With an interior design degree, you will have the ability to create commercial, industrial, and private space masterpieces. Interior design is a career option that combines artistic ability with business savvy, and earning an interior design degree can held you to gain an upper hand in this competitive marketplace.
Interior Design Degree Explained
You may be wondering exactly what an interior designer does and how an interior design degree can help promote your career. In its most basic sense, interior designers enhance the function, safety, and quality of interior spaces of private homes, businesses, public buildings, and institutional facilities. Most interior designers specialize in either residential design or business design. Because there is much competition within these arenas, earning your interior design degree can help you become more marketable; earn, on average, a higher salary; and provide you with the appropriate skills and hands-on experience to help you get ahead fast.
There is much more that goes into creating a design masterpiece than most people realize. Keeping client's tastes, needs, and budget in mind, you will prepare drawings and specifications for non-load bearing interior construction, furnishings, lighting, and finishes. Designers are using computers to plan layouts on a more consistent basis because the technology allow for changes in plans to be made quickly and cost effectively. An interior design degree is becoming increasingly important to keep up with technology. Additionally, your space designs must conform to Federal, State, and local laws and building codes, which means you will need to be educated on such matters. This knowledge and skills can best be obtained when getting an interior design degree.
How Do I Obtain My Interior Design Degree?
Everyone has heard stories about designers who started their business on a whim and built an empire, but most of us are not born with the combination of design sense and business knowledge to produce such an incredible career. Your interior design degree sets you apart for employers in the design industry, and obtaining your interior design degree can be easier than you might think. All you need to get started is to locate an accredited design school that meets your personal criteria and offers a bachelor's degree in interior design. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 120 accredited professional programs in the U.S. and over 200 postsecondary institutions with programs in Art and Design. In most cases, the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree will be granted. Your interior design degree curriculum will include art, art history, principles of design, designing and sketching, architectural drawing, computerized designs, and basic engineering. In addition, you will also take courses in business, management, and marketing - especially important if you think you might want to start your own business in the future.
Interior Design Licensure Requirements
Obtaining your interior design degree will be vital to your success in the design industry. Interior design is the only design field subject to government regulation. You will be required to pass the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination in order to obtain your license. To be eligible to take the exam, you must have at least 6 years of combined education and experience in interior design. A formal interior design degree along with a concurrent on-the-job training or internship will meet this requirement and let you proceed with your new and exciting interior design career.
Job Outlook – How Can An Interior Design Degree Help Me Land The Right Job?
So get started today by securing your career with a quality education and interior design degree. In addition to building an impressive portfolio, you will afford yourself the flexibility of employment and have the proper skills to showcase your individualistic talents and style. Who would have guessed you could do so much with an interior design degree!
About the Author
Debbie Wilson owns and operates a lakeside resorts, managing all aspects of operations including lodging interior design and decorating. Her previous experience includes management and profitability consulting for a national healthcare company. In this capacity, she oversaw a five state operation, utilizing her extensive knowledge of healthcare, billing, A/R management, and human resources. Debbie holds a B.A. in Business Management with a minor in Physical Education.
Posted on February 28, 2005 at 03:09 PM
