Top Interior Design Schools in Illinois: Your Guide to Finding the Best Program

Are you searching for reputable interior design schools in Illinois? This article is your starting point for identifying programs that not only match your goals but also meet the educational standards required for a successful career in interior design. Explore accredited options, learn about the costs, and prepare for professional licensure with our focused guide on Illinois’s best offerings in interior design schools in Illinois.

Navigating Illinois Interior Design Programs

Becoming a Registered Interior Designer in Illinois requires comprehension of the state’s educational and professional prerequisites. Notably, you must undergo at least two years of education, which is a significant factor for financial planning. Furthermore, obtaining licensure as an interior designer in Illinois requires passing the Council for Interior Design (CIDQ) exam, necessitating a mandatory six years of combined education and work experience.

This journey may seem daunting, but with the right interior design program, a promising career in design is within your reach.

Accredited Excellence

Accreditation stands as a significant element to weigh while choosing an interior design program. The Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) accredits programs that prepare students for entry-level interior design practice and eligibility to sit for the essential NCIDQ Exam. The need for accreditation stems from Illinois’s educational and work experience prerequisites for prospective interior designers seeking professional licensure.

Accredited programs, such as the one offered at the College of DuPage, provide a comprehensive education that equips students to embark on various career paths in the interior design industry or advance to four-year educational programs.

Duration and Depth

Illinois’ interior design programs present a systematic series of courses that initiate with basic knowledge and gradually progress to specialized skills. By selecting specialized studio classes and focusing on portfolio development, students can tailor their learning experience to align with specific career goals in various sectors of design, following a well-structured design process.

For those seeking flexibility, online interior design programs in Illinois provide the opportunity to complete the course within a short duration, some taking as little as 6 months, at an approximate cost of $2,200.

Philosophy and Focus

Illinois’ interior design programs are committed to incorporating advanced technology within their curriculum to guarantee student proficiency in the latest design software and tools. Moreover, many of the top interior design schools highlight sustainable design, teaching students to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible.

They also incorporate practical problem-solving experiences into the curriculum, mirroring real-world scenarios, and preparing students for the challenges they will face in their professional careers.

The Path to Professional Interior Design

Opting to study interior design at a university near Chicago can be advantageous, given the city’s reputation as an architectural and design center. This strategic location can enhance networking and employment opportunities, providing an added advantage to students.

Illinois State University’s Interior Design program, for instance, prepares students to join professional interior design organizations, fostering their career development. Thus, the geographical location of your institution, coupled with its effective programs, could act as a springboard for your successful career in interior design.

Internship Opportunities

Internships form an integral part of Illinois’ interior design curriculum, offering students priceless practical experience in professional settings. As an intern, you may find yourself performing tasks ranging from on-site field verification to creating marketing materials. Illinois State University, for example, requires the completion of a professional practice internship for graduation, underlining the program’s emphasis on practical experience.

Successful completion of internships often leads to job opportunities for graduate students post-graduation through the professional connections and experience acquired.

Connection with Professional Organizations

Connecting with professional organizations like the American Society of Interior Designers – Illinois Chapter (ASID-IL) and the IIDA Illinois chapter can significantly enhance your career growth. ASID-IL, representing over 1100 interior designers and students, offers memberships at different career stages and provides resources for professional development. Leaders within these organizations actively participate in initiatives that enhance the interior design field and contribute to professional growth.

Diverse Educational Offerings in Illinois

A wide array of interior design educational programs is available in Illinois. During the 2020-2021 academic year, 125 interior design degrees were awarded by colleges and universities in the state. From community colleges to universities, Illinois showcases a variety of institutions dedicated to this field, equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in the industry.

Community Colleges: Accessible Education

Affordable and flexible interior design programs are provided by community colleges in Illinois. The full program cost for an Associate in Arts degree at Illinois Central College is estimated at $9,600 plus supplies and fees for the 2024-25 academic year. These programs allow students to pursue elective courses in art and architecture and participate in clubs and leadership activities, providing a well-rounded educational experience.

Success stories of students like Valerie Jardon, who have effectively benefited from the flexible scheduling of community colleges, demonstrate how these institutions enable career changes and balance personal commitments while studying interior design.

Universities: Advanced Study and Research

Illinois universities provide four-year interior design programs for those aspiring for advanced study and research opportunities. Institutions like Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Judson University, and Illinois State University prepare students for entry-level practice, advanced study, and membership in professional interior design organizations.

Their programs include specialized coursework such as computer-aided design, lighting, and sustainable design, emphasizing technology training and understanding the needs of special populations.

The Financial Aspect of Studying Interior Design

Considering the financial aspects