Interior Design Programs in Wichita, Kansas

Becoming an Interior Designer in Wichita, Kansas

Interior Designers shape functional and aesthetically pleasing environments through creative planning and detailed design solutions. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the education pathways available in Wichita, Kansas, including certificate programs, Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees, and Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees. With numerous design programs and industry resources available, prospective designers can explore a range of training options that cater to a variety of career ambitions.

About Wichita

Wichita, Kansas, is a dynamic city known for its rich cultural heritage and mixed-use urban environments. Home to notable neighborhoods such as Old Town and the Historic Midtown area, Wichita offers a blend of modern design influences and traditional Midwestern charm. For official city services and community information, visit the Wichita official website.

Interior Design Programs in Wichita, Kansas

Several educational institutions provide robust Interior Design programs in and around Wichita. Here are three key programs:

  1. Wichita State University Tech (WSU Tech) – Interior Design Program

    • Program: AAS in Interior Design
    • Description: WSU Tech delivers an AAS program focused on blueprint reading, codes and standards, color theory, furniture history, and industry partnerships, including dual credit opportunities for high school students.
    • Location: Located in Wichita (approximate address: 2326 W. 3rd St, Wichita, KS 67213, in the northwest area)
    • Website: WSU Tech Interior Design

  2. Kansas State University (K-State) – BS in Interior Design

    • Program: BS in Interior Design (CIDA-accredited)
    • Description: K-State’s program emphasizes sustainable design, lighting technology, and human-centered design through research-based studios and selective admission standards including a portfolio review for upper-level studios.
    • Location: Located in Manhattan, Kansas (approximately 160 miles from Wichita; address: Manhattan, KS, central campus area)
    • Website: K-State Interior Design Degree

  3. University of Kansas (KU) – BS in Interior Architecture

    • Program: BS in Interior Architecture
    • Description: KU’s program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum featuring building codes, materials science, environmental systems, and a mandatory professional internship (typically during the summer after the third year).
    • Location: Located in Lawrence, Kansas (approximately 170 miles from Wichita; campus situated in the heart of Lawrence)
    • Website: KU Interior Architecture Design

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Wichita

Wichita’s evolving design industry provides numerous opportunities for Interior Designers. Local firms frequently work on projects ranging from residential makeovers to commercial renovations. Two prominent organizations include:

  • HKS Architects

    • Description: A well-established firm offering innovative design solutions and architectural services in downtown Wichita.
    • Location: Downtown Wichita
    • Website: HKS Architects

  • Perkins&Will

    • Description: A leading design firm known for its commitment to sustainable and human-centered projects, with a presence in the Midtown area of Wichita.
    • Location: Midtown Wichita
    • Website: Perkins&Will

For detailed employment statistics and career projections, refer to the Interior Designers job outlook on the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Entry into Interior Design programs typically requires:

  • A high school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • A portfolio that highlights artistic ability and creative projects.
  • Some programs may require prerequisite courses in art and design, math, and English.
  • Occasional entrance interviews or exams may also be part of the admissions process.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

In Kansas, there are no specific state licensure requirements for Interior Designers. Instead, national certification is encouraged to bolster professional credentials. Common paths include:

  • NCIDQ Certification: Requires a minimum of 65 credit hours in design education and approximately 4 years of industry experience. For more information, visit CIDA’s Accredited Programs List.
  • Professional Organizations:
    • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) – Provides continuing education, networking, and job listings. Visit ASID.
    • Wichita Area Builders Association (WABA) – Engages local design professionals through events such as the Parade of Homes. Visit WABA.

Interior Design Degree Requirements and Resources for Wichita, Sedgwick, Kansas

For those pursuing an Interior Design degree in Wichita, several regulatory bodies and resources are available:

  • Wichita Public Schools (USD 259)

    • Purpose: Oversees K-12 education, including career and technical education pathways for aspiring designers.
    • Website: USD 259
    • Contact: (316) 973-4000

  • Sedgwick County Government

    • Purpose: Supports workforce development programs and partnerships with local post-secondary institutions.
    • Website: Sedgwick County
    • Contact: (316) 660-9000

  • Kansas State Board of Regents

    • Purpose: Governs public higher education institutions such as Wichita State University Tech and K-State.
    • Website: Kansas Regents
    • Contact: (785) 296-3142

  • U.S. Department of Education

Types of Interior Design Degrees Available in Wichita

  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Offered by WSU Tech with courses in drafting, color theory, and architectural history. Admission requires no SAT/ACT and offers dual enrollment for high school students.
  • Bachelor of Science (BS): Offered by K-State with a focus on sustainable design, human-centered studios, and selective portfolio reviews.
  • Bachelor of Science in Interior Architecture: Offered by KU, featuring prerequisites such as a minimum 2.5 GPA, required courses in math and English, and a professional internship.

Curriculum and Core Courses

  • WSU Tech: Emphasis on blueprint reading, building codes, furniture history, and codes/standards.
  • K-State: Includes sustainable design, lighting technology, and research-based studios.
  • KU: Covers building codes, materials science, environmental systems, and requires an internship during the summer after the third year.

Accreditation and Certification

  • NCIDQ Certification: Requires design education (65 credit hours) and 4 years of experience for certification. Verify program status via CIDA’s Accredited Programs List.

Professional Organizations and Resources

  • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): Offers continuing education and networking opportunities (ASID).
  • Wichita Area Builders Association (WABA): Connects local industry professionals (WABA).
  • Kansas Labor Information Center: For up-to-date salary data and employment projections, visit Kansas Labor Information Center.
  • Wichita State University Visitor Guide: Provides insights into campus partnerships and industry connections. View the guide here.

Additionally, Sedgwick County Workforce Development supports vocational training and grant programs. More information is available at the Sedgwick County Government website.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an Interior Designer in Wichita, Kansas, offers both creative fulfillment and professional growth. The comprehensive range of design programs, from AAS to BS degrees, coupled with supportive local regulatory bodies and professional organizations, makes it an exciting time to begin your design journey. Prospective students are encouraged to review the requirements and connect with their chosen schools using the inquiry forms available on each institution’s website. Take the first step toward a rewarding career in Interior Design today.