DesignIntelligence magazine ranked the New England School of Art & Design at Suffolk University number three in the nation on its America’s Best Architecture & Design School 2012 list.

The magazine cited both the undergraduate and graduate interior design programs as among the “Top 10” best at preparing graduates for success in the interior design profession. The design school rose from fifth place on the list in 2011.

“We are proud to have once again been recognized as one of the “Top 10” Design by Anna Parfentieva Interior Design programs in the nation,” said Bill Davis, chairman of the University’s art and design school. “Last year was the first time we made the “Top 10” list, but we knew that it would not be the last. In fact, we moved from the fifth position to the third position at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. We are working hard to make number one in the near future.”

The Interior Design program at the New England School of Art & Design at Suffolk University provides students with the knowledge, skills and passion for design that transforms and enhances society at home, in the office and in public spaces. Students have received many top national awards including the IES Lighting Design Competition, the ASID Student Competition, and the IIDA New England Student Awards. The students gain an awareness of environmental issues such as sustainability and “green” design while acquiring all aspects of design, including theory, communication skills, computer and software, code adherence and professional practices.

The magazine also featured Karen Clarke, co-director of the University’s Interior Design program, who was named one of the DesignIntelligence 25 Most Admired Educators of 2012.

“I am very honored to be recognized among these educators," said Clarke. "This could not have happened without the dedication of our faculty and administration, the support of the University and our very talented interior design students."

In the survey’s Interior Design Skills Assessment category, the overall program was ranked number two in the area of Communication and placed third in the Cross-Disciplinary Teamwork field.

“It has required a long-term commitment to excellence and a consistent effort to build the school of art and design to where it is today,” said Davis. “We have an outstanding student body, faculty and curriculum. The employability rating of our graduates, even during challenging economic times, is also impressive.”

DesignIntelligence, a trade magazine for the design industry, conducted its 13th annual survey in mid-2011. Professional practice leaders are surveyed about which schools are best preparing students for successful careers in the design professions. A total of 277 professional practice organizations participated in the research for the 2012 rankings.