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Topics to Ask Interior Designer Programs

Now that you have chosen the interior designer degree that you would like to earn, you can begin the task of assessing your college options. Location will be a critical issue, particularly if the college has to be within driving distance from your Fountainebleau FL residence. Of course if you are interested in attending a school online, or are prepared to relocate to attend classes, then location might not be a qualification. The cost of tuition will narrow down your options as well. But selecting the most affordable college or the one that is closest to your house are not the optimal ways to make your selection. There are other things that you need to look at as well, such as the reputation and accreditation of the college. Below are a list of concerns that you may want to ask the colleges you are considering to get those answers as well as others to help you examine and ultimately pick the ideal degree program.

Is the Interior Designer College Accredited? It's essential to make sure that the interior design program and school that you choose has earned accreditation from either a regional or national organization. One of the most highly regarded in the field is the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Colleges receiving accreditation from the NASAD have undergone an extensive 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 agency. Not only will it help confirm that the reputation of the college and the quality of the education are outstanding, it might also help when requesting financial aid or a student loan. Often they are not offered for non-accredited colleges. Also, many Fountainebleau Florida employers will only hire graduates of accredited schools for entry level positions.

Does the School Prepare you for Licensing? As we mentioned earlier, several States do require that interior designers become licensed. This would require a passing score on the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) examination in addition to a degree from an accredited college. And in several of those States calling for licensing, at least 2 years of work experience may be required also. So in addition to furnishing an excellent education, the Fountainebleau FL college you enroll in should also provide the proper education to pass the NCIDQ examination and satisfy the minimum requirements for licensing for Florida or the State where you will be working.

What is the College's Job Placement Rate? After you have graduated and attained your interior designer certification, you will undoubtedly need some assistance in finding your first position. Ask the schools that you are looking at if they have a job placement program. If so, ask what their job placement rates are. A higher rate is an excellent sign that the college and its programs are held in high esteem within the interior design field and its students are sought after. It may also signify that the college has a large network of Fountainebleau FL business contacts where they can place students to secure internships or employment after graduation.

Is Financial Assistance Offered? Get in touch with the financial assistance departments for the Fountainebleau FL schools you are looking at and ask what type of aid they provide. Many of interior designer schools provide financial aid to their new students. Some schools offer partial scholarships while others provide help in obtaining federal student loans or grants. Again it must be stressed that enrolling in an accredited school is important for qualification in most cases. Sometimes a school that has a higher tuition may actually be less expensive than its counterparts because they offer more generous financial assistance.

How Small are the Classrooms? Small classes are more personal and conducive to personalized instruction. If classes are larger, you may receive little individual attention from the teachers. Ask the Fountainebleau FL colleges you are reviewing what their typical teacher to student ratios are. If convenient from your Fountainebleau home, visit the college and attend a few classes. While there speak 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 Accessible that Fit your Schedule? Finally, make certain that the interior design college you choose offers classes the fit your busy schedule. This is particularly important if you plan to continue working while going to college. If you can only go to classes in the evening or on weekends near Fountainebleau FL, make certain that those classes are offered. If working full-time means you can only enroll part-time, check that is an alternative also. Finally, ask what the process is for making up classes missed due to work, sickness or family obligations.