Certified Interior Designer Program

The Certified Interior Designer program is a 100% online course designed to fully train individuals for a career in interior design. Upon successful completion of the course, students will earn the designation of Certified Residential Interior Designer by the Designer Society of America.

Program Overview

This comprehensive program covers essential principles, including design elements, color theory, textiles, furnishings, and the history of styles, giving students the knowledge and confidence to transform any space. The course combines technical training with real-world applications, ensuring students are fully prepared to deliver exceptional results for clients while also positioning themselves as skilled professionals in a competitive market.

Course Objectives

• Prepare for both the R.I.D.E. and RIDQC exams
• Gain a deep understanding of design elements and principles and learn how to apply them effectively
• Develop proficiency in the entire design process, from concept development to the final presentation
• Acquire comprehensive knowledge of various materials and finishes commonly used in residential interiors
• Develop a strong foundation in color theory and gain the ability to apply this knowledge to create cohesive color schemes for residential interiors
• Obtain expertise in space planning techniques to effectively design residential spaces to meet clients' needs
• Acquire valuable insights into the business aspects of interior design, including project management, client relations, ethics, and professional practice
• Study the history of architecture and interiors to draw inspiration from various design movements and apply historical references in contemporary design work
• Develop an understanding of the selection and application of textiles, window treatments, accessories, and artwork to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of interior spaces
• Learn the lighting design principles, including the selection and placement of fixtures, to create well-lit and aesthetically pleasing environments

Program Details

• Registration and Enrollment: Students will have 9 months of access to this self-paced interior design course, which can be started at any time.
• Prerequisites and Requirements: There are no prerequisites to take this course.
• Location: The course is 100% online.
• Tuition: $2,695.00

Course Instructor

The course instructor, Natasha Lima-Younts, has worked in interior design for more than 20 years and is one of the founders of the Designer Society of America (DSA). She is devoted to increasing opportunities for residential interior designers through purposeful education, believing that creative individuals should enter the field with a solid understanding and professional knowledge.

Interior Designer FAQs

• What do interior designers do? Interior designers are skilled professionals who plan interiors for residential and commercial spaces, focusing on the general and detailed planning of interior spaces, considering technical aspects such as lighting and acoustics.
• What does my free one-year membership in the Designer Society of America entitle me to? As a DSA member, students gain increased client exposure, exclusive marketing opportunities, discounts on business tools, access to industry insights and professional growth programs, and the chance to earn recognition through the DSA Design 360 Award.
• Does this course prepare you for a certification? This course allows students to obtain the R.I.D.E. (Residential Interior Design Education) credential and is designed to prepare them for the RIDQC (Residential Interior Design Qualifying Certification) certification.

Employment and Education

Despite limited employment growth, about 8,200 openings for interior designers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

• Job Outlook: 4% (As fast as average)
• Number of Jobs, 2023: 92,200
• Median Pay: $63,490 per year

University of West Florida

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Overview:

The University of West Florida (UWF) is a public university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It prides itself on providing a personalized learning experience with small class sizes and dedicated faculty. UWF emphasizes a strong student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring individual attention and support.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UWF offers a vibrant campus community with various facilities and resources. Students can explore the Pensacola campus, UWF Emerald Coast in Fort Walton Beach, UWF Historic Trust in Historic Pensacola, and UWF's downtown Pensacola facilities. A virtual tour is available to experience the campus remotely.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Personalized Attention:

UWF boasts a 100:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and support from world-renowned professors.

Diverse Programs:

Over 110 undergraduate and graduate programs cater to various interests and career aspirations.

Strong Reputation:

UWF is ranked #100 in the "Top Public School – Regional Universities South" by U.S. News and World Report.

Engaging Campus Life:

UWF offers a vibrant campus community with various facilities and resources, including a virtual tour for remote exploration.

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Academic Programs:

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Other:

UWF actively engages in research and community outreach. Recent initiatives include:

Archaeology Institute Field Schools:

Offering students hands-on experience in archaeological investigations.

HeirStory Project:

Collaborating with a renowned journalist to develop technology for preserving family legacies.

Galapagos Islands Study Abroad:

Providing students with immersive cultural and historical experiences.