Florida Interior Design Schools and Training Programs

Interior designers do more than just make rooms look pleasing to the eye. They also concern create structurally sound, compliant interiors that meet the needs of their clients. Once a client agrees on a plan, the interior designer's job is to oversee the installation of the project and ensure it stays within the scope of the client's budget, as well as regulatory requirements.

Florida Interior Design Schools

Usually a bachelor's degree is required for the interior design field. Many of Florida's universities and institutes of higher learning offer programs for prospective interior designers to gain the skills they need to succeed in their profession.

• The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale: Students can earn a bachelor's degree in fine arts from the Art Institute, where they will study economic design and safety with regard to interior architecture.
  
  
• Florida International University: Voted the 9th best interior design school in the country by DesignIntelligence, FIU offers a CIDA-accredited interior architecture program for undergrad and graduate students.
  
  
• Florida State University: The undergrad and graduate programs offered at FSU fully prepare students for National Council for Interior Design Qualification certification.
  
  
• Ringling College of Art and Design: The school's "Better World By Design" program focuses on the social and economic impact of interior design, which goes a long way toward maintaining relationships with major industry associations and Fortune 500 companies.
  
  
• The Art Institute at Miami International University of Art and Design: MIU offers bachelor's and master's programs in interior design, and accepts transfer students from select educational institutions across the country.

What to Expect from Florida Interior Design Programs

Though you will have many options when registering for specific interior design programs in Florida, your coursework will likely involve the following studies:

• Architectural drafting and design: Learning best practices for creating economically and structurally sound interiors
  
  
• CAD software training: Using computer software to plan and design interiors
  
  
• Art Theory, Trends, and History: Understanding various styles of interior design throughout the ages, as well as the underlying concepts behind such designs
  
  
• Sociology and communications: Studying the needs of your clients and learning to communicate effectively with others involved in the design process
  
  
• Compliance: Studying the legal guidelines that must be followed when designing interiors

Florida Interior Design Certification

Though not required for professional interior designers in Florida specializing in residential buildings, those looking to work with commercial businesses and public organizations will need to earn a professional certificate from the state.

You may gain licensure by receiving endorsement from a current professional, business or corporation that specializes in interior design, or by passing the NCIDQ examination.

Resources for Interior Decorators in Florida

• Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation: Provides detailed instruction for professional interior design certification
• NCIDQ Exam Site: Provides information to those seeking to become licensed through the NCIDQ exam