 |
|
|
|
From airport terminals to theaters, shopping malls to restaurants, interior spaces benefit from a professional touch. Interior designers work with businesses, governments and individuals to create the interiors of buildings and rooms with an eye for function, safety and comfort.
Though interior design used to be limited to color palettes and artwork decisions, the career has expanded to include architectural details, lighting and even planning layouts using advanced computer programs. Because of this, interior design training covers a lot of ground.
Today, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that formal education is necessary for even entry-level positions in interior design. What's more, most states license interior designers via a process that requires hours spent in school. An associate's or bachelor's degree in interior design is recommended. With training, aspiring designers improve their options of working in the following fields:
The BLS reports that 46,010 individuals were employed as interior designers across the U.S. in 2009. With keen competition expected for new jobs, post-secondary training in interior design is now even more essential.
Interior Designer Training: Degrees and Coursework
Certificate programs as well as associate's and bachelor's degree training are the most widely available training options for interior designers. Advanced training, such master's degree programs in interior design, offer a higher level of focused education.
Spatial planning is an important part of any interior design training program, but it's not the only training you'll receive. Take a look at coursework basics you'll find in an interior design degree or certificate program:
Earning a bachelor's degree may qualify you for a formal apprenticeship program, giving you hands-on training and real-life work experience. A 1-year to 3-year apprenticeship is recommended for all aspiring interior designers. While most apprentices work in architecture firms, some complete their apprenticeship time in furniture stores.
Licensure is required in a number of states, requiring designers to pass a test administered by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification. In order to take the licensing exam, applicants must have at least two years of post-secondary education in interior design and a total of six years of education and experience in the field.
Continuing education is required in many states to maintain licensure. Beyond the licensing process, certifications are available from the National Kitchen and Bath Association.
Interior Designer Career Outlook
Though the BLS notes that job opportunities for interior designers are expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, competition in this attractive, rewarding field is expected to be keen. According to the BLS, a 19 percent increase in jobs is expected between 2008 and 2018, with 13,900 new jobs projected to enter the field.
Completing a formal training and apprenticeship program in interior design could be your key to a rewarding career with a healthy salary. The BLS reports that interior designers earned mean annual wages of $51,990 in 2009. Take a look at the mean annual salaries of interior designers in popular fields:
Flexibility is important in the interior design world. While about 30 percent of interior designers work for specialized design services, many also perform freelance design work at architecture firms or furniture stores in addition to their salaried careers. A combination of freelance work and education helps keep designers up-to-date and competitive within the field.
Training to work in interior design requires learning how to use technical skills and aesthetic ability harmoniously. Mixing computer and technical training with timeless design essentials is key to your success as an interior designer.
Resources for Interior Designers
These schools offer particularly quick info upon request, and we have written detailed profiles for each (click school names to see the profiles).
Request info from multiple schools, by clicking the Get Info links.
Copyright © QuinStreet, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
