Interior design is swiftly transforming into one of the most vibrant and sought-after creative careers globally. By emphasizing the development of functional, visually appealing, and eco-friendly environments, interior designers play a crucial role in the residential, commercial, retail, and hospitality industries. This area now covers sustainable design, universal design, planning offices, and showing room designs digitally, allowing it to grow with the times.
Building cities, new ways of living, and environmental concerns are creating a greater demand for excellent interior designers everywhere. Interior design specialists are needed in Canada’s growing job market at architecture firms, real estate agencies, design agencies and also for work in film and television.
For those planning to study design, especially regarding Interior Design, here are the reasons why aspirants prefer Canada for study:
Curriculum driven by new innovative approaches
Cultural variety
Great education and wonderful amenities
Strong and growing migration: Plenty of chances for work upon graduation
The emphasis on sustainability
In 2023, Canada employed around 92,200 interior designers, with a job growth forecast of 4% expected from 2023 to 2033, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
This article discusses the top Interior Design Colleges & Universities in Canada and their several aspects in detail. Continue Reading!
Top Interior Design Colleges & Universities in Canada to Pursue in 2025
Presently, the top places to enroll in interior design in Canada include Toronto Metropolitan University, Emily Carr University, and the University of Manitoba. These institutions offer industry-relevant curricula and strong placement support.
In Canada, you’ll find prominent global institutions for Interior Design that combine knowledge, modern resources, and hands-on training. Colleges and universities in Canada encourage creativity, innovation, and preservation, giving students the abilities required to work in design around the world.
In Canada, you can pick from bachelor’s and master’s degrees, as well as shorter diploma and certificate programs for different backgrounds and dreams. Many educational institutions also provide co-op placements or internships so students can gain work experience.
Eligibility Criteria for Interior Design Colleges & Universities in Canada
To qualify for interior design programs in Canada, applicants usually must fulfill certain academic and occasionally portfolio standards, varying by the level of education (undergraduate, graduate). International students are also required to prove their English language skills.
Educational Qualifications
Diploma Courses:
Graduating from high school (Grade 12 or equivalent) with an emphasis on subjects such as English, math, and visual arts (if relevant).
Undergraduate Degree Programs:
High school diploma with strong grades (typically a minimum average of 70% or above). Certain programs might necessitate math or art-related classes.
Master’s/Postgraduate Courses:
A validated bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, Environmental Design, or a similar discipline. In certain situations, equivalent work experience might be taken into account.
Minimum Age Criteria
Must be a minimum of 17 years old when applying.
Certain institutions might establish minimum age requirements for diploma or undergraduate programs.
English Language Proficiency
For students from abroad, demonstrating English proficiency is required. Commonly accepted assessments and their minimum score requirements generally consist of:
IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall (with no individual band lower than 6.0)
Duolingo (certain institutions): Required score of 115 minimum.
Relevant Work Experience (if required)
Not required for undergraduate or diploma courses.
Preferred or necessary for certain Master’s or Graduate Certificate programs.
One to three years of experience in design or similar areas could enhance the application.
Additional Conditions
Portfolio:
A robust and innovative portfolio that highlights design abilities, unique creations, and concept development is generally necessary for all levels (particularly for degree programs).
Purpose Statement (PS):
A written document detailing your passion for interior design, professional aspirations, and the reasons for your application to this particular program.
Recommendations Letters:
Typically necessary for graduate programs.
Interview:
Certain institutions might carry out interviews or portfolio evaluations during the admission procedure.
Admission Process in the Interior Design Colleges & Universities in Canada
The application procedure for interior design programs in Canada usually entails submitting a request via the university's official site, along with necessary documents and a portfolio. Particular requirements differ by institution, but typically involve high school transcripts, scores from English language proficiency tests (IELTS or TOEFL), and occasionally a design portfolio.
The process of gaining admission to interior design master's programs in Canada for international students is fairly straightforward and not overly complicated, as long as you possess all the necessary documents and adhere to the steps outlined below:
1. Investigate & Select Institutions
Find colleges or universities that provide Interior Design programs (Diploma, Bachelor’s, or Master’s).
