O'More School of Design at Belmont University

O’More College of Design was a private college in Franklin, Tennessee. In February 2018, it merged with Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee to become the O'More School of Design at Belmont University. Founded as O'More School of Interior Architecture and Design in 1970 in the historic district of Franklin, it is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

Thoroughly integrated into Belmont’s liberal arts setting, the O’More College of Architecture and Design represents three complementary curricula in related, yet distinct, disciplines that build on past traditions to serve contemporary needs of culture, societies, institutions, and individuals. Although relatively new on the Belmont campus, the programs in fashion and interior design enjoy a heritage five decades in the making.

With a foundation in enduring principles of art and design along with a commitment to teaching the most relevant advanced technologies, our degrees prepare graduates to find meaningful careers in their fields in a Christian community of learning and service. With strong connections to the BELL Core, opportunities for study abroad and internships, the professional programs prepare graduates for success in their chosen fields as well as to pursue unexpected possibilities. O’More programs are academically rigorous and taught by exceptional faculty members with significant industry experience. Our supportive and collaborative environment contributes to the creative, personal and professional growth of students.

The O'More School of Design at Belmont University has a rich history rooted in a commitment to fostering creativity and professional excellence in the fields of design and architecture. Originally established as the O'More College of Design in 1970, the institution aimed to provide specialized education in interior design, fashion, and visual communication. Over the decades, it built a reputation for its hands-on approach, industry connections, and focus on preparing students for careers in competitive creative industries. The school’s emphasis on craftsmanship, innovation, and real-world experience helped it become a respected name in design education, particularly within the Nashville community.

In 2018, the school was acquired by Belmont University, a renowned institution known for its strong liberal arts and professional programs. This transition marked a new chapter for the design school, integrating it into Belmont’s broader mission of academic excellence and student success. The partnership allowed the school to expand its resources, curriculum offerings, and industry partnerships, providing students with enhanced opportunities for internships, collaborations, and career development. Today, the O'More School of Design continues to honor its legacy while evolving to meet the changing demands of the design professions, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and interdisciplinary learning.

Throughout its history, the O'More School of Design has remained dedicated to nurturing talented designers and architects who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to their fields. Its programs focus on blending creative exploration with practical skills, ensuring students graduate with a strong portfolio and professional readiness. As part of Belmont University, the school benefits from a vibrant academic community and access to a broad network of industry partners, helping to propel graduates into successful careers across various design sectors. The school’s longstanding commitment to excellence and adaptation to industry trends continues to make it a distinguished institution for design education.

O'More College of Architecture and Design offers programs focused on architecture, interior design, graphic design, and related creative disciplines. The curriculum is designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical application, allowing students to develop a comprehensive understanding of design principles, construction techniques, and digital tools. Students engage in hands-on studio projects, which emphasize problem-solving, creativity, and innovation, preparing them to meet the demands of the professional design industry. The college also provides specialized courses in sustainable design, historic preservation, and digital fabrication.

O'More also emphasizes experiential learning through internships, industry collaborations, and real-world projects. Students have the opportunity to work directly with design firms, architecture practices, and community organizations, gaining valuable industry insights and professional experience before graduation. These courses not only enhance technical skills but also foster critical thinking, communication, and teamwork—essential qualities for success in the competitive design field. 

Furthermore, O'More offers courses in business fundamentals tailored for aspiring designers and architects who wish to understand the entrepreneurial aspects of their careers. These courses cover topics such as project management, marketing, and client relations, empowering students to launch and sustain successful design practices. The curriculum’s interdisciplinary nature helps students develop a well-rounded skill set, making them versatile professionals ready to excel in various sectors of the architecture and design industries. 

O'More College of Architecture and Design does not currently offer a global MBA program or have rankings related to business or management degrees. Its focus is primarily on architecture, design, and related creative disciplines, emphasizing studio-based learning, industry partnerships, and professional preparation in these fields. 

O'More College of Architecture and Design emphasizes job integration as a core component of its educational philosophy, aiming to prepare students for seamless entry into the professional world. The college achieves this by fostering strong partnerships with industry leaders, design firms, and architectural organizations, providing students with real-world experience through internships, cooperative education programs, and industry-sponsored projects. 

These opportunities enable students to apply their classroom learning in practical settings, develop professional skills, and build valuable networks that facilitate smooth transitions from academia to employment. Additionally, the curriculum is designed to incorporate industry standards and current trends, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the evolving architecture and design sectors.

Furthermore, O'More College actively integrates job placement and career readiness initiatives into its programs, including career workshops, resume building sessions, and mentorship programs featuring alumni and industry professionals. The college’s dedicated career services team works closely with students throughout their studies to identify career goals and connect them with employment opportunities. 

By emphasizing experiential learning and fostering industry relationships, O'More College ensures that its graduates are not only academically prepared but also professionally competitive, increasing their chances of securing meaningful employment upon graduation. This integrated approach to job readiness underscores the college’s commitment to producing graduates who are confident, capable, and immediately valuable to the architecture and design industries.

• "Belmont Acquires Neighboring Design College". Inside Higher Ed.