Colleges not on this list may have received a CIDA accreditation since the process is continuous. The CIDA updates accreditations on an ongoing basis, so check with your college of choice to ensure the accreditation is in good standing before enrollment. However, by attending a CIDA-accredited school, you can ensure that what you’re learning will help you gain a competitive edge in today’s interior design industry. You can view interior designer qualifications by state here. In most states, attending a CIDA-approved interior program is not required to work as a licensed or registered interior designer. A CIDA accreditation ensures the design program meets high standards and prepares entry-level interior designers for a career. How We Picked The Best Interior Design SchoolsĮvery school on our list is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). If you’re ready to tackle the education portion, consider one of these top interior design schools. To sit for NCIDQ, the most common certification exam for interior designers, you need a combination of education and hands-on work experience.

The best interior design schools will teach you design fundamentals, drawing, computer-aided design software, and business foundations to get your career off the ground.

Drawing software for interior design