Interior Design Programs in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Becoming an Interior Designer in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Interior Designers transform spaces through creativity, technical knowledge, and thoughtful planning. In Tulsa, Oklahoma, individuals can choose from diverse design programs that lead to careers designing residential, commercial, and institutional spaces. Various education paths—from associate degrees to bachelor programs and specialized certificate courses—offer avenues for aspiring Interior Designers. For comprehensive job outlook details, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Interior Designers page.

About Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa is a dynamic city known for its rich cultural heritage and innovative art scene. With established neighborhoods such as the Arts District and downtown Tulsa, the city offers plenty of inspiration and opportunity for creative professionals. Local educational and governmental institutions like the Tulsa City Department of Education and the Tulsa County Board of Education provide a supportive ecosystem for those pursuing advanced education and training.

Interior Design Programs in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Aspiring Interior Designers in Tulsa have multiple local and nearby options to start their education.

  1. Tulsa Community College – Interior Design Program

    • Program Details: Offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Interior Design with hands-on training in design theory, computer-aided design (CAD), and studio courses focused on residential and commercial environments. Internships (4-credit professional internship) are part of the curriculum.
    • Admission Requirements: Open enrollment with no SAT/ACT required; applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
    • Accreditation: Recognized by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
    • Address: 500 N Skelly Drive, Tulsa, OK 74103 (Downtown Tulsa).
    • Program Catalog: Tulsa Community College Catalog

  2. Oklahoma State University – BS in Interior Design

    • Program Details: Offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Interior Design with specialized tracks in Design and Facility Management. The curriculum covers core courses such as Design Theory and Processes, CAD, and Interior Design Studios, alongside a required 4-credit professional internship.
    • Admission Requirements: Applicants must meet a minimum 2.0 GPA and complete prerequisite courses in math and science.
    • Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).
    • Address: Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078 (approximately 106 miles north of Tulsa).
    • Program Page: OSU Interior Design Program

  3. Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT) – Certificate Courses in Interior Design

    • Program Details: OSUIT offers certificate courses in Interior Design that provide focused training for those looking to enhance their skills or prepare for advanced studies. These courses supplement foundational learning in design principles and space planning.
    • Admission Requirements: Basic requirements include a high school diploma or GED, with some courses potentially requiring portfolio submissions or entrance assessments.
    • Address: 300 College Ave, Okmulgee, OK 74447 (approximately 40 miles east of Tulsa).
    • Program Information: Visit the OSUIT Official Website for further details.

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Tulsa

Tulsa’s design industry is supported by a variety of established design firms and architecture companies that seek creative professionals. Prominent examples include:

  • McKenna Interiors

    • Overview: A leading design firm known for innovative residential and commercial projects. McKenna Interiors is located in South Tulsa’s Brookside neighborhood and contributes significantly to the city’s creative sector.
    • Address: 2252 S Harvard Ave, Tulsa, OK 74114.
    • Employment Opportunities: Explore career opportunities on the firm’s official website at McKenna Interiors.

  • iDESIGN Studio

    • Overview: Specializes in modern interior solutions for commercial and residential spaces. Based in Downtown Tulsa, iDESIGN Studio is recognized for its collaborative environment and design excellence.
    • Address: 101 E Main St, Tulsa, OK 74120.
    • Employment Opportunities: For current openings and more company information, visit iDESIGN Studio.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Applicants to Interior Design programs typically must meet several prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required for associate and certificate programs.
  • Bachelor programs demand a minimum 2.0 GPA along with completion of prerequisite courses in mathematics and science.
  • Many programs require portfolio submissions, interviews, or entrance exams to assess design aptitude.

These qualifications ensure that candidates are prepared for rigorous coursework and hands-on learning in design studios and computer-aided environments.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Interior Design certification is crucial for establishing professional credibility:

  • National Certification: Many Interior Designers pursue NCIDQ certification through the Council for Interior Design Qualification (CIDQ). This certification is widely recognized and often required for licensure.
  • State Requirements: Oklahoma does not have specific state licensure mandates for Interior Designers. Focus is generally placed on national certification and professional experience.
  • Continuing Education: Organizations like the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) offer continuing education units (CEUs) that support licensure renewal and professional development.

Getting Started Today

Tulsa offers promising opportunities for individuals eager to enter the field of Interior Design. With comprehensive training programs, supportive regulatory bodies, and thriving employment opportunities, now is the time to take the first step in your creative career. Contact your chosen school today through their official web forms and begin your journey toward becoming a successful Interior Designer.

For additional guidance on educational requirements and regulatory oversight, prospective students can also reference the Tulsa City Department of Education, Tulsa County Board of Education, the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, and the U.S. Department of Education.