Not in Glendale? Check out our lists of Interior Design Programs in Hesperia, Huntington Beach, Inglewood, Irvine, Jurupa Valley, Lancaster, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Menifee, and across California.
Looking to jumpstart your interior design career?
Discover the best interior design programs in Glendale, CA, where creativity meets professional training.
This guide highlights top schools and programs, offering unique resources and hands-on experience to boost your design skills.
Transform your passion into a thriving career with these carefully curated educational paths.
Woodbury University – Interior Design Programs
Explore the interior design offerings at Woodbury University. Established in 1884, this institution has a rich history of nurturing creative professionals. Located in Burbank, CA, Woodbury provides a comprehensive education in interior design, blending both theoretical and practical approaches.
The curriculum emphasizes critical and creative thinking, technical skills, and strong design concepts. Here’s what you can expect:
- Creative foundation: Courses covering design principles, spatial planning, and sustainable practices.
- Hands-on experience: Real-world projects and access to resources like the Nan Rae Gallery and Making Complex Materials Library.
- Accredited and recognized: Programs that meet industry standards and are highly regarded by professionals.
- Personalized attention: Small class sizes ensure one-on-one interaction with experienced faculty members.
- Strong network: Located in Southern California, students benefit from networking opportunities and exposure to industry leaders.
Woodbury University ranks among the top architecture and design schools nationwide and offers a nurturing environment for aspiring interior designers.
California State University Long Beach – Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design
Consider the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design at California State University Long Beach (CSULB). This robust program, comprising 132 semester units, prepares students for the multidimensional challenges of the interior design field.
Key program highlights include:
- Diverse coursework: From graphic communication to space planning and detailed design studies.
- Emphasis on conceptual thinking: Courses emphasize sculptural modeling and spatial exploration.
- Professional readiness: The program aligns with NASAD requirements and prepares students for the NCIDQ exam.
- High employment rate: Over 95% of graduates secure jobs in the interior design industry.
- State-of-the-art facilities: Secure studios, a multimedia lab, and specialized resource libraries support advanced learning.
Students at CSULB are required to undergo a portfolio review for upper-level studio courses. The program equips students with the skills and theoretical foundation necessary for a successful career in interior design.
UCLA Extension – Interior Design Program
UCLA Extension, in collaboration with Cal Poly Pomona, offers the Master of Interior Architecture (MIA) program. This part-time, CIDA-accredited program is unique in its flexibility, enabling students to balance their studies with other commitments.
Program features include:
- Foundation Level Certificate: For those without a bachelor’s degree in interior design, serving as a stepping stone toward the master’s degree.
- Comprehensive courses: Topics like Elements of Design, History of Environmental Arts, and Interior Design Law.
- Expert faculty: Learn from industry leaders and experienced instructors, such as award-winning UCLA Law graduates.
- Digital Design Suite: Specializations that offer additional professional growth opportunities.
Flexible scheduling and a comprehensive curriculum help students gain the knowledge and skills needed for a thriving interior design career.
Enroll in the MIA program at UCLA Extension to take a vital step towards achieving your career goals.
Choosing the right interior design program is crucial to achieving your career aspirations. If you aim to align your personal needs with professional growth, consider these top-tier programs in Glendale, CA.
Pasadena City College – Interior Design Certificate
Pasadena City College (PCC) offers a flexible and industry-focused Interior Design Certificate program designed to prepare students with the necessary skills and knowledge for the interior design field. Here’s why this program stands out:
- Comprehensive curriculum: Courses cover residential and commercial design, sustainable design, color theory, lighting design, and construction documents.
- Career-focused services: PCC provides career counseling sessions at the Freeman Center to help students align their education with career goals.
- Occupational Skills Certificates: Students can specialize in particular areas of interior design, enhancing their marketability in the job market.
- Flexible scheduling: Offering evening, day, and online class options, PCC accommodates different schedules.
- Expert faculty: Experienced professionals guide students through the curriculum, ensuring a supportive learning environment.
To enroll, students must meet specific prerequisites and cover associated costs. Thorough counseling ensures that prospective students are well-prepared to meet these requirements.
PCC’s Interior Design Certificate program offers a supportive, flexible pathway for aspiring interior designers.
California State University, Northridge (CSUN) – Bachelor of Science in Interior Design
California State University, Northridge (CSUN) provides a Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design that emphasizes creating functional and aesthetically pleasing environments. This program prepares students to meet professional standards and enter the design industry with confidence.
- Practical experience: Gain hands-on learning through internships and participation in professional organizations.
- Comprehensive curriculum: Covers drawing, design, architecture history, lighting systems, and environmental and behavioral perspectives in interior spaces.
- Ethical practice and global perspective: The curriculum includes ethical practice and a global viewpoint on interior design.
- Real-world applications: Students are trained to assess user needs and apply research-driven solutions.
The program involves 78 units of interior design courses, 39 units of general education, and 3 additional units, totaling 120 units. This robust education equips students to address the needs of diverse populations effectively.
Prospective students are encouraged to contact the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences at CSUN for further details.
How to Choose the Right Interior Design Program for You
Choosing the right interior design program involves several considerations to ensure the best fit for your career aspirations and personal needs.
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized organization, such as CIDA or NASAD. Accreditation signifies the program meets industry standards.
- Curriculum: Review the course offerings to understand what skills and knowledge you will gain. A well-rounded curriculum will cover design principles, technical skills, sustainability, and practical applications.
- Faculty expertise: Experienced instructors with industry connections can provide invaluable insights and mentorship.
- Facilities and resources: Look for programs with state-of-the-art studios, laboratories, and resource libraries. These facilities enhance learning through practical application.
- Financial considerations: Assess tuition fees, scholarships, and financial aid options. Financial support can significantly impact your educational journey.
- Internships and job placement: Programs that offer internships and robust job placement services can give you a head start in the industry. Practical experience and networking opportunities are crucial for career development.
Evaluate each program against these criteria to make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals.
Conclusion: Start Your Journey in Interior Design
Embarking on a career in interior design begins with selecting a program that aligns with your professional goals and personal needs. The programs highlighted offer diverse opportunities and comprehensive education to prepare you for a successful career in interior design.
Dive deeper into each program’s unique offerings, and take the first step towards an exciting and creative profession. Whether it’s through Woodbury University, CSULB, UCLA Extension, PCC, or CSUN, start your journey in interior design today.