If you're considering a career in interior design, you may feel overwhelmed by the multitude of courses available. To simplify your decision-making process, we've compiled a list of the most relevant interior design courses, diplomas, and certifications for aspiring designers in 2024. In this article, we'll outline the content and study styles of each course, as well as the pros and cons, duration, and price. Our comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect course to launch your successful interior design career.
Why Study Interior Design?
Interior design is a sought-after field of study for both new professionals and career changers. With the ability to enhance your current career and open doors to new opportunities, studying interior design offers a creative and rewarding path. Working as an interior designer allows you to experience variety on a daily basis and make a positive impact on people's lives. Whether you work with residential or commercial clients, the range of projects is diverse, offering a chance to work with individuals from all walks of life. Additionally, interior design offers the possibility of self-employment and a flexible work-life balance, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a non-traditional career path.
The demand for interior designers is expected to increase in India over the next decade, thanks to the rapid growth of the construction industry. By acquiring skills in this field, you can take advantage of this growth and secure a future in a high-demand and impactful profession.
The 8 Best Interior Design Courses, Diplomas, and Certifications in 2024
1. AND Academy: Interior Design Certificate
Course Overview The AND Academy Interior Design Certificate course is a fast-track learning program for beginners. Over 16 weeks, students delve into the core aspects of interior design and develop practical skills. Divided into two parts, the course covers interior design fundamentals, such as principles, space functionality, and client interaction. The second part focuses on a hands-on residential interiors project, applying the acquired knowledge to real-world scenarios. AND Academy provides comprehensive career services, including portfolio building, career development sessions, and networking opportunities.
Residential Project by Pawanjot Singh
Pros
- Flexible learning option for those with other commitments
- Covers practical and theoretical elements of interior design
- Students graduate with a professional portfolio
- Career guidance and job application support available
Cons
- Extensive course requiring a significant time commitment
Duration: 16 weeks Price: Rs.60,000
Learn More: AND Academy Interior Design Course
2. New York School of Interior Design: Associate in Applied Science in Interior Design
Course Overview The New York School of Interior Design offers a comprehensive two-year program designed to prepare students for both commercial and residential design roles. Students gain competence in all aspects of interior design, including creative elements, business administration, and legal processes. The program is available full-time and part-time, with both in-person and online options. The coursework covers essential skills like drawing, drafting, color theory, construction methods, and professional practice. Graduates are well-prepared for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination.
Pros
- Flexible options for in-person and online learning
- Focus on both residential and commercial interior design
- Faculty consists of practicing industry professionals
Cons
- Lengthy course duration may not suit those seeking immediate employment
- The cost may be beyond some budgets
Duration: Two years Price: $1,220 per credit
3. National Design Academy: Design Your Future-Online Diploma
Course Overview National Design Academy offers an online diploma that equips students with the skills needed to start their own interior design projects, businesses, or pursue further studies. Students can choose from online or in-studio fast-track learning options. The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, including the role of the designer, color theory, space planning, and professional presentation techniques. The course concludes with a Professional Interior Design Project, allowing students to showcase their skills in a portfolio. The diploma is fully accredited and offers funding and student loan options.
Draft sketches for an interior design project
Pros
- Fully accredited course
- Student loans and funding options available
- Flexible learning styles
Cons
- Loan and funding options limited to UK citizens
Duration: 8-10 months (or fast-track in 14 weeks) Price: £1,590
4. Parsons School of Design: Interior Design Certificate Program
Course Overview Parsons School of Design offers an online Interior Design Certificate Program that focuses on spatial and structural design. Students develop skills in sketching, hand drafting, computer modeling, and interior design concepts such as spatial relationships and client psychology. The program ensures students are up-to-date with the latest industry practices and digital innovations. Topics covered include bio-based materials, sustainable practices, virtual reality, and augmented reality. The program is delivered entirely online, providing accessibility to students worldwide.
