Do You Need a Degree to Be an Interior Designer?

If you have an eye for style, using your talent to craft beautifully decorated homes or commercial properties could be your calling. Interior designers can work for private homeowners or collaborate with major companies to design the interior of buildings such as hotels, lounges, restaurants and more. To find work in the field, you’ll need a combination of real-world experience and some formal education to demonstrate your skills to potential clients.

Interior designers tend to have extensive education, drawing from fields like architecture and even the fine arts. Getting into the right program will strengthen your resume and help you attract more clients and chances to build an outstanding portfolio. Read on to learn more about what you need to become an interior designer, choosing the right study program and online interior design course and finding work opportunities.

Learn the Difference Between Decorator and Designer

Decorators are people with a strong eye for style and aesthetic. They love to stage rooms, and they are passionate about finding new ways to transform rooms. They can easily spend hours drafting moodboards and designing layouts for clients. If you already feel like you have a good eye and thrive at home decorating, you’re ready to begin furnishing your own home to use as a basis for your portfolio. Then, you can offer to renovate family and friends’ spaces as well.

Interior designers, however, go a step beyond decor. Their knowledge encompasses form and function, and they understand the intricate complexities that connect space and style with an experience. They often have advanced training and may even specialize in designing certain types of buildings.

Find an Accredited Program

Look for degrees that are recognized by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation. The CIDA establishes criteria for college programs that ensure students receive the fullest education. Ongoing qualifications keep institutions current on the latest trends, tools, software and practices employed by leading professionals in the industry. When you’re looking for interior design degrees, you should always place CIDA accreditation at the top of your requirements.

CIDA accredited programs can be costly, but they are guaranteed to give you the greatest value for your time and money. Paying for your interior design degree doesn’t have to be a deal breaker, either. There are many options to consider without having to pay in cash. Borrowing from a private lender for student loans can help you cover the cost of tuition and supplies while giving you flexible repayment options after graduation.

What Kind of Degree Do You Need?

A bachelor’s degree takes three to four years to complete with no prior experience. There are also accredited interior design certificate courses, which generally take one to two years. However, earning your bachelor’s can give you greater opportunity to study a variety of specialties and other disciplines.

You may also decide to combine your passion for design with a double major in fine arts or architecture. When planning to enroll in college, it’s always best to consider multiple applications for your degree. Choosing a major with a minor in a complimentary discipline can increase job opportunities and help you earn more post-graduation.