Interior Design Programs in Plano, Texas

Becoming an Interior Designer in Plano, Texas

Interior Designers specialize in creating functional and aesthetically appealing interior spaces. Aspiring designers can follow several education paths, including certificate programs, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, or even graduate studies. Each pathway equips students with skills in design theory, technical drawing, computer-aided design, and sustainable practices. For those interested in a creative and fulfilling career, exploring various design programs is the first step.

About Plano, Texas

Plano is a dynamic city located in Collin County, known for its thriving business sector and rich cultural heritage. The city offers a blend of modern amenities and historical charm, with notable landmarks and neighborhoods such as the Legacy West area and Downtown Plano. For more information, visit the official Plano website.

Interior Design Programs in Plano, Texas

In Plano, local educational institutions provide several options for pursuing interior design training. Below are three schools offering design programs:

  1. Collin College – Plano Campus

    • Program: Offers workforce training and associate degree pathways with design-related courses.
    • Address: 1991 W Parker Rd, Plano, TX 75074 (Plano neighborhood)
    • Description: Collin College supports students through its innovative curriculum and continuing education resources. It collaborates with local firms for internship placements and offers flexible learning options.
    • Website: https://www.collin.edu/

  2. University of Texas at Arlington

    • Program: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Interior Design emphasizing commercial and institutional design with a required internship.
    • Address: 701 S Nedderman Dr, Arlington, TX 76019 (Located in the Arlington area, approximately 18 miles from Plano)
    • Description: The UT Arlington program is known for its collaborative approach with architecture students and advanced design studios.
    • Program Page: UT Arlington Interior Design

  3. El Centro College (Dallas College)

    • Program: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Interior Design featuring technical drawing, historical perspectives in interiors, and NCIDQ exam preparation.
    • Address: 1701 W R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75254 (Situated in the Dallas neighborhood, approximately 25 miles from Plano)
    • Description: This program is designed for quick entry into the workforce, combining technical education with practical skills vital to a career in interior design.
    • Program Page: El Centro College Interior Design AAS

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Plano, Texas

Job prospects for Interior Designers in Plano and the surrounding areas are promising. Major design firms offer opportunities for creative professionals:

  • Gensler

    • Description: A leading global design firm with a significant presence in the Dallas area. Known for large-scale commercial projects and innovative design solutions.
    • Neighborhood: Their Dallas office is located within the downtown district, approximately 20 miles from Plano.
    • Employment Opportunities: Check available openings on the Gensler Careers page.

  • HKS Architects

    • Description: A renowned architectural and interior design firm offering comprehensive design services for commercial, hospitality, and institutional projects.
    • Neighborhood: Their Dallas-based office is situated in a vibrant urban neighborhood, approximately 20 miles from Plano.
    • Employment Opportunities: Explore career options on the HKS Careers page.

For further insight into employment trends, review the Interior Designers job outlook on bls.gov.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Typically, applicants to Interior Design programs must hold a high school diploma or GED. Many programs require:

  • Submission of a portfolio showcasing creative work.
  • TSI compliance at community colleges (such as Collin College).
  • Minimum GPA requirements and completion of foundational courses in art, design, or architecture.
  • Entrance exams or interviews in selective programs.

Prospective Interior Designers should verify specific admission criteria directly with the institution of interest.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification enhances professional credibility and may be required for some positions. In Texas, candidates are encouraged to pursue national certification through the NCIDQ. Key points include:

  • NCIDQ Certification: Mandatory for licensure in many states and validates a designer’s expertise. For details on exam preparation and eligibility, visit the NCIDQ official website.
  • State-Specific Requirements: Texas does not mandate a state licensing program for Interior Designers; however, aspiring professionals must complete 3,520 hours of supervised experience and pass the NCIDQ exam.
  • Accreditation: Many programs are accredited by organizations such as the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Interior Design Degree Requirements and Resources for Plano, Texas

Plano and Collin County benefit from robust educational resources:

  • Official City Educational Regulatory Bodies:

    • Agency Name: Plano Independent School District (PISD)
      • Purpose: Oversees K-12 education, including career and technical education (CTE) related to design.
      • Website: https://www.pisd.edu/
      • Contact: (469) 752-8100

  • Official County Educational Regulatory Bodies:

    • Agency Name: Collin College
      • Purpose: Offers associate degree programs and workforce training, including design-related courses.
      • Website: https://www.collin.edu/
      • Contact: (972) 881-5000

  • Official State Educational Regulatory Bodies:

    • Agency Name: Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB)

  • Federal Education Oversight Agency:

Types of Degrees Available

  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Offered at El Centro College (Dallas College) with courses in technical drawing, history of interiors, and residential design.
  • Bachelor of Science (BS): Provided by the University of Texas at Arlington, emphasizing commercial and institutional design with an internship requirement.
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Available at Baylor University’s CIDA-accredited program, focusing on sustainable design and space planning.

Admission and Curriculum Requirements

  • Admission Requirements:

    • AAS: TSI compliance with 25% of credits from Dallas College.
    • BS: Minimum GPA of 2.5 and foundational courses in architecture and design.
    • BFA: Standardized test scores and portfolio review.

  • Core Curriculum:

    • Includes technical drawing, design studios, building codes, and potential specializations in sustainable design or historic preservation.
    • Internships are a required component for programs at UT Arlington and Baylor University.

Accreditation Information

  • Accredited by organizations such as the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
  • Verification of program accreditation is available through the CIDA directory.

Professional Organizations and Resources

  • American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): Advocates for professional standards and continuing education. Visit ASID for more details.
  • ASID Texas Chapter: Hosts events and workshops for local designers; learn more at ASID TX.
  • Collin College Continuing Education: Provides non-credit courses in design software and drafting, with fees ranging from $200 to $500 per course.

Career Information

  • Job Prospects:
    • Interior Designer median salary: approximately $60,800.
    • Design Assistant roles: earn between $45,000 and $60,000.
  • Top Employers: Firms like Gensler and HKS Architects (located in the nearby Dallas area) often recruit emerging talent.
  • Professional Development: Includes taking the NCIDQ exam and pursuing continuing education; ASID members are required to complete 10 CEUs annually.

Get Started Today

The journey to becoming an Interior Designer in Plano, Texas, offers multiple educational and professional pathways. With a variety of programs available—from associate degrees to bachelor’s degrees—and numerous local resources, now is the ideal time to begin. Reach out to your chosen school to learn more about course details, internships, and admission requirements, and take the first step toward a rewarding career in interior design.