Interior Design Programs in Irving, Texas

Becoming an Interior Designer in Irving, Texas

Interior design is a dynamic field that blends creativity with functionality to transform spaces. This guide provides a comprehensive overview for aspiring Interior Designers by detailing the available design programs, schools, certification paths, and training opportunities in Irving, Texas. Whether you are considering a Bachelor of Science, an Associate of Applied Science, or an advanced technical certificate, this article covers the essential steps and prerequisites for launching your interior design career.

About Irving, Texas

Irving is a thriving city located in Dallas County, Texas, known for its diverse neighborhoods and cultural attractions. Home to landmarks such as the Irving Arts Center and the bustling Las Colinas area, Irving offers a supportive environment for creative professionals. For further city information, visit the official City of Irving website.

Interior Design Programs in Irving, Texas

Although Irving does not host a dedicated interior design school within its borders, regional institutions in the surrounding area provide exceptional design programs accessible to Irving residents. Below is a curated list of three notable Interior Design programs:

  1. University of Texas Arlington – Bachelor of Science in Interior Design

    • Address: 701 S Nedderman Dr, Arlington, TX 76019 (approximately 20 miles from Irving)
    • Neighborhood: University District, Arlington
    • Program Highlights: This CIDA-accredited program emphasizes collaborative studios (e.g., INTD 2552, 3553, 3554), materials and technology courses (INDS 2330, 2331), and professional practices, enhanced by mandatory internship experiences.
    • Program Link: UT Arlington Interior Design Program

  2. Dallas College (El Centro) – Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Interior Design

    • Address: 1500 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75201 (approximately 15 miles from Irving)
    • Neighborhood: Downtown Dallas
    • Program Highlights: Known for its sequential curriculum and portfolio-based advancement, the AAS program requires TSI compliance, a computer literacy exam, and achieving “C” grades in interior design courses.
    • Program Link: Dallas College Interior Design AAS Program

  3. The Art Institute of Dallas – Interior Design Program

    • Address: 2800 Maple Ave, Dallas, TX 75201 (approximately 12 miles from Irving)
    • Neighborhood: Deep Ellum, Dallas
    • Program Highlights: This program focuses on developing industry-ready skills through hands-on training, with an emphasis on creative design and professional practice across diverse interior projects.
    • Program Link: The Art Institute of Dallas

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Irving

While Irving itself has a smaller number of dedicated interior design firms, the vibrant Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is home to numerous leading organizations that actively recruit Interior Designers. Consider exploring opportunities with these prominent local firms:

  1. HKS Architects

    • Address: 1911 Bryan St, Dallas, TX 75201 (located in Downtown Dallas, approximately 15 miles from Irving)
    • Overview: HKS Architects is celebrated for its innovative design solutions and high-profile projects in various sectors, offering promising career opportunities for Interior Designers.
    • Employment Opportunities: Visit the HKS Architects Official Website.

  2. Perkins+Will

    • Address: 2010 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75202 (situated near the Bishop Arts District, approximately 15 miles from Irving)
    • Overview: Renowned for sustainable and cutting-edge design, Perkins+Will provides comprehensive design services for commercial, institutional, and healthcare projects.
    • Employment Opportunities: Learn more at the Perkins+Will Official Website.

  3. Gensler

    • Address: 2800 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201 (located in the Deep Ellum area, approximately 15 miles from Irving)
    • Overview: With a global reputation, Gensler offers diverse projects—from corporate interiors to public spaces—making it a sought-after employer in the design community.
    • Employment Opportunities: For current job openings, visit the Gensler Official Website.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Before enrolling, prospective students should be aware of the general and program-specific prerequisites common to Interior Design courses:

  • General Admissions Requirements:

    • Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent
    • Meeting minimum age criteria as specified by the institution

  • Program-Specific Requirements:

    • Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Requires TSI compliance, a computer literacy exam, and a record of at least “C” grades in interior design courses
    • Bachelor of Science (BS): Applicants should have a minimum GPA of 2.8, complete a core curriculum, and undergo a FYPR portfolio review
    • Advanced Technical Certificate: Must have successfully completed an AAS in Interior Design along with portfolio approval

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Gaining certification is an integral part of establishing a successful career in interior design. Although Texas does not mandate specific state licensure for Interior Designers, pursuing national certification is highly recommended to advance professional credibility.

  • National Certification:

    • NCIDQ Certification: Widely recognized as the standard for professional competence in interior design. More information is available on the NCIDQ website.

  • Professional Organizations:

    • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): This organization upholds professional standards and typically requires both formal education and NCIDQ certification. Visit ASID for further details.
    • Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter of ASID: Offers local networking, workshops, and continuing education opportunities central to the DFW metroplex. More information can be found at Dallas/Fort Worth ASID.

  • Additional Regulatory and Educational Resources:

    • City of Irving Department of Education: Oversees K-12 education initiatives; contact at (972) 721-2500 or visit the City of Irving website.
    • Dallas County Education District: Manages educational services in the county; contact at (214) 653-7000 or visit Dallas County.
    • Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board: Oversees higher education, including interior design degrees; contact at (512) 427-6100 or visit the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board website.
    • U.S. Department of Education: Provides federal oversight of postsecondary education; access their Accreditation Database for verification details.

Get Started Today

Embarking on an interior design career opens the door to endless creative possibilities and rewarding professional opportunities. With diverse academic pathways, robust certification options, and a host of employment prospects in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, now is the perfect time to turn your passion into a profession. Contact a school today using the available enquiry forms to explore admissions requirements and take the first step toward your future as an Interior Designer. For insights on job prospects, review the Bureau of Labor Statistics Interior Designers page.