Take into account aspects like tuition costs, geographical area, course offerings, internship options, and certifications.
Cost of Studying in Interior Design Colleges & Universities in Canada
Fees for studying interior design in Canada can change depending on the college or university, course, and whether someone is a domestic or international student. Each year, you will normally have to pay between CAD 11,000 and CAD 30,000 for tuition. At Yorkville University, students in the Bachelor of Interior Design program have to pay CAD 24,480 for tuition each year.
We have put together a straightforward summary of the fees for studying Interior Design in Canada, including tuition and expenses for living.
Tuition Fees
Diploma Programs: CAD 10,000 – CAD 18,000 per year
Bachelor’s Degree: CAD 15,000 – CAD 30,000 per year
Master’s Degree: CAD 18,000 – CAD 35,000 per year
Cost of Living (Annually)
Accommodation (shared or student housing): CAD 7,200 – CAD 14,400
Visa Fees & Travel (for international students): CAD 250 – CAD 500 (one-time)
Scholarships for Interior Designing Students in Canada
Applicants from Canada and abroad can participate in several scholarships designed for interior design students in Canada. With these scholarships, you may cover tuition, living expenses and other costs you have when studying interior design. The Allan Waisman Aboriginal Architecture Scholarship, the CEI Architecture Interior Design Scholarship and many university entrance scholarships are among these examples.
University Scholarships
Many Canadian universities and colleges offering Interior Design programs provide merit-based and need-based scholarships:
Scholarship Name
Eligibility
Amount
Ryerson University (Toronto Metropolitan University) – Faculty of Communication and Design Scholarships
Offered to students in Interior Design based on academic performance and portfolio quality.
CAD 1,000 – CAD 5,000
Emily Carr University of Art + Design – Entrance Scholarships
Available for undergraduate students entering design programs, including Interior Design.
CAD 2,000 – CAD 5,000
University of Manitoba – Entrance and In-Course Scholarships
Includes awards specific to Environmental Design students (Interior Design stream).
Varies based on academic excellence
Kwantlen Polytechnic University – Merit-Based Awards
For students enrolled in the Bachelor of Interior Design program.
CAD 1,000 – CAD 3,500
External Scholarships
These are supported by Canadian institutions or government entities, accessible to both domestic and international students:
Scholarship Name
Eligibility
Amount
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
For students from Commonwealth countries applying to postgraduate studies in Canada.
Covers tuition, living allowance, and travel
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (for Master’s and PhD in Design)
Highly competitive scholarships for students showing academic excellence and leadership.
CAD 50,000/year for 3 years
Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant
Supports emerging designers and artists, including interior design students.
CAD 15,000 – CAD 18,000
Loan Options
If scholarships do not completely cover educational expenses, students may consider these loan alternatives:
Financial Aid Option
Description
Student Lines of Credit (via banks like RBC, Scotiabank, TD)
International students may need a co-signer with Canadian credit history.
upGrad Partnered Loan Services
upGrad often partners with financial institutions to offer flexible EMIs and education loans for international students enrolled in university-linked programs.
Career Opportunities in Interior Designing in Canada
Interior designers in Canada enjoy a wide range of career options across different sectors, encompassing residential, commercial, and institutional environments. The industry is expanding, and the need for interior designers is projected to match supply in the coming years.
Job Role
Job Description
Average Salary
Interior Designer
Plan, design, and furnish interiors of residential, commercial, or industrial spaces. Coordinate with architects, contractors, and clients. Select materials, lighting, and color schemes.
CAD 57,424 (INR 3,563,446) per annum
Interior Decorator
Focus on the aesthetic aspects of interior spaces (furniture, colors, textures). Work more on visual styling than structural planning. Often hired for home staging or renovations.
CAD 42,905 (INR 2,662,469) per annum
Space Planner
Optimize layout of interior spaces for functionality and flow. Common in commercial offices, retail, and healthcare facilities. Work closely with architects and project managers.
CAD 65,281 (INR 4,051,012) per annum
Lighting Designer
Specialize in lighting schemes to enhance space functionality and ambiance. Use technical knowledge of light behavior, fixtures, and systems.
