Interior Design Degrees

Best Schools for Interior Design

Interior design involves the use of architectural, technical and creative skills to create an aesthetically pleasing environment according to a client’s needs and specifications. Interior designers must be able to create a safe, secure and comfortable environment to live in. An interior design degree opens up numerous opportunities in the residential and commercial design sectors as well as outdoor landscaping and designing. Interior designers can also work independently, and about half of all interior designers set up their own businesses thanks to the high demand and advancement opportunities offered by this field.

 

Overview of Field Interior design is the systematic way of designing an interior setting to make it pleasing to the eye. An interior designer usually works with a particular style such as Victorian, Mughal, International, Gothic, etc. and the employer’s personal requirements. Furniture, lighting, carpets, drapes, flooring and wall colors are all used in a creative way to make an aesthetic interior master piece. Interior designers are in high demand as they are not just hired to design family homes but also offices, hotels and restaurants. Getting a degree from one of the best schools for interior design is the easiest way of attaining a respected name in the field of interior designing.
 
Programs offered
 
There are various interior design programs available at associate and bachelor’s level. The best schools for interior design may also offer a master’s level degree in the subject. The associate program requires 1-2 years to complete as it completely concentrates on the technicalities of interior design and not on other subjects. Some of the programs are even available online making it very convenient as the individual is not bounded by issues like time and traffic.
 
 Admission Requirements
 
A person interested in interior design should have a good eye for color and a natural aptitude for designing. The best schools for interior design may conduct interviews to gauge these creative skills in an individual. Also, high school transcripts and a good SAT/ACT score will also be needed for admission in the best schools for interior design.
 
Coursework
 
The best schools for interior design are at the top because of their latest curriculum and the comprehensive integration of computer softwares in their academic programs. The subjects normally covered in these schools are as follows:
 
·  Drawing
·  Computer Graphics
·  Drafting for Interior Design
·  Survey of Interior Design
·  Lighting Design
·  Textile Principles for Interior Design
·  Presentation Techniques
 
Internships are also an integral part of the academic program to impart practical training in the students.
 
Best Schools for Interior Design
 
The following ten US schools are known world wide for their excellent programs in interior design:
 
·  Fashion Institute of Technology, State University of New York
 
·  New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury
 
·  University of California, Berkeley Extension
 
·  University of California, Los Angeles
 
·  University of Nevada, Las Vegas, School of Architecture
 
·  Florida International University
 
·  The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, Florida
 
·  International Academy of Design & Technology, Tampa, Florida
 
·  West Valley College, Saratoga, California
 
·  Interior Designers Institute, Newport Beach, California
 
These schools are accredited by authorities like the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and prepare the students thoroughly for national and state level certification exams in interior designing.
 
 
Career Prospects
 
Individuals with a degree from one of the best schools for interior design are smart, artistic people with their innate skills burnished by their quality education. They can either join interior design firms or work free lance and make a mark with their distinguished work. The average salary for individuals graduating from the best schools for interior design is more than $50,000.
 
 What programs are offered?

Interior design degrees on offer include Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees in interior design. A few major colleges also offer Master’s degrees in interior design. Interior design degrees are offered by the fine arts departments of most colleges whereas others include interior design in the architecture and building departments. Some colleges like ‘The Art Institute’, ‘The International Academy of Design and Technology’ and ‘Penn Foster College’ have set up special departments dedicated to interior design. For students who wish to make an entry into professional life as soon as possible and wish to support themselves with a handsome salary, the associate’s in interior design degree offers just the right combination of courses that make a student attractive to employers. The associate of arts in interior design degree (AA-ID) is also offered by several community colleges as well as online colleges, opening it up to more students. Earning an interior design degree from an online college also allows you to take classes from the calm environment of your own home at a time that is convenient for you, and at a pace that you are comfortable with – resulting in some students earning an associate’s degree in as little as a year.

