Brief Overview of Online Interior Design Bachelor Degree Programs
Embarking on an online Bachelor's degree in Interior Design is a strategic move for those aspiring to enter the creative and dynamic field of interior design. With the convenience of digital learning, these programs offer a comprehensive curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students to design functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces within various settings.
Here's what you can expect from the top online Interior Design Bachelor's degree programs based on our proprietary algorithm:
Affordability: Cost is a significant factor for many students. The best programs provide a clear breakdown of tuition fees, financial aid options, and scholarship opportunities to help manage the financial investment in your education.
Program Outcomes: Prospective students should look for programs with a track record of successful graduates. This includes high employment rates in the field, strong alumni networks, and positive student testimonials.
Accessibility: The leading online programs ensure all course materials and resources are accessible to students with varying levels of technical proficiency and from different geographical locations.
Student Support Services: Top-tier online programs prioritize student support, offering services such as academic advising, career counseling, and technical assistance to enhance the learning experience.
Accreditation: Accreditation is crucial for ensuring the quality and recognition of your degree. Look for programs accredited by recognized bodies such as the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) or the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
Flexibility: One of the main advantages of online education is flexibility. The best programs offer asynchronous classes that allow students to learn at their own pace alongside synchronous sessions for real-time interaction.
Program Reputation: A program's reputation can be determined by its ranking, faculty expertise, industry connections, and the success of its graduates. Researching each program's reputation will help ensure you're making a well-informed decision.
When exploring online Interior Design Bachelor degree programs, consider how each aspect aligns with your personal goals, learning style, and financial situation. By choosing a program that excels in these key areas, you'll be well-equipped to turn your passion for design into a thriving career.
Best Online Interior Design Bachelor's Degree Programs in 2024
#1 in Best Online Interior Design Bachelor's Degree Programs in 2024
Chatham University
Program Accredited By: Council for Interior Design Accreditation
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$1,047
Contact: chathamadmissions@chatham.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Chatham University's Bachelor of Interior Architecture program stands out for its balanced emphasis on sustainability, global awareness, and technical proficiency. The curriculum's focus on health, safety, and wellbeing alongside critical thinking and a high job placement rate positions it as a leading choice for students. The program's accreditation by CIDA and the leadership award from ASID Pennsylvania West highlight its quality and commitment to excellence.
#2 in Best Online Interior Design Bachelor's Degree Programs in 2024
Ohio University
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $307
Out of State: $312
Contact: admissions@ohio.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Ohio University's Online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture is notable for its human-centered approach and flexibility in learning, accommodating various life schedules. The program's emphasis on technology-based curriculum and a range of career opportunities for graduates, supported by strong partnerships with community colleges, make it a compelling option. Its ranking as a top college for online education in Ohio underscores its quality and student success focus.
#3 in Best Online Interior Design Bachelor's Degree Programs in 2024
Century College
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$203
Contact: records@century.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Century College offers a comprehensive Interior Design program with flexible scheduling and a variety of credentials, including Associate Degrees and Certificates. The program emphasizes collaboration, sustainable design, and technical skills development. The availability of financial aid options, scholarships, and a positive career outlook for graduates, along with faculty experienced in the industry, contribute to its strong position.
#4 in Best Online Interior Design Bachelor's Degree Programs in 2024
American River College
Program Accredited By: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $46
Out of State: $395
Contact: recadmis@arc.losrios.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
American River College provides a diverse range of opportunities for students in Interior Design, from certificates to an associate degree. The program's emphasis on design fundamentals, business practices, and health and longevity in living spaces showcases a well-rounded curriculum. Its flexible online class offerings and unique Design4Life program dentify sustainable and universal design principles, catering to varied career paths in the field.
#5 in Best Online Interior Design Bachelor's Degree Programs in 2024
Boston Architectural College
Program Accredited By: Council for Interior Design Accreditation
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$900
Contact: admissions@the-bac.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
The Boston Architectural College offers a distinct advantage with its integration into the ProArts Consortium, allowing students access to a broad range of courses in the visual and performing arts. The presence of a student journal and the opportunity for undergraduates and graduates to engage in a rich educational community focused on architecture and design distinguish it. However, its higher cost per credit and lack of detailed program specifics for interior design place it lower on the list.
