Interior Design Programs in Lakewood CO

Are you eager to jumpstart your career in interior design but unsure where to start?

Lakewood, CO, offers exceptional programs to turn your vision into reality.

Explore the top interior design programs in Lakewood, CO, and find the right fit for your career aspirations.

Discover their unique strengths, curriculum highlights, and what sets them apart in the industry.

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) – Interior Design Programs

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) in Lakewood, CO, presents a spectrum of interior design programs well suited for aspiring designers. RMCAD combines a strong educational foundation with real-world application, facilitated by a faculty composed of industry professionals and practicing artists.

Key Highlights

• Diverse Program Offerings: The curriculum includes space planning, color theory, lighting design, and more.
• Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced professionals who contribute practical knowledge and mentorship.
• Scenic Location: Situated near the picturesque Rocky Mountains and Red Rocks Amphitheater, providing artistic inspiration.

Considerations

• For-Profit Institution: Tuition fees might be higher compared to non-profit institutions.
• Location-Specific Details: For exact details about program hours and tuition, direct inquiries may be necessary.

Explore more about this Interior Design Program at RMCAD.

Arapahoe Community College – Interior Design Program

Arapahoe Community College (ACC) has been nurturing professionals in interior design since 1975. Located in Lakewood, CO, the program equips students with the creativity and skills required for the interior design industry.

Key Highlights

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses cover AutoCAD, SketchUp, Interior Design Fundamentals, and History of Interior Design.
• Accreditation: Accredited by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), emphasizing professional standards.
• Certifications: Students can qualify for certifications like the Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer (AKBD).

Considerations

• Orientation and Eligibility: Admission requires attendance at a Program Orientation and meeting specific eligibility requirements, such as proficiency in English and standardized test scores.

To understand more about the program, visit ACC’s Interior Design Program.

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) – Online Interior Design Program

The online Interior Design program at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) is an ideal choice for those needing flexible scheduling without compromising quality. This program mirrors the rigor and educational standards of the in-person offerings.

Key Highlights

• Flexible Learning: Perfect for balancing education with personal or professional commitments.
• Experienced Faculty: Learn from those with substantial industry experience.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Topics include space planning, color theory, materials, and finishes, among others.
• Hands-On Projects: Gain practical experience through project-based learning and internships.

Resources and Support

• Learning Commons: Available online to support your academic journey.
• Health + Wellness Center: Access to wellness resources even in an online format.

Though slightly more expensive, the quality and support make it a strong contender. For more information, contact RMCAD Online.

University of Colorado Denver – Interior Design Program

The University of Colorado Denver offers an Interior Design program through its College of Architecture and Planning, setting a standard of excellence in Lakewood, CO.

Key Highlights

• Focus on Sustainability: Emphasizes sustainable and environmentally-friendly design.
• Health and Wellness: Prepares students to create spaces that enhance well-being.
• Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Encompasses values that meet today’s social challenges.
• Real-World Experience: Benefit from the integration with Denver’s professional community.

Program Options

• Minor in Interior Design: Requires five core courses.
• Certificate Options: Available to individuals with various educational backgrounds.

Explore additional details at University of Colorado Denver’s Interior Design Program.

Discover more about these incredible programs today, and embark on a successful career in interior design in Lakewood, CO.

Heritage School of Interior Design – Fundamentals of Interior Design Program

The Heritage School of Interior Design located in Lakewood, CO, offers a targeted environment focused exclusively on interior design education. Their programs are crafted to provide an immersive hands-on experience.

Key Highlights

• Certificates Offered: Obtain either a Certificate of Interior Custom Design or a Professional Certificate in the Master Certification Program.
• Hands-On Curriculum: Gain essential creative, technical, and business skills.
• Industry Connections: Connect with industry professionals and develop a practical portfolio.
• Diverse Student Body: From second or third careers, students come from varied backgrounds, enriching the learning environment.

Considerations

• Focused Education: The school’s exclusive focus on interior design ensures a specialized education.
• Multiple Campuses: Besides Lakewood, the school has campuses in Portland, Seattle, and offers a Virtual Program.

For more about the program and its tuition options, visit Heritage School of Interior Design.

Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design from Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design (RMCAD) in Lakewood, CO, offers a thorough grounding in interior design principles and practices.

Key Highlights

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses cover design theory, space planning, color and lighting design, and more.
• Practical Experience: Students engage in internships and hands-on projects.
• Expert Faculty: Learn from professionals who bring real-world industry experience to the classroom.
• Small Class Sizes: Benefit from personalized attention and access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Considerations

• Accreditation Questions: Potential students should be aware of past accreditation controversies regarding ACICS.
• Higher Tuition Rates: As a private institution, RMCAD may have higher tuition fees compared to public universities. Financial aid and scholarships are, however, available.

For more detailed information, visit Program Accreditation History.

Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design – Interior Design Program

Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design provides two Interior Design degree programs, tailored for diverse aspirations. The programs are part of a small, private, for-profit university located in Lakewood, CO.

Key Highlights

• Degree Programs Offered: The college offers both Bachelor’s degrees in Interior Design.
• Student-Teacher Ratio: With a ratio of 33:1, students enjoy individual attention.
• Graduate Success: In 2022, 37 students graduated with Bachelor’s degrees in Interior Design.
• Hands-On Experience: Engage in practical projects and internships.

Considerations

• Personalized Attention: The small size of the college allows for more tailored educational experiences.
• For-Profit Status: Being a for-profit institution might make it pricier than public alternatives.

For more details, visit Universities.com.

What to Look For in an Interior Design Program

Choosing the right interior design program can be daunting. Here are key factors to consider to help you make an informed decision:

Accreditation

• National Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) or the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).

Curriculum

• Core Subjects: Look for programs that offer courses in design theory, space planning, sustainability, and more.
• Electives: Programs with a variety of electives allow for focused specialization.

Faculty Expertise

• Industry Experience: Instructors with practical industry experience can provide valuable insights and mentorship.
• Teaching Quality: Research reviews or testimonials about the faculty to gauge the quality of teaching.

Hands-On Experience

• Internships: Programs that include internships or practical projects enable students to apply theoretical knowledge.
• Portfolio Development: Look for programs that assist in creating a strong portfolio.

Learning Environment

• Online vs. In-Person: Decide whether you prefer the flexibility of online classes or the interactive experience of in-person learning.
• Facilities: Consider the quality of the campus facilities and available resources.

Program Flexibility

• Part-Time Options: Some programs offer part-time study options for those balancing other commitments.
• Transfer Credits: Look for programs that accept transfer credits if you have previous educational experience.

Financial Considerations

• Tuition Fees: Compare tuition fees across different programs and ensure you understand all associated costs.
• Financial Aid: Investigate available financial aid options, including scholarships and grants.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose an interior design program that aligns perfectly with your career goals and learning style.

Conclusion: Start Your Interior Design Journey

Choosing the right interior design program in Lakewood, CO, is a crucial step in launching a fulfilling career. Each program—whether at RMCAD, Arapahoe Community College, the University of Colorado Denver, or Heritage School—offers unique strengths tailored to different needs and goals.

Take the next step by visiting campuses, meeting with faculty, and exploring financial aid options. Embrace the learning journey ahead and look forward to a rewarding career in the vibrant field of interior design.