Pursuing a degree at a premier institution can set you on the path for success in interior design. This creative field blends art, technology and interpersonal skills to craft functional, beautiful, eco-friendly spaces that suit clients' needs. When selecting an interior design program, key factors include curriculum, faculty expertise, facilities, accreditation and career preparedness. To help focus your college search, we compiled this list of top 10 best universities for interior design based on program rankings and graduate achievement. An immersive learning experience at one of these leading schools can equip you with the artistic vision, technical know-how, communication ability and real-world readiness to thrive as an interior designer.
What is Interior Design?
Interior design is the art and science of creating an interior environment that addresses, protects, and responds to human needs. It involves planning and designing man-made spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, functional, sustainable, and safe.
Interior designers have the technical knowledge and skills to work with the architecture of a space, as well as the structure, lighting, codes, and regulatory requirements. They also understand the psychological and social aspects of human behavior in the built environment. Interior design is a professional and comprehensive practice that requires research, analysis, creativity, and collaboration.
Top Ten Best Universities for Interior Design
Choosing the right university is a pivotal first step for those aspiring to venture into interior design. Here are the top 10 best universities for interior design worldwide.
1. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is one of the most prestigious art and design schools in the US. RISD offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in interior architecture, which is a discipline that focuses on the reuse and transformation of existing buildings.
You will learn how to design spaces that are socially and environmentally responsible, as well as aesthetically and functionally appealing. You will also have the opportunity to study abroad in Denmark, where you will explore the rich heritage and contemporary practice of adaptive reuse in Europe. RISD's interior architecture department has a dedicated faculty of experts, a state-of-the-art studio space, and a diverse community of students who share their passion for creating art for everyday living.
2. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is a prestigious institution that offers both online and on-campus programs in interior design, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. SCAD's interior design programs are ranked among the best in the U.S. by Design Intelligence and are accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation.
As a SCAD student, you will have access to state-of-the-art resources, industry partnerships, and a diverse academic community. You will also learn from experienced faculty who will help you develop your skills and vision as an interior designer. Whether you choose the MA or the MFA degree, you will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects, participate in internships, and showcase your portfolio to potential employers. SCAD's interior design graduates are prepared to become leaders and changemakers in the field of interior design, creating spaces that enhance quality of life and reflect social responsibility.
3. Parsons School of Design - The New School
Parsons School of Design - The New School is one of the leading institutions for interior design education in the world. Founded in 1896, Parsons offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Interior Design, as well as a range of continuing and professional education courses. Parsons' interior design program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
Parsons' interior design faculty are renowned practitioners, scholars, and educators who bring their diverse expertise and perspectives to the classroom. Students benefit from the school's location in New York City, a global hub of culture, innovation, and design. Parsons' interior design alumni have gone on to work for prestigious firms, start their businesses, or pursue further studies in related fields.
4. Politecnico di Milano
Politecnico di Milano is one of the leading institutions in Italy and Europe for Interior Design education and research. The School of Design offers a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Interior Design, as well as several postgraduate courses and PhD programs. The curriculum covers topics such as design theory, history, methods, tools, materials, technologies, communication, project management, and professional practice. The students have the opportunity to work on real projects with companies, institutions, and organizations, as well as to participate in international competitions, workshops, and exhibitions.
The Interior Design program at Politecnico di Milano aims to prepare designers who can respond to the changing needs and expectations of society, as well as to the challenges and opportunities of the global market. The graduates are expected to have a solid cultural background, a critical and innovative mindset, a collaborative and ethical attitude, and a high level of competence in designing spaces that are functional, sustainable, accessible, inclusive, and aesthetically pleasing.
5. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati offers a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design (BSID) program that prepares students for careers in this field. The program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The curriculum covers topics such as design theory, history, communication, technology, sustainability, and professional practice.
Students also have the opportunity to participate in cooperative education, which allows them to gain real-world experience and network with industry professionals. The University of Cincinnati's Interior Design program is ranked among the top programs in the nation by DesignIntelligence and has a strong reputation for excellence and innovation.
