Online Interior Design Degrees

Interior designers make indoor spaces welcoming, aesthetically pleasing, and safe. In diverse environments like corporate boardrooms, hospitals, and private homes, interior designers apply their expertise to improve interior spaces.

A degree in interior design prepares graduates for careers in an above-average paying field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), interior designers make a median salary of over $57,000 per year.

Our list ranks the best online interior design programs to help prospective students find the best fit for their interests, budget, and career goals. This article also introduces common interior design courses, salary data, and scholarships for interior design students.

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Interior design majors work as interior designers, corporate designers, healthcare designers, and sustainability designers. Some also specialize in kitchen and bath design.

Interior designers earn an above-average salary. The median annual salary exceeds $57,000, with the top-paid interior designers making nearly six-figure salaries.

Earning an interior design degree online can cost as little as $50 per credit, depending on the school. Thanks to online formats, students can find the most affordable interior design program rather than limiting their search to their local area.

Most interior designers hold a bachelor’s degree, which typically takes four years. Interior designers can also earn a two-year associate degree or one-year certificate.

Interior designers improve the functionality and aesthetics of spaces by designing layouts, selecting furnishings, and choosing color schemes. Within interior design, professionals specialize in areas like corporate design, healthcare design, and kitchen design. Sustainable designers improve energy efficiency and sustainability while universal designers make spaces more accessible.

A degree in interior design trains learners in design elements, stylistic choices, and design drafting. Some interior design programs offer an online option, which prioritizes flexibility and convenience. In addition to interior design degrees, many programs feature specialty certificates focusing on areas like sustainability or accessibility.

The cost for a degree in interior design varies depending on the school and program. In general, two-year colleges charge lower tuition rates than four-year schools, and public institutions cost less than private schools. Many public schools offer tuition discounts for state residents. For example, American River College charges $46 per credit for California residents enrolled in its associate program in interior planning and design. Out-of-state students pay $353 per credit.

Bachelor’s programs in interior design typically cost more than associate degrees. At Berkeley College, a private school, interior design majors in the bachelor of fine arts program pay $870 per credit. Online programs may offer tuition discounts for learners.

In addition to tuition costs, interior design majors often pay additional fees for supplies, including drafting software, model making equipment, and drafting materials. These supplies can add several hundred dollars per year to the degree’s cost.

The salary outlook for interior designers remains strong. Interior designers earn a median annual salary of over $57,000, according to BLS data. Salaries vary depending on location, professional experience, and degree. For example, interior designers typically need a bachelor’s degree but those with an advanced degree or additional specialized certificates may earn higher salaries. Top-paid interior designers make almost $98,000 annually.

Industries also influence salaries. Interior designers working for architecture firms earn above-average salaries, while those working in wholesale trade or for furniture stores earn below-average salaries for the industry. Many interior designers also work as self-employed professionals, where earnings often vary.

The highest-paid states for interior designers include Arkansas, the District of Columbia, New York, California, and Massachusetts. Interior designers increase their earning potential with professional certifications or a master’s degree in design. A strong portfolio and work experience also helps interior designers earn more.

A degree in interior design strengthens creative and technical skills. During an interior design program, majors take courses in design elements, materials, and building standards. Learners strengthen their technical abilities with courses in CAD design software and other interior design programs. Many programs offer specialized courses in sustainable design and lighting design, preparing graduates for focused career paths.

In addition to coursework, interior design students complete hands-on projects and build a portfolio. Programs typically encourage learners to pursue an internship to strengthen their professional experience. This section introduces common interior design courses. While every program sets its own curriculum, many include the following options.

Interior designers pursue licensure or certification to demonstrate their skills and advance their careers. Some states require registration or licensure to work as an interior designer. Professionals also pursue certifications to show specialized abilities. For example, LEED certification signifies experience in sustainability and green design. Most certifications and licenses require a degree, work experience, and an exam.

Interior design majors qualify for multiple scholarships, including prestigious awards offering more than $10,000 in financial aid. Professional associations like the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) offer scholarships for interior design students. In addition to the opportunities listed below, degree-seekers can find scholarships based on their school, state, or career plans.