Masters in Interior Design USA: Top Universities, Fees, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

Masters in Interior Design in USA programs cost about USD 40,000–70,000 per year (≈ ₹33–58 lakhs). Top schools like Parsons and Pratt offer strong design theory, sustainability, and real-world project exposure. A masters in interior design in USA or advanced design program builds creative expertise and career potential in global architecture and luxury design industries.

Pursuing a Masters in Interior Design in USA is a popular choice among international and Indian students who want to build creative and rewarding careers in design. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual wage for interior designers in the USA is about $63,490 as of May 2024.  

Employment for interior designers is projected to grow 3% from 2024 to 2034, roughly at the average rate for all occupations. 

To pursue a Masters in USA, students need to meet specific requirements, such as a bachelor’s degree in design or a related field, English language proficiency, and in some cases, a design portfolio.  

While the cost of living in USA can vary depending on the city, it is still manageable for international and Indian students, especially with part-time jobs and scholarships for Indian students in USA.  

Masters in Interior Design in USA – Key Highlights 

Pursuing a Masters in Interior Design USA gives students global exposure, access to world-class design schools, and strong career prospects. Below are some quick highlights to understand the program better: 

Why Study Interior Design in USA? 

Studying a Masters in Interior Design USA is an excellent choice for students aiming for a global career in design. Here’s why: 

• Top-ranked universities: Access modern curriculum and hands-on learning through internships and industry collaborations. 
• Growing career opportunities: High demand for interior designers in architecture, residential, commercial, and sustainable design projects. 
• Opportunities for Indian students: Chance to work while studying and explore jobs in USA for Indians after graduation. 
• Safe and multicultural environment: Advanced infrastructure and a strong focus on innovation make it an enriching study experience. 
• Affordable living and financial aid: Manageable cost of living in USA for Indian students and available scholarships for Indian students in USA make education feasible. 

Top Universities for Masters in Interior Design in USA 

Note: INR conversions are approximate and may vary based on the currency exchange rates. 

Course Curriculum & Duration 

Pursuing a Master’s in Interior Design in the USA offers a balance of creative learning and practical exposure. The programs are designed to help students gain advanced design skills, industry knowledge, and research ability. Universities blend theory with hands-on projects so graduates are ready for careers in diverse interior design fields. 

Core Subjects & Specializations 

Students are introduced to both fundamental and advanced subjects in interior design, along with options to specialize. Common areas include: 

• Interior Design Theory & Principles 
• Sustainable & Environmental Design 
• Lighting Design 
• Furniture & Product Design 
• Digital Tools & 3D Visualization 
• Space Planning & Human-Centered Design 
• Professional Practice & Project Management 

Specializations may include: Hospitality Design, Commercial Spaces, Residential Design, Healthcare Design, or Exhibition & Retail Spaces. 

Course Duration & Intakes 

• Most Master’s in Interior Design programs in the USA last 1.5 to 2 years (full-time). 
• Some universities also offer part-time or online modes for working professionals. 
• Major intakes are Fall (August/September) and Spring (January/February). A few universities may also offer Summer admissions in May. 

Minimum Eligibility Requirements for Masters in Interior Design in USA 

To get admission into a Master’s in Interior Design in the USA, students must meet certain academic and language criteria. While the exact requirements may vary across universities, here are the common eligibility conditions: 

• Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, Fine Arts, or a related field is usually required. Some universities also accept students from other design backgrounds with a strong portfolio. 
• Academic Performance: Most universities expect a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent 65–70%). 
• English Proficiency: International students, especially from India, must provide test scores such as: 
• IELTS: 6.5–7.0 overall 
• TOEFL iBT: 80–100 
• PTE Academic: 58–65 
• Portfolio Requirement: A strong design portfolio showcasing creativity, technical skills, and prior projects is a key requirement for admission. 
• Standardized Tests: Some universities may ask for GRE scores, though many top schools have waived this requirement. 
• Work Experience: Not always mandatory, but 1–2 years of relevant experience in interior design or architecture can strengthen your application. 

Meeting these eligibility requirements ensures students have the necessary foundation to succeed in rigorous design programs in the USA. 

Admission Process & Required Documents 

Applying for a Master’s in Interior Design in the USA requires careful planning and timely submission of applications. Each university has its own process, but the general steps and documents remain similar for most institutions. 

How to Apply for Masters in Interior Design in USA? 

• Step 1: Research Programs – Explore universities in the USA offering interior design programs, compare tuition fees, curriculum, and rankings. 
• Step 2: Check Eligibility – Ensure you meet the academic, English proficiency, and portfolio requirements. 
• Step 3: Online Application – Fill out the application form via the university’s official portal and pay the application fee. 
• Step 4: Upload Documents – Submit transcripts, portfolio, test scores, and supporting documents. 
• Step 5: Interviews (if required) – Some universities may conduct online or in-person interviews to assess creativity and motivation. 
• Step 6: Receive Offer Letter – Once selected, you’ll get an admission offer. Accept it and pay the enrollment deposit. 
• Step 7: Apply for Student Visa (F-1 Visa) – After admission, proceed with your visa application using the I-20 form issued by the university. 

What Documents Are Required for Interior Design Admissions? 

Students must prepare the following documents before applying for Masters in Interior Design in USA: 

• Academic transcripts of bachelor’s degree 
• English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL /PTE) 
• GRE scores (if required) 
• Updated resume/CV 
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining academic goals and interest in interior design 
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from professors or employers 
• Portfolio of design projects and creative work 
• Valid passport 
• Proof of financial resources (bank statements or sponsor details) 

Having these documents ready in advance ensures a smooth and timely admission process. 