Top Career Paths by Salary for Interior Design in 2024
Career | Annual Median Salary | Hourly Median Salary |
---|---|---|
Project Manager (Design) | $159,920 | $76.88 |
Furnishings Product Development Manager | $140,040 | $67.33 |
Furnishings Art Director | $105,180 | $50.57 |
Acoustics Design Consultant | $104,600 | $50.29 |
Design Project Coordinator | $101,480 | $48.79 |
Facility Manager | $99,030 | $47.61 |
Rendering Artist | $98,950 | $47.57 |
Design Educator | $93,220 | $N/A |
Ergonomics Consultant | $93,180 | $44.8 |
Wayfinding Specialist | $88,900 | $42.74 |
3D Visualizer | $82,840 | $39.83 |
Interior Specification Writer | $79,960 | $38.44 |
Data sourced From O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
#6 in Best Online Interior Design Bachelor's Degree Programs in 2024
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Program Accredited By: Council for Interior Design Accreditation
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $126
Out of State: $263
Contact: admissions@njit.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
New Jersey Institute of Technology's Interior Design program emphasizes the integration of design history, theory, and technical knowledge with a solid foundation in professional practice considerations. Its commitment to utilizing 21st-century technology and fostering interdisciplinary teamwork offers students a robust education in interior design. Despite lacking specific program outcome data, the detailed curriculum and comprehensive educational approach solidify its position.
#7 in Best Online Interior Design Bachelor's Degree Programs in 2024
Savannah College of Art and Design
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$869
Contact: contact@scad.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Without access to the Savannah College of Art and Design's program details due to website security measures, it is challenging to compare its offerings directly against the other programs. SCAD is known for its excellence in arts and design education, but in this context, it's ranked last solely due to the lack of accessible information for evaluation.
Typical Tasks for Careers in Interior Design
Acquire, distribute and store supplies.
Advise planning officials on project feasibility, cost-effectiveness, regulatory conformance, or possible alternatives.
Analyze and evaluate security operations to identify risks or opportunities for improvement through auditing, review, or assessment.
Analyze data from biofuels studies, such as fluid dynamics, water treatments, or solvent extraction and recovery processes.
Answer customers' questions about products, prices, availability, product uses, and credit terms.
Apply finishes to objects being crafted.
Technologies and Skills Used for Careers in Interior Design
Analytical or scientific software
- SAS
- The MathWorks MATLAB
Cloud-based data access and sharing software
- Dropbox
- Microsoft SharePoint
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Talking to others
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Interior Design Bachelor Degree?
Earning an online Bachelor's degree in Interior Design opens the door to a variety of career opportunities in the design industry. Graduates are equipped with the creative skills, technical knowledge, and professional understanding required to succeed in various roles within the field. Here's a look at some of the jobs you can land with this degree:
Interior Designer: As an interior designer, you will plan and create functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing spaces for clients. This role involves understanding client needs, developing design concepts, selecting color schemes, furnishings, and materials, and overseeing the installation process.
Residential Designer: Focusing on living spaces, residential designers enhance the functionality and style of homes. They work with homeowners to tailor spaces that reflect their personalities and meet their lifestyle needs.
Commercial Designer: Specializing in business spaces, commercial designers optimize the interiors of offices, restaurants, hotels, and other public venues. They aim to create environments that are both appealing to customers and conducive to employee productivity.
Sustainable Design Consultant: With a growing emphasis on environmental responsibility, sustainable design consultants focus on eco-friendly solutions. They advise on using sustainable materials, energy-efficient lighting, and other green design practices.
Kitchen and Bath Designer: These specialists concentrate on the most functional areas of a home or commercial space. They require an understanding of plumbing systems, cabinetry, appliances, and fixtures to create practical and stylish kitchens and bathrooms.
