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Interior Design Courses in USA

Interior designing courses in USA cover planning and styling for real spaces—from homes to retail stores. The field has over 92,000 jobs, and designers earn about $63,490 (₹52.7L) a year. USA colleges train you with studio projects, expert feedback, and tools used in the industry. If you want a career where design meets function, this path is worth exploring.

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Universities with Creative & Career-Focused Programs

Highlights of Interior Designing Courses in USA

Aspect

Details

Course Types Available

Diploma, Associate, Bachelor’s (BFA/BS), Master’s (MA/MFA), Short-term/Online

Popular Degree Levels

BFA, BS, MA, MFA, Diploma

Top Interior Design Schools USA

SCAD, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Pratt Institute, NYSID, Parsons

Course Duration

1 to 4 years (varies by diploma, UG, or PG level)

Average Tuition Fees

$15,000 – $55,000/year (₹12L – ₹46L)

Interested in Interior Design as a Career?

Types of Interior Designing Courses in USA

Students can choose from quick diploma programs, two-year associate degrees, or full bachelor’s and master’s degrees, depending on time, budget, and career goals. These cater to students with different goals—quick skill-building, career change, or professional specialization.

Common Interior Designing Courses in USA

Course Type

Duration

Best Suited For

Diploma in Interior Design USA

6–12 months

Beginners looking for a practical entry into the field

Associate Degree in Interior Design

2 years

Students planning to transfer to a bachelor’s program

Interior Design Bachelor Courses USA

3–4 years

Class 12 graduates aiming for a full-time undergraduate path

Interior Design Master’s Degree USA

1–2 years

Architecture/design grads looking for advanced specialisation

Short-Term Interior Courses USA

3–9 months

Working professionals or career switchers

Online Interior Design Courses USA

Flexible

International students needing remote or low-cost options

Most of these programs are offered by top interior design schools in USA, including accredited universities and art colleges.

Start with a Bachelor’s in Design

Top Universities for Interior Designing Courses in USA

Top USA design schools offer industry-driven programs in interior design across diploma, bachelor’s (BFA/B.Des), and master’s levels (MFA/M.Des/MA Interior Architecture). Most private schools charge between $45,000–$60,000/year (₹37L–₹50L), while public options like UCLA cost significantly less.

Best Universitites to Study Interior Designing in USA

University (City)

QS Design Rank

Fee Range (USD – INR/year)

The New School – Parsons (New York, NY)

3

$48,000–$52,000 (₹39L–₹43L)

RISD – Rhode Island School of Design (Providence, RI)

4

$52,000–$56,000 (₹42.6L–₹45.9L)

Pratt Institute (New York, NY)

7

$50,000–$55,000 (₹41L–₹45.1L)

SAIC – Art Institute of Chicago (Chicago, IL)

9

$50,000–$54,000 (₹41L–₹44.2L)

SCAD – Savannah College of Art and Design (GA)

13

$38,000–$41,000 (₹31.2L–₹33.6L)

Art Center College of Design (Pasadena, CA)

14

$44,000–$48,000 (₹36L–₹39.4L)

UCLA (Los Angeles, CA)

24

$12,000–$15,000 (₹10L–₹12.3L)

SVA – School of Visual Arts (New York, NY)

25

$46,000–$50,000 (₹37.7L–₹41L)

Curriculum – Interior Designing Courses in USA

Accredited programs at interior design schools in USA include studio work, CAD/3D tools, and courses on lighting, sustainability, and client communication. All major programs—Diploma, BFA, and MFA—develop creative and technical skills required in today’s interior design jobs.

Subjects Covered in Interior Designing Courses in USA

Course Area

Subjects and Tools Covered

Design Software

AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Rhino – industry standard tools

Studio Practice

Residential and commercial interior planning, 3D model building, scaled floor plans

Color and Lighting

Color theory, ambient and task lighting, mood and texture impact

CAD and 3D Modeling

Digital drafting, space rendering, blueprint conversions

Sustainability Focus

Eco-friendly material selection, LEED principles, green space utilization

Professional Skills

Client communication, interior design codes, safety compliance, budgeting, portfolio building

Most accredited interior design bachelor courses USA and interior design master’s degree USA include internships or externships that lead to practical exposure and jobs after interior design course.

Why Choose USA for Interior Design Courses?

