Interior Design Programs in Orlando, Florida

Becoming an Interior Designer in Orlando, Florida

Interior design is a dynamic field that blends creative vision with technical knowledge to transform spaces. Individuals pursuing a career as an Interior Designer in Orlando, Florida, explore various educational pathways—from associate degrees and bachelor’s programs to advanced master’s curricula. This guide outlines the process of becoming a professional in interior design, including available design programs, prerequisites, and certification requirements.

About Orlando

Orlando, known for its theme parks and lively arts scene, offers a unique backdrop for creative careers. The city is home to renowned attractions and historic neighborhoods, making it a vibrant meeting place for design professionals. For more information about the city’s resources and local government, visit the official Orlando website.

Interior Design Programs in Orlando, Florida

Orlando and its surrounding areas offer several educational institutions where aspiring interior designers can receive top-tier training. Below are three programs available locally or nearby:

  1. Seminole State College of Florida – Altamonte Springs Campus

    • Program: A.S. and B.A.S. in Interior Design
    • Address: 1800 Seminole Blvd, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 (approximately 12 miles north of downtown Orlando, located in the Altamonte Springs neighborhood)
    • Description: This program provides comprehensive training in interior design fundamentals along with specialized software courses such as Revit training. Explore the program details on the official Interior Design page.

  2. University of Florida – Gainesville Campus

    • Program: B.Des. and M.I.D. in Interior Design
    • Address: 400 University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32611 (approximately 108 miles north of Orlando)
    • Description: University of Florida offers CIDA-accredited programs focusing on spatial organization, environmental technology, and professional practice. Detailed program information is available on the UF Interior Design program page.

  3. Valencia College – West Campus, Orlando

    • Program: Interior Design courses integrated within design studies
    • Address: 5151 Holt Rd, Orlando, FL 32822 (located in the Hunters Creek neighborhood)
    • Description: Recognized for its flexible scheduling and hands-on approach, Valencia College provides interior design coursework that prepares students for entry-level positions in the industry. Visit the Valencia College website for additional program details.

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Orlando

Orlando hosts several high-profile design firms and architecture companies that offer ample employment opportunities for interior designers. Here are three local firms to consider:

  1. Zyscovich Architects

    • Address: 55 S Orange Ave, Suite 200, Orlando, FL 32801 (situated in Downtown Orlando)
    • Description: Known for innovative design and sustainable architecture, Zyscovich Architects provides diverse interior design projects. For career opportunities, visit the official Zyscovich Architects website.

  2. Gensler

    • Address: Their Orlando office is located in the downtown area, offering a collaborative environment among award-winning design professionals.
    • Description: Gensler is an internationally recognized design firm with a strong local presence, renowned for its cutting-edge interior design and architectural projects. Learn more about opportunities at Gensler’s official website.

  3. Perkins+Will

    • Address: Based in the central business district of Orlando, Perkins+Will is known for its sustainable design practices and innovative project portfolio.
    • Description: This firm offers a range of interior design and architecture services with a focus on environmentally responsible design. Employment opportunities can be explored on the Perkins+Will website.

For detailed job outlook information on Interior Designers, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Interior Designers page.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Prospective interior design students should be aware of common prerequisites across programs:

  • Associate of Science (A.S.) Programs:
    • High school diploma or equivalent; standardized tests are generally not required.
  • Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) Programs:
    • A minimum 2.85 GPA for university-bound students, along with completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., IND2307C Visual Communications).
  • Master of Interior Design (M.I.D.) Programs:
    • Portfolio review, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and GRE scores (although GRE may be waived for certain candidates).

These requirements ensure candidates are prepared for the rigorous curriculum and technical aspects involved in interior design.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification and licensure serve as key benchmarks in establishing professional credibility. In Florida, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) regulates and licenses interior design professionals. For more details and to verify licensing guidelines, refer to the official DBPR website.

Additional national and state resources include:

  • National Certification:
    • NCIDQ Exam eligibility is crucial for certification and is overseen by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification. Check accredited programs at the CIDA Accredited Programs List.
  • Federal Oversight:

These certifications and accreditations are essential for ensuring practice standards and continued professional growth.

Interior Design Degree Requirements and Resources for Orlando, Orange County, Florida

Official State Educational Regulatory Bodies

Federal Education Oversight Agencies

State-Specific Degree Information

Types of Degrees Available

  • Associate of Science (A.S.) in Interior Design:
    Offered by Seminole State College, providing flexible pathways for high school graduates, transfer students, or those with prior degrees.
  • Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Interior Design:
    Requires 120 credits, including 24 upper-division courses and 36 general education credits.
  • Bachelor of Design (B.Des.) in Interior Design:
    University of Florida’s CIDA-accredited program emphasizes spatial organization, environmental technology, and professional practice.
  • Master of Interior Design (M.I.D.):
    Available at the University of Florida with options for combination degrees and leveling courses for candidates without a prior design background.

Admission Requirements

  • A.S. Programs: High school diploma or equivalent; no standardized test scores required.
  • B.A.S. Programs: A minimum GPA of 2.85 for UF students; transfer applicants must complete prerequisite courses such as IND2307C (Visual Communications).
  • M.I.D. Programs: Portfolio review, minimum GPA of 3.0, and GRE scores (GRE may be waived under certain conditions).

Curriculum Requirements

  • Core Courses Include:
    • IND2460C (Materials and Methods)
    • IND3431 (Interior Lighting)
    • IND3512 (Professional Practice)
  • Specializations: Hospitality, healthcare, and commercial design.
  • Internships: Required field trips and practical design studio experience.

Accreditation Information

  • Accrediting Bodies: Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Professional Organizations

  • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
    • Website: https://www.asid.org/
    • Member Benefits: Includes networking, continuing education units (CEUs), and professional advocacy.

Career Information

Job Prospects in Florida

  • Common Titles: Interior Designer, Design Consultant, Project Manager.
  • Salary Ranges: Approximately $45,000–$85,000 annually, from entry-level positions to senior roles.
  • Top Employers: Include hospitality firms, architectural practices, and retail design studios.

Professional Development

  • Certifications:
    • Eligibility for the NCIDQ Exam is a requirement for state certification.
  • Continuing Education:
    • Organizations such as ASID and IIDA offer workshops on sustainability and emerging technologies.

Institution-Specific Information

Top Interior Design Programs in Florida

  1. Seminole State College

  2. University of Florida

Additional State-Level and City-Level Resources include:

Get Started Today

Aspiring interior designers in Orlando, Florida, have multiple pathways to launch a successful career. With an array of local and nearby educational programs, supportive regulatory bodies, and professional organizations, now is the ideal time to pursue your interior design education. Explore the diverse program options, prepare your portfolio, and contact a school today through the forms on the respective pages to move forward on your creative journey.