How Long Does it Take to Finish an Interior Design Major?

There are several different programs that result in a student attaining an interior design major. Many have a specific focus, such as feng shui, eco-friendly and lighting or furniture design. If the program you are considering is a Bachelor’s degree program, it will take approximately four years to complete. This is based on a national average of programs for full-time students. If you enroll as a part-time student, it may take considerably longer, depending on the number of credits you complete per semester. There are also in-depth programs that that can take up to six years to complete. Remember, these are only averages. If time is a concern, it is best to work with the university or school that you have selected to see if there are options. 

In some cases, an interior design major combines traditional classroom classes and studio work with online courses. This may enable you to complete the program in a shorter period of time. There are also schools that allow you to use experience and existing knowledge to count towards course credit. For this to be considered, you must demonstrate an understanding of the course you wish to “test out of.” With the large selection of interior design programs that are available, both online and in a classroom setting, it is important that you research your options before choosing a school and a focus. Another option is to pursue an Associate’s degree.

This type of interior design major focuses on many different aspects of a designer’s daily duties from contract design, drafting and the use of color and texture to visual merchandizing and furniture. When the degree has been completed, you will be qualified to become an interior designer, commercial design assistant and a visual merchandiser, just to name a few. Programs usually provide hands-on training for many of the advanced courses. Depending on the school, they may also offer internships and provide placement assistance once the program has been completed. It is not uncommon for students to finish their degree within two years of their start date, if enrolled full time.

The time it takes to finish an interior design major varies greatly, based on many different scenarios. For students who are enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program on a full-time basis, it is usually completed in four years. This is the national average, but there are online options and the possibility of earning credit for experience that can help reduce the amount of time spent in the classroom without sacrificing quality. An Associate’s degree can often be earned in 18 to 24 months. Part-time students and those who are able to take more time in school may take much more time to complete their studies.