MAKE SMART CHOICES
You're looking for an interior design school. In your search you try to uncover just what makes individual interior design schools different. You try to find a school you can identify with. That's important. You need to feel comfortable. You won't know what's going to work for you if you don't compare.
Where you choose to go to college really does matter!
WHEN LOOKING AT INTERIOR DESIGN PROGRAMS, HERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO ASK:
Is the program accredited by CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation, formerly FIDER), the national accrediting agency for interior design programs?
Does the college offer a four-year degree?
Can I look at work done by students in all four years?
Does the faculty include active design professionals? Is there evidence of professional affiliation and advanced degrees among the faculty?
Does the school have student chapters and activities of ASID and IIDA?
ASID - American Society of Interior Designers
IIDA - International Interior Design AssociationIs the curriculum balanced? Does it include enough history of interiors, art, and architecture? Are there sufficient courses in drawing, drafting, color and textiles? How about space planning, interior construction, codes, materials, and lighting? And don't forget lots of CAD (Computer Aided Design).
Does the college require an Internship?
Does the college prepare you to combine your studio work into a professional portfolio?
How many students graduated last year with a bachelor's degree?
Does the college provide active career planning and placement assistance?
What are your graduates doing?
Do your homework before you apply. Always try to visit the campus. Study the school's publications, including the refund policy. Talk to people. Selecting the right school is a wonderful experience and the beginning of a great career.
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