Pros
- Industry experts as course instructors
- Collaboration and project-based learning
- Emphasis on building a professional portfolio
Cons
- Lengthy time commitment required
Duration: 18 months Price: $7,120
5. The Interior Design Institute: International Certificate of Interior Design
Course Overview Established in 2006, The Interior Design Institute offers online courses focused on practical skills and technical knowledge. Students learn various aspects of interior design, including floor and lighting plans, furnishings, color schemes, and project budgets. Each exercise in the course contributes to building a professional portfolio. Students receive support from personal tutors, as well as access to an exclusive online student community. The course offers flexibility in terms of study pace, with most students completing it in 24 weeks.
Designer color-coding an interior design blueprint
Pros
- Professional portfolio development
- Personal tutor support
- Thriving online student community
- Multiple payment options
Cons
- Online course may be restrictive for some students
Duration: Flexible, with most students finishing in 24 weeks Price: Rs. 44,999 (when paid in full)
6. Skillshare: Interior Design Basics: Simple Steps to Your Perfect Space
Course Overview Skillshare's Interior Design Basics course, led by expert interior designer Lauren Cox in collaboration with Havenly, guides beginners through actionable and inspirational lessons. Students learn to uncover their personal style and redesign their interiors to meet their specific needs. The course covers core design principles, such as balance, proportion, and rhythm, as well as hands-on projects. While it serves as an introductory course rather than a comprehensive study program, it's ideal for home improvement enthusiasts and those seeking inspiration and foundational design knowledge.
Pros
- Easy-to-digest video content for beginners
- Hands-on projects and interior design principles covered
- Led by an industry professional
Cons
- Not comprehensive enough for professional careers
Duration: 1 hour 27 minutes Price: Free
Learn More: Interior Design Basics: Simple Steps to Your Perfect Space
7. The British College of Interior Design: The Professional Interior Design Course
Course Overview The British College of Interior Design offers a structured yet flexible learning experience for aspiring designers. Students develop practical design skills through coursework assignments and gain insights into business strategies for potential self-employment. The college has experienced tutors who guide students toward finding their niche in the design field. The curriculum covers all aspects of interior design, including building structure, design theory, and communication. The course also caters to the business side of the industry, teaching students how to meet clients' needs, market themselves, and get paid for their skills.
Pros
- Professionally supported and flexible distance learning
- Certification upon course completion
- Professional support during and after the course
- Focus on business aspects of interior design
Cons
- Fixed starting dates for each course
- Business modules may not suit those seeking traditional employment
Duration: 12 weeks or 24 weeks, depending on flexibility Price: Starting at $590
8. Udemy: How to Work with Interior Design Styles Like a Pro
Course Overview Erikka Fogleman's How to Work with Interior Design Styles Like a Pro course dives deep into 18 different interior design styles. Students explore the history, key features, and characteristics of each style, allowing them to identify their own preferences and learn how to mix styles effectively. The course offers video lectures, downloadable resources, and real-life case studies. While not suitable for professional career launches, the course is perfect for interior design enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive understanding of different styles and design principles.
Pros
- Downloadable resources available
- Deep dive into interior design styles and history
Cons
- Insufficient for professional careers
Duration: 5.5 hours Price: €159.99
Learn More: How to Work with Interior Design Styles Like a Pro
Conclusion
We hope our rundown of the top interior design courses, diplomas, and certifications helps you find the perfect program for your needs. Interior design offers a world of creative possibilities, and with the right training, you can launch a successful career in the field. If you're interested in AND Academy's Interior Design Certificate course, visit our website and take the first step toward your new career. For those looking to study in Mumbai, check out our blog for a list of top interior design courses in the area.
Additional Resources:
- Watch a session by Snehanshu Mukherjee, Founding Partner at T.E.A.M, and Mansi Almadi, an Interior Designer at Studio Lotus.
- Talk to a course advisor to discuss how you can transform your career with our courses.
- Explore our Interior Design courses, taught by industry experts through live, interactive classes.
- Take advantage of scholarship and funding options to overcome financial hurdles on your career transformation journey.
Note: All information and data from external sources are believed to be accurate as of the date of publication.
