Interior Design Programs in Scottsdale, Arizona

Becoming an Interior Designer in Scottsdale, Arizona

Interior Design is a dynamic field that blends creativity with technical expertise to transform interior spaces. Aspiring Interior Designers can pursue a range of educational paths—from Associate of Applied Science (AAS) programs to Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees—to build the skills necessary for success. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of becoming an Interior Designer in Scottsdale, Arizona, including program options, prerequisites, and certification requirements. For more details on the job outlook for Interior Designers, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.

About Scottsdale

Scottsdale, Arizona, is known for its thriving arts scene and modern urban landscape. With its blend of bustling Old Town Scottsdale and upscale neighborhoods, the city offers a creative environment that attracts art educators and design professionals. For official information about Scottsdale, visit the City of Scottsdale website.

Interior Design Programs in Scottsdale, Arizona

Aspiring Interior Designers in Scottsdale have several program options. Below are three key educational institutions offering Interior Design programs or related courses:

  1. Scottsdale Community College

    • Program: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Interior Design
    • Unique Features: Focuses on practical skills with embedded certificates in specialized areas such as kitchen and bath design. Core courses include color theory, architectural history, CAD, and space planning, along with internship opportunities and portfolio development.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 4801 E. Cave Creek Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 – Located within Scottsdale’s expanding educational corridor.
    • Website: Interior Design Program at Scottsdale Community College

  2. Northern Arizona University (NAU) – Scottsdale Campus

    • Program: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Interior Design
    • Unique Features: This CIDA-accredited program emphasizes professional preparation, offering courses in sustainable design, residential and commercial interior design, and the use of CAD software. Transfer articulation agreements with Maricopa County community colleges support smooth entry into the program.
    • Admission Requirements: Transfer students need a minimum GPA of 2.0, and all applicants must submit a comprehensive portfolio, with internships integrated into the curriculum.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located in the heart of Scottsdale near Old Town, NAU’s campus serves as a hub for innovative design education.
    • Website: BS in Interior Design at NAU Scottsdale

  3. Arizona State University (ASU) – Tempe Campus

    • Program: Bachelor in Interior Design (offered through ASU’s Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts)
    • Unique Features: Although located in Tempe, approximately 11 miles from Scottsdale, ASU’s program is recognized for its comprehensive curriculum, blending theory with studio-based training and practical internships.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Littlefield Hall, Tempe, AZ 85281, in the vibrant city center of Tempe.
    • Website: ASU Interior Design Program

In addition to these local options, prospective students may also review resources from official educational regulatory bodies. The Scottsdale Unified School District (website, Phone: (480) 484-6100), the Maricopa County Community College District (website, Phone: (480) 731-8000), and the Arizona Board of Regents (website, Phone: (602) 229-2500) all provide valuable information about educational partnerships and opportunities in the region.

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Scottsdale

Scottsdale is home to a number of design firms and architecture companies seeking skilled Interior Designers. Here are three prominent organizations:

  1. Gensler

    • Description: A global design firm with a local office serving the Scottsdale area, Gensler is known for leading-edge commercial and residential projects. The firm offers robust career opportunities and professional development in interior design.
    • Neighborhood: Located in Downtown Scottsdale.
    • Employment Opportunities: Explore career options on the Gensler Careers page.

  2. HKS, Inc.

    • Description: HKS is an internationally recognized architecture and design firm. With local operations in Scottsdale, the firm offers opportunities in space planning, design consulting, and comprehensive project management in interior design.
    • Neighborhood: Based in the Old Town area of Scottsdale.
    • Employment Opportunities: Visit the HKS Careers page for current openings.

  3. Stantec

    • Description: Known for its integrated design approach in architecture and interior design, Stantec has a local presence in Scottsdale. The firm is engaged in numerous commercial and public projects, offering dynamic roles for Interior Designers.
    • Neighborhood: The Scottsdale office operates within the central business district.
    • Employment Opportunities: Check out the Stantec Careers page for more information.

Local resources such as the Scottsdale Community College Career Services (link) also offer job placement assistance and connections within the design industry.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Applicants seeking enrollment in Interior Design programs typically must meet the following prerequisites:

  • Education Requirements: A high school diploma or GED is required for AAS programs. BS programs require applicants to have completed introductory coursework or hold relevant college credits, often benefiting from transfer agreements with Maricopa County community colleges.
  • Portfolio Submission: A portfolio showcasing creative work is a mandatory component of the admissions process.
  • Entrance Exams and Interviews: While standardized test scores are not required for AAS programs, BS candidates may need to participate in interviews and meet additional entrance criteria.
  • Minimum Age: Most programs require applicants to be at least 18 years old.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification is a pivotal step for advancing in the interior design profession. In Arizona, professionals seeking licensure must often secure national certification. Key points include:

  • National Certification: The NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) certification is the standard for licensure, ensuring that Interior Designers meet industry benchmarks in education and professional practice. Visit the NCIDQ official website for details.
  • State-Specific Information: Arizona does not impose strict additional licensure requirements beyond the national certification; however, professionals are encouraged to review guidelines from the Arizona Board of Technical Registration.

Additional professional support is provided by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), which offers networking opportunities, continuing education, and job boards. For further information, see the ASID website.

Get Started Today

A career in Interior Design combines practical skills with artistic innovation. With robust educational opportunities in Scottsdale and nearby institutions, aspiring designers have a clear pathway to enter the industry. Prospective students are encouraged to gather their portfolios, review program prerequisites, and contact a school today through the forms on their respective websites. Begin your journey toward a successful Interior Design career in Scottsdale, Arizona, now.