Interior Design Degrees & Online Subject Guide

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Online Interior Design Degree FAQ

Do I Need a Degree to Be an Interior Designer?

Most states do not require a license to work as an interior designer, with only three states; DC, Florida and Nevada requiring mandatory licensure. Getting the required licensure does however  the possibility of getting placed on a State list of Interior Designers. However, if you wish to gain an entry-level job in the industry, a bachelor's degree is recommended. Students who successfully attain a certificate or associate's degree in interior design will usually be able to land a position as an assistant. Those with a bachelor's degree may be able to receive an apprenticeship at a formal design firm.

What Does It Take to Receive a License in Interior Design?

In 23 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, the National Council holds a licensing exam for Interior Design Qualification. Applicants must have at least six years of combined education and work experience in the field of interior design to qualify for the exam. At least two years of that total must be postsecondary education in interior design.

By successfully passing the exam, candidates will receive licensing from the state. Upon obtaining a license, students must continue their education in order to maintain it.

What Can I Do with an Interior Design Degree?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, projected job growth for interior design jobs is 19 percent through 2016, which is nearly double the national average. This is due to the recent popularity of home renovation television programming and the fact that many homeowners have experienced recent increases in home equity.

Interior designers have the decision of working for a professional design firm or as a self-employed freelancer. The U.S. Bureau of Labor also reports that approximately 26 percent of all working interior designers are self-employed.

What Topics Are Covered in an Online Interior Design Degree Program?

Online interior design degree programs are nearly identical to their brick and mortar counterparts, with the exception that all of the learning takes place at home, in your free time. Program curriculum varies per the institution offering the programs, but one can expect at the minimum to learn the following topics:

- Color and Fabrics
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
- Furniture Design
- Architecture
- Ergonomics
- Spatial Planning and Perspective
- Drawing
- Ethics and Psychology

Who Is the Ideal Candidate for Online Interior Design Degree Program?

The ideal interior design student has a love for maximizing the interior look and function of a room. He or she must be creative, imaginative and have the ability to adjust to last minute changes. One should be able to work independently and under pressure.

Since fashion is an area that changes often, it is important to stay up-to-date by constantly being a student of the art. In addition, for the self-employed designer, it is vital to be a motivated self-starter and have a basic understanding of how to run a business.

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