4 answers
Katelyne
Student
Jourdanton, Texas
1
Question
Updated
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Is majoring in interior design as hard as they say it is?
I am a 17-year-old senior, about to graduate from high school in May. I didn't plan on going to college until I talked with a university representative. I want to major in interior design, but I have heard the courses can be extremely tough. I am still unsure if this is the right path for me. If the courses are as challenging as people claim, should I wait until I am certain this is the right choice for me? #Fall25
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4 answers
Kristin Godard
Director of Workplace Strategy
1
Answer
Brownstown Charter Township, Michigan
Updated
Kristin’s Answer
Hi Katelyne -
I've been in the industry for over 20 years and I can share some things that I learned throughout my journey that may help you.
- Yes there will be some classes that are challenging but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Any degree will have it's tough moments. You'll learn the necessary items in school but the real learning starts in the field when you begin your career.
- Most students are not 100% certain want they want to major in when they start college. I changed my path from broadcast communications and was torn between psychology and interior design. I ultimately chose design and have had the time of my life in the career.
- When you are looking at schools there are likely two paths Bachelor of Science (BS) and Bachelor or Arts (BA). BS is more technical you'll be dealing with construction, CAD drafting, materials, sustainability, lighting, and a stronger emphasis on preparing you for certifications and work in the commercial design field (workplace, healthcare, hospitality, etc.). BA is more about art and aesthetics, theory, history, and would be more aligned with residential design, styling, visual merchandising. This is typical, however I have many colleagues that started on the residential path and switched later on and vice versa. You're not stuck to any particular path as you move through your career.
-Before you make a decision ask yourself a few questions: Do you like solving space problems? Does selecting color palettes, lighting, materials, or creating floor plan layouts excite you? Do you like the idea of improving how people experience a space? If the answer is yes, or even a maybe, exploring this field may be worth it.
- Take some time to talk to or shadow other designers in your area. Find professionals on social media or look into workshops as well.
Lastly, the field is challenging but absolutely doable with interest and effort. Start small and explore!
I've been in the industry for over 20 years and I can share some things that I learned throughout my journey that may help you.
- Yes there will be some classes that are challenging but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Any degree will have it's tough moments. You'll learn the necessary items in school but the real learning starts in the field when you begin your career.
- Most students are not 100% certain want they want to major in when they start college. I changed my path from broadcast communications and was torn between psychology and interior design. I ultimately chose design and have had the time of my life in the career.
- When you are looking at schools there are likely two paths Bachelor of Science (BS) and Bachelor or Arts (BA). BS is more technical you'll be dealing with construction, CAD drafting, materials, sustainability, lighting, and a stronger emphasis on preparing you for certifications and work in the commercial design field (workplace, healthcare, hospitality, etc.). BA is more about art and aesthetics, theory, history, and would be more aligned with residential design, styling, visual merchandising. This is typical, however I have many colleagues that started on the residential path and switched later on and vice versa. You're not stuck to any particular path as you move through your career.
-Before you make a decision ask yourself a few questions: Do you like solving space problems? Does selecting color palettes, lighting, materials, or creating floor plan layouts excite you? Do you like the idea of improving how people experience a space? If the answer is yes, or even a maybe, exploring this field may be worth it.
- Take some time to talk to or shadow other designers in your area. Find professionals on social media or look into workshops as well.
Lastly, the field is challenging but absolutely doable with interest and effort. Start small and explore!
Franny Buzimkich
Executive Concierge
18
Answers
Wolcott, Connecticut
Updated
Franny’s Answer
Hi Katelyne,
Majoring in interior design can be challenging, but whether it’s "as hard as they say" depends on several factors like your personal interests, skills, and work habits. Here’s a breakdown of what makes an interior design major demanding—and also rewarding:
Why Interior Design Can Be Challenging:
Combination of Creativity and Technical Skills:
You need to develop both artistic creativity (sketching, color theory, spatial planning) and technical skills (CAD software, building codes, materials science).
Time-Intensive Projects:
Design projects often require a significant time commitment, including research, drafting, model-building, and presentations. Deadlines can be tight, especially during final projects or critiques.
