Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA: Top Universities & Fees

The USA continues to be a top destination for students pursuing a Bachelor's in Interior Design, with prestigious institutions such as Pratt, SCAD, and RISD consistently ranking among the world's top art and design schools.

The USA offers creative communities, advanced studios, and hands-on learning, providing excellent opportunities for aspiring interior designers to build impressive portfolios. With an estimated 4% increase in demand for interior designers by 2033, a Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA is a great way to enter this growing field. 

In this blog, you'll find a guide to the best U.S. Universities for a Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA, a breakdown of tuition costs, and insights into potential career paths, helping you plan your study in the USA.

Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA: Overview

If you're passionate about designing functional, beautiful spaces, a bachelor's degree in the USA might be the right fit. With over 70 universities offering comprehensive 3-4 year programs, you'll gain a deep understanding of design principles, technical skills, and creative problem-solving.

Here's a quick overview of a Bachelor's in Interior Design in the USA:

Now that you have an overview, let's explore what makes pursuing a bachelor's in interior design in the USA an excellent choice for your career.

Why Pursue a Bachelor's in Interior Design in the USA?

A bachelor's in Interior Design in the USA offers access to top-tier universities and strong job prospects, with 82% of graduates securing relevant jobs within six months. Let's explore why this path is highly regarded and how it sets you up for a successful design career:

• Top-Tier Design Schools: The USA is home to some of the top universities in the world for art and design, including institutions like the RISD, SCAD, and Pratt Institute. 
• Diverse Areas of Focus: Many Bachelor's programs offer specializations in areas like residential, commercial, sustainable design, and historic preservation. This allows you to tailor your studies to your interests and career goals.
• Strong Job Prospects: The demand for skilled interior designers remains steady, with employment for interior designers projected to grow by approximately 4% from 2023 to 2033. 
• Competitive Salaries: Graduates with a Bachelor's in Interior Design can expect competitive salaries, with the median annual wage for interior designers standing at around $60,000 (INR 51.3L), depending on experience and specialization.
• Versatile Career Paths: A Bachelor's in Interior Design opens up a variety of career opportunities. Graduates can work in residential, commercial, hospitality, or retail design, or even venture into related fields.
• Collaboration and Networking: Studying in the USA from India offers you numerous opportunities to collaborate with industry professionals and fellow students, thereby expanding your professional network.

With so many top universities and exciting career possibilities, pursuing a Bachelor's in Interior Design in the USA can be the perfect step toward a fulfilling and successful design career.

Top Universities Offering Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA

A Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA provides students with the opportunity to gain creative, practical, and technical skills in designing spaces that enhance function and aesthetics. These programs typically last 4 years, with some offering co-op programs for additional hands-on experience. 

Below is a quick overview of some top universities in the USA offering a Bachelor's in Interior Design:

Note: Tuition fees are estimates and may change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please check the respective university websites.

With these top universities in mind, let's explore your options further, including program specifics, deadlines, and tuition details.

Popular Universities For A Bachelor's In Interior Designing In The USA

A Bachelor's in Interior Design in the USA offers excellent opportunities, but with tuition fees ranging from $17,000 to $59,000 (INR 14.7L–51.1L), choosing the right program can be challenging. 

Below are some notable universities along with their program details:

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and subject to change. 

Now that you have a list of universities, let's look at the eligibility criteria you need to be aware of when applying.

Eligibility Criteria for a Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA

To apply to get a Bachelor's degree in Interior Design in the USA, you'll need to meet key requirements, such as a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate English proficiency with scores like IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80 or higher.  

Below is a breakdown of the eligibility criteria:

Once you understand the eligibility requirements, the next step is to familiarize yourself with the application process for a Bachelor's in Interior Design.

Application Process for Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA

The application process for a Bachelor's in Interior Design might seem complex, but breaking it down into simple steps can make it easier to manage. Last year, the US saw a 5.3% increase in international students, with Indian students leading the charge with an 11.8% rise, making now a great time to begin your application journey.

Here's a simple guide to help you through the process.

Step 1: Review Program Requirements

• Academic Qualifications: Most programs require you to have completed high school with subjects like mathematics or visual arts. If your background is in other areas, make sure your transcript includes relevant courses.
• English Language Proficiency: Expect to submit proof of English proficiency, like a TOEFL or IELTS Band score. Most programs require an IELTS score of at least 6.0, though some may accept a higher score depending on the school.
• Standardized Tests: While some universities may require SAT or ACT scores, many institutions are now making them optional. Check individual university guidelines to be sure.

Step 2: Prepare Application Materials

• Transcripts: Request official transcripts from your high school or any institutions you've attended. Ensure they're in the required format and uploaded as part of your application.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Write a concise SOP that explains why you want to study interior design and your career goals. Highlight what you bring to the program and why this particular school is the right fit.
• Letters of Recommendation: You'll typically need 2–3 letters of recommendation from teachers or professionals who can speak to your academic potential and design aptitude.
• Portfolio: A strong portfolio is crucial. Include design sketches, photos of completed projects, and other creative work that reflects your skills and interests.
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV): Your resume should showcase any relevant experience, such as internships, design work, or involvement in design-related activities.

