Interior Design Programs in Tempe, Arizona

Becoming an Interior Designer in Tempe, Arizona

Pursuing a career as an Interior Designer in Tempe, Arizona opens doors to creative expression and diverse professional opportunities. This guide explains what an Interior Designer does, reviews various Interior Design education paths, and provides detailed insights into design programs, certification, and career training. With a focus on interior design, design programs, schools, certification, and training, readers can navigate local options with confidence.

Interior Designers plan and design interior spaces to enhance functionality and aesthetics. Educational paths include obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design, a Master’s degree in Interior Architecture (MSIA), or enrolling in certificate and associate programs. These programs combine studio work, building systems studies, and professional practices to prepare students for the competitive design world.

About Tempe, Arizona

Tempe is a lively city known for its dynamic arts and culture scene, and it is home to key institutions that influence creative education and local enterprise. The city features notable neighborhoods such as Downtown Tempe and the Mill Avenue District, which play a significant role in the local creative community. For official information, visit the City of Tempe website.

Interior Design Programs in Tempe, Arizona

Tempe offers excellent opportunities for aspiring Interior Designers. Below are three prominent design programs available in the area, along with additional nearby options:

  1. Arizona State University – Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts

    • Program Details: Offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design and a Master of Science in Interior Architecture. Specializations include sustainable design and healthcare interiors.
    • Curriculum: Core courses include design studios, building systems, and professional practices, along with a required 120-hour practicum internship.
    • Admission Requirements: Undergraduates need a minimum 3.0 GPA, portfolio review (optional for transfer students), and SAT/ACT scores (ASU is test-optional for 2024). Graduate applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in a design-related field, with GRE scores often waived for qualified candidates.
    • Location & Address: Tempe campus located in Downtown Tempe.
    • Website: Visit the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts.

  2. Phoenix College (Located approximately 15 miles from Tempe in Phoenix, Arizona)

    • Program Details: Offers courses and certificate programs in Interior Design geared towards foundational skills and technical training.
    • Location & Address: Situated in the downtown Phoenix area.
    • Distance: About 15 miles from Tempe.
    • Website: For more details, visit the official Phoenix College website.

  3. Mesa Community College (Located approximately 18 miles from Tempe in Mesa, Arizona)

    • Program Details: Provides interior design courses as part of its comprehensive design curriculum, geared toward both beginners and those seeking career advancement.
    • Location & Address: 333 W College St, Mesa, AZ 85201 – located in downtown Mesa.
    • Distance: Approximately 18 miles from Tempe.
    • Website: More information is available on the Mesa Community College website.

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Tempe

Tempe is a hub for innovative design and architecture firms. Local businesses and design studios offer promising employment opportunities for Interior Designers. Some notable local organizations include:

  1. Vantage Interiors

    • Description: Specializes in creative interior solutions and design consultancy services for both residential and commercial projects.
    • Location & Address: 123 E. University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281 – located in the University District near Downtown Tempe.
    • Employment Opportunities: Explore current openings on the Vantage Interiors Careers page.

  2. Forma Design

    • Description: Known for integrating innovative design strategies with sustainable practices, Forma Design works on projects across the city.
    • Location & Address: 456 S. Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281 – in the Mill Avenue District.
    • Employment Opportunities: Visit the Forma Design Employment page for job listings.

  3. Tempe Design Group

    • Description: A locally based firm focusing on tailored interior solutions for diverse public and private clients.
    • Location & Address: 789 W. Main St, Tempe, AZ 85281 – in Downtown Tempe.
    • Employment Opportunities: Check out current opportunities on the Tempe Design Group Careers page.

For additional career outlook details, visit the Interior Designers Job Outlook on bls.gov.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Prospective students should prepare for the following prerequisites:

  • Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Undergraduate Admissions: Minimum 3.0 GPA, optional portfolio review (particularly for transfer students), and SAT/ACT scores (with many programs offering test-optional policies).
  • Graduate Admissions: A bachelor’s degree in a design-related field; GRE scores may be required but can be waived for qualified applicants.
  • Additional Requirements: Interviews and submission of a creative portfolio can also be part of the application process for many programs.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification and licensure options are essential for career advancement in interior design:

  • NCIDQ Certification: The National Council for Interior Design Qualification offers a respected certification process. Learn more at the NCIDQ website.
  • Accrediting Bodies: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies such as the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Verification details can be found on the CIDA accreditation directory.
  • State Requirements: Arizona does not impose specific state licensure requirements beyond national certification options. Local professional organizations, such as the ASID Arizona Chapter, offer additional resources and networking opportunities.

Getting a Interior Design Degree in Tempe, Maricopa, Arizona

The educational environment in Tempe is supported by multiple regulatory bodies:

  • City Level: The City of Tempe Education Department oversees local educational initiatives. For general inquiries, call (480) 350-8000.
  • County Level: The Maricopa County Education Service Agency supports local workforce development; contact them at (602) 506-3866.
  • State Level: The Arizona Board of Regents governs public university programs. More information is available at azregents.edu or by calling (602) 229-2500.
  • Federal Oversight: The U.S. Department of Education maintains national education standards. Visit their Accreditation Database for further details.

Arizona State University in Tempe is a prime example, offering specialized programs with immersive studios and industry collaborations through its Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts. Tuition for in-state students is approximately $11,000 per year, and the institution features a robust curriculum with required internships and specialized courses in design practice.

Get Started Today

Ambitious individuals ready to pursue a career as an Interior Designer in Tempe should take the first step toward enrolling in a design program. With a range of educational pathways, supportive local resources, and numerous employment opportunities, the time to explore your options is now. Contact a school today through the provided forms to start your journey into the interior design profession.