Interior Design Programs in Kansas City, Kansas

Becoming an Interior Designer in Kansas City, Kansas

For those considering a career in Interior Design in Kansas City, Kansas, this comprehensive guide explains the various educational paths, certification options, and career opportunities available within the field. An Interior Designer is a professional who creates aesthetically pleasing and functional indoor spaces by blending design principles with technical know-how. Education in Interior Design can follow several paths, including obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), a Bachelor of Science (BS), or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.

About Kansas City, Kansas

Kansas City, Kansas is a dynamic urban center located in Wyandotte County. The city offers a rich mix of cultural attractions, historical landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods. Residents and visitors alike can explore local highlights, and more official city information can be found on the Kansas City, Kansas official website. Local institutions, including the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools, support community initiatives and educational programs that reflect the city’s commitment to excellence.

Interior Design Programs in Kansas City, Kansas

While no dedicated interior design programs have been identified directly within Kansas City, Kansas, several nearby accredited institutions offer valuable degree programs:

  1. Park University – Parkville, MO

    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design
    • Focus: Emphasis on interior design fundamentals and practical application
    • Location & Address: One University Pkwy, Parkville, MO 64068 (approximately 10–15 miles from Kansas City, Kansas)
    • Neighborhood: Parkville
    • Website: Park University

  2. WSU Tech – Wichita, KS

    • Program: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Interior Design with competency-based training and portfolio development
    • Location & Address: 500 N Maize Rd, Wichita, KS 67210 (roughly 200 miles from Kansas City, Kansas)
    • Neighborhood: Located in a key industrial area in Wichita
    • Website: WSU Tech

  3. Kansas State University – Manhattan, KS

    • Program: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Interior Design (CIDA-accredited) with a research-based, human-centered approach
    • Location & Address: Manhattan, KS 66506 (approximately 180 miles from Kansas City, Kansas)
    • Neighborhood: Downtown Manhattan
    • Website: Kansas State University

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Kansas City

Kansas City, Kansas offers various opportunities for Interior Designers in both local and national design firms. Key employment resources include:

  • Kansas City Design Center

    • Focus: This organization provides community design initiatives, workshops, and networking opportunities for creative professionals.
    • Neighborhood: Centrally located in Kansas City, Kansas
    • Website: Kansas City Design Center

  • Gensler

    • Focus: A globally recognized architecture and design firm with opportunities available at their Kansas City office.
    • Website: Gensler (Visit and inquire about local positions via their official website)

  • Perkins+Will

    • Focus: This firm combines architectural expertise with innovative design solutions and may offer employment opportunities in the Kansas City area.
    • Website: Perkins+Will

For further insights into the employment landscape and job prospects for Interior Designers, be sure to check the Interior Designers Job Outlook on BLS.gov.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Prospective students should be aware of the common prerequisites required for entrance into Interior Design programs. Typical requirements include:

  • Educational Background: Completion of high school, with a strong emphasis on art and math courses (such as geometry and algebra).
  • GPA Requirements: Bachelor’s programs generally require a minimum GPA ranging from 2.5 to 3.0, though this may vary by institution.
  • Entrance Requirements: Submission of a portfolio showcasing artistic or design work, potential entrance exams, and sometimes an interview are essential steps in the admission process.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification and licensure help validate expertise in Interior Design. In Kansas and nationwide, the following options are available:

  • National Certification:

    • NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification): This exam is a cornerstone for licensure and is highly regarded in the industry.
    • Website: NCIDQ

  • State-Specific Oversight:

    • While Kansas does not mandate a state-specific interior design licensure program, professionals must typically complete 3,520 hours of supervised work experience post-graduation.
    • Additional regulation and oversight can be found through the Kansas State Board of Technical Professions.

  • Accreditation Bodies:

    • CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation): Ensures that interior design programs meet industry standards.
    • NASAD (National Association of Schools of Art and Design): Accredits Bachelor of Fine Arts programs.

Interior Design Degree Requirements and Resources for Kansas City, Wyandotte County, Kansas

A host of regulatory and educational agencies support Interior Design education in the region:

  • Official City Educational Regulatory Bodies:

    • Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools
      • Purpose: Oversees K-12 education, including career and technical programs
      • Website: KCK Public Schools
      • Contact: (913) 279-2244

  • Official County Educational Regulatory Bodies:

    • Wyandotte County Education Office

  • Official State Educational Regulatory Bodies:

    • Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR)

  • Federal Education Oversight Agencies:

Types of Degrees Available:

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Offered by Park University with a focus on interior design fundamentals and practical application.
  • Bachelor of Science (BS): Kansas State University’s CIDA-accredited program emphasizes human-centered design and research-based practices.
  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Provided by WSU Tech, this program focuses on competency-based training and portfolio development.

Admission and Curriculum Requirements:

  • Admission: Requirements for Bachelor’s programs include a minimum GPA (2.5–3.0) and relevant high school art/math courses. Application deadlines vary, with options like rolling admissions at Park University.
  • Curriculum: Core courses typically feature design principles, color theory, building codes, and sustainable design. Many programs require internships (e.g., 120+ hours at Park University) and mandates the submission of a portfolio for graduation and licensure.

Professional Organizations:

  • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): Offers certifications, continuing education, and networking opportunities.
  • ASID Kansas City Chapter: Focuses on local professional development and networking in Kansas City.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an Interior Designer in Kansas City, Kansas is a promising endeavor that combines creativity with practical design skills. With a variety of educational programs, professional certifications, and dynamic employment opportunities, the foundation for a sustainable and fulfilling career awaits. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact a school today via their inquiry forms and begin the journey toward a successful career in Interior Design.