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How do I Choose Between Interior Design Colleges?

Carol Francois
Carol Francois

There are five items to consider when choosing between interior design colleges: cost, location, programs, industry contacts and support services. Interior design colleges usually are private schools that focus on the training necessary to become an interior designer. As an interior designer, the primary responsibilities include the selection of furnishings, choosing color schemes and designing furniture placement.

People who want to attend interior design colleges typically have already selected interior design as their career plan. A natural sense of color coordination, an interest in fashion design, excellent interpersonal skills and an outgoing personality are all critical to success in this career. Talk with people who are already working as an interior designed to learn about the school that they attended.

The cost of a laptop might be included in the tuition at an interior design college.
The cost of a laptop might be included in the tuition at an interior design college.

Cost is the first item to compare when looking at different interior design colleges. This is an unregulated industry, so there is a wide range of costs for tuition and associated fees associated with these schools. Read the details to learn exactly what is included in the tuition fee. Some schools include materials, books, a laptop or other necessary resources.

Attending the most prestigious interior design school will only matter if the student graduates.
Attending the most prestigious interior design school will only matter if the student graduates.

Compare the location of the different interior design colleges. In a large city, you might look for a school on a main subway line and in a well-lit area. Walk around the neighborhood looking for places to eat, shopping malls or supply stores. Think about possible part-time job opportunities near the school.

The greatest variety among interior design colleges is in the courses and programs offered. Read the program guide with care, and highlight at least three programs that are of interest. Identify post-graduate certificates or diplomas that might be helpful and relevant.

Review the school-hosted events for the past year, and find out how many were held and who the guest speakers were. Look for leaders in the local industry, well-known designers or other people who are important in the interior design world. Take care to review the motivation for the event, and separate fundraising from networking.

Read the college brochures and find out what types of support services are available to students. For example, some schools offer career counseling, resume-writing services and scheduled networking sessions. Others focus on financial support, counseling services and assistance with health issues.

The most important item to consider when comparing interior design colleges is the quality of the program and support systems in place. Attending the most prestigious school doesn't matter if you don't graduate. In addition, going to the nearest school will not hinder career opportunities for someone with talent.

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    • The cost of a laptop might be included in the tuition at an interior design college.
      By: godfer
      The cost of a laptop might be included in the tuition at an interior design college.
    • Attending the most prestigious interior design school will only matter if the student graduates.
      By: michaeljung
      Attending the most prestigious interior design school will only matter if the student graduates.