Intakes – Interior Designing Courses in USA

Most interior designing courses in USA follow two major intakes—Fall (August/September) and Spring (January). Fall is the main intake, especially for interior design bachelor courses USA and interior design master’s degree USA, with more seats and funding options.

Application deadlines vary by school but typically close 6–9 months before intake. For top programs, portfolio review periods and interviews may start as early as December for the Fall cycle. Short-term interior courses for international students often have rolling intakes.

Understand the Cost Before You Apply

Eligibility for Interior Designing Courses in USA

Admission to interior designing courses in USA depends on your academic level, design background, and English proficiency. For bachelor’s degrees, students must complete 10+2 with good grades and submit a strong design portfolio. For master’s programs, a related undergraduate degree (design, architecture, fine arts) is expected.

A portfolio is mandatory for most top programs. It should include original sketches, 2D/3D work, and space design concepts. IELTS or TOEFL scores are needed for all international students. Some short-term or diploma courses are flexible on portfolios but still require proof of English skills.

SOP and LORs matter more for graduate-level and scholarship-based programs.

Eligibility Criteria for Interior Designing Courses in USA

Criteria

Bachelor’s (B.Des/BFA)

Master’s (M.Des/MFA/MA)

Academic Background

10+2 (any stream, arts preferred)

UG degree in design/architecture/fine arts

Portfolio

Required by all top schools

Mandatory – evaluated for creativity

English Proficiency

IELTS 6.0+/TOEFL 80+

IELTS 6.5+/TOEFL 90+

SOP

Not always required

Strong SOP needed

LORs

Optional

1–2 academic/professional LORs

Work Experience

Not needed

Preferred but not mandatory

Age Limit

No upper age limit

No upper age limit

Check USA Visa for Interior Design Students Requirements

Admission Process for Interior Designing Courses in USA

Application for interior designing courses in USA involves online forms, portfolio reviews, and standard academic documents. Most top US universities for interior design accept applications through their official websites or common portals like the Common App (UG) or ApplyTexas. For graduate interior design programs, schools use platforms like Slideroom or direct applications.

Your portfolio is the most important element—it must reflect original concepts, technical skills, and design thinking. Some schools also conduct interviews, especially for interior design master’s degree USA. Response times vary but generally take 4–8 weeks.

Required Documents for Interior Design Admissions in USA

  • Academic transcripts (10+2 or UG depending on course level)
  • English test scores – IELTS/TOEFL
  • Portfolio (PDF or digital)
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
  • Resume (for graduate programs)
  • Passport copy

Tip: Apply at least 8–10 months in advance, especially for interior design scholarships in USA.

Looking for Scholarships?

Scholarships for Interior Designing Courses in USA

Top design schools in the US offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students. Some awards cover full or partial tuition, others include stipends or design-specific fellowships. Students applying to interior design bachelor courses USA or interior design masters degree USA should check the school’s financial aid section.

There are also Indian government scholarships for US-bound students, and several design colleges offer tuition discounts for international students.

Popular Scholarships for Interior Design Students in USA

Scholarship Name

Covers

Target Group

Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship

Full tuition + living

Indian PG students in creative/design fields

SCAD Merit Scholarships

Up to 50% tuition

BFA/MFA applicants with strong portfolios

Pratt Institute Scholarships

Tuition discounts + stipends

UG/PG admitted students

Parsons Graduate Fellowships

Partial funding for top admits

MFA/MDes in Interior Design

Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation

Up to $100,000 for PG

Indian students in design, arts, architecture

Need-Based Aid (Most US colleges)

Variable

UG/PG students with proven financial need

Many best interior design schools USA automatically consider international students for scholarships during admission. No separate form is needed in most cases.

Public vs Private Universities – What’s Right for You?

Targeting Ivy League or Top Design Schools?

Jobs and Salary After Interior Designing Courses in USA

Graduates from interior designing courses in USA earn an average salary of $60,000/year (₹50L), depending on role, experience, and location. Career paths include residential design, lighting, and visual merchandising. Most jobs are portfolio-driven, and salaries grow with specialization and industry experience.

