 College
or university-level education is important preparation for a career
in interior design. Many employers will consider your level of education
in reviewing your qualifications. In many states and provinces, you
cannot call yourself an interior designer unless you meet certain
requirements that include a minimum number of years of education,
experience and the completion of a minimum competency exam. Find out
more about licensing requirements.
Many colleges, universities, and schools of art and design offer
degree programs in interior design. Before choosing a school —and
many options are available —you should consider first where
you might be working and the kind of work that is most attractive
to you. Other considerations when choosing a school or college should
include:
- Accreditation
The Council for Interior Design Accreditation (formerly FIDER) (www.accredit-id.org)
sets specific standards for interior
design education. These standards describe what students must learn
to become professional interior designers. The standards also address
curriculum structure, faculty, facilities and other important elements
necessary in interior design learning environments. While Council accreditation
is not the only measure of quality for an interior design education,
it is a reliable indicator for the programs that go through the voluntary
evaluation process and become accredited. For a complete list
of accredited programs, visit the Council's Web site.
- Personal Fit
Look for a match between your
personal needs and interests and the school you are
considering attending. Considerations should include
the size of the school, costs, emphasis of the program,
location and employment prospects for graduates. Look
at the faculty to see what their interests are, and
read about the curriculum. It should include courses
that focus on studio experience, history and theory,
and human and environmental interaction as well as “real-world” opportunities
such as study abroad or internships.
- Personal Observation
Talk with an interior design faculty member at the school (or schools) you
are considering attending and visit the campus if possible. Spend some
time learning about the experiences students have in addition to classroom
instruction and studio time. Investigate internship opportunities, frequency
of guest lecturers and field trips, all of which enrich the learning experience.
For additional information, visit the following
Web sites:
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