Things You'll Need:
- College Catalogs
- Architecture And Design Magazines
- Computers
- Computer-aided Design (CAD) Programs
- Online Career Search
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Step 1
Understand that as an interior designer you will need to know more than how to decorate a space. For example, you will need to fully understand flammability and toxicity standards, be able to easily read a blueprint and know how to communicate with engineers, architects and clients.
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Step 2
Obtain a bachelor's degree in interior design from a college whose design program has been accredited by the Foundation for Interior Design Education Research (FIDER). Peruse FIDER's Web site (fider.org) for a list of approved programs.
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Step 3
Include computer-aided design (CAD) courses in your electives. As a designer you will be expected to know how to use computers to create your space designs.
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Step 4
Apply for internships through your school. Your contacts might lead to a future job.
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Step 5
Contact your state's regulatory agency to confirm its licensing requirements for interior designers. State-by-state information is located in the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Web site (ncidq.org).
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Step 6
Spend a year or two working in the field after graduation, prior to taking and passing the NCIDQ qualification exam. It is a prerequisite to your receiving a license. Take the exam even if your state does not require licensure. You will need to pass it to be accepted in professional organizations that are key to the success of designers.
Comments
kcck said
on 10/15/2009 I am a college student using “Career Exploration” as my topic for my research paper in English class. Because of shows like Knock First, Trading Spaces, Top Design, and Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, I have always been interested in becoming an interior designer myself. I also love looking through magazines or pictures online of decorated spaces. I have so much passion for interior designing that I took all of these ideas from the pictures, and redecorated my own room. In order to further my research in this field, I would like to know what a day in the life of an interior designer would be like; and also if you have any advice for me.
bri924 said
on 8/4/2009 ok wat if you have no clue when it comes to construction and all that... is it just not a good idea to go into it then? or is it ok to have no knowledge at all of this stuff? do they teach it all to you when you go to school?
hgtvdesignstar4 said
on 12/9/2008 HGTV's smash hit Design Star is casting for a new season and we are scouring the country for a whole new cast of designers.
Forget what you think you know about Design Star – this season has a whole new layout!
We are looking for top-notch interior designers who have the experience, aesthetic and wow factor to become the next big HGTV Design Star.
Do you think you have what it takes to host your own series on HGTV? Would you love the challenge of competing in a design-based reality show? Here's your chance!
HGTV is now casting expert interior designers, architects, or construction professionals who are at least 21 year old who have the skills, artistry and personality to compete for the ultimate prize – Hosting your very own show in HGTV! So if you have the right treatment and can turn any space into your signature room, we want to hear from you.
To apply, simply visit our
JadedPrincess said
on 1/4/2008 FIDER is now CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation)
montaner said
on 3/10/2007 Hello im Ronald Montaner from philippines,im a graduating student of civil engineering from a local institution.Im also had a sideline job from local who happen to be creating a 3d movie of our local place for tourist.We used only the software called Art of Illusion.(downlable). My best interist is interior designing .I do have some designs of it.Sir will u help me what will I do? Am I qualified for a Interior designer?hope u will answer my problem...GOD BLESS!!!