4 answers
Kaylee
Student
Gresham, Oregon
1
Question
Asked
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How to I get into school for interior design?
I want to get into interior design in college
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4 answers
Levi Bimba
Revenue Assurance Analyst
7
Answers
Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
Updated
Levi’s Answer
I'm not an interior designer, but I would ask myself, "Do I need to go to college to become an interior designer?" Are there interior designers in my area or ones on the internet I can do some research on to find out how they became interior designers and mimic them? If your end goal is to become an interior designer, research what the job is like, how an interior design business is run, and what are the challenges and joys of doing the job for those in that field already. Once you have all the information, then you can make a better choice as to whether or not you even need to go to college and if you do, you'll have a good idea of which schools to go to for building a successful career.
Jae Woun Kim
Interior Designer / University faculty lecturer
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jae Woun’s Answer
To embark on your journey towards becoming an interior designer, there are a few simple steps you need to follow. Start by doing a little homework to find out which schools offer programs in interior design. Then, take a look at what they need for you to apply. Usually, you'll have to fill out an application form, provide a record of your past education, offer letters of recommendation, and present a portfolio that highlights your artistic talents. Some schools might also ask you to take common tests like the SAT or ACT.
Creating a standout portfolio is key. Fill it with examples of your skills, creativity, and grasp of design principles. You could include drawings, sketches, photos of your projects, or any other work that showcases your talent.
Also, think about crafting a heartfelt personal statement or essay. This is your chance to explain why you're drawn to interior design and why you're eager to make it your career. It's a great way for the admissions team to get a sense of your dreams and ambitions.
Remember to keep an eye on application deadlines and make sure you send in all the necessary paperwork in good time. Once you've dotted the i's and crossed the t's on your application, all that's left is to wait for the school's response. If you get the green light, well done! If not, don't be disheartened. Keep pushing forward. You can always give it another shot or look into other routes to fulfill your dream of becoming an interior designer.
Creating a standout portfolio is key. Fill it with examples of your skills, creativity, and grasp of design principles. You could include drawings, sketches, photos of your projects, or any other work that showcases your talent.
Also, think about crafting a heartfelt personal statement or essay. This is your chance to explain why you're drawn to interior design and why you're eager to make it your career. It's a great way for the admissions team to get a sense of your dreams and ambitions.
Remember to keep an eye on application deadlines and make sure you send in all the necessary paperwork in good time. Once you've dotted the i's and crossed the t's on your application, all that's left is to wait for the school's response. If you get the green light, well done! If not, don't be disheartened. Keep pushing forward. You can always give it another shot or look into other routes to fulfill your dream of becoming an interior designer.
Archived User
5
Answers
Updated
Archived’s Answer
Greetings Kaylee,
Pursuing a degree in interior design often entails applying to art schools, most of which require a creative portfolio for admission. Even if you opt for a traditional college, a portfolio is often advised for admission into these programs. Begin assembling your portfolio early and explore any art-related groups or activities at your school to show interest. This could range from traditional art to fields like graphic design, web design, photography, ceramics, fashion, videography, etc.
During your interior design degree, you'll need to take classes in software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Inscape. These courses should be available for dual enrollment at local technical schools. This will make your application really stand out. Consider enrolling in these courses during summer sessions as well.
Hope this helps!
Begin assembling a creative portfolio
Join creative clubs at your school
Enroll in drafting classes
Pursuing a degree in interior design often entails applying to art schools, most of which require a creative portfolio for admission. Even if you opt for a traditional college, a portfolio is often advised for admission into these programs. Begin assembling your portfolio early and explore any art-related groups or activities at your school to show interest. This could range from traditional art to fields like graphic design, web design, photography, ceramics, fashion, videography, etc.
During your interior design degree, you'll need to take classes in software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Inscape. These courses should be available for dual enrollment at local technical schools. This will make your application really stand out. Consider enrolling in these courses during summer sessions as well.
Hope this helps!
Archived recommends the following next steps:
Carmen Brown
Interior Decorator
4
Answers
Birmingham, Alabama
Updated
Carmen’s Answer
First, embark on a search for a school that includes interior design as a major, as not all institutions offer this. It's also worth noting that many schools will require you to minor in art, given that an interior design degree is typically a Bachelor of Arts. To earn this degree, you'll generally need to commit to a four-year program. Subsequently, investigate the prerequisites for admission to the school or university that appeals to you the most.
In my own journey, I initially pursued a bachelor's degree in interior design. However, due to personal circumstances and financial constraints, I found it too costly to continue my education. As a result, I opted for an online certification in interior decorating, which enabled me to engage in the aspects of design that I truly enjoyed. It's important to understand that interior design and decorating are distinct yet related fields. I would recommend conducting research to determine whether you're more interested in the design or decorating facet. While not all states mandate formal education or licensing for decorators, having such credentials can be a significant advantage when securing clients. It demonstrates your level of experience and training, helping to establish you as a professional rather than a hobbyist decorator.
Do research to see if you'd like to do Interior Design or Interior Decorating
See what schools offer the interior design program
See what schools offer a minor in art
See what online schooling can certify you in interior decorating
In my own journey, I initially pursued a bachelor's degree in interior design. However, due to personal circumstances and financial constraints, I found it too costly to continue my education. As a result, I opted for an online certification in interior decorating, which enabled me to engage in the aspects of design that I truly enjoyed. It's important to understand that interior design and decorating are distinct yet related fields. I would recommend conducting research to determine whether you're more interested in the design or decorating facet. While not all states mandate formal education or licensing for decorators, having such credentials can be a significant advantage when securing clients. It demonstrates your level of experience and training, helping to establish you as a professional rather than a hobbyist decorator.
Carmen recommends the following next steps: