Interior Design Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

Becoming an Interior Designer in St. Louis, Missouri

Pursuing a career as an Interior Designer in St. Louis, Missouri involves a blend of creative vision and technical expertise. An Interior Designer transforms spaces using elements such as lighting, materials, and spatial planning. Whether entering the field through certificate programs, Associate in Applied Science (AAS), or undergraduate degrees like the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or Bachelor of Science (BS), aspiring designers can choose from several educational paths that match their career goals. For those committed to developing strong design fundamentals, local design programs offer training in areas such as sustainable design, computer-aided design (CAD), and space planning.

About St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis, Missouri is a historic city known for its cultural landmarks and dynamic neighborhoods. The official city website, available at stlouis-mo.gov, provides further insight into local government services and community events. Home to iconic sites like the Gateway Arch and neighborhoods including Central West End and Lafayette Square, St. Louis serves as an inspiring backdrop for creative professionals interested in Interior Design.

Interior Design Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

Aspiring Interior Designers in the region can choose among several reputable institutions that provide rigorous training in design programs. Below are three schools offering Interior Design courses and degree programs:

  1. St. Louis Community College (STLCC) – Kirkwood Campus

    • Program: Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Interior Design
    • Details: This 60-credit program emphasizes space planning, sustainable design, and technical skills. Courses include art history, CAD, building systems, and lighting design. Internships are a required component, offering real-world experience.[STLCC Catalog]
    • Address: 6145 Watson Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122
    • Neighborhood: Kirkwood

  2. Maryville University, St. Louis

    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design
    • Details: Accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) through 2030, this program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes portfolio development and advanced design techniques. Minimum GPA requirements and portfolio submissions are part of the admissions process.[Maryville University]
    • Address: 12500 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63136
    • Neighborhood: The university is situated in a well-established area of St. Louis that blends urban energy with academic focus.

  3. Lindenwood University – St. Charles Campus

    • Program: BA/BFA in Art and Design with Interior Design specializations
    • Details: Although located in St. Charles, approximately 25 miles from St. Louis, Lindenwood University offers flexible degree paths with specializations in digital art, studio art, and graphic design. Prospective students benefit from a broad curriculum that prepares them for various design challenges.[Lindenwood University]
    • Address: 800 University Blvd, St. Charles, MO 63301
    • Neighborhood: Situated in the historic and bustling community of St. Charles, easily accessible from St. Louis.

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in St. Louis

The St. Louis area is home to a range of esteemed design firms and architecture companies providing excellent employment opportunities for Interior Designers. Here are a couple of notable organizations:

  • Design Collaborative

    • Description: Located in the Lafayette Square neighborhood, Design Collaborative is known for innovative space planning and custom interior projects. Their firm combines modern design techniques with local flavor.
    • Website: Design Collaborative (Check for current employment opportunities on their site.)

  • Innovative Interiors STL

    • Description: Based in the Central West End area, Innovative Interiors STL focuses on creating functional and aesthetically appealing spaces for commercial and residential projects. Their collaborative approach makes them a key player in the local design community.
    • Website: Innovative Interiors STL (Explore employment information directly on their website.)

For additional insights into job prospects and salary ranges for Interior Designers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Most Interior Design programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Common prerequisites include:

  • Academic Preparation: Courses in art, drawing, and drafting are recommended.
  • Portfolio Submission: Many programs, particularly advanced undergraduate degrees such as a BFA, require a portfolio showcasing creative work.
  • Standardized Testing: While standardized test scores are not a mandatory requirement for certain programs (such as the STLCC AAS program), they may be required for others.
  • Interviews: Some institutions conduct entrance interviews to gauge design aptitude and commitment to the field.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification plays a vital role in validating professional skills for Interior Designers. In Missouri, there are no state-specific licensure requirements. Instead, designers typically pursue national certification:

  • NCIDQ Certification: Administered by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ), this certification is recognized across the United States. For more information, visit the NCIDQ website.
  • Accrediting Bodies: Prospective students should verify that their chosen program is accredited by bodies such as the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Check accreditation status via the CIDA accredited programs list.

State-Specific Degree Requirements and Resources for St. Louis, Missouri

The educational landscape for Interior Design in St. Louis is supported by various regulatory agencies:

Types of Degrees Available

  • Associate in Applied Science (AAS):
    STLCC offers an AAS program focusing on space planning, sustainable design, and technical skills.

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA):
    Maryville University in St. Louis provides a CIDA-accredited BFA in Interior Design with portfolio requirements and a minimum GPA of 2.5.

  • Bachelor of Science (BS):
    The University of Missouri in Columbia offers a BS in Architectural Studies with an Interior Design emphasis (accredited until 2025).

Admission and Curriculum Requirements

  • AAS Requirements:
    No standardized test scores are needed; drawing or drafting courses are recommended.

  • BFA Requirements:
    Applicants must meet a minimum GPA (varying by institution) and submit a portfolio. Core curriculum subjects include art history, building systems, lighting design, and CAD. Internships are an integral part of the STLCC program.

Accreditation Information

  • Accrediting Bodies:
    Check that programs meet standards set by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Professional Organizations

Joining professional organizations enhances networking and continuing education opportunities:

  • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): ASID Website
  • International Interior Design Association (IIDA): IIDA Website

Career Information

  • Job Prospects:
    Common roles include interior designer, facilities planner, and lighting specialist. Entry-level salaries range from $45,000–$65,000/year, while experienced professionals can earn between $70,000–$100,000/year.
  • Potential Employers:
    Employers span architectural firms, healthcare facilities, and retail design studios.

Additional Resources

Get Started Today

The journey to a rewarding career in Interior Design begins with setting clear educational and career goals. With diverse program options and a supportive local environment, aspiring Interior Designers in St. Louis can cultivate the skills needed to transform spaces and communities. Explore your program options, prepare your portfolio, and reach out to schools today via the inquiry forms on their websites. Taking the first step will pave the way for a dynamic and creative professional future.