EDUCATIONAL APPROACH
There are three pillars that distinguish PABD from the traditional collegiate model:
Flexibility
Students can start and complete courses at any time according to their own schedule, and can do the coursework whenever they want--as well as at their own pace. There is no need to commute to campus, attend an early morning class, reschedule personal or work obligations, or worry about handing in an assignment late! You can progress through the program in the way that best suits you.
Accessibility, Affordability, Attainability
In order to make a professional design career more attainable, we focus on providing the essentials for a high-quality education while keeping costs reasonable. Students will also have opportunities to earn income from professional internships during their studies.
Professionally-focused Curriculum
PABD's educational philosophy is based on PRAXIS, emphasizing in-depth practical experience across the fields of interior design, architecture, and construction. Our project-based curriculum integrates hands-on vocational training-alongside seasoned practitioners--at all levels of the curriculum, ensuring that students will be better prepared for a successful career in the design field.
PRAXIS
The process by which a theory, lesson, or skill is applied, exercised, or realized.
PROGRAM FORMAT
The PABD program incorporates three complementary instructional platforms to replace the traditional classroom: video lessons, choice of live online tutorials or in-person instruction, and on-site field training.
The video lessons consist of pre-recorded, interactive instructional modules, which can be viewed at any time to accommodate the student's schedule and preferred pace; unlike a live lecture in the classroom where students must physically attend, students can watch the video recording whenever and wherever it is convenient for them-and as many times as they'd like.
The live online tutorial sessions offer students personalized time with the instructor for questions or guidance. They are scheduled at different times of the day/week, giving students multiple options to participate either one-on-one with a professional mentor or with a group. In-person instruction at a satellite location conveniently located in downtown Honolulu is also an option for students who prefer face-to-face interaction.
The field training (either on-site in Hawai'i or virtually) places students in real-life professional settings according to their proficiency level. This gives students the opportunity for project team participation with a revolving roster of design professionals, while also providing exposure to the entire spectrum of the building industry. By combining academic education with training in actual ongoing projects, the program will ensure a more seamless and successful transition into professional design practice.
LEARN FROM MASTERS
Meet our team of esteemed educators and industry veterans dedicated to guiding you through every stroke of creativity and every blueprint of success.
Liza Lockard, M.Arch, PhD
NCIDQ | ASID | IIDA | IDEC | LEED | SEED
Program Director, PABD
Aaron Shimizu
AIA | LEED
Technical Director, PABD
VOICES OF EXPERIENCE
Hear from industry professionals how our program and instructors have made an impact on students.
"Dr. Lockard's professional, creative and academic abilities far exceed others that I have met and worked with, and she has been one of the most dedicated and passionate professors I have had the pleasure of working with...Her devotion to teaching students is something rarely exhibited."
Andy Kaufman, PhD
Professor & Landscape Architect
University of Hawaii
"Liza is innovative and a visionary, continually exploring new avenues through academics, as well as professional and community partnerships...ln today's global economy, this is an aptitude that all professionals admire and expect."
Joan Riggs
Program Director
Environmental + Interior Design Program
Chaminade University
"Liza's connections within the local design community, paired with her ability to engage and include the community in meaningful ways, are a huge boon to her students and help set them on the path to a rich career."
Keri Powlison
3Form
"Dr. Lockard's highest class standard is legendary among her students."
Yukio Ozaki
Professor Emeritus
LEARNING STYLES TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS
Explore a curriculum designed to be engaging. Our interactive courses bridge theory with real-world application, ensuring you’re industry-ready.
Foundations for Excellence
Comprehensive curriculum tailored for real-world design proficiency.
Courses That Engage
Diverse courses designed to elevate your creative skillset and technical knowledge.
Credentials That Matter
Certificates to validate your expertise and boost your career.
Partnering with leading design firms, PABD enriches your education with direct industry engagement and opportunities.
