How to become an interior designer: education, experience and career steps

Why choose a career in interior design?

Interior design is about more than making spaces look beautiful, it’s about creating environments that support how people live, work, and connect. Designers blend creativity with technical expertise to shape homes, workplaces, healthcare facilities, and public spaces that are both functional and inspiring.

As the profession evolves, opportunities continue to expand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of interior designers is projected to remain steady, with growing demand in areas such as sustainable design, healthcare facilities, and commercial development. Clients and employers increasingly want designers who can think beyond aesthetics, who understand energy efficiency, accessibility, and the ways space influences well-being.

Whether you dream of designing cozy living rooms, sleek corporate offices, or innovative hospitality experiences, interior design offers a career where creativity meets purpose.

Step 1: Start with the right education

Most interior designers begin with a bachelor’s degree in interior design or a related field. Coursework typically covers design principles, space planning, computer-aided design (CAD), lighting, materials, sustainability, and building codes. Studio-based classes are especially valuable because they mimic real-world projects and help students build confidence.

Some programs such as Ohio University’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture (delivered fully online) go beyond surface-level design and emphasize the technical side of the profession. This blend of creativity and problem-solving prepares students to take on diverse design challenges and positions them for professional certification later in their careers.

What is the difference between interior design and interior architecture?

Interior design and interior architecture both shape how people experience spaces, but they focus on different aspects of that process. Interior design emphasizes the look, feel, and usability of a space through elements like color, furniture, lighting, and materials, aiming to create comfortable and visually engaging environments. Interior architecture, on the other hand, focuses on the structural and spatial framework of interiors, including layout, built-in elements, renovations, and building systems, often working closely with architectural and engineering considerations. Put simply, interior design is about how a space feels, while interior architecture is about how it is built and organized.

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Step 2: Develop key design skills

Success in interior design requires more than an eye for style. Strong designers bring together a mix of artistic, technical, and interpersonal skills, including:

• Creativity and visualization – imagining how spaces can look and function.

• Technical proficiency – using design software like AutoCAD, Revit, or SketchUp.

• Knowledge of codes and standards – ensuring designs meet safety and accessibility requirements.

• Communication skills – presenting ideas clearly to clients, contractors, and stakeholders.

• Project management – balancing timelines, budgets, and multiple design elements at once.

Degree programs and internships help students refine these abilities while building confidence to work in professional settings.

Step 3: Build a portfolio

A portfolio is every designer’s calling card. It demonstrates your design process, creativity, and technical expertise. Students typically begin compiling their portfolios during school and coursework, pulling from studio courses, independent projects, and eventually internship experiences. A strong portfolio not only helps secure your first job but also becomes a living document you’ll update throughout your career. 

Step 4: Gain real-world experience

Internships and practical experience are essential for bridging the gap between classroom learning and professional practice. Many degree programs require students to complete internships, giving them a chance to collaborate with firms, shadow seasoned designers, and manage aspects of real projects. These experiences help graduates build networks and enter the workforce with confidence.

Step 5: Pursue certification and licensure

While not all design roles require certification, many employers prefer or require it. The most recognized credential is the NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) certification, which demonstrates professional competence. To qualify, you’ll need both education and supervised work experience. A strong degree program will help you learn necessary technologies, strategies, and concepts required in licensure. 

Step 6: Explore Your Career Path