Interior Design Schools Interior Design Colleges Interior Design Programs Interior Design Classes
Interior Design Courses Interior Design Courses Online Interior Design Schools Online Interior Design Degrees
Interior Design Degrees Online

Topics to Ask Interior Design Programs

Now that you have decided on the interior designer degree that you would like to earn, you can start the process of reviewing your college options. Location will be an important issue, especially if the college needs to be within driving distance from your Bonita Springs FL residence. Obviously if you are interested in attending an online school, or are prepared to relocate to attend classes, then location might not be a qualifier. The fee for tuition will limit your choices as well. But choosing the most affordable school or the one that is closest to home are not the best ways to make your selection. There are other variables that you should consider as well, such as the accreditation and reputation of the school. Following are a few questions that you may want to address with the schools you are considering to obtain those answers as well as others to help you compare and ultimately choose the ideal degree program.

Is the Interior Designer College Accredited? It's important to confirm that the interior designer school and program that you select has earned accreditation from either a national or regional organization. One of the most respected in the field is the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Schools receiving accreditation from the NASAD have gone through a demanding assessment of their programs and teachers. Just verify that both the degree program and the college have been accredited by a U.S. Department of Education recognized accrediting organization. Not only will it help establish that the reputation of the college and the quality of the education are exceptional, it might also help when requesting financial assistance or a student loan. Often they are not offered for non-accredited colleges. Also, a number of Bonita Springs Florida employers will only employ graduates of accredited programs for entry level jobs.

Does the School Prep you for Licensing? As we mentioned earlier, a number of States do mandate that interior designers become licensed. This would require a passing score on the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam as well as a degree from an accredited school. And in several of those States mandating licensing, at least 2 years of professional experience may be required also. Therefore besides providing an outstanding education, the Bonita Springs FL school you select should also furnish the appropriate instruction to pass the NCIDQ examination and fulfill the minimum requirements for licensing for Florida or the State where you will be working.

What is the Program's Job Placement Rate? Once you have graduated and attained your interior design certification, you will probably need some support in finding your first position. Ask the programs that you are reviewing if they have a job assistance program. If so, ask what their job placement rates are. A higher rate is an excellent indication that the college and its programs are held in high regard within the interior design field and its graduates are in demand. It may also signify that the college has a significant network of Bonita Springs FL business connections where they can refer students to obtain internships or employment after they graduate.

Is Financial Assistance Available? Get in touch with the financial aid offices for the Bonita Springs FL schools you are reviewing and find out what kind of support they offer. Many of interior designer schools offer financial aid to their incoming students. Some schools provide partial scholarships while others provide support in obtaining grants or federal student loans. It must be emphasized again that selecting an accredited school is essential for qualification in most cases. Often a program that has a higher tuition may ultimately be less expensive than its counterparts because they offer more generous financial assistance.

How Big are the Classrooms? Small classes are more intimate and conducive to one on one instruction. If classes are larger, you probably will receive limited individual attention from the teachers. Find out from the Bonita Springs FL programs you are looking at what their typical teacher to student ratios are. If convenient from your Bonita Springs home, visit the campus and attend a couple of classes. Take the opportunity to talk with a few students and ask what their experiences have been. Ask the instructors what their teaching styles are and what their experiences have been in interior design.

Are Classes Offered that Fit your Schedule? Last, make sure that the interior designer school you choose provides classes the fit your active schedule. This is particularly important if you will continue working while attending college. If you can only attend classes in the evening or on weekends near Bonita Springs FL, confirm that those classes are offered. If you have a full-time job and can only enroll part-time, check that is an option as well. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making up classes missed because of work, sickness or family obligations.