevant option for your goals. However, if you have the capacity and interest, taking both Art and DT can be a powerful combination, giving you a balance of technical skills and creative expression.
Important considerations include university requirements, personal strengths and interests, and workload. The best choice depends on your individual circumstances, interests, and the specific requirements of the universities you're targeting. Talk to teachers, career counselors, and current architecture students for their perspectives.
Finally, remember that your portfolio and personal statement will play a significant role in your university applications. Focus on developing a strong portfolio that showcases your design skills, creativity, and passion for architecture or interior design.
Art, on the other hand, nurtures creativity, visual communication, and understanding of composition, color theory, and aesthetics. It contributes to a portfolio needed for university applications, especially for architecture programs that emphasize artistic skill. Art skills can enhance design sensibility and allow for more artistic expression.
If you can only choose one, DT is likely the more practical and directly relevant option for your goals. However, if you have the capacity and interest, taking both Art and DT can be a powerful combination, giving you a balance of technical skills and creative expression.
Important considerations include university requirements, personal strengths and interests, and workload. The best choice depends on your individual circumstances, interests, and the specific requirements of the universities you're targeting. Talk to teachers, career counselors, and current architecture students for their perspectives.
Finally, remember that your portfolio and personal statement will play a significant role in your university applications. Focus on developing a strong portfolio that showcases your design skills, creativity, and passion for architecture or interior design.
Thanks for your encouragement!
rina
Kim Matthews
Graphic Production Designer and Sculptor
51
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Kim’s Answer
I agree with Mauricio and Natalie. I studied studio art and art history for a couple of years, then got a commercial art certificate from a technical school before going back for more studio art studies. I consider myself very lucky to have studied commercial art during the transition from analog to digital technologies. Without a solid foundation in principles and hands-on experience with materials, it's easy to rely on digital tools to do the heavy lifting--and the tools themselves tend to dictate what's possible.
Another important point that's often left out of these conversations is that making--and drawing in particular--teaches you how to think in ways that other activities don't. I highly recommend checking out designer/illustrator Milton Glaser's book Drawing Is Thinking for more on this subject. His illustrations and logos are as fresh as they were when he designed them. He also designed the identity program for Brooklyn Brewery and Windows restaurants interiors, among other multidisciplinary projects.
Best wishes to you!
Another important point that's often left out of these conversations is that making--and drawing in particular--teaches you how to think in ways that other activities don't. I highly recommend checking out designer/illustrator Milton Glaser's book Drawing Is Thinking for more on this subject. His illustrations and logos are as fresh as they were when he designed them. He also designed the identity program for Brooklyn Brewery and Windows restaurants interiors, among other multidisciplinary projects.
Best wishes to you!
ill definitely check it out, and i was desperately looking for books to help n stuff so, thank you!
rina
You're so welcome. Milton is also known for his ethos of design as service. I hope you find as much inspiration in his work as I do.
Kim Matthews
Aaron Bass
artist-educator
14
Answers
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Updated
Aaron’s Answer
Either one would be useful. Design tech would make you familiar with the tools you will be using and drawing classes train you to be able to see how space functions.
As far as the universities are concerned, either class just clearly shows your interest. You will have 4+ years at the university where you will be trained in both, as per the degree requirements.
As far as the universities are concerned, either class just clearly shows your interest. You will have 4+ years at the university where you will be trained in both, as per the degree requirements.
Thank you so much!
rina
Kelly Firtell-Marino
1
Answer
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
Hi Rina,
Interior designer here. I think I'm in line with much of the other professionals' responses here. Both classes may very well offer skills you'll use later, but the ability to sketch out an idea in your head is invaluable. Despite all the great digital applications available today (and you'll eventually need/want to learn those, too) being able to sketch something quickly (built-ins, room layout, etc.) serves me well regularly. I do suggest taking art classes; I think you'll benefit.
Best of luck to you!
Interior designer here. I think I'm in line with much of the other professionals' responses here. Both classes may very well offer skills you'll use later, but the ability to sketch out an idea in your head is invaluable. Despite all the great digital applications available today (and you'll eventually need/want to learn those, too) being able to sketch something quickly (built-ins, room layout, etc.) serves me well regularly. I do suggest taking art classes; I think you'll benefit.
Best of luck to you!