BACHELOR OF SCIENCE INTERIOR DESIGN

The interior design curriculum comprises a combination of classroom and hands-on instruction in areas such as independent research, design technology, drafting and design presentation. Students learn how to operate computer-aided design technology, read blueprints, understand building codes and decipher market trends. Specific courses might include the following:

• Lighting design
• Residential interiors
• Non-residential interiors
• Computer-aided design
• Basic drawing
• Landscape design

Popular Career Options

Students in the bachelor’s program gain the professional skills necessary to develop and implement designs for both commercial and residential interiors. Graduates can pursue work in a variety of professional positions and settings. Some of these career options include:

• Lighting specialist
• Kitchen and bath designer
• Commercial interior designer
• Home decorator

Employment Outlook and Salary Information

In 2018, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) listed a median annual salary of $53,370 for interior designers, including kitchen and bath, residential and commercial decorators. The BLS projects that job growth in the interior design industry will be 4% during the 2018 to 2028 decade.

Continuing Education

Some states require graduates to obtain a license in order to work as interior designers. Applicants for licensure must successfully pass an exam administered by The National Council for Interior Design Qualification. To be eligible for this test, individuals need to have at least six years of education and experience in the field of interior design (www.ncidq.org). Once the license is acquired, professionals need to meet continuing education requirements in order to keep the license current.

If you want to become an interior designer, a BS in Interior Design is a great way to enhance your business and design skills. Graduates can continue to prepare for licensure and/or pursue entry-level work in the field.