Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Interior Design Programs in Arvada, Aurora, Boulder, Centennial, Colorado Springs, Denver, Fort Collins, Greeley, Highlands Ranch, and Lakewood.
Struggling to find the perfect interior design college in Colorado? You’re in the right place.
This article highlights the best Interior Design Programs in Colorado, breaking down unique opportunities and strengths of each school.
From degree details to internship options, we’ve got everything covered to help you make an informed decision for your future in design.
University of Colorado Denver – Interior Design Program
The University of Colorado Denver’s Interior Design program is a robust option if you seek a hands-on approach to your education. As part of the College of Architecture and Planning (CAP), this program emphasizes experiential learning.
Key Features:
- Holistic Education: The curriculum covers adaptive reuse, furniture, and lighting design, as well as entrepreneurship.
- Sustainability Focused: Courses emphasize sustainable building practices and justice, equity, and inclusion.
- Real-World Projects: Engage in projects and interdisciplinary activities, benefiting from Denver’s professional community.
- Additional Opportunities: Options for a minor in Interior Design and a graduate-level certificate.
Special Programs:
- Minor in Interior Design: Complements a variety of majors and broadens your skill set.
- Graduate-Level Certificate: Focuses on professional skills, including Global History & Theory of Interior Design.
Colorado State University – Interior Architecture and Design Program
Consider enrolling in Colorado State University’s Interior Architecture and Design Program if you’re looking for a program accredited by CIDA and NASAD.
Key Features:
- Diverse Concentrations: Specialize in Interior Architecture or Interior Products and Retailing.
- Real-Client Projects: Gain hands-on experience by working with real clients.
- Sustainability and Health Design: Faculty focuses on sustainability and health design principles.
- Extensive Career Preparation: Prepares graduates for fields like workplace, hospitality, healthcare, and retail design.
Admission and Financial Aid:
- Portfolio Requirement: Submit a specific portfolio for admission.
- Financial Aid: Various options are available to support your education.
Added Benefits:
- Internships and Study Tours: Participate in internships and international study tours to broaden your horizons.
- Focus on Entrepreneurship: Tailor your education to include business strategy for interior products.
Front Range Community College – Interior Architecture and Design
Front Range Community College offers a dedicated Interior Architecture and Design program, ideal for those who value practical experience.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes architectural drafting, CAD, space planning, and more.
- Internship Opportunity: A four-credit internship provides essential real-world experience.
- CKBD Qualification: Graduates can apply six months of their Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree towards the CKBD qualification.
Design Settings:
- Versatile Application: Prepares students for residential, corporate, hospitality, and healthcare settings.
- Service-Learning Opportunities: Work with community partners on meaningful design projects.
Arapahoe Community College – Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Interior Design
Arapahoe Community College’s AAS in Interior Design offers a blend of technical skills and creative design education.
Key Features:
- NKBA Accreditation: Accredited by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).
- Hands-On Learning: Includes drafting, space planning, and sustainable design principles.
- Practicum and Capstone: Gain experience through a Practicum and Capstone project.
Additional Certifications:
- Residential Kitchen and Bath Design Specialist Certificate
- Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) Certificate
Admission Requirements:
- Orientation and Transcripts: Attend orientation and submit necessary transcripts.
- Professional Exams: Graduates are eligible to sit for exams like the AKBD and CKBD.
Heritage School of Interior Design – Fundamentals of Interior Design
Located in Denver’s vibrant RiNo Art District, the Heritage School of Interior Design offers a Fundamentals of Interior Design program.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers core design principles, projects, and business practices.
- Portfolio Development: Focuses on creating a competitive design portfolio.
- Master Certification Program: For those looking to expand their skill set with advanced courses including AutoCAD and Revit.
Unique Offerings:
- Financing Options: Various financing options available.
- Collaborative Environment: Dedicated instruction supports students throughout their learning journey.
Colorado State University – Interior Design Specialization, M.S. in Design and Merchandising
Colorado State University’s M.S. in Design and Merchandising with an Interior Design specialization is an advanced program that focuses on key areas of interior design.
Key Features:
- Creativity and Sustainability: Covers creativity, sustainability, and emerging technologies.
- Diverse Application: Prepares graduates for academia or professional practice.
- Specialization Areas: Includes sustainable design, inclusive design, health and wellbeing, and digital fabrication.
Benefits:
- Resident Tuition Rates: Residents of WICHE member states qualify for resident tuition rates.
- Research Opportunities: Offers extensive opportunities for research in various fields of design.
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design stands out for personalized instruction from experienced industry professionals.
Key Features:
- Integrated Curriculum: Covers architecture, environmental design, and color theory.
- Drafting and Sustainable Design: Courses include drafting, lighting, and construction documents.
- CIDA Accredited: The program is CIDA accredited, ensuring industry compliance.
