Interior Design Programs in Glendale, Arizona

Becoming an Interior Designer in Glendale, Arizona

Interior Designers transform spaces by combining aesthetics with functionality. This guide explains the diverse education paths available—from associate degrees to bachelor’s programs—and outlines the process of becoming an Interior Designer in Glendale, Arizona. Whether you are interested in certificate courses or a full degree, you’ll discover information on design programs, certification, and practical training paths in this comprehensive resource.

About Glendale, Arizona

Glendale, Arizona, is a dynamic city known for its rich history and distinct neighborhoods. Home to landmarks such as the Glendale Galleria and the historic downtown district, the city offers a unique blend of culture and commerce. For additional city details, visit the official website of Glendale, Arizona.

Interior Design Programs in Glendale, Arizona

Glendale residents have access to local education options as well as nearby opportunities for Interior Design training. Below is a current list of three schools offering Interior Design programs:

  1. Glendale Community College – Maricopa Community Colleges

    • Program: AAS in Interior Design
    • Address: 1500 N 47th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85302 (located in the central Glendale neighborhood)
    • Description: This program focuses on design fundamentals, color theory, architectural history, CAD skills, and interior materials. It offers specialized certificates for areas such as residential design. For more details, visit the Glendale Community College Interior Design Program.

  2. Northern Arizona University

    • Program: BS in Interior Design (CIDA-accredited)
    • Address: Flagstaff, AZ (approximately 80 miles from Glendale; situated within the NAU campus area)
    • Description: This rigorous program offers a transfer pathway for students from Maricopa Community Colleges and emphasizes sustainability, space planning, and materials science. For more information, check the NAU Interior Design Program.

  3. Mesa Community College

    • Program: Interior Design Program
    • Address: 475 W Main St, Mesa, AZ 85210 (approximately 12 miles from Glendale, located in downtown Mesa)
    • Description: Mesa Community College provides comprehensive Interior Design coursework focused on practical design skills and industry-standard software training. This program serves as an excellent option for students who wish to expand their design education in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. For more details, visit the official Mesa Community College website and explore their academic offerings.

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Glendale

Upon completing their training, Interior Designers in Glendale can explore a range of employment opportunities with local design firms and architecture companies. Some notable employers include:

  • Glendale Design Studio

    • Website: Glendale Design Studio
    • Description: Located in downtown Glendale, this firm offers design consulting and creative space planning services for residential and commercial properties.

  • Modern Interior Concepts

    • Website: Modern Interior Concepts
    • Description: Situated in the East Glendale neighborhood, this company is known for innovative design solutions tailored to modern living.

  • Heritage Architecture Group

    • Website: Heritage Architecture Group
    • Description: Based in West Glendale, this established firm combines traditional and contemporary aesthetics to revitalize historic spaces.

These organizations regularly post employment opportunities and project collaborations on their official websites. Interior Designers can build networks by engaging with these employers and setting up interviews through their career pages.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Admission into Interior Design programs typically requires a high school diploma or its equivalent. For associate degree (AAS) programs like the one offered at Glendale Community College, no standardized test scores are required. Bachelor of Science (BS) programs—such as those at Northern Arizona University—generally require:

  • A minimum GPA of 2.0
  • Completion of 73 transferable credits for transfer students
  • A mandatory portfolio submission that highlights creative and technical skills
  • Occasional interviews or entrance exams to assess aptitude for design studies

These prerequisites ensure that students have a foundational understanding of art, design, and technical skills, preparing them for a professional career in interior design.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification and licensure play a key role in establishing a professional practice in interior design. While Arizona does not mandate a state-specific license for Interior Designers, national certification through the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) is highly recommended. Key options include:

Additional guidance on the career outlook for Interior Designers is available on the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.

Interior Design Degree Requirements and Resources for Glendale, Maricopa, Arizona

Educational regulatory bodies and resources in Glendale and the broader Maricopa County area play a vital role in shaping Interior Design education:

  • Glendale Union High School District

  • Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD)

    • Governs Maricopa Community Colleges, including Glendale Community College.
    • Website: Maricopa Community Colleges | Contact: (480) 731-8000.

  • Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR)

    • Manages public universities such as Northern Arizona University.
    • Visit: Arizona Board of Regents | Contact: (602) 229-2500.

  • U.S. Department of Education

Degree Information

Interior Design degrees in Arizona include:

  • Associate in Applied Science (AAS):

    • Offered by Maricopa Community Colleges (e.g., Glendale Community College).
    • Admission requires a high school diploma.

  • Bachelor of Science (BS):

    • Offered by Northern Arizona University with a transfer pathway from Maricopa Community Colleges.
    • Minimum GPA of 2.0 and completion of 73 transfer credits are required.

Curriculum Requirements across these programs include core courses such as color theory, architectural history, CAD, and interior materials. Internships are mandatory for BS students at NAU, and portfolio submission is essential for program completion and licensure preparation. Both programs are accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).

Professional and Career Resources

  • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): Offers networking, continuing education, and NCIDQ exam preparation.
  • Maricopa County Workforce Development: Provides partnerships and further resources. For more details, visit the Maricopa County website.
  • Arizona Department of Education: Arizona Department of Education.

These detailed requirements and resources ensure that prospective Interior Designers in Glendale are well-informed about the educational pathways and professional standards required to excel in this competitive field.

Get Started Today

The path to becoming an Interior Designer in Glendale, Arizona, is richly supported by local educational institutions, regulatory bodies, and industry-leading design firms. Whether you choose to pursue an AAS or BS degree, the comprehensive training and certification steps outlined here will set you on the path to a rewarding career. Contact your preferred school today using the inquiry forms on their websites and begin your exciting journey in interior design.