Lighting Designer: As a lighting designer, you'll develop lighting plans that enhance the mood, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of interior spaces. This includes selecting fixtures and considering natural light sources.
Space Planner: Space planners are crucial in optimizing the use of square footage. They analyze how people move through various environments and arrange spaces accordingly to improve flow and efficiency.
Visual Merchandiser: Combining marketing with design expertise, visual merchandisers create attractive product displays in retail settings to entice customers and boost sales.
CAD Technician: Proficient in computer-aided design (CAD) software, CAD technicians support interior designers by creating detailed drawings and models of proposed spaces.
Furniture Designer: Furniture designers craft unique furniture pieces that are both functional and artistic. They may work independently or for manufacturing companies.
Design Educator: Share your passion for design by teaching at a high school, vocational school, or college level. Educators need a strong foundation in design principles and often practical experience in the industry.
To ensure you're looking at promising job prospects post-graduation, it's important to consider programs that have been highly ranked by our proprietary algorithm. Factors such as affordability, program outcomes, accessibility, student support services, accreditation, flexibility, and program reputation should be top considerations when choosing an online interior design program.
When researching potential career paths, it can also be beneficial to consult authoritative sites such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for updated information on job growth projections and salary expectations in the field of interior design.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Online Interior Design Bachelor Degree Programs
What are the requirements to enroll in an online interior design bachelor's degree program?
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: You must have a high school diploma or GED to apply.
- Portfolio Submission (sometimes required): Some programs may request a portfolio of your work to showcase your artistic abilities and commitment to design.
- Technical Prerequisites: A computer with specific software capabilities, reliable internet access, and sometimes, equipment like a drawing tablet.
- SAT/ACT Scores: These are not always required, especially with more programs moving toward test-optional admissions.
Can I become a licensed interior designer with an online bachelor's degree?
- Yes, if the program is accredited: Ensure the program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) or a similar body as many states require this for licensure.
- Complete State Licensure Requirements: After graduating, you'll likely need to pass the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam and meet any additional state-specific requirements.
How long does it take to complete an online interior design bachelor's degree?
- Typically 4 years: Most online bachelor's degree programs in interior design are designed to be completed in four years of full-time study.
- Part-time options available: Many programs offer part-time schedules that can extend the time needed to graduate.
- Accelerated programs: Some schools offer accelerated paths that can shorten the duration to as little as 2-3 years.
Are online interior design degrees respected by employers?
- Accreditation Matters: Degrees from accredited programs are generally well-respected. Look for CIDA accreditation.
- Reputation and Portfolio: Employers often value the reputation of the school and the quality of a graduate's portfolio over the format of education (online vs. traditional).
What kind of support services are available to online interior design students?
- Academic Advising: Guidance on course selection and understanding program requirements.
- Career Services: Help with resume writing, interview preparation, and job placement.
- Technical Support: Assistance with online learning platforms and software issues.
- Library Access: Online databases and resources specific to interior design studies.
What should I look for in an online interior design bachelor's degree program?
- Accreditation: Confirm that the program is accredited by CIDA or another recognized accrediting agency.
- Curriculum Quality: The coursework should cover a broad range of topics including design theory, technical skills, and practical applications.
- Flexibility: Programs that offer asynchronous courses or flexible scheduling can be beneficial if you have other commitments.
- Student Outcomes: Look at graduation rates, job placement statistics, and alumni success stories.
- Affordability: Consider tuition costs, financial aid availability, and any additional expenses such as software or materials.
How do online interior design programs accommodate hands-on learning experiences?
- Virtual Labs and Simulations: Online programs often use software that simulates interior design tasks.
- Collaborative Projects: Students may work on group projects remotely, using digital tools to communicate and collaborate.
- Internships: Some programs may facilitate remote or local internships to gain real-world experience.
Remember to thoroughly research each program you're considering to ensure it aligns with your career goals and educational needs. Each program's website should provide detailed information about their offerings, which can help you make an informed decision.