Degrees > Interior Design > Interior Design Degrees

Interior Design Degrees

Are you interested in interior design? Researching your options is important to finding the right path. Interior design is an exciting and rewarding career field that offers the opportunity to create spaces that can influence a person’s mood and quality of life. There are several levels of degrees available in interior design, each having its own unique advantages.

Interior design degrees include:

• Diploma – Diploma programs, or certification programs, are generally one year long and provide an introduction into the field of interior design. Students will learn the basics of the interior design industry, or may opt to enroll in classes which focus on a specific area. The diploma is useful for those intending to pursue an entry-level position in the design field or get a sense of the interior design world before committing to a longer program.
• Associate’s – Developed to be a two-year program that prepares students with resourceful problem-solving skills, communication skills, and a broad knowledge of the industry. Some careers a student with an Associate of Arts degree can pursue include styling, space planning, sales, customer service, and event design. An associate’s-degree-level interior design program can also prepare students to continue their education to attain a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in interior design.
• Bachelor’s – Traditionally completed in four years, a Bachelor-level interior design program can help prepare students for entry-level positions in the field. Some career possibilities include interior design, private consulting, drafting, and exhibition planning. A Bachelor-level interior design program can help teach students an understanding of a variety of spaces, including residential, commercial and industrial facilities. Students have the opportunity to create a portfolio showcasing their work, with a chance to learn skills that will make them competitive in the field.
• Master’s – A graduate program in interior design can teach students computer drafting and graphic design principles: the foundation of a versatile skill set. Master’s programs in interior design emphasize advanced creative accomplishments and focus heavily on creating a polished and professional portfolio to help in the job market. A graduate program also teaches the skills needed to run a business and communicate with clients. Some career opportunities available to students upon completion of a graduate interior design program include working as an interior designer or consultant, starting a design firm, and architectural designing.