Interior Design Schools & Online Degrees
Students interested in pursuing a career in interior design and interior decorating have many choices available to them. Because interior design firms and clients wanting to hire independent designers expect highly qualified, well-trained professionals, some form of higher education is almost always required. Depending on your career goals and academic drive, you may wish to enroll in a four-year bachelor’s degree program that combines general education classes and an interior design major; a shorter professional program from an art school; or a graduate-level program in interior design. In an undergraduate degree program, you may have the choice of earning a BA in Interior Design or a BFA in Interior Design. BFA degrees are usually more artistically intensive and require students to complete more major or concentration hours. Both bachelor’s degree programs will also require students to complete courses from a general academics curriculum, giving students a well-rounded college experience that helps prepare them for future management positions and makes them more competitive in the business world. They can be completed from an online school, a traditional four-year university or from an art school that offers bachelor’s degree programs. Most bachelor’s degree holders in interior design are qualified for entry-level apprenticeship positions.
Another track of study for pursuing a career in interior design is opting to enroll in an art school or vocational school. These programs will offer certificates, diplomas or associate’s degrees in interior design. Associate’s degrees generally combine interior design courses with general academic courses and may even be offered online. Graduates of these programs have an introductory-level understanding of the concepts and skills needed to be an interior designer and are eligible for enrollment in a bachelor’s degree program or as an entry-level assistant in the industry.
Students who want a more competitive edge professionally and a more intense experience academically may want to pursue a master’s degree in interior design. These are offered as MA degrees or as MFA degrees and are usually offered through art schools or campus-based universities. All interior design programs will cover topics in interior design basics like visual dynamics, using space and learning about different materials. Bachelor’s and master’s degree programs will also require students to complete more studio and/or internship hours.