CAD 60,346 (INR 3,745,262) per annum
Kitchen and Bath Designer
Design ergonomic, efficient, and aesthetic kitchens and bathrooms. Focus on plumbing, cabinetry, fixtures, and storage solutions.
CAD 38,569 (INR 2,393,713) per annum
Sustainable Interior Designer
Integrate eco-friendly and energy-efficient materials into design. Focus on LEED certifications and environmental impact.
CAD 57,424 (INR 3,563,914) per annum
Exhibition Designer
Create layouts and installations for museums, galleries, and trade shows. Combine interior design with branding and visual storytelling.
CAD 59,910 (INR 3,718,203) per annum
Set Designer / Production Designer
Design sets for film, TV, and theatre productions. Collaborate with directors and producers to create visual moods.
CAD 74,273 (INR 4,609,616) per annum
How upGrad Can Help You Apply to Interior Design Colleges & Universities in Canada
upGrad plays an important role in pointing students in the direction of improving their education in Interior Design, mainly at top Canadian colleges.
Even though upGrad currently does not offer a complete undergraduate program in Interior Design, it supports students exploring Canada by providing information and helpful tools.
Ready to kickstart your creative journey? Start your application today with a call to upGrad!
FAQs
What kinds of interior design courses are available in Canada?
In Canada, interior design offerings include diplomas, certificates, bachelor's, and master's degrees, accommodating different career aspirations and learning styles. Numerous programs provide specializations in fields such as residential, commercial, or kitchen and bath design.
What is the cost of studying interior design in Canada?
The expense for studying interior design in Canada greatly differs based on the level of the program (diploma, bachelor's, master's), the school, and your status as a domestic or international student. Tuition costs can vary from around $15,000 to $50,000 each year, while living expenses may contribute an additional $10,000 to $20,000 per year.
Are there scholarship opportunities for interior design students in Canada?
Indeed, many scholarships exist for interior design students in Canada, covering options for both undergraduate and graduate studies. These scholarships may be awarded based on merit, financial need, or alternative criteria, with some providing complete funding.
Are international students eligible to apply for interior design programs in Canada?
Certainly, international students are eligible to apply for interior design programs in Canada. Numerous universities and colleges in Canada provide interior design programs, with several institutions recognized for their excellent offerings and prospects for international learners.
Is a portfolio necessary for admission every time?
No, a portfolio isn't always needed for admission, but it frequently serves as a valuable and occasionally essential element, particularly in areas like art and design. Certain programs might need a portfolio for the application process, whereas others might not require one.
What is available to me after completing a course in interior design?
When you finish your interior design studies, you have the choice to pursue residential or commercial interior design, furniture design, designing for exhibitions or lighting design. You may want to consider being a visual merchandiser, production designer or check out jobs in architecture or graphic design.
Do people in Canada need a license to practice as interior designers?
Even though you can work as an interior designer in most parts of Canada without a license, registered interior designers have to fulfill requirements and register with a provincial authority. Most of the time, this means earning a recognized interior design diploma, doing internships and passing the NCIDQ test.
What is the value of CIDA accreditation?
The Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) is a nonprofit group that guarantees college interior design programs are meeting academic standards. The meaning of CIDA accreditation is that the accredited college’s curriculum, instructors and achievements of the students were closely examined and were determined to be of high quality, helping students prepare for their career in interior design.
Are certain qualifications required to study interior design in Canada?
In many cases, you should have a bachelor’s degree in interior design or a similar field to work as an interior designer in Canada. Sometimes, you may be asked by a program to show a portfolio that highlights your design and artistic skills. Their skills in English may have to be proven by international students.
Is a portfolio required for admission?
Indeed, the majority of Interior Design programs necessitate a portfolio that demonstrates your creativity, drawing abilities, and design works. It’s among the most crucial elements of your application.
Are international students allowed to work while they study?
Indeed, international students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during designated breaks with a valid study permit.
Am I eligible for a work visa once I finish my studies?
Indeed, qualifying students may submit an application for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), permitting them to work in Canada for as long as 3 years post-graduation.
Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland...
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