Interior Design Programs in Chicago, Illinois

Becoming an Interior Designer in Chicago, Illinois

For those interested in a career in Interior Design in Chicago, Illinois, this guide explains the many pathways to become a professional Interior Designer. Interior Designers work to improve interior spaces by creating functional, aesthetically pleasing, and safe environments. There are multiple education pathways available, including certificate programs, Associate degrees, Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), and even graduate studies. These options equip prospective designers with the technical skills and creative vision necessary to succeed in the field.

About Chicago

Chicago is a dynamic metropolis known for its rich architectural heritage, diverse neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks. As a major hub for arts and design, the city offers numerous opportunities for creative professionals. Interested individuals can explore Chicago’s official website for additional city information. Whether you are drawn to the historic architecture of the Loop, the modern flair of River North, or the creative energy in Wicker Park, Chicago provides an inspiring setting for Interior Design careers.

Interior Design Programs in Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is home to several prestigious schools where students can pursue Interior Design training. Below are three institutions that offer interior design and related programs:

  • Columbia College Chicago

    • Program: BFA in Interior Architecture (CIDA-accredited)
    • Address: 600 S. Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605 (Downtown/Loop)
    • Description: This program focuses on design theory, sustainable design, and real-world applications to prepare graduates for professional practice. Portfolio submission is required for admission.
    • Website: Columbia College Chicago Interior Architecture Program

  • School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)

    • Program: MArch with an Interior Architecture Track; additional MFA studio options available
    • Address: 36 S. Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60603 (Loop)
    • Description: SAIC’s graduate programs emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, community engagement, and studio-based projects. Applicants should note the application deadline for AIADO programs is March 1, 2025.
    • Website: SAIC Interior Architecture Programs

  • Harper College

    • Program: AAS in Interior Design
    • Address: 1500 Wood Street, Palatine, IL 60067 (Suburban campus approximately 20–25 miles from downtown Chicago)
    • Description: Harper College offers a two-year program that focuses on practical skills and modern design techniques. Merit scholarships and modern facilities enhance the learning environment.
    • Website: Harper College Interior Design Program

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Chicago

Chicago’s thriving design industry is home to many established firms and architecture companies that offer exciting career opportunities for Interior Designers. Here are a few major organizations:

  • Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)

    • Description: A global architecture, interior design, and engineering firm with a strong presence in Chicago. Their projects range from commercial spaces to large-scale urban developments.
    • Location: Downtown Chicago, often serving the River North and Streeterville areas.
    • Employment: For current job opportunities and application details, please visit the SOM Careers page.

  • Perkins+Will

    • Description: A leading design firm specializing in sustainable and innovative interior and architectural design. Perkins+Will’s Chicago office frequently offers roles for experienced designers and recent graduates alike.
    • Location: Based in the heart of the city, servicing several neighborhoods within Chicago.
    • Employment: Explore available positions on the Perkins+Will Careers page.

  • Gensler

    • Description: A global design and architecture firm known for its comprehensive approach to creating innovative interior spaces. Gensler’s Chicago office collaborates on projects that range from corporate spaces to public venues.
    • Location: Their Chicago office is situated in a central downtown location, catering to a broad range of clients.
    • Employment: Find current job openings on the Gensler Careers page.

For more details on job roles and outlooks for Interior Designers, please visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Interior Designers job outlook page.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Prospective students in Interior Design programs should prepare to meet several common prerequisites, including:

  • Undergraduate Requirements:

    • Submission of a creative portfolio is typically required for BFA programs such as that at Columbia College Chicago.
    • A minimum GPA of 2.5 may be expected, as seen in programs like Harper College’s AAS in Interior Design.
    • Entrance exams and interviews may also form part of the admissions process.

  • Graduate Requirements:

    • Graduate programs, such as SAIC’s MArch with an Interior Architecture track, require a strong academic background, portfolio review, and adherence to application deadlines (e.g., March 1, 2025 for SAIC’s AIADO programs).

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification and licensure are important steps for professional credibility in Interior Design. In Illinois, while state-specific licensure is not mandatory for all Interior Designers, national certification is highly recommended. Relevant options include:

  • NCIDQ Certification:

    • The National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam is a standard measure of competency for Interior Designers in the United States.
    • This certification is essential for those seeking licensed status and increased career opportunities.

  • Professional Organizations:

    • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): Visit ASID for further details on certifications, industry news, and career support.
    • International Interior Design Association (IIDA): Visit IIDA for resources on innovative practices and professional growth.

Additional regulatory resources include local, county, state, and federal bodies such as the Chicago Department of Education (Contact: (312) 744-4444) and the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) (Contact: (217) 557-7359). The U.S. Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) also provide valuable information on educational standards.

Interior Design Degree Requirements and Resources for Chicago, Cook County, Illinois

Several educational regulatory bodies support degree programs within the region:

  • Official City Regulatory Bodies:

    • Chicago Department of Education oversees K-12 and postsecondary initiatives.
    • Chicago Higher Education Commission (contact via the Chicago Mayor’s Office for Education and College Access at (312) 744-4444).

  • Official County and State Bodies:

    • Cook County Department of Education (contact: (312) 603-6400).
    • Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) regulates and accredits postsecondary programs.

Types of Degrees Available

  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Offered by institutions like Joliet Junior College, focusing on practical skills.
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Columbia College Chicago provides a 4-year degree in Interior Architecture that is CIDA-accredited.
  • Master of Architecture (MArch): SAIC offers graduate programs featuring an Interior Architecture track.

Admission and Curriculum Requirements

  • Undergraduate Admissions:

    • Portfolio submissions and a minimum GPA (e.g., 2.5 at Harper College) are common requirements.

  • Graduate Admissions:

    • Strict deadlines (as noted with SAIC’s March 1, 2025 deadline) and rigorous selection processes prevail.

  • Curriculum Focus:

    • Core courses include space planning, material selection, sustainability, and design theory.
    • Specializations in sustainable design and designed objects are available through various programs.

Accreditation and Professional Organizations

Accrediting bodies like the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) ensure that programs meet industry standards. Professional associations such as ASID and IIDA offer networking opportunities, career resources, and additional certification guidance.

Get Started Today

Chicago offers a wealth of opportunities to launch your Interior Design career. With diverse educational programs, robust industry connections, and ample resources provided by local, county, state, and federal agencies, now is the ideal time to pursue your passion. Contact the schools directly through their official forms to start your journey in transforming interior spaces.