Interior Design Training: Courses and Programs

When you're choosing an interior design training program, the most important thing is to find one that will help you reach your goals. Because getting your interior designer license is a requirement in a lot of states, you not only need to know about the laws governing the state in which you intend to practice, but you need to know how to qualify for NCIDQ certification. No one wants to graduate from school only to find unexpected hurdles in the way of starting their career.

Finding an interior design training program that will qualify you for professional certification is step one. But you should also consider your lifestyle and how well a school will fit you. For instance, you should think about the following issues:

Location – Are you willing to relocate for interior design training, or should you center your school search close to home.

Tuition – Affordability can be a major consideration for anyone going back to school. Going to an accredited interior design school can help you qualify for federal financial aid.

Program length – There are many paths to certification. Does an associate's or bachelor's degree best suit your needs and interior design training goals?

Facilities – Do the schools you're considering have the latest software and equipment, and are they readily available to students?

Faculty – Getting interior design training from teachers who have worked in the field can be a valuable experience. Find out who your teachers will be, and if they have experience in a specialty that interests you.

Before handing over your tuition money, you may be asking what kinds of things you'll be learning in your interior design courses. While each school’s curriculum may vary, here are some subjects you are likely to study in an interior design training program:

• Color Theory
• Computer Aided Drafting
• Creating Specifications for Interior Construction
• Ethics
• Graphic Communication
• History of Interior Design/Architecture
• Interior Design Business Practices
• Interior Design Specialties
• Interior Design Studio
• Lighting
• Materials, Methods and Finishes, etc.
• Problem Solving
• Safety and Building Codes
• Space Planning
• Two- and Three-Dimensional Design