6. Royal College of Art (RCA)
The Royal College of Art (RCA) is a world-renowned institution that offers a Master of Arts degree in Interior Design. The RCA's Interior Design program is an intensive two-year course that challenges students to develop their creative vision and practice while engaging with the latest research and innovation.
The program covers various topics, such as design theory, history, and criticism, social and cultural contexts, environmental psychology, digital technologies, and fabrication methods. Students work on individual and collaborative projects, both theoretical and practical, that address real-world issues and scenarios. The RCA's Interior Design program also provides students with opportunities to participate in workshops, exhibitions, competitions, and international exchanges, as well as to network with industry professionals and experts.
7. Pratt Institute
Pratt Institute offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design that prepares students to become innovative and socially responsible designers who can meet the challenges of the 21st century. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, visual communication, and technical skills, as well as the integration of theory and practice. Students learn to design for diverse contexts, such as residential, commercial, institutional, cultural, and public spaces.
The curriculum covers various topics, such as design history, theory, research methods, programming, space planning, lighting, furniture, color, materials, finishes, sustainability, and professional practice. Students also have the opportunity to participate in internships, study abroad programs, and collaborative projects with other disciplines. Graduates of the program are prepared to pursue careers in interior design firms, architectural firms, corporate design departments, government agencies, non-profit organizations, or independent consultants.
8. Interior Architecture and Environmental Design, University of Oregon
The Department of Interior Design, Interior Architecture, and Environmental Design at the University of Oregon offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education that prepares students for careers in the design of human environments. The department's programs emphasize the integration of theory, research, and practice, as well as the development of creative and critical thinking skills.
Students learn to design spaces that are functional, sustainable, accessible, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing, while also addressing the social, cultural, and ethical aspects of design. The department offers a Bachelor of Interior Architecture degree, a Master of Interior Architecture degree, and a PhD in Design. The department also collaborates with other disciplines and departments across the university, such as architecture, art, product design, landscape architecture, historic preservation, and environmental studies.
The department's faculty are nationally and internationally recognized for their research and professional practice in various areas of interior design, such as lighting, acoustics, color, materials, furniture, exhibition design, adaptive reuse, human behavior, and design history. The department's facilities include studios, computer labs, a woodshop, a materials library, a lighting lab, and a gallery.
9. College for Creative Studies (CCS)
College for Creative Studies (CCS) in Detroit, Michigan, is a private institution offering Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in Interior Design, along with other art and design programs. Renowned for its exceptional education, research, and practice, CCS consistently ranks among the top design schools globally, as recognized by Businessweek and QS World University Rankings.
CCS boasts a state-of-the-art campus equipped with studios, workshops, labs, galleries, libraries, and exhibition spaces, fostering an immersive and stimulating learning environment. Strong connections with the local and global design community provide CCS students with ample opportunities for internships, collaborations, competitions, and professional development.
For those dedicated to interior design, CCS delivers an invaluable and well-rounded education. You'll deepen your aesthetic sensibilities and fortify practical talents. Surrounded by mentors and peers sharing your drive, you'll tackle progressive projects applying cutting-edge technologies. Upon graduation, you'll be fully equipped to bring a fresh perspective to the global landscape.
10. École nationale supérieure des Arts Décoratifs (ENSAD)
The National School of Decorative Arts (ENSAD) is a prestigious institution that trains creative professionals in the field of interior design. Founded in 1766, it is one of the oldest and most renowned schools of art and design in France. It offers high-level training, combining theory, practice, and research, in various fields such as interior architecture, space design, product design, graphic design, textile design, scenography, cinema animation, photography, and even comics.
Students benefit from personalized teaching, provided by teachers recognized in their field, as well as access to equipped workshops and partnerships with cultural institutions and businesses. ENSAD is also a place for the dissemination and promotion of contemporary creation, through exhibitions, conferences, publications, and events. It actively participates in the international influence of French design and the promotion of social and environmental innovation.
Summary
Selecting the right university for interior design education is a significant decision that can shape the trajectory of one's career. These top-ranked universities earned their spots through leading-edge curriculum, faculty expertise and alumni achievement. Prospective students should carefully consider factors such as program structure, faculty expertise, and industry connections, ensuring a transformative and enriching educational experience that prepares them for success in the dynamic world of interior design.
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