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What 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 evaluating your school options. Location will be an important issue, particularly if the campus must be within driving distance from your Deltona FL residence. Obviously if you have decided on attending an online school, or are willing to move to attend classes, then location may not be a qualification. The expense for tuition will narrow down your options also. But picking the cheapest college or the one that is nearest to your residence are not the optimal ways to make your selection. There are other issues that you should consider also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the college. Following are a few concerns that you may want to address with the colleges you are reviewing to get those answers in addition to others in order to help you compare and ultimately pick the ideal degree program.

Is the Interior Design Degree Program Accredited? It's imperative to confirm that the interior design college and program that you choose 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 confirm that both the college and the degree program 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 training are outstanding, it might also help when securing financial assistance or a student loan. Often they are not accessible for non-accredited schools. Also, a number of Deltona Florida employers will only employ graduates of accredited programs for entry level positions.

Does the School Prep you for Licensing? As we previously mentioned, several States do mandate that interior designers get licensed. This would necessitate a passing score on the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) examination in addition to a degree from an accredited school. And in several of those States calling for licensing, 2 or more years of work experience may be required also. So besides providing an exceptional education, the Deltona FL college you select should also provide the proper education to pass the NCIDQ exam and comply with the minimum requirements for licensing for Florida or the State where you will be working.

What is the School's Job Placement Rate? After you have graduated and received your interior designer certification, you will no doubt want some assistance in finding your first job. Ask the schools that you are considering if they have a job placement program. If yes, find out what their job placement rates are. A higher rate is a good sign that the school and its programs are held in high regard within the interior design profession and its graduates are in demand. It could also indicate that the school has a significant network of Deltona FL business connections where they can refer students to secure internships or jobs after they graduate.

Is Financial Aid Provided? Contact the financial aid departments for the Deltona FL colleges you are reviewing and ask what kind of assistance they provide. Many of interior design schools provide financial assistance to their new students. Certain colleges provide partial scholarships and others provide support in securing federal student loans or grants. It must be emphasized again that enrolling in an accredited school is imperative for qualification in most cases. In some cases a program that has a higher tuition may effectively be less expensive than its counterparts because they provide more generous financial assistance.

How Large are the Classrooms? Small classes are more intimate and conducive to one on one instruction. If classes are larger, you probably will receive little individual instruction from the teachers. Ask the Deltona FL programs you are looking at what their typical teacher to student ratios are. If convenient from your Deltona home, visit the college and sit in on a couple of classes. Take the opportunity to talk with a few students and find out what their experiences have been. Ask the instructors what their teaching philosophies are and what their backgrounds are in interior design.

Are Classes Offered that Accommodate your Schedule? Finally, make certain that the interior designer school you choose provides classes the fit your busy schedule. This is especially important if you will continue working while going to college. If you can only go to classes in the evening or on weekends near Deltona FL, verify that those classes are available. If working full-time means you can only enroll part-time, check that is an alternative as well. Finally, ask what the process is for making up classes missed because of work, family or illness.