What subjects will I study?
For those who wish to pursue a full degree program, Bachelor’s degree in interior design are also offered. These include the Bachelor of Science in Interior Design and Bachelor of Fine Arts and Interior Design. The bachelor’s degrees can last anywhere from 3 to 4 years, while holders of an associate’s degree in Interior Design can finish the bachelor’s degree in as little as 2 years. The bachelor’s in Interior Design degree gives students the necessary analytical skills and creative abilities that are essential for an interior designer. Courses offered in this degree include English composition and writing, technical drawing, 3d graphics development and computer aided drawing. Students are also taught psychology to help them understand the needs of their clients and develop an appealing environment. Students are also taught courses in color & fabrics design, spatial planning, architecture, environment layout, landscaping, floral design, furniture design and ergonomics. Upon the completion of a bachelor’s degree students may then sit for a licensure exam in interior design. The prerequisites for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam include at least 2 years of college education and a total of 6 years of work experience and education combined. Upon clearing the exam, students are certified as ‘Licensed Interior Designers’.

So why would I get an Interior Design Degree?
All in all, obtaining an interior designing degree does not limit you to designing a celebrity’s living room – it opens up numerous doors for you across several industries – from working as a city planner to designing schools, malls, museums, and recreation centers to assisting architects in designing buildings and bridges to working as a building safety & quality assurance inspector. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, career opportunities for interior designers are expected to grow by almost 20% till 2018 – more than the average growth of any other occupation. With an increasing number of businesses and homeowners hiring interior designers to help them design visually creative and appealing spaces and ensure maximum utilization of space, this field is set to only go upward. If you have a creative personality and artistic abilities and enjoy working with people, an interior design degree could be the ideal thing for you.

How long does it take to get an interior design degree?

Depending on the level and format of degree you go for, becoming an interior designer can take between two to six years. The minimum education required to enter this profession is a Bachelor’s Degree, which typically takes four years to complete. However, accelerated programs may allow you to complete this degree in two years. Some students might decide to take online or evening classes and complete their degrees in more than 4 years.

What are the requirements to get an interior design degree?

Most colleges offering interior design degrees would require you to complete four years of studies.  This would include completing courses in interior design, computer-aided design (CAD) and drawing. The credit hour and thesis requirements would vary, depending on whether you are enrolled in an associate’s, bachelor’s or master’s degree for interior design.

How much can I make with an interior design degree?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2017 median pay for interior designers was $51,500 per year.

States with the highest employment level in this occupation:

State

Employment

Employment per thousand jobs

Location quotient

Hourly mean wage

Annual mean wage

California 1660 0.11 1.26 18.13 37720
Florida 1130 0.14 1.68 17.97 37370
Illinois 960 0.16 1.92 17.9 37240
Texas 760 0.07 0.78 16.62 34570
New York 650 0.07 0.85 20.12 41840

Source: bls.gov

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:Is pursuing a degree in interior design in New York worth it?

A:The possibilities in the field of interior design are vast. Job prospects vary according to the area of interior design you focus on and are generally better in high income areas. Those who specialize in particular areas such as baths or kitchens also have bright prospects.

Q:How long does it take to get a masters degree in interior design?

A:A master's degree program in interior design has been designed to be completed in 2 years. Students enrolled as full time students will take 2 years while students who are enrolled in a part time masters degree may take more than 2 years to complete it. A master's degree emphasizes upon advanced knowledge and skill.

Q:What kind of degree is an interior design degree? What will I be able to do after?

A:An interior design degree is a typically an undergraduate bachelor's degree which students of art and related interest may pursue. After completing this degree and getting licensure, you will be able to work in numerous companies through your design capabilities. Hopefully this will answer your what kind of degree is an interior design degree questions.

Q:An online interior design degree course will cover what different topics and subjects?

A:An interior design course will cover all kinds of subjects relevant to the field. Many of these subjects will be theoretical based while others may involve practical skill development. Some of the main topics studied have been mentioned here: history of interiors, English composition, elements of design, architectural drawing, textiles, building codes, and color theory.

Q:What are the interior design degree requirements for entry/admission?

A:Admission criteria and requirements differ from college to college and from faculty to faculty. However most schools will require that you hold a High School Diploma as well as some form of aptitude towards design or the arts. In addition, some school may stipulate that you can only attempt the above if you have already hold an arts degree. You should check with your preferred school(s).

Q:What do I need to enroll in best online interior design courses?

