Interior Design Programs in Chandler, Arizona

Becoming an Interior Designer in Chandler, Arizona

An Interior Designer creates functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces through innovative design, project management, and technical expertise. Individuals can pursue various education paths—ranging from associate degrees to bachelor’s programs—in interior design. In Chandler, Arizona, aspiring interior designers will find options that offer comprehensive design programs featuring rigorous training, certification preparation, and portfolio development to prepare them for a competitive career.

About Chandler

Chandler is a dynamic city located in Maricopa County, Arizona. Known for its robust economic development and rich cultural layers, Chandler offers residents access to quality education and thriving community spaces. For more local information and community updates, visit the Official City of Chandler website. Chandler’s well-planned neighborhoods and popular landmarks create an inspiring backdrop for future interior designers seeking to launch their careers.

Interior Design Programs in Chandler, Arizona

Prospective interior designers in Chandler have several educational pathways to choose from. The following schools offer programs or courses in interior design:

  1. Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) – Chandler Campus

    • Program: Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Interior Design
    • Description: Offered through the Maricopa Community College District, this program comprises 73 credits and provides a strong foundation in design studios, CAD, color theory, and materials science. The program is designed for seamless transfer to a Bachelor of Science (BS) program, such as Northern Arizona University’s interior design degree.
    • Address: 1951 E Gilbert Rd, Chandler, AZ 85225 (East Chandler)
    • Website: Maricopa Community College District
    • Contact: (480) 731-8000

  2. Arizona State University (ASU) – Tempe Campus

    • Program: Interior Design courses and related design programs
    • Description: ASU’s Herberger Institute of Design and the Arts offers courses in interior design that focus on experiential learning and professional development. Though located in Tempe, it is only about 15 miles from Chandler.
    • Address: 144 N McClintock Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281 (Tempe)
    • Website: Arizona State University

  3. Northern Arizona University (NAU)

    • Program: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Interior Design (CIDA-accredited)
    • Description: NAU’s program emphasizes experiential learning, sustainability, and professional ethics, preparing students for licensure and certification examinations. NAU is approximately 140 miles away from Chandler, offering a transfer pathway for students completing an AAS degree at a Maricopa Community College.
    • Address: 1801 E University Blvd, Flagstaff, AZ 86011 (Flagstaff)
    • Website: Northern Arizona University Interior Design Program

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Chandler

Chandler’s growing economy supports a range of employment opportunities in interior design. Major design firms and architecture companies operating in and near Chandler include:

  1. Gensler

    • Description: A renowned global design firm with a regional office in the Phoenix area, offering comprehensive design solutions in commercial and residential projects.
    • Neighborhood: Their Phoenix office is located in the downtown core.
    • Employment Opportunities: Visit the Gensler Careers page for current openings.

  2. Perkins+Will

    • Description: With a strong reputation for innovative design and sustainable architecture, Perkins+Will maintains a local presence with projects throughout the region.
    • Neighborhood: Their Phoenix office services the greater Maricopa County area.
    • Employment Opportunities: Explore career opportunities on the Perkins+Will Careers page.

  3. Stantec

    • Description: Operating in various sectors including architecture and planning, Stantec offers a variety of roles for interior design professionals.
    • Neighborhood: The firm’s regional office serves the broader Arizona region, including Chandler’s vicinity.
    • Employment Opportunities: Check available positions on the Stantec Careers page.

Additionally, for an overview of job prospects, including key statistics and salary information, consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics Interior Designers job outlook page.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Admission into interior design programs typically requires candidates to have a high school diploma or equivalent. For the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) program at Maricopa Community Colleges:

  • Completion of placement tests in math and English (with possible SAT/ACT substitution)
  • A foundational understanding of design concepts

For Northern Arizona University’s Bachelor of Science (BS) program:

  • A minimum 2.0 GPA for admission
  • Completion of 73 credits from an accredited AAS program may be required for transfer students
  • Submission of a portfolio is mandatory for the capstone project evaluation

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Interior design professionals have a range of certification and licensure options available. In Arizona, there are no state-specific interior design licensure requirements; however, national certification, such as the NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification), is widely recognized. Prospective interior designers should consider:

  • NCIDQ Certification: Recognized as a standard of excellence, the NCIDQ exam assesses competency in design, technical knowledge, and problem-solving. Visit the NCIDQ Exam official website for further details.
  • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): ASID supports ongoing professional development and maintains industry standards. More information is available on the ASID official website.

Additionally, the following educational regulatory bodies provide critical support and resources in Chandler, Maricopa County, and throughout Arizona:

For degree pathways in interior design, note the available options:

  • Associate in Applied Science (AAS): A 73-credit program designed to provide foundational interior design training and a transfer pathway to a bachelor’s degree.
  • Bachelor of Science (BS): Offered by Northern Arizona University, emphasizing sustainable design, experiential learning, and professional ethics.

Core curriculum components include design studios (residential and commercial), courses in CAD, color theory, and materials science, along with required courses on sustainability and building codes. Accreditation from bodies such as the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) ensures that these programs meet rigorous academic and professional standards.

Get Started Today

With a range of design programs, strong educational resources, and promising employment opportunities, Chandler offers a fertile ground for aspiring interior designers. Whether you are beginning your educational journey or looking to specialize further, the pathways for becoming a certified and successful interior designer are clear. Contact a school today through the forms on their website and take the first step toward an enriching career in interior design.