Interior Design Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Becoming an Interior Designer in Virginia Beach, Virginia

An Interior Designer transforms spaces to enhance aesthetics, functionality, and quality of life. This guide details the steps for pursuing an interior design career in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and explores multiple education paths including certificate programs, Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees, and Bachelor of Science programs. Prospective interior designers will learn about design programs, schools, certification, and training opportunities designed to prepare them for a successful career.

About Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a dynamic coastal city known for its scenic oceanfront, bustling boardwalk, and diverse neighborhoods such as the Oceanfront and Hilltop areas. As an attractive location for both residents and professionals, Virginia Beach offers a range of cultural, recreational, and educational resources. For more detailed information about the city, visit the Virginia Beach official website.

Interior Design Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Local and nearby schools offer a variety of interior design programs tailored to differing career goals.

  1. Tidewater Community College (TCC) – Chesapeake Campus

    • Program Offerings: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Interior Design and a Career Studies Certificate in Green Design for Interiors.
    • Features: Coursework includes visual presentation, space planning, construction documentation, and LEED certification preparation.
    • Cost: In-state tuition is $158.25 per credit (2024).
    • Address & Neighborhood: Chesapeake Campus; while closely associated with Virginia Beach, the campus is located in Chesapeake, VA – approximately 10 miles away.
    • Program Details: TCC Interior Design Program

  2. Old Dominion University (ODU)

    • Program Offerings: ODU offers courses and integrated design elements within its architecture and design curriculum.
    • Features: Provides a balanced program that includes fundamentals in interior design, although it might not offer a dedicated interior design degree.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 5115 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23529; located in the heart of Norfolk, approximately 20 miles from Virginia Beach.
    • Program Details: Visit the ODU official website for more information.

  3. Virginia Tech

    • Program Offerings: Bachelor of Science in Interior Design.
    • Features: The program is CIDA-accredited and emphasizes sustainability, construction documentation, and preparation for licensure including a six-credit internship requirement.
    • Admission Requirements: SAT/ACT scores and a portfolio review are typically required for advanced standing.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located in Blacksburg, VA, this institution is approximately 250 miles away from Virginia Beach.
    • Program Details: Virginia Tech

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Virginia Beach

Interior design job prospects in Virginia Beach encompass opportunities with residential design firms, commercial architecture practices, and government agencies. While several major firms operate nationally, regional chapters and organizations can provide valuable local networking and employment insights.

  • Perkins+Will

    • Overview: A leading interior design and architecture firm with offices in the greater Hampton Roads area.
    • Location: Based in Chesapeake, VA, approximately 8 miles from Virginia Beach.
    • Details: Visit the Perkins+Will official website for employment opportunities.

  • HKS Architects

    • Overview: A global design firm known for an interdisciplinary approach, with an office in Norfolk, VA.
    • Location: Approximately 20 miles from Virginia Beach.
    • Details: Check the HKS Architects official website for current job openings.

  • Gensler

    • Overview: A world-renowned design and architecture firm that offers diverse career opportunities.
    • Location: While not based in Virginia Beach, Gensler has a significant national presence and offers remote or relocated positions that can serve Virginia Beach residents.
    • Details: Explore career opportunities on the Gensler official website.

For an overview of employment trends and job outlook details for Interior Designers, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Interior Designers Job Outlook page.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for interior design programs include:

  • For an AAS Program:
    • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
    • Standardized test scores are generally not required.
  • For a Bachelor’s Degree:
    • Submission of SAT/ACT scores may be required, depending on the institution.
    • A portfolio review is often essential to assess creative potential and technical skill.
      Additional program-specific prerequisites such as interviews or entrance exams can also apply.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

National certification and licensure enhance career credibility among interior designers:

  • National Certification:
    • The NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) exam is a significant certification for professionals aiming to validate their expertise. Obtaining accreditation from the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) is mandatory for NCIDQ eligibility.
    • More details are available on the CIDA Accredited Programs List.
  • State-Specific Requirements:

Professional organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) provide additional certification, networking, and continuing education opportunities. For localized professional development, the Hampton Roads ASID Chapter offers regional resources and events.

Educational Regulatory Bodies and Resources in Virginia Beach

Prospective interior designers in Virginia Beach can draw on additional support and resources from official state and federal agencies:

  • Virginia Beach City Public Schools
  • Virginia Department of Education (VDOE)
    • Sets standards for post-secondary programs, including interior design.
    • VDOE Website | Contact: (804) 225-2022
  • State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV)
    • Oversees higher education institutions and program approvals.
    • SCHEV Website | Contact: (804) 225-2617
  • U.S. Department of Education

Get Started Today

Aspiring interior designers are encouraged to take the first step toward an enriching career. With a wide array of interior design programs, diverse employment opportunities, and robust certification resources available in and around Virginia Beach, now is the ideal time to pursue further education. Review program prerequisites, explore course offerings, and contact the schools today through their respective forms to begin the journey toward a successful interior design career.