A:If you want to register for an online course in interior design you will need a high speed internet connection and a computer that matches the requirements enlisted by your school. In addition to this some schools might also ask students to buy additional software or provide it to them.

Q:I intend to start my own business and am looking for interior design courses online that can help, what can you suggest?

A:Interior design courses online are quite varied with some being for short term while other that are extensive and long. It depends on your needs which course you would opt for but if you are planning to make it you business then you must go for courses that cover costs, material usage, trend forecasting and designing principles. You can check the course outlines of various institutes and then make you decision.

Q:My search for interior design online mentioned Environmental Textiles. What is included in this course?

A:Course on Environmental Textiles would be mentioned when searching for interior design online. This course is worth 2 credit hours and deals with textile fiber identification categories, construction methods, contract interior applications, serviceability concepts and required life safety codes. Interested students are advised to search our website for extensive information about the institutes offering this course.

Q:Can you explain what is a Web Based Interior Design Education Program?

A:A web based interior design program is an interior design application program. It allows students to interact with technology in interior designing. The program enables them to design using virtual 3D objects and spaces via web. Students can simulate an actual working environment and display various interior design plans. This framework gives a realistic approach to interior design planning.

Q:My search for list of interior decorators schools mentioned a course is interior lighting. What will I learn with this course?

A:Course on Interior Lighting would be mentioned when searching for list of interior decorators schools. This course is an integral part of the Interior Design Undergraduate program. The course is worth 3 credit hours and deals with lighting design theory. Students with the help of this course learn about methods of creating mood, documentation methods, concepts of energy conservation and standards and safety.

Q:Trying to find how long will it take to complete the education required for career design interior, I came across a course on Hospitality Design Studio. What is the purpose of this course?

A:There is a possibility of a course on Hospitality Design Studio being mentioned when searching for how long will it take to complete the education required for career design interior. This course primarily deals with a number of topics and is worth 4 credit hours. Students with the help of this course learn about commercial hospitality interiors, custom furnishings, code requirements, lighting and selection process.

Q:As I read a guide for becoming an interior decorator which degree, there was mention of the course on Walls and Ceilings. What are the contents of this course?

A:It is common to get to read about the course on Walls and Ceilings while going through the guide For Becoming An Interior Decorator Which Degree. This course usually is worth 2 credits in total. It is designed to provide students with ample understanding of the concepts of flexible and rigid coverings for the wall. Students are also highlighted on the decorative value of the different wall coverings.

Q:Can we learn interiors in computer?

A:Yes, you can learn interiors in computer with the help of software's that are specifically designed to help students better understand the concepts. Students can also take advantage of distance learning programs that can help students learn from their homes on their computers. Prospective students are advised to search our website for an extensive list of institutions offering this qualification.

Q:How can I Pursue Interior Design Career With Bachelors In Computer Science?

A:In order to pursue a career in interior design it is necessary to have some sort of qualification in this field. Even with a bachelors degree in computer science it is not to late to study interior designing. One can take a certificate or a diploma program in interior design to gain some knowledge and skills.

Q:My search on how long it takes to finish Interior Designing school led me to Master in Interior Decoration program. Can you give me the complete course work?

A:It is common to come across Master in Interior Decoration program while searching on how long it takes to finish Interior Designing school. Master in Interior Decoration is a two year program in which the students get to study courses such as visual representation, digital environment, introduction to architecture history, design history, contemporary issues in design and furniture design.

Q:While I was searching on how to get a Interior Decorators license fast and easy, I came across History of Visual Communication program. Can you brief me about it?

A:It is common to come across courses such as History of Visual Communication while going through search like how to get a Interior Decorators license fast and easy. In this course, the students get to study the origin and history of visual communication and about all the major arts movements across the world.

Q:Reading about online interior design degree mentioned DETC. What is the purpose of this organization?

A:DETC would be mentioned when reading about online interior design degree. DETC stands for Distance Education and Training Council. It is a nonprofit organization that is responsible for accrediting online educational programs. This organization is recognized by the Department of Higher Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Students interested in online education are recommended to check the accreditation of the institution and program before enrollment.

Q:My search for how long will it take to gain a degree in interior design mentioned a course in residential design studios. What is included in this course?

