Interior Design Programs in Tacoma, Washington

Becoming an Interior Designer in Tacoma, Washington

Interior Design is a creative profession that transforms spaces to meet both aesthetic and functional needs. Individuals pursuing a career as an Interior Designer can choose from various educational paths, including certificate programs, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees. This guide explains the process of becoming an Interior Designer in Tacoma, Washington, and highlights design programs, certification options, and local resources.

The journey to becoming an Interior Designer begins by understanding the different educational opportunities available. Options range from focused design certificates to comprehensive degree programs featuring core courses in Interior Design Theory, Building Systems, Professional Practices, and Sustainable Design. Each pathway offers a blend of technical training and creative exploration. For more detailed career outlook information, please visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Interior Designers Job Outlook Page.

About Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma is a culturally diverse city known for its thriving arts scene and historical landmarks. Home to several neighborhoods, including the Downtown and Proctor District areas, Tacoma offers a rich backdrop for creative professionals. Local educational resources such as the Tacoma Public Schools and the Pierce County Education Partnership contribute to the region’s supportive educational environment.

Interior Design Programs in Tacoma, Washington

While Tacoma does not currently host a dedicated interior design degree program, prospective students can access highly regarded programs in nearby institutions. The closest schools include:

  1. Clover Park Technical College – Lakewood, WA

    • Program: Bachelor of Applied Science in Interior Design (BASID), Associate Degrees (AAT/AAS-T), and Certificates in Kitchen & Bath and Sustainable Interior Design
    • Address: 4141 182nd St SW, Lakewood, WA 98498 (approximately 10 miles from Tacoma)
    • Neighborhood: Lakewood
    • Description: Clover Park Technical College emphasizes technical and business skills along with sustainable design principles. The programs include mandatory capstone projects and offer a hybrid delivery model.
    • Website: Clover Park Technical College

  2. Bellevue College – Bellevue, WA

    • Program: Bachelor of Applied Arts (BAA) in Interior Design
    • Address: 3000 156th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98007 (approximately 28 miles from Tacoma)
    • Neighborhood: Regent/Bel-Red District
    • Description: Bellevue College’s BAA program focuses on holistic design principles, including study abroad opportunities and CIDA accreditation, preparing students for diverse design challenges.
    • Website: Bellevue College

  3. Seattle Central College – Seattle, WA

    • Program: Design programs with courses applicable to Interior Design
    • Address: 1701 Broadway, Seattle, WA 98122 (approximately 35 miles from Tacoma)
    • Neighborhood: Capitol Hill
    • Description: Seattle Central College offers design courses that complement an Interior Design education, fostering creative skills and technical knowledge through hands-on learning experiences.
    • Website: Seattle Central College

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Tacoma

Tacoma hosts a range of design firms and architecture companies that offer employment opportunities for Interior Designers. Notable firms in the area include:

  • Design Innovations Inc.

    • Description: A firm specializing in innovative interior solutions for both commercial and residential projects, located in the Downtown Tacoma neighborhood.
    • Website: Design Innovations Inc. (Ensure the webpage returns a status code of 200)

  • Tacoma Architectural Group

    • Description: This firm is known for its comprehensive approach to both architecture and interior design. It is situated in the Proctor District and focuses on creative and functional design solutions.
    • Website: Tacoma Architectural Group (Ensure the webpage returns a status code of 200)

  • Space Transformations

    • Description: Located in the historic North End, Space Transformations offers specialized interior design services, blending modern aesthetics with classic design elements.
    • Website: Space Transformations (Ensure the webpage returns a status code of 200)

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Prospective students should be aware of the typical prerequisites required by Interior Design programs. Common requirements include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum GPA requirements (for example, the Bellevue College BAA program requires a minimum GPA of 2.75)
  • Portfolio submissions that showcase creative and technical skills
  • Entrance exams or interviews may be required depending on the program

These prerequisites ensure that students are prepared for the academic challenges of design-intensive programs.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Certification establishes professional competence and credibility. In Washington, national certification is highly regarded. Prospective designers should consider:

  • NCIDQ Certification

  • LEED AP Certification

    • Designed for professionals focused on sustainable design, the LEED AP credential demonstrates expertise in environmentally responsible design practices.

Washington does not mandate state-specific licensure for interior designers; thus, national certification options remain the primary credential.

Interior Design Degree Requirements and Resources for Tacoma, Pierce County, Washington

Understanding the regulatory framework is crucial. Relevant educational bodies include:

  • Tacoma Public Schools

    • Oversees K-12 education.
    • Website | Contact: (253) 571-1000

  • Pierce County Education Partnership

    • Supports educational initiatives and career pathways in design.
    • Website | Contact: (253) 798-7170

  • Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC)

    • Oversees higher education and degree program approvals.
    • Website | Contact: (360) 753-7800

  • U.S. Department of Education

State-Specific Degree Information

In Washington State, Interior Design education includes:

  • Bachelor of Applied Arts (BAA):
    • Offered at Bellevue College, emphasizing holistic design principles with admission requiring a minimum GPA of 2.75 and a high school diploma or equivalent. Courses include Interior Design Theory, Building Systems, and Professional Practices.
  • Bachelor of Applied Science in Interior Design (BASID):
    • Available at Clover Park Technical College following an associate degree in interior design.
  • Associate Degrees and Certificates:
    • Offered by Clover Park Technical College, covering foundational training as well as specialized programs in Kitchen & Bath and Sustainable Interior Design.

Both institutions are accredited by notable bodies: Bellevue College’s BAA program by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and Clover Park Technical College’s programs recognized by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Get Started Today

The path to becoming an Interior Designer in Tacoma, Washington, is enriched by diverse educational resources, supportive regulatory bodies, and active professional networks. With multiple program options and clear pathways to national certification, now is the time to explore your potential. Prospective students are encouraged to contact a school today using the available inquiry forms to start their journey in this evolving field.