Interior Design Programs in Garland, Texas

Becoming an Interior Designer in Garland, Texas

Aspiring interior designers in Garland, Texas, have several educational pathways to explore—including associate and bachelor’s degree programs that cater to different career goals. Interior Designers create functional and aesthetically pleasing environments by blending art, technology, and design principles. This guide details available design programs, educational prerequisites, certification options, and employment opportunities to help you navigate the process.

About Garland, Texas

Garland is a dynamic city in Dallas County known for its rich community heritage and strategic location within the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. With attractions such as local parks, community centers, and historic downtown areas, Garland offers both cultural and professional opportunities. For more city details, visit the official Garland website.

Interior Design Programs in Garland, Texas

Garland itself does not currently offer a standalone interior design program. However, students in Garland benefit from nearby institutions and programs within a reasonable commuting distance.

  • El Centro College – Interior Design A.A.S. Program

    • Address: 4760 South Central Expressway, Dallas, TX 75236
    • Neighborhood: Located in South Dallas
    • Distance: Approximately 15 miles from Garland
    • Program Details: This 2-year Associate of Applied Science program focuses on developing technical skills essential for licensure. Applicants must meet Texas Success Initiative standards, pass a computer literacy exam, and complete prerequisites such as INDS 1311 (Fundamentals of Interior Design).
    • Website: El Centro College A.A.S. in Interior Design

  • Baylor University – B.F.A. in Interior Design

    • Address: One Bear Place, Waco, TX 76798
    • Neighborhood: Baylor’s campus is set in the heart of Waco
    • Distance: Approximately 100 miles from Garland
    • Program Details: This 4-year Bachelor of Fine Arts program emphasizes liberal arts integration, immersive design studios, and includes courses such as ID 4398 (Interior Design Internship) and ID 4433 (Capstone Studio). Transfer students must have a minimum GPA of 2.25, with a first-year review requiring a 2.85 GPA in design/art courses.
    • Website: Baylor University B.F.A. in Interior Design

  • University of North Texas – Interior Design Program

    • Address: 1155 Union Circle #31160, Denton, TX 76203
    • Neighborhood: Situated in central Denton
    • Distance: Approximately 40 miles from Garland
    • Program Details: UNT offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Interior Design program emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical applications. The curriculum encourages innovation in sustainable design and space planning.
    • Website: University of North Texas

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Garland, Texas

Graduates can explore employment options with well-established firms both in and around Garland. Major employers include:

  • HKS, Inc.

    • Description: A premier architecture and design firm offering extensive opportunities in interior design and related fields. Known for large-scale projects, HKS, Inc. is based in Dallas (approximately 15 miles away) in a bustling urban neighborhood.
    • Employment Opportunities: View available positions on the HKS, Inc. Careers page.

  • The Container Store

    • Description: Recognized for its commitment to innovative retail design, The Container Store has design studios that focus on creating customer-friendly environments. Located in Coppell, near Dallas (about 20 miles from Garland), this firm offers roles ranging from design assistants to senior interior designers.
    • Employment Opportunities: Explore job vacancies on The Container Store Careers page.

For broader industry insights, consult the Interior Designers Job Outlook page on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Most interior design programs require specific academic and skill-based prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • For the A.A.S. program at El Centro College: Successful completion of Texas Success Initiative (TSI) standards, a computer literacy exam, and prerequisite coursework (e.g., INDS 1311: Fundamentals of Interior Design).
  • For Baylor University’s B.F.A. program: A minimum GPA of 2.25 for transfer students and a first-year review requiring a 2.85 GPA in design or art courses.
  • Submission of a portfolio showcasing design and creative skills is commonly required, sometimes along with an interview process.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification and licensure are critical steps for building a reputable career in interior design. In Texas, while there are no exclusive state licensure requirements, professionals typically obtain national certification. Key points include:

  • NCIDQ Certification: Widely recognized, candidates must complete 3,520 hours of work experience and pass the NCIDQ exam.
  • Professional Organizations:
  • Accrediting Bodies:
    • Baylor University’s program is accredited by CIDA, and verification can be done through the CIDA Directory.
    • The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE) oversees licensure for Texas interior designers.

Additionally, local regulatory agencies provide further guidance:

  • Garland Independent School District (GISD): Oversees K-12 educational pathways, including career and technical education. Contact: (972) 494-8201; GISD Website.
  • Dallas County Community College District (DCCCD): Manages higher education programs including El Centro College’s Interior Design A.A.S. program. Contact: (972) 669-6400; DCCCD Website.
  • Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB): Accredits institutions and sets education policies. Contact: (512) 427-6100; THECB Website.
  • U.S. Department of Education: Provides federal financial aid and education standards. U.S. Department of Education and National Center for Education Statistics.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an interior designer begins with careful planning and education. Review the unique programs and prerequisites, and consider how certification and local regulatory resources can boost your professional journey. There has never been a better time to pursue your passion—contact a school today via their inquiry forms to take the first step toward a promising future in interior design.