Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Interior Design Programs in Green Bay, Kenosha, Madison, and Milwaukee.
Looking to kickstart your career in interior design? Choosing the right program is crucial.
This article highlights the top Interior Design Programs in Wisconsin, offering you a curated list of institutions renowned for their comprehensive curriculums and industry connections.
Get ready to explore programs that will equip you with the skills and knowledge to excel in this creative field.
Wisconsin Technical College System – Interior Design Program
The Wisconsin Technical College System’s Interior Design Program is tailored to prepare you for entry-level positions. This program is available across technical colleges like Fox Valley, Madison College, and Milwaukee Area Technical College.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Practical skills: Learn to confer with clients, understand style preferences, and plan construction.
- Flexible learning: Complete the two-year program online, allowing more control over your schedule.
- Industry readiness: Graduates are well-equipped for roles in interior design firms, furniture stores, and corporate facilities.
Tuition costs around $4,386 annually, placing an education in interior design within reach. Graduates typically earn a median wage of $38,889, making this a worthwhile investment.
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University of Wisconsin-Stout – Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Interior Design
The University of Wisconsin-Stout’s B.F.A. in Interior Design offers an extensive curriculum with a high academic standard, accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). You’ll receive a comprehensive education that includes:
- Integrated curriculum: Combining fine art, design, and technical disciplines.
- Professional skills: Emphasis on sustainable design, historical considerations, and professional practices.
- Collaborative opportunities: Work alongside architects for a well-rounded experience.
Students can become involved with professional organizations like IIDA and ASID. The advanced studios and labs further enhance the learning experience, preparing graduates for various opportunities in residential and corporate interior design, as well as retail design, hospitality, and healthcare sectors.
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Madison Area Technical College – Interior Design Program
Madison Area Technical College’s Interior Design Program spans two years, giving you the essentials needed to excel in both residential and commercial sectors.
Key highlights include:
- Foundation year: Learn floor plan reading, drawing, construction techniques, and software applications like AutoCAD and SketchUp.
- Specialized second year: Focus on areas such as corporate offices and residential remodeling, with an emphasis on professional practices.
- Hands-on training: Internships and networking opportunities with organizations like ASID and NKBA offer practical experiences and connections.
Graduates earn an average monthly salary of $3,040, positioning them well for entry-level jobs in various industries.
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University of Wisconsin-Madison – Interior Architecture Bachelor of Science
The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Interior Architecture Bachelor of Science program is a four-year, CIDA-accredited course. It combines design, art history, engineering, and the physical sciences to foster both creativity and technical skills.
Some program features are:
- Comprehensive curriculum: Covering residential and commercial interior design, human factors in design, and effective material use.
- Learning resources: Access to studio spaces, lighting demonstration areas, and computer labs for practical learning.
- Academic requirements: Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 during the initial program phase.
This program produces well-rounded graduates ready for diverse roles in the design industry.
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Western Technical College – Interior Design Associate Degree
Western Technical College offers an Interior Design Associate Degree focusing on converting creativity into practical solutions. The program spans two years and includes:
- Core skills: Conceptual design, space planning, and sustainability.
- Career versatility: Graduates become residential designers, kitchen and bath designers, home lighting advisors, and more.
- Cost and data: Tuition is about $9,849, with the college continually collecting graduate employment data to improve the program.
This degree prepares you for diverse career opportunities in the interior design field.
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Concordia University Wisconsin – Interior Architecture and Design Degree Program
In collaboration with the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, Concordia University Wisconsin’s Interior Architecture and Design Degree Program offers:
- Diverse education: Combining practical experience with a faith-based perspective.
- Key areas of focus: Color theory, 3-D modeling, and CAD drawing.
- Senior portfolio: A critical requirement demonstrating your skills and knowledge.
This program encourages pairing with business, entrepreneurship, or art minors and is headed by experienced educators like Dr. Kenney.
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Milwaukee Area Technical College – Interior Design Program
Milwaukee Area Technical College’s Interior Design Program equips you with comprehensive skills for both commercial and residential planning. It includes:
- Modern technology: Training in CAD and BIM software alongside manual drawing and drafting.
- Core learning: Fundamental courses in color, lighting, materials, and kitchen and bath design.
- Practical experience: Studio courses and internships for hands-on learning.
Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in sectors like corporate interiors, healthcare, and the kitchen and bath industry, with further education options in interior design also available.
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UW-Stevens Point – Interior Architecture Program
The Interior Architecture program at UW-Stevens Point leads to a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and ensures high-quality education with its CIDA accreditation. This program aims to mold creative minds with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
Key Highlights:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes design history, communication skills, socio-cultural aspects, technology, and sustainable design principles.
- Field Trips and Internships: Provide practical experience and networking opportunities.
- Career Preparation: Graduates are well-equipped for roles in commercial design, healthcare, hospitality, and retail sectors, with a high post-graduation employment rate.
This program also prepares students for the NCIDQ exam, vital for professional certification.
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Fox Valley Technical College – Interior Design Program
Fox Valley Technical College’s Associate Degree in Interior Design focuses on practical and commercial interior planning.
Program Highlights:
- Skill Development: Training in the selection and sales of furnishings, lighting, fabrics, and floor coverings.
- Hands-On Experience: Includes internships that offer real-world exposure.
- Further Education: Transfer agreements with numerous four-year colleges for those aspiring to advance their education.
Admission requires an academic skills assessment, adding a layer of preparation before starting the program. Career opportunities for graduates include positions in furniture sales, interior design, and retail consultancy.
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Waukesha County Technical College – Interior Design Program
The Interior Design program at Waukesha County Technical College offers a robust education in computer-assisted design, lighting, textiles, and sales.
Program Features:
- Dual Degree Option: Allows combining with Architectural Drafting/Construction Technology or Kitchen and Bath Design.
- Certification Preparedness: Eligibility for NCIDQ and Wisconsin Interior Designer Licensure.
- High School Credits: High school students can earn college credits through dual enrollment.
Costs for materials and software are additional considerations. Graduates typically work as interior designers, consultants, or facilities planners, with an expected salary range of $38,200 to $75,000 annually.
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Mount Mary University – Bachelor of Arts in Interior Architecture & Design
Mount Mary University’s Bachelor of Arts in Interior Architecture & Design is an accredited program requiring over 70 credits of specialized courses.
Key Elements:
- Comprehensive Skills: Focus on space planning, contract preparation, and material selection.
- Dedicated Resources: Access to specialized lab resources and connections with industry partners.
- NCIDQ Preparation: Equips students for the NCIDQ exam with an impressive 84% employment rate in design-related fields.
With a high graduation rate and ample internship opportunities, Mount Mary University stands out for preparing students for successful careers in diverse design roles.
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Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design (MIAD) – Interior Architecture and Design
The Interior Architecture and Design program at MIAD offers a vibrant educational experience, leveraging its location in Milwaukee’s design district.
Program Highlights:
- Diverse Focus: Courses include residential, office, retail, and furniture design.
- Industry Readiness: Graduates find employment in noted firms like Starbucks and Calvin Klein.
- Real-World Exposure: Design internship programs engage students with community projects.
The curriculum emphasizes materiality, space use, and client needs while fostering close industry connections.
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University of Wisconsin-La Crosse – Certified Residential Interior Designer Program
The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse offers an online Certified Residential Interior Designer program, guided by experienced professionals like Natasha Lima-Younts.
Key Features:
- Flexible Learning: 24/7 access to materials allows for flexible learning schedules.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Includes design basics, space planning, and industry regulations.
- Industry Certification: Prepares you for the Residential Interior Designer Exam (RIDE).
This program is ideal for those seeking a robust training regimen in residential interior design through a self-paced online platform. Graduates earn a certification recognized by the Designer Society of America, setting them up for a successful career in residential interior design.
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Factors to Consider When Choosing an Interior Design Program
When selecting an interior design program, keep in mind the following critical factors:
- Accreditation: Ensures the program meets industry standards. Look for CIDA accreditation for quality assurance.
- Curriculum Scope: Should cover core design principles, modern tools, and materials, integrating both theoretical and practical knowledge.
- Faculty Expertise: Professors with industry experience can offer valuable insights and mentorship.
- Hands-On Learning: Internships and studio work provide practical experience, crucial for skill development.
- Career Services: Robust career services can assist with job placement and networking opportunities.
- Program Flexibility: Consider online options or part-time schedules to fit your lifestyle.
- Cost and Duration: Evaluate tuition costs and the program length to ensure it aligns with your financial and temporal commitments.
- Certification and Dual-Degree Options: Programs offering preparation for certification exams like NCIDQ or dual-degree options can enhance career prospects.
Choosing a program that aligns with these factors will ensure a solid foundation for your career in interior design.
Interior Design Programs By State
Conclusion and Next Steps
Exploring interior design programs in Wisconsin presents a multitude of options tailored to different needs and career aspirations. Whether you seek flexibility, comprehensive training, or industry connections, the programs listed are poised to offer a promising start.
Take your next step by visiting the individual program links provided to gather more information and start your application process. Embark on your educational journey with the right program that fits your goals and aspirations in the world of interior design.