Interior designers are multi-faceted professionals who must draw on a number of skills to perform their craft and make a name for themselves in the industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), close to 26 percent of interior designers are self-employed. Others work in design firms or on staff at large corporations, all of which have varying education requirements.
Skills
Interior designers must cultivate a number of skills so that they can gain from traditional schooling, specialized training courses and hands-on experience. Interior designers must consider textures, furnishings, space planning and lighting requirements of a job. They often must work closely with architects and subcontractors and supervise installations and workers. Some develop special skills in ergonomic designs, accessibility for the disabled, acoustics, security and electronics.
Basics
Most interior designers are required to hold a four year bachelor's degree in art and design or interior design to land entry-level positions. Professional design schools, such as the New York School of Interior Design or the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, offer programs designed specifically for the industry. There are nearly 250 schools that offer programs accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. The BLS reports that in 2007, there were approximately 145 bachelor degree programs accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation.
Courses
Many accredited design programs require students to submit design portfolios as part of their application process. Once enrolled, students are required to take courses such as computer-aided design, space planning, furniture design, architecture and color and fabric courses. Courses provide training to prepare students to take the licensing examination required in 23 states and the District of Columbia. The exam is administered by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification. Applicants for the exam must accumulate six years of combined education and experience.
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship can help students gain the on-the-job experience they need to obtain their license, while adding to their skills and education. Design and architectural firms hire interns to work under the tutelage of an experienced interior designer. The National Council for Interior Design Qualification offers a mentorship program and additional workshops that can serve as needed experience credit.
Continuing Education
To maintain their license and to keep up with trends and new technology, interior designers are required to earn varying amounts of continuing education credits, depending on the state requirements, which are available from the National Council for Interior Design Qualification. Often interior designer earn additional certifications in areas such as kitchen and bath design, commercial property, management, sales or teaching.
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