Interior Design Programs in Arlington, Texas
Becoming an Interior Designer in Arlington, Texas
Aspiring interior designers in Arlington, Texas have a well-defined pathway to launching a career in the field. An Interior Designer creates functional and aesthetically appealing indoor spaces by merging technical knowledge with artistic vision. Various educational paths are available, ranging from four-year Bachelor of Science in Interior Design (BS.INTD) degrees—with rigorous coursework, design studios, and internships—to associate programs and minors offered at local colleges. In Arlington, students must meet prerequisites such as a minimum 2.8 GPA in basic studies, portfolio submissions, and course requirements in math and physics. International applicants should prepare by achieving minimum TOEFL scores of 79, IELTS scores of 6.5, or Duolingo scores of 105. For further insights on career prospects, refer to the Interior Designer job outlook page on bls.gov.
Local educational regulatory bodies also play a vital role. The Arlington Independent School District (AISD) oversees K–12 education and career technical programs. At the county level, the Tarrant County College District (TCCD) provides post-secondary associate degree offerings, and state oversight is managed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). Federal guidelines and federal student aid information are available from the U.S. Department of Education.
About Arlington
Arlington, Texas, located in Tarrant County, is a dynamic city known for its cultural landmarks and quality educational institutions. With easy access to sports venues, parks, and entertainment centers, the city offers ample opportunities to experience a blend of urban and suburban lifestyles. For official city information and updates, visit Arlington Economic Development and the City’s official website.
Interior Design Programs in Arlington, Texas
Arlington and its surrounding areas provide a range of Interior Design programs through reputable schools. Below are three institutions offering training in this field:
The University of Texas at Arlington – School of Architecture
- Program: BS in Interior Design & Minor in Interior Design
- Address: 701 S Nedderman Dr, Arlington, TX 76019
- Neighborhood: University Park
- Description: UT Arlington offers a comprehensive curriculum focusing on design studios, technical courses in building systems and materials, and a mandatory 3–6 month internship. The program also emphasizes collaboration with architecture disciplines. More details can be found on the UT Arlington Interior Design Program page.
Tarrant County College District (TCCD) – Arlington Campus
- Program: Associate Degree in Interior Design (and related design training courses)
- Address: 900 South Collins St, Arlington, TX 76010
- Neighborhood: Downtown Arlington
- Description: TCCD offers career-focused training with hands-on experience and flexible scheduling options designed for students who are ready to enter the workforce. For additional program information and admissions details, visit the TCCD official website.
Dallas College – Deep Ellum Campus
- Program: Interior Design and Creative Design Programs
- Address: 4430 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75204
- Neighborhood: Deep Ellum
- Distance: Approximately 20 miles from Arlington
- Description: While located in Dallas, this campus provides industry-recognized training in interior design, offering state-of-the-art labs and faculty with significant professional experience. Prospective students should refer to the Dallas College website for program-specific details.
Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Arlington
Arlington’s creative landscape is supported by several major design firms and architecture companies offering robust career opportunities:
Crescent Interiors
- Address: 321 E Division St, Arlington, TX 76010
- Neighborhood: Downtown Arlington
- Description: Crescent Interiors specializes in both residential and commercial projects, emphasizing innovative spatial solutions. Employment opportunities and career information are available on their official website.
Blueprint Design & Architecture
- Address: 750 W Main St, Arlington, TX 76010
- Neighborhood: West Arlington
- Description: This firm is known for integrating sustainable design practices with modern aesthetics across a variety of interior projects. For job listings and further details, visit the Blueprint Design & Architecture official website.
Local design firms often collaborate with regional and national organizations, providing a dynamic, competitive environment that boosts career development for emerging Interior Designers.
Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs
Enrollment in interior design programs typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent along with a clear demonstration of creative aptitude. Students must be prepared for a portfolio review and, in some cases, an entrance exam. Prerequisites often include coursework in mathematics and physics to support technical studies. Additionally, applicants should verify if they meet specific local requirements through institutions like AISD and TCCD.
Interior Design Certification and Licensure
While Texas does not mandate state-specific licensure for Interior Designers, national certification enhances credibility and professional standing. Programs accredited by bodies such as the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) and sought-after certifications through organizations like the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) and the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) are highly regarded. The Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter of ASID also provides local networking, workshops, and professional events. Prospective designers should consider certification to remain competitive in a market that expects high professional standards.
Get Started Today
Ambitious individuals looking to forge a career in interior design can begin by contacting educational institutions to learn more about their programs, admission requirements, and financial aid opportunities. With comprehensive training available locally and regionally, Arlington offers promising avenues to develop technical skills and creative expertise. Take the first step: reach out to a school and begin your journey toward becoming an Interior Designer.