A:Residential design studios would be mentioned when searching for how long will it take to gain a degree in interior design. This course is worth 4 credit hours and covers extensive space. Students learn on how to design according to the inhabitants. This includes topics on aesthetics, stylist quality, furniture designs and accessories. Students interested in this course are advised to search our website for more information.

Q:while I read on how long does it take to obtain Masters degree in Interior design, there was mention of the course on Color & Lighting. What are the contents of this course?

A:It is quite common to get to read about the course on Color & Lighting while going through the article on how long does it take to obtain Masters degree in Interior Design. This course is worth 3 credits in total and is made to provide the students with understanding of the artificial and natural modes of lighting. You also get to study the interior uses of color.

Q:My search on how long does it take to be an Interior Designer led me to Identifying Furniture Styles and Periods course in Interior Decorator Diploma. What are the contents of this course?

A:In answer to your query regarding how long does it take to be an Interior Designer, it highly depends on which program you opt for. The available programs can be of a few months or a year or two. In Identifying Furniture Styles and Periods program the students are familiarized with different styles of furniture that were famous in different time periods.

Q:Reading about how long does it take to get a interior design degree mentioned art deco. What is it all about?

A:Art deco would be mentioned when reading about how long does it take to get a interior design degree. It is an eclectic design style that was introduced in the 1920's. Since then this style has become popular amongst architects and interior designers. This style has been incorporated into buildings, paintings and jewelry. Some of the famous art deco examples are the Chrysler Building in New York and painting ‘The Musician' by Lempicka in 1929.

Q:While looking at how long does it take to get a degree in interior design mentioned history of furniture. What is the premise of this course?

A:History of furniture would be mentioned when trying to find out how long does it take to get a degree in interior design. This course is worth 5 credits and it deals with the history of western and 19th century furniture designs. Students in this course get an opportunity to understand the social and cultural aspects that influenced furniture design throughout history. Students interested in this course are advised to search our website for an extensive list of institutions.

Q:Can I transfer Interior Design associates degree?

A:In your question can I transfer Interior Design associates degree, you need to be a little more specific. It highly depends on how and what are you trying to transfer your associate's degree to. Majority of the universities give the option of converting your two year Interior Design program into four year Bachelor in Interior Design. Some universities also offer the option of changing the major, but it highly depends on the semester you are in.

Q:How long does it take to MBA in Interior Design?

A:The MBA in Interior Design is a four year professional degree if pursued in a campus-based institute. The duration for the program can differ with the type of masters degree opted. Students can complete the program in 18 months with the accelerated track, the executive program can be completed in three years or more, and the online program can be completed in as much time as the student wants.

Q:How long does it take to get an Interior Decorating degree?

A:The required duration to become an interior designer depends on the type of degree pursued. Students taking up the certificate in interior designing can complete the program in one year or less, the associate's degree takes about two years to complete, whereas the bachelor's degree takes about four years to be completed. Students wishing to take up graduate studies will have to invest an additional two years to the education program.

Q:What is taught in the Accessorizing course of the Bachelor of Science in Interior Design?

A:The Bachelor of Science in Interior Design has a 4 credits worth course on Accessorizing. This course is designed to provide the students with ample understanding of the various styles of architecture. Some of the most commonly studied styles include Southwestern, Spanish, European, English, Modern ad Victorian. students may also be taken to field trips for getting a better understanding.

Q:How long does it take to get an Associates degree in Interior Design and what is involved in the course on Graphic Techniques?

A:To get an Associate's degree in Interior Design, you will spend almost 2 years' worth of education and 4 sets of academic examinations. The Graphic Techniques course is worth 3 credits and stresses on making the students understand how to demonstrate elevations, object placements and perspectives, plans for labeling, analyzing and listing the various features in a 3D model prior to approving the project.

Q:How long does it take to get a associates degree in interior desing?

A:An associate's degree in interior design from a regular community college usually takes two years to complete. If you are going for an online course, this time might vary as you can choose to go as slow or fast as you want. Online accelerated associate's degrees can be completed even quicker as they offer more classes and cover a large amount of syllabus in shorter times.

Q:How can I earn my Bachelors in Interior Design online?

