How to Rate & Compare Home-Based Interior Decorating Programs

Interior decorating is a popular career choice.

Interior decorating is often confused with interior design, but it is the aesthetic arranging of a space, without altering that spaces architectural design. To become an interior decorator, most people seek training from a program, rather than jumping into their career blindly, with no decorating background. Before choosing a home-based interior decorating program, it is important to compare your options.

Instructions

1. Consider how much you have to spend on taking an interior decorating course, and your financing needs. For instance, if you are willing to spend $1,500 but can't afford to pay it all at once, only look at programs that offer payment plans.

2. Look at the detailed curriculum of the programs you're considering, paying attention to what courses are offered. Look for a program that contains modules on color theory, space planning, furniture, decorating styles, lighting, window treatments, building a portfolio and entrepreneurship.

3. Find out the educational and career credentials of the instructors for the programs that you are considering, by reading their faculty biographies. If no instructor information is readily available, contact the prospective programs and ask for this information. Be wary of programs that provide no instructor information, or that were not developed by experienced designers or decorators.

4. Ask each program what kind of learning and career support they offer. For example, some interior decorating programs offer technical assistance, the ability to ask instructors questions and career guidance or placement.

5. Read reviews from consumer reports, websites and forums, and check the Better Business Bureau's (BBB) official website to see what the reputation is of the programs you're considering.

References

• Home Study Courses: Interior Decorating Course
• ULinks: Interior Decorating Schools