Interior Design Degree

Interior designers are in high demand today since many companies and homeowners want to enhance the aesthetics of their offices and homes. When decorating a building, interior designs must ensure designs meet customers' demands and do not violate building codes. Aside from selecting the appropriate furniture and furnishings for a room, interior designers must choose the proper colors and lighting, ensure a room is still functional, make sure designs match architectural specifications, and be cognizant of how much space is available in a room after it is decorated.

Interior designers decorate the interiors of office buildings, malls, restaurants, homes airports, grocery stores, sports arenas, churches, and many other types of buildings.

Interior Design Courses and Classes

Students enrolled in bachelor's degree programs in interior design are usually required to complete courses in architecture, art, computer-assisted design technology, design basics, residential systems, office design, and many other classes. Students will also be required to participate in hands-on training and some laboratory work. It's advisable for interior decorating students to complete courses in environmental science and ergonomics since many people today are concerned about protecting the environment and sitting on furniture that is ergonomically friendly.

Since interior designers frequently utilize computer technology to complete their work, obtaining a degree in interior design online can be a great way to develop or enhance technical skills. Courses offered online are usually indistinguishable from traditional campus classes. Additionally, students earning online degrees can continue to work full-time and complete coursework at their convenience.

Interior Design, Career Training and Certification

Interior designers are required to be licensed in the District of Columbia and 23 states before they can enter professional practice. Before an interior designer can become licensed, he or she must earn a college degree and acquire 6 years of applicable work experience. Many interior design companies hire designers with associate's degrees as assistants. Designers with bachelor's degrees usually complete apprenticeships, so they can begin the process of becoming licensed in their respective states.

After passing a series of tests, interior designers can become licensed in their respective states and enter professional practice. Many states require interior designers to complete continuing education courses to keep their licenses.

The Forecast for Interior Design Careers

Job growth for interior designers is projected to increase by 19 percent through 2016. Many people pursue careers in interior design, so competition for open positions is usually intense. Median salaries for interior design specialists with 1 to 4 years of work experience exceed $35,000 a year. Licensed interior designers averaged over $50,000 annually.