A:We provide students with various online accredited institute's information about the online schools offering the Bachelor in Interior Design. The Bachelor in Interior Design can be opted online if you have completed your high school diploma. Here are the names of some of the online schools offering the bachelor in interior design: Penn Foster Career School and Ashworth Career School.

Q:How do I set up an Interior Design program at a Junior College?

A:All you need to do to set up an interior design program at a junior college is contact the admissions office of the college and organize your classes and class schedules. If you want more flexibility with your classes, you can always go for an online interior design program.

Q:Can you name a few of the best Maryland interior design degree colleges?

A:The state of Maryland is home to a few of the best design colleges in the nation. These institutions offer degree programs in all design fields such as interior design, fashion design, and web design. Top interior design schools in Maryland include: University of Maryland, Montgomery College, The Community College of Baltimore, Towson University, Prince Georges Community College, College of Southern Maryland, University of Baltimore, and Chesapeake College.

Q:Does it take 5 total years for completion of interior designing education?

A:Students who wish to attain beginner level jobs in the field can easily complete the interior design education within 2-3 years by completing certificates, diplomas or associate level degrees in the field. However, those who aspire to become leading professionals in the field, can get enrolled in the graduate level degrees, and the overall time that it may take to complete the interior design education in this case can be 5-7 years.

Q:How long does a bachelor s program for interior design take online?

A:The typical duration the bachelor's degree in interior design is four years, however, some universities listed on our website offer self-paced online degrees that allow students to complete the degree at their own pace. Students have the flexibility to schedule their own classes and complete the degrees at their desired speed from any location through the online universities.

Q:Which is the best interior design degree university in US?

A:Our website lists some of the best interior design universities offering accredited degree programs. These include Ashworth Career School, Westwood College, The Art Institute of Pittsburgh - Online Division, and Academy of Art University. These institutes offer accredited online as well as campus based degree programs and certificates in Interior Designing.

Q:How long does it take to get an interior design license?

A:To get an interior design license in the United States you need to show an undergraduate degree study of at least 116 credit hours. The study should also be of relevant degree and program.

Q:Which courses are included in the Online Interior Design Degrees?

A:The Online Interior Design Degrees focus on courses like drawing and perspective for interior designers, computer aided designing, lighting, and the use of color in interior designing. The course contents may vary from school to school. Also, the list of major and elective courses may differ depending on the type of program chosen.

Q:Are there any 3D Interior Design websites?

A:The 3D Interior Design websites are hard to find. However, a few do exist. You can browse through our website to check out the links of a few. The 3D interior design websites offer the most real and exquisite outlook as desired by you.

Q:What is the top accreditation for the Interior design degrees program?

A:In the United States and accreditation such as the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (formerly known as FIDER) is one of the finest accreditations for the Interior Design degrees.

Q:What is the level of Interior Design programs that is needed to sit for the Interior Design License in the United States?

A:In the United States you need to at least have one of the 2 years certification Interior design programs and ample experience to be eligible for sitting in the Interior Design License exams. .

Q:What are the work opportunities after the Interior Design degree online?

A:Upon the completion of the Interior Design degree online you can expect to earn in architecture firms as a decorator and designer. You may also wish to work in the furniture showrooms. Some of these individuals also opt to work as the model home designers.

Q:Where can I find the best interior websites?

A:You can browse through our website to find some of the best interior design schools and their website links for world class educational opportunities in the field. The most prominent interior design schools are the Arts Institute of Pittsburgh, Academy of Arts, and the International Academy of Design and Technology.

Q:How long does it take to get an Interior Designing degree?

A:The 2-3 year programs in Interior Designing lead to the attainment of an associate's degree or certificate in this field. The undergraduate degree such as the Bachelor of Fine Art in Interior Design can be completed within 4-5 years, while, the master level programs last for at least 2 years. Some online universities allow students to complete their degrees at their desired pace as well.

Q:Is a degree in Interior Design different from one in Decorating?

A:A degree in Interior Design is definitely different from one in Decorating. Decorators work with the application of color and applying finishes to the room. On the other hand, an Interior Designer works on choosing and designing built-ins, re modifications of the room, planning the space and consulting with the client along with whatever a decorator does. Therefore, they require more strong education.

Q:What are the main characteristics of some of the world best interior design colleges?