Top Job Roles After Interior Design Course

  • Interior Designer – residential, commercial, or institutional projects
  • Lighting Consultant – visual ambiance and energy-efficient layouts
  • Set Designer – film, television, event design
  • Design Strategist – brand environments and user experience
  • Furniture/Material Specialist – for design houses and suppliers
  • CAD/3D Visualizer – technical modeling for design firms

Average Salary After Interior Designing in USA

Experience Level

Average Annual Salary (USD)

INR Equivalent

Entry-level (0–2 yrs)

$40,000 – $55,000

₹33L – ₹45L

Mid-level (3–6 yrs)

$55,000 – $70,000

₹45L – ₹57L

Senior (7+ yrs)

$75,000 – $100,000+

₹61L – ₹82L+

Internships at top USA design schools often lead to full-time roles, especially in retail, hospitality, and set design.

Want to Know Which Exams Are Required?

Cost of Studying Interior Designing in USA

The average cost of studying interior design in USA is $35,000/year (₹28.7L), including tuition and living expenses. Fees depend on the course level—diploma in interior design USA is cheaper, while a master’s degree in interior design USA has higher tuition and material costs. Short-term and online courses are more affordable for international students.

Interior Design College Fees in USA (By Program Type)

Program Type

Tuition/Year (USD)

INR Equivalent

Diploma/Certificate (1 year)

$10,000 – $18,000

₹8.2L – ₹14.7L

Associate Degree (2 years)

$12,000 – $20,000

₹9.8L – ₹16.4L

Bachelor’s (BFA, B.Des – 4 years)

$25,000 – $45,000

₹20.5L – ₹36.9L

Master’s (MFA, M.Des – 2 years)

$30,000 – $55,000

₹24.6L – ₹45L

Short-term Interior Courses (3–6 months)

$3,000 – $7,000

₹2.5L – ₹5.7L

Online Interior Design Courses USA

$500 – $5,000

₹41K – ₹4.1L

Other Expenses (Approx. Annual)

  • Studio Materials & Tools: $1,000 – $2,000 (₹82K – ₹1.6L)
  • Design Software Access: $200 – $600 (₹16K – ₹49K)
  • Health Insurance: $1,200 – $2,000 (₹98K – ₹1.6L)
  • Living Costs: $10,000 – $18,000 (₹8.2L – ₹14.7L)

Budget for ₹20L–₹50L per year, depending on course, location, and college type.

Not Sure When to Apply?

Still Comparing Study Destinations?

Career Path After Interior Designing Courses in USA

Most interior design graduates start as junior designers or studio assistants. With 3–5 years of experience, they move into project ownership or consulting roles. Senior professionals lead design teams, manage large accounts, or run independent studios.

High-paying roles are available in retail, hospitality, real estate, and set design. A master’s or strong portfolio accelerates this path. Average salaries range from $45,000–$90,000/year (₹37L–₹74L) depending on role and experience.

Sample Career Path After Interior Design Courses in USA

Stage

Role

What You Do

Year 0–2

Junior Interior Designer

Draft layouts, assist with client projects, support senior designers

Year 2–5

Interior Designer/Space Planner

Lead small projects, handle client meetings, manage vendors and site work

Year 5–8

Project Manager/Strategist

Oversee teams, run end-to-end projects, plan branded spaces or retail stores

Year 8+

Studio Lead/Consultant

Head design teams, start your own studio, or take large-scale commercial jobs

Free upGrad Courses for Creative Careers

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72 results found

Interior Design, B.F.A.

New York Institute of Technology, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Bachelor of Science in Interior Design

Lawrence Technological University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 27.93L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

B.F.A. Interior Design

University of Wisconsin Stout, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 59.31L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Interior Design Professional Program BFA

Purdue University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

B.S. in Interior Design

University of Minnesota, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 119.39L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

BSD Interior Design

Arizona State University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 30.13L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Interior Design Merchandising (BA)

Seattle Pacific University, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 120.13L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Interior Design BS

East Carolina University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 17.93L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Bachelor of Arts, Interior Design

Sam Houston State University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

A.A.S. in Interior Design

Montana State University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 23.39L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

B.A./ B.S. Interior Design

North Dakota State University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 16.60L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Interior Design (B.F.A.)

South Dakota State University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 11.50L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Interior Design

Woodbury University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 18.28L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Interior Design B.F.A

SUNY Buffalo State College, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

BS in Interior Design

Thomas Jefferson University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 32.40L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Design and Merchandising (M.S.) - Interior Design Specialization

Colorado State University, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 39.20L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Interior Design (BS)

Missouri State University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Interior Design, B.F.A.

Iowa State University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 20.75L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Design-Interior Design (BFA)

Wayne State University, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 27.29L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

B.A. Interior Design

New Jersey Institute of Technology, USA

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

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