Career Preparation:
- Broad Application: Prepares for careers in healthcare, hospitality, residential, and commercial design.
- Practical Experience: Emphasizes project management skills and hands-on learning.
These Colorado institutions offer diverse Interior Design programs tailored to various career aspirations. From Colorado State University’s research-focused specialties to the holistic programs at the University of Colorado Denver, you have numerous high-quality options to begin your journey in interior design.
Colorado State University – Interior Architecture and Design Program
The Interior Architecture and Design program at Colorado State University is a strong contender for prospective students aiming to merge creativity with research-based problem-solving.
Key Features:
- Research-Based Problem-Solving: The program emphasizes experiential learning through real-world projects and advanced problem-solving techniques.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Students have access to the Nancy Richardson Design Center, enriched with the latest technology and equipment.
- Comprehensive Studies: The curriculum covers interior construction, sustainable design strategies, and cultural perspectives.
Specialization Options:
- Design Thinking
- Real Estate
- Media Studies
Practical Experience:
Students are required to complete a 12-credit internship, providing invaluable real-world experience. With selective admission processes that uphold high standards, you’ll be thoroughly prepared for a thriving career.
Consider exploring Colorado State University’s Interior Architecture and Design program for a comprehensive education in design.
Pikes Peak State College – Associate of Applied Science Degree in Interior Design
Pikes Peak State College’s AAS in Interior Design is ideal for those seeking a foundation in technical skills and creative concepts.
Key Features:
- Integrated Curriculum: The curriculum includes drafting, material use, space planning, and sustainability principles.
- Software Proficiency: Courses cover essential software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit, helping you create industry-standard construction documents and presentation boards.
- Real-World Projects: Hands-on projects and interaction with local professionals enhance your practical knowledge.
Program Duration:
The course spans seven semesters, ensuring you gain robust, practical knowledge along your educational journey. Prospective students are encouraged to contact TPS Advising or Admissions for more details on Pikes Peak State College’s AAS in Interior Design.
University of Colorado Denver – Interior Design Certificate Program
If you are a graduate student or a non-degree seeker, the Interior Design Certificate Program at the University of Colorado Denver offers a comprehensive overview of interior design principles.
Key Features:
- Detailed Curriculum: Concentrates on key aspects of design such as furniture, texture, color, lighting, and sustainability.
- Design Communication: Enhance your ability to convey design ideas through 2D and 3D visualization.
- Human-Centered Design: Emphasizes practices that prioritize human experiences.
Practical Learning:
A key component of the program includes an internship, giving participants practical professional experience. For more information, including specifics on hours and pricing, see the University of Colorado Denver Interior Design Certificate Program.
MSU Denver – Industrial Design Program
While not strictly an interior design program, the Industrial Design Program at MSU Denver offers a close fit for those interested in aspects of design related to interiors.
Key Features:
- Diverse Curriculum: Encompasses textiles, furniture design, prototyping, and collaboration with the industry.
- Balanced Approach: Courses balance appearance, functionality, and manufacturability, preparing you for a variety of fields such as automotive, consumer electronics, and healthcare.
- Modern Facilities: State-of-the-art labs provide learning opportunities in 3D modeling, user research, prototyping, and marketing.
Career Preparation:
Graduates from this program find promising career opportunities and often secure competitive designer positions. Explore MSU Denver’s Industrial Design Program to see how it aligns with your career aspirations.
How to Choose the Best Interior Design Program
Successfully navigating through the myriad options for Interior Design Programs in Colorado requires careful consideration of several factors.
Key Considerations:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program meets industry standards with accreditation from recognized bodies like CIDA or NASAD.
- Faculty Expertise: Benefit from learning under experienced professionals with industry backgrounds.
- Facilities and Resources: Look for programs with advanced studios, labs, and technology.
- Career Support Services: Investigate the availability of internships, job placement assistance, and career counseling.
- Alumni Success: Review success stories and career trajectories of program graduates.
- Curriculum and Specializations: Choose a program whose curriculum and specializations align with your career goals.
- Financial Aid: Research the availability of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options.
Additional Tips:
- Campus Visits: Visit campuses to get a feel of the environment and interact with current students and faculty.
- Program Reviews: Read reviews and testimonials to gauge student satisfaction and program effectiveness.
Interior Design Programs By State
Final Thoughts on Interior Design Programs in Colorado
Colorado offers a wealth of high-quality interior design programs tailored to diverse career aspirations. Whether you’re leaning towards research-focused excellence at CSU or practical, hands-on learning at Front Range Community College, you’ll find a program that suits your needs.
Dive deep into these opportunities and align your choice with your career dreams. Each program provides a unique blend of creativity, technical skills, and professional preparation, setting the stage for a successful future in interior design.