Cost of Studying & Living in USA 

Pursuing a Master’s in Interior Design in USA requires students to plan both tuition and living expenses. Costs vary depending on whether you study at a public or private university, as well as the city you live in.  

For Indian students, budgeting is especially important since the cost of living in USA for Indian students can be higher in big cities like New York, Boston, or Los Angeles compared to smaller towns. 

Cost of Studying Estimate in USA 

Here’s a comparison of average tuition fees between public and private universities for a Masters in Interior Design USA: 

Cost of Living in USA 

Apart from tuition, students must consider living costs, which depend on location and lifestyle. On average, the cost of living in USA ranges from USD 12,000 – 18,000 per year (₹9.9 – ₹14.8 lakh). 

Here’s a breakdown of typical yearly expenses for Indian students: 

• Accommodation (On-campus/Off-campus): USD 6,000 – 11,000 (₹4.9 – ₹9 lakh) 
• Food & Groceries: USD 3,000 – 5,000 (₹2.5 – ₹4.1 lakh) 
• Transportation: USD 800 – 1,500 (₹66,000 – ₹1.2 lakh) 
• Health Insurance: USD 1,500 – 2,500 (₹1.2 – ₹2 lakh) 
• Miscellaneous (books, utilities, leisure): USD 1,000 – 2,000 (₹83,000 – ₹1.6 lakh) 

Careful financial planning, part-time jobs, and scholarships can help Indian students manage these costs effectively. 

Scholarships & Financial Aid for Interior Design Students 

Studying Masters in Interior Design in USA can be expensive, but international students, including Indians, can ease their financial burden through scholarships and grants. Many universities, private foundations, and government programs offer scholarships for Indian students in USA based on merit, need, or creative talent. 

Popular Scholarships & Financial Aid Options 

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program – One of the most prestigious awards covering tuition, living expenses, and health insurance for international students. 
• AAUW International Fellowships – Supports women pursuing graduate studies in the USA. 
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships – Assists Indian students for postgraduate programs in leading US universities. 
• Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Loan Scholarships – Offers interest-free loans to meritorious Indian students. 
• University-Specific Scholarships – Many US universities like Pratt Institute, RISD, and NYU offer merit-based or need-based aid for interior design students. 
• Graduate Assistantships (GA/RA/TA positions) – Provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for research or teaching work. 

Tip: Start applying early, as deadlines for most scholarships are 8–12 months before the intake. Strong portfolios, SOPs, and recommendation letters often play a big role in securing funding. 

Work Visa & Post-Study Stay Back Options in USA 

After completing a Masters in Interior Design in USA, international students, including Indians, can take advantage of post-study work opportunities through visa options. The USA provides flexible pathways that help graduates gain industry experience and even explore long-term settlement. 

Popular Work Visa Options 

• F-1 Visa (OPT – Optional Practical Training): 
• Allows students to work for up to 12 months in the USA after graduation. 
• OPT is closely tied to your field of study, making it ideal for interior design graduates to get hands-on experience. 
• STEM OPT Extension (if eligible): 
• Some design programs with a strong technical/digital focus may qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, offering a total of 36 months to work in the USA. 
• H-1B Visa (Work Visa): 
• Enables graduates to continue working in the USA beyond OPT. 
• Sponsored by employers, especially in design firms, architectural companies, and creative agencies. 

Stay Back Advantages for Interior Design Students 

• Opportunity to work with top design studios, real estate companies, and creative firms in USA. 
• Gain valuable international work experience that enhances your portfolio. 
• Explore long-term immigration options like H-1B sponsorship or Green Card pathways. 
• For Indian students, these visas make it possible to secure jobs in USA for Indians in creative industries. 

Tip: Applying early for OPT and seeking employers who sponsor H-1B visas will increase your chances of continuing your career in the USA after graduation. 

Jobs & Salary After Masters in Interior Design in USA 

Completing a Masters in Interior Design in USA opens doors to diverse career opportunities. Graduates can work in design studios, architectural firms, real estate, furniture design, or even start their own practice.  

The demand for creative professionals has been steadily growing, with strong opportunities for jobs in USA and even jobs in USA for Indians in design-focused industries. 

Popular Job Roles After Masters in Interior Design 

The popular job roles after master’s in interior design are as follows: 

• Interior Designer 
• Furniture Designer 
• Architectural Drafter 
• Lighting Designer 
• Sustainable Design Specialist 
• Space Planner 
• Design Consultant 

Average Salary Range (per year) 

Let us understand the average salary range for different job roles: 

Note: INR conversions are approximate and may vary based on the currency exchange rates. 

Salaries vary depending on location (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago offer higher pay), company size, and work experience. Graduates with strong portfolios and industry exposure during OPT often secure higher-paying roles. 

Conclusion 

Pursuing a Masters in Interior Design in USA gives students access to world-class universities, innovative learning, and strong career prospects. With manageable tuition options, scholarships for Indian students in USA, and pathways to jobs in USA for Indians, it is one of the best choices for aspiring designers.  

The exposure to global design trends, advanced tools, and industry connections ensures excellent growth opportunities. Combined with flexible work visa options and a vibrant lifestyle, studying interior design in the USA is not only an educational investment but also a step toward building a rewarding international career. 

Planning to pursue master’s in interior design in USA, but not sure where to start from? Book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad expert and take a step towards your bright future!