Attention to Detail:
Interior design involves precise attention to dimensions, materials, lighting, ergonomics, and client needs. Mistakes or overlooking details can affect the entire design’s feasibility and functionality.
Critiques and Revisions:
Expect frequent critiques from professors and peers. Feedback can be direct and intense, aimed at refining your work, which can feel tough but helps you improve.
Learning Software and Technical Knowledge:
Mastery of software like AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is often required. Additionally, you learn about building codes, safety regulations, sustainable materials, and more.
Balancing Multiple Courses:
Interior design programs often include courses in art, architecture, psychology, business, and construction, so you’ll be juggling diverse subjects.
Majoring in interior design can be challenging, but whether it’s "as hard as they say" depends on several factors like your personal interests, skills, and work habits. Here’s a breakdown of what makes an interior design major demanding—and also rewarding:
Why Interior Design Can Be Challenging:
Combination of Creativity and Technical Skills:
You need to develop both artistic creativity (sketching, color theory, spatial planning) and technical skills (CAD software, building codes, materials science).
Time-Intensive Projects:
Design projects often require a significant time commitment, including research, drafting, model-building, and presentations. Deadlines can be tight, especially during final projects or critiques.
Attention to Detail:
Interior design involves precise attention to dimensions, materials, lighting, ergonomics, and client needs. Mistakes or overlooking details can affect the entire design’s feasibility and functionality.
Critiques and Revisions:
Expect frequent critiques from professors and peers. Feedback can be direct and intense, aimed at refining your work, which can feel tough but helps you improve.
Learning Software and Technical Knowledge:
Mastery of software like AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is often required. Additionally, you learn about building codes, safety regulations, sustainable materials, and more.
Balancing Multiple Courses:
Interior design programs often include courses in art, architecture, psychology, business, and construction, so you’ll be juggling diverse subjects.
Thank you so much! This really helps a lot.
Katelyne
Mauricio Chaves
Interior Designer
50
Answers
Doorn, Netherlands
Updated
Mauricio’s Answer
Dear Katelyne,
Every experience is different, and yes — Interior Design can be demanding in terms of time, dedication and even finances. But like anything in life, if it’s truly what you want, you’ll end up enjoying it immensely, even during the tough moments.
If you’re not completely sure yet, there’s nothing wrong with taking a small first step instead of jumping straight into a full degree. You could start with a certificate program to get a feel for the field before committing long-term. For example, I personally studied with the National Design Academy (N.D.A.) in the UK, and they offer several flexible programs in different formats. It can be a great way to explore the industry and understand whether design is really your path. ;)
At the end of the day, only you can decide what feels right. If Interior Design is meant for you, you’ll enjoy the journey no matter how challenging others say it is. This is a personal experience and you should always remember that you are the designer of your own life.
If you ever want more insight about what the field is really like, feel free to ask — the design community is full of people willing to share their experience.
May the force be with you!
Every experience is different, and yes — Interior Design can be demanding in terms of time, dedication and even finances. But like anything in life, if it’s truly what you want, you’ll end up enjoying it immensely, even during the tough moments.
If you’re not completely sure yet, there’s nothing wrong with taking a small first step instead of jumping straight into a full degree. You could start with a certificate program to get a feel for the field before committing long-term. For example, I personally studied with the National Design Academy (N.D.A.) in the UK, and they offer several flexible programs in different formats. It can be a great way to explore the industry and understand whether design is really your path. ;)
At the end of the day, only you can decide what feels right. If Interior Design is meant for you, you’ll enjoy the journey no matter how challenging others say it is. This is a personal experience and you should always remember that you are the designer of your own life.
If you ever want more insight about what the field is really like, feel free to ask — the design community is full of people willing to share their experience.
May the force be with you!
Moyra Paulina Martinez Romo
I help with a landscape non profit in Mexico and teach incoming interior design freshman students at Arizona state university all while pursing my masters
2
Answers
Glendale, Arizona
Updated
Moyra Paulina’s Answer
Depending on where you go to school it could be more demanding based off of what each program has to offer. I studied at Arizona State University and didn’t really know what to expect going in. I’m impressed with the program to say the least and I learned a lot of bought different disciplines while studying and now that I have graduated I am leaning towards architecture. You can study interiors and still have a good grasp for architecture