Interior Design Programs in Los Angeles, California

Becoming an Interior Designer in Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles offers aspiring Interior Designers a dynamic environment to launch a creative career. An Interior Designer specializes in enhancing the interiors of buildings to achieve a functional and aesthetic design. There are multiple education paths available, including Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Associate/Bachelor of Arts (AA/BA) in Interior Design, and Master of Arts (MA) in Interior Architecture. These programs incorporate rigorous coursework in graphic communication, space planning, and materials science while offering opportunities to specialize in emerging areas such as VR/AR design and fabrication labs.

For career statistics and job prospects, refer to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Interior Designers job outlook.

About Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis known for its rich cultural heritage, creative industries, and renowned landmarks. The city boasts diverse neighborhoods—from Downtown’s bustling business district to the eclectic artistic vibe of Hollywood and the coastal charm of Santa Monica. For more detailed information, visit the official Los Angeles City website. This environment provides a perfect backdrop for creative professionals and students exploring Interior Design careers.

Interior Design Programs in Los Angeles, California

Local and nearby educational institutions offer comprehensive Interior Design programs and hands-on training:

  • Woodbury University – Burbank, CA
    Address: 1200 E. California Ave, Burbank, CA 91505 (Located in the heart of Burbank)
    Program Details: Offers a BFA in Interior Design with fast-track options requiring a minimum 3.5 GPA. The curriculum includes core courses and unique specializations such as VR/AR design, supported by industry partnerships and internships. Explore the program details on the Woodbury University Interior Design page.

  • California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) – Long Beach, CA
    Address: 1250 Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90840 (Situated in the culturally rich Long Beach area)
    Program Details: Offers a BFA in Interior Design accredited by NASAD. Admission requires a portfolio review for upper-division studio courses. Although located approximately 20 miles from Los Angeles, CSULB provides a robust curriculum with 24/7 studio access and specialized materials labs. Visit the CSULB Interior Design program page for more information.

  • Interior Designers Institute (IDI) – Santa Ana, CA
    Address: 200 S Main St, Santa Ana, CA 92701 (Located in Santa Ana’s downtown district, approximately 40 miles from Los Angeles)
    Program Details: Offers AA/BA and MA degrees in Interior Design. The program is known for small class sizes and active student chapters affiliated with ASID and IIDA. Detailed program information can be found on the Interior Designers Institute website.

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to several major design firms and architecture companies offering rewarding career opportunities:

  • Gensler
    Address: 555 S Flower St, Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Downtown Los Angeles)
    Overview: A global design and architecture firm renowned for innovative interior design projects. Interested candidates can explore career opportunities on the Gensler Careers page.

  • HOK
    Address: 10866 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90047 (Situated in the Century City area)
    Overview: Recognized for its comprehensive design services, HOK offers extensive interior design projects in multiple sectors. Visit the HOK Careers page for current employment listings.

  • CallisonRTKL
    Address: 4820 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010 (Located in Koreatown)
    Overview: Specializes in large-scale commercial and residential projects, blending innovative design with practical space planning solutions. For more details, check the CallisonRTKL Careers page.

These organizations not only provide robust career opportunities but also contribute significantly to Los Angeles’ dynamic design culture.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Prospective students should be aware of common prerequisites for Interior Design programs:

  • Educational Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required.
  • Portfolio Review: Many programs, such as CSULB’s, require a portfolio submission, especially for upper-division studio courses.
  • GPA Requirements: For programs like the fast-track option at Woodbury University, a minimum 3.5 GPA may be necessary.
  • Additional Assessments: Standardized tests are generally not explicitly required for most Interior Design programs.

Meeting these prerequisites is a key step in pursuing a degree in Interior Design.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification and licensure in Interior Design are essential for professional practice:

  • National Certification: The NCIDQ certification is a recognized standard. It requires graduation from an accredited program (such as a BFA) and typically 2+ years of work experience. More details can be found on the NCIDQ website.

  • State and Federal Oversight:

    • California State Board of Architectural Examiners (CAB): Oversees licensing for interior designers in California. Visit the CAB website for guidelines.
    • Local and State Educational Regulatory Bodies:
      • Los Angeles Department of Education: Oversees K-12 education in Los Angeles. Website | Contact: (213) 241-1000
      • Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE): Supports K-12 and adult education programs. Website | Contact: (562) 922-6300
      • California State University System: Governs public higher education institutions, including CSULB. Website | Contact: (562) 951-4000
      • U.S. Department of Education: Provides national policies and funding. Website with an Accreditation Database.

  • Professional Organizations:

    • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): Offers networking, certifications, and professional development resources. ASID Website.
    • International Interior Design Association (IIDA): Focuses on commercial interior design and industry partnerships. IIDA Website.
    • Los Angeles Chapter of ASID: Provides local networking opportunities. Website.

These certifications and regulatory bodies ensure that professionals maintain a high standard of practice.

Get Started Today

Aspiring Interior Designers are encouraged to take the next step by exploring available programs, preparing portfolios, and reaching out to schools for more information. With a rich array of educational options and professional resources—ranging from comprehensive degree programs to specialized certifications—this guide provides the essential details to help you launch your Interior Design career in Los Angeles, California. Contact your chosen school today through their inquiry forms and start your journey toward a fulfilling creative career.