3 answers
Nandini
Student
1
Question
Updated
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What would be the smartest path for someone studying Interior Design? Would just an associates degree be worth it? Is the degree worth it at all? I would love to get some insight from people who have pursued an Interior Design degree.
Currently studying Interior Design at a community college, wondering if a transfer to a four year for Interior Design is worth it or if I should just start looking for a job after I get my associates.
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2 answers
Mauricio Chaves
Interior Designer
50
Answers
Doorn, Netherlands
Updated
Mauricio’s Answer
Dear Nandini,
Studying Interior Design at any level — whether it’s an associate’s degree, a certification, or a bachelor’s — definitely brings value. But over time I’ve learned that what truly shapes your career is EVERYTHING YOU BUILD AROUND THOSE STUDIES.
Your diploma gives you a solid foundation and a level of professional credibility, which helps when you’re entering a competitive market where clients want to feel they’re working with someone committed and knowledgeable. Still, in Interior Design, soft skills and real-world experience often matter just as much. Here are three I consider essential:
* Communication – Presenting a proposal is more than showing a moodboard. You need to explain why your choices make sense, listen to your client, and adjust without losing your design vision. When communication flows well, projects move forward with much more clarity.
** Problem-solving – Renovation work always comes with surprises: materials delayed, suppliers changing dates, or structural issues no one anticipated. Being able to react quickly and find solutions keeps the project on track.
*** Negotiation and collaboration – Interior Design is a team effort. Negotiating timelines, setting clear expectations, and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and contractors makes the entire process smoother and far less stressful.
Beyond that, it’s important to develop your own design vision. And that goes way beyond picking colors or choosing finishes. It involves:
a. Understanding materials, lighting, textures, and functionality
b. Knowing how to propose or even create the pieces a project needs
c. Presenting your ideas to experienced people who can give you real feedback
d. Refining and polishing your concepts until they’re truly ready
As for choosing between transferring to a bachelor’s program or starting to work after your associate’s: it depends on your goals. If you want deeper technical knowledge, a stronger professional network, and added credibility, a bachelor’s can be a great investment. If you’re eager to start working, an associate’s combined with internships, real projects, and a strong portfolio can also open a lot of doors.
In the end, the best path is the one that combines education, hands-on experience, and a clear sense of who you are as a designer. That’s what really sets you apart in a competitive market.
May the force be with you!
Studying Interior Design at any level — whether it’s an associate’s degree, a certification, or a bachelor’s — definitely brings value. But over time I’ve learned that what truly shapes your career is EVERYTHING YOU BUILD AROUND THOSE STUDIES.
Your diploma gives you a solid foundation and a level of professional credibility, which helps when you’re entering a competitive market where clients want to feel they’re working with someone committed and knowledgeable. Still, in Interior Design, soft skills and real-world experience often matter just as much. Here are three I consider essential:
* Communication – Presenting a proposal is more than showing a moodboard. You need to explain why your choices make sense, listen to your client, and adjust without losing your design vision. When communication flows well, projects move forward with much more clarity.
** Problem-solving – Renovation work always comes with surprises: materials delayed, suppliers changing dates, or structural issues no one anticipated. Being able to react quickly and find solutions keeps the project on track.
*** Negotiation and collaboration – Interior Design is a team effort. Negotiating timelines, setting clear expectations, and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and contractors makes the entire process smoother and far less stressful.
Beyond that, it’s important to develop your own design vision. And that goes way beyond picking colors or choosing finishes. It involves:
a. Understanding materials, lighting, textures, and functionality
b. Knowing how to propose or even create the pieces a project needs
c. Presenting your ideas to experienced people who can give you real feedback
d. Refining and polishing your concepts until they’re truly ready
As for choosing between transferring to a bachelor’s program or starting to work after your associate’s: it depends on your goals. If you want deeper technical knowledge, a stronger professional network, and added credibility, a bachelor’s can be a great investment. If you’re eager to start working, an associate’s combined with internships, real projects, and a strong portfolio can also open a lot of doors.
In the end, the best path is the one that combines education, hands-on experience, and a clear sense of who you are as a designer. That’s what really sets you apart in a competitive market.
May the force be with you!
Tina Y. Li, AIA, IIDA
Interior Design
5
Answers
Rockville, Maryland
Updated
Tina Y.’s Answer
Any career in a design related field depends on years of experience. No matter if you are just out of college or pursuing a second career, experience is vital to your career growth. An associates degree in Interior Design does not allow you to pursue licensure; however, not all designers decide to pursue getting NCIDQ certified. In general, getting licensed comes with a salary bump but also requires a lot of upfront costs (registration, study materials, completing experience requirements, exam costs, etc.). If getting licensed is desired, find a place of employment that supports and encourages this path (usually in the form of reimbursement of fees, study groups, etc.). In any case, finding an internship is very important, not only to help you figure out where you want this path to take you but also gaining practical working experience!