Interior Design Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Becoming an Interior Designer in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Aspiring interior designers in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, are encouraged to explore various paths in education and training. An interior designer works to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of indoor spaces. Various education paths are available—from associate to bachelor’s degrees—and each program builds skills in design fundamentals, 3D modeling, and client-based project management. For a comprehensive look at the profession and job prospects, visit the Interior Designer job outlook on BLS.gov.

Prospective students can also benefit from guidance provided by official educational regulatory bodies. Local resources, such as Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS, phone: (414) 475-8393), the Milwaukee County Office of Education (Milwaukee County, phone: (414) 278-3934), and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI, phone: (608) 266-3390), offer career and technical education resources. Additionally, federal information is available from the U.S. Department of Education and its financial aid portal, studentaid.gov.

About Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a culturally rich city with a deep artistic heritage and diverse neighborhoods. Known for landmarks like the Historic Third Ward and its scenic lakefront, Milwaukee offers a creative environment ideal for burgeoning interior designers. For further details about city resources and initiatives, visit the City of Milwaukee’s official website.

Interior Design Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee offers several quality design programs, and additional nearby options are available if needed.

  • Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD)

    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture and Design
    • Admission Requirements: Portfolio review is required; a minimum GPA of 2.5 is recommended.
    • Curriculum Highlights: Focuses on materiality, lighting, and industry partnerships.
    • Accreditation: Accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
    • Location & Address: Located in the Historic Third Ward, Milwaukee.
    • Website: MIAD

  • Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC)

    • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Interior Design
    • Admission Requirements: No standardized test scores are required; a minimum GPA of 2.0 is expected.
    • Curriculum Highlights: Includes core courses in CAD, design fundamentals, and residential/commercial planning.
    • Accreditation: Programs adhere to standards set by CIDA and NASAD.
    • Location & Address: Downtown campus at 230 W. Knapp St, Milwaukee, WI 53233, in a central urban neighborhood.
    • Website: MATC

  • Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW)

    • Program: Bachelor of Arts in Interior Architecture and Design (offered as a cooperative program with MIAD)
    • Admission Requirements: SAT/ACT scores are recommended with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
    • Curriculum Highlights: Emphasis on 3D modeling, color dynamics, and client-based projects.
    • Accreditation: Validated through accreditation by CIDA and NASAD.
    • Location & Address: Located in Mequon, WI at 70 East Silver Spring Drive, Mequon, WI 53097, approximately 10 miles north of Milwaukee.
    • Website: CUW

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Milwaukee

Milwaukee hosts several major design firms and architecture companies that offer excellent employment opportunities:

  • Eppstein Uhen Architects

    • Overview: Specializes in both commercial and residential design projects.
    • Neighborhood: Their operations are centered in downtown Milwaukee.
    • Website: Eppstein Uhen Architects

  • Kahler Slater

    • Overview: A design firm known for innovative interior solutions and creative spatial planning.
    • Neighborhood: Based in a thriving design hub within Milwaukee.
    • Website: Kahler Slater

  • HGA

    • Overview: A well-established design firm recognized for its multidisciplinary approach to interior design and architecture.
    • Neighborhood: Located in Milwaukee’s central district.
    • Website: HGA

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in an interior design program in Milwaukee include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • A minimum GPA (2.0 for MATC; 2.5 for MIAD and CUW).
  • For some programs, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are recommended.
  • A portfolio submission is required for MIAD and strongly advised for competitive programs.
  • Potential interviews or entrance exams may be part of the admissions process at some schools.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

Professional certification is a crucial step in advancing an interior design career. Nationally, many professionals pursue the NCIDQ certification, which is supported by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). In Wisconsin, state-specific licensure requirements are managed by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). Prospective interior designers should review these requirements carefully to understand the process for certification and licensure. Continuing education opportunities, such as workshops offered by ASID and the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), further enhance professional development.

Get Started Today

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the pathways to becoming an interior designer in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. With robust academic and career resources—from MATC, MIAD, and CUW to local design firms like Eppstein Uhen Architects, Kahler Slater, and HGA—aspiring interior designers have abundant opportunities to pursue their passion. Research the programs, compare the prerequisites, and reach out via the contact forms on each institution’s website to begin your journey toward a successful career in interior design.