Step 3: Complete the Application

• Online Application: Fill out the university's application form through their graduate admissions portal. Be sure to double-check for accuracy and that you've uploaded all required documents.
• Application Fees: Most universities charge an application fee. Please note that this is typically non-refundable, so ensure your application is complete before submitting it.

Step 4: Attend Interview (If Required)

• Interview: Some schools may invite you for an interview to assess your passion for interior design and your motivation to join their program. Be prepared to discuss your portfolio and your design aspirations.

Step 5: Check Application Status

• Application Status: Stay on top of your application by regularly checking the university portal to track whether any additional materials are needed or deadlines are approaching.

Step 6: Accept Admission Offer

• Admission Offer: If you're offered admission, you'll receive a formal letter. You will need to accept the offer by following the provided instructions and paying any necessary deposits to confirm your place.

Step 7: Apply for a Student Visa

• I-20 Form: After accepting an offer, the university will issue you a Form I-20, necessary for your student visa application.
• F-1 Student Visa: Apply for your F-1 student visa through the U.S. Department of State.
• Required Documents:
  • Form I-20
  • Proof of financial support
  • Valid passport
  • Visa application fee (around USD 160/INR 13.6K)

By following these steps, you can ensure that your application for a Bachelor's degree in Interior Design goes smoothly. 

After you apply, it's essential to understand the courses and structure of the program. Let's take a closer look at the curriculum.

Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA: Course Details

The Bachelor's in Interior Design in the USA covers core subjects such as Design Fundamentals and Building Systems, with specializations in areas like Sustainable and Commercial Design. Hands-on projects, internships, and capstone projects provide practical experience to kickstart your career.

Below is an overview of the course structure:

Understanding the curriculum is just the start. Let's now discuss the cost of studying in the USA.

Cost of Pursuing a Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA

Studying for a Bachelor's in Interior Design in the USA involves various expenses. On average, the total cost of living in the USA, including tuition, accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses, can add up to around $79,600 (INR 69.2L) annually. 

Here's a summary of the typical expenses you can expect throughout the academic year:

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

To ease the financial burden, scholarships and financial aid options are available. These can significantly reduce your overall expenses and help fund your education.

Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA: Scholarships for Students

Studying Interior Design in the USA can be expensive, but bachelor's scholarships for studying in the USA can help. With awards ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 (INR 85.5K to 8.5L), both university and external scholarships can significantly reduce your costs. Start early to maximize your funding opportunities.

Below are both internal and external scholarships that can significantly reduce your overall costs.

Internal Scholarships

Many universities, such as the New York School of Interior Design and SCAD, provide scholarships aimed at international students. For instance, the New York School of Interior Design gives merit-based awards up to $5,000 (INR 41.2L), helping to reduce tuition and living costs.

Below are some prominent internal scholarships:

To further ease your financial burden, numerous external scholarships are available for international students pursuing a bachelor's in interior design.

External Scholarships

External scholarships, such as the CREW Inland Empire Foundation's $5,000 (INR 4.3L) award or Bold.org's $1,000 (INR 85.5K) Legacy Scholarship, offer additional funding for tuition, travel, and living expenses. These opportunities can help ease your financial burden.

Here are some key external scholarships:

After securing financial support, you'll want to know about the job market and the opportunities available to you as an interior design graduate.

Job Opportunities After a Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA

Interior designing offers a variety of career options after graduation, with salaries that can reach up to $70,312 (INR 61.2L) annually for interior designers Whether you're a junior designer or a kitchen specialist, you can expect competitive compensation, with junior roles starting at $56,252 (INR 49.1L). 

Here's a snapshot of some popular job roles and their average annual salaries:

Source: Indeed

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate and may vary over time.

As you prepare to step into the job market, it's essential to know which organizations are actively seeking professionals with your expertise.

Top Recruiters Hiring Interior Designers in the USA

Top recruiters in the interior design industry, such as Gensler and Restoration Hardware, offer competitive salaries for talented professionals, with positions like Interior Designer paying as much as $97,799 (INR 83.6L) annually. 

These companies provide excellent opportunities for growth in the field, ensuring interior design graduates have rewarding career options.

Here are some top recruiters and the average salaries they offer in the USA:

Source: Indeed

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

To make your journey smoother, let's see how upGrad can help guide you through the steps of applying and succeeding in the program.

How Can upGrad Help You Pursue a Bachelor's in Interior Designing in the USA?

A bachelor's in Interior Design in the USA is an exciting step, but the road ahead can be a bit challenging. Between choosing the right program, handling applications, sorting out visas, and preparing for tests, it can feel like a lot to manage on your own.

This is where upGrad steps in. We make the entire process simpler by offering personalized guidance every step of the way. From helping you find the best programs that fit your goals to walking you through the university application process, we've got you covered. 

Need help with visa paperwork or scholarship options? We're on it. Plus, we'll support you with language test preparations so you can approach the process with confidence.

Ready to take the leap? Book a 1:1 session with upGrad experts, and let's get you on the path to studying Interior Design at a top university in the USA without the stress.