A:Following are some qualities that make an interior design college as one of the best institutions: affordable degree programs, accredited degree programs, multi disciplinary curriculum, qualified and experienced faculty, growth oriented environment, use of latest technology, state of the art classrooms, approved curriculum, and opportunities for practical experience and training.

Q:Which accreditation is essential for good interior design degree programs in the United States?

A:All of the best Interior Design Degree programs in the United States are accredited by various educational and academic bodies. It is essential to opt for a degree that is accredited by a recognized council such as the Council for Interior Design accreditation (CIDA).

Q:Can I get scholarship for the Interior Design degree programs on the basis of my skills in fine arts?

A:Yes. Many universities offer scholarships in the Interior Design Degree program to students with a strong hold in fine arts. The university may require you to prepare and present a portfolio of your works to them. Upon reviewing your work, the administration can allocate various percentages of scholarships for you.

Q:Which is the best interior design website for education?

A:We offer you the best educational opportunities in the field of interior designing. We have an entire list of accredited interior design schools offering their certificates and other degree programs online as well as on their campuses. Our team at DegreesExcite is dedicated towards offering the latest information regarding interior design education. You can contact us for any further queries.

Q:Can you name a few best online interior design programs?

A:A few of the best online interior design programs include the Diploma in Interior Decor, Diploma in Interior Designing, Bachelor in Interior Architecture and Design, Associate in Interior Architecture and Design, and the Master in Interior Architecture and Design.

Q:Are there any negative affects to my credit rating if i opt for the financial aid for the best Interior Design degree programs?

A:This totally depends on what type of financial aid are you applying for. Grants and scholarships are not to be paid back, hence do not have a negative affect on the credit rating. However, the student loans borrowed from private lenders have specific term and conditions and failing to make repayment on time may cause the FICO credit score to drop.

Q:How long does it take to complete the Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design?

A:The Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design degree program takes five years for completion in a traditional campus-based institute. However, with an online distant-learning school, the duration depends upon the student and hence can vary. The Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design is offered in a bunch of institutes listed on our website.

Q:I wish to study for the Interior Design degrees, but I suffer from epilepsy. Can I study from home and are there any financial grants for students suffering from this ailment?

A:We are sorry to hear about your medical condition. The good news is that you can study for the interior design degrees online. These programs can be studied from home as per your convenience. Also keep in mind that most of the major pharmaceutical corporations provide financial grants to students suffering from various ailments. You may wish to apply for those to get substantial monetary leverage.

Q:Can I transfer my credits from the Associates to Bachelors in Design degree programs?

A:This wholly depends on the institute you are applying to. Some universities accept transfer of credits from Associates to Bachelors program, exempting the similar courses. On the other hand, there are many that are rather hesitant and would want you to study for the bachelors program from scratch.

Q:Are the best Interior Design degrees offered on financial aid?

A:Yes. Most well reputed schools and colleges offer financial aid to students through federal, institutional or state sponsored sources. The commonly offered financial aid options offered to students include scholarships, work study programs and grants as these forms of financial aid do not have any debt burden on students. Student loans are also amongst the most sought after financial aid options but unlike scholarships and grants they need to be paid back.

Q:Can a Fine Arts student opt for the education for Interior Designers?

A:If you are a student of Fine Arts you would find it extremely beneficial to pursue education in Interior Designing. This is because many courses in the Interior Designing programs require exceptional skills in Fine Arts. With good drawing skills you are sure to find a lot of common grounds in Interior Designing.

Q:What kind of job positions can students avail after graduating from good Schools for Interior Design in the US?

A:The field of interior designing is vast and offers students a number of career options for the future. Students should at least earn a bachelors degree in order to start a good career in this field, there are many good schools for interior design in the US. Some of the types of job positions available for interior designers are: interior designer, interior decorator, architect, lighting designer, retail store designer, visual merchandiser, space planner, set designer, and a sales representative.

Q:Are there any online Interior Design Schools?

A:Yes! There are various online schools offering Interior Design Degrees. These are widely dispersed all over the country. Here are a few popular ones: Sheffield School, The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Westwood College, Berkeley College, Academy of Art University, Full Sail University and The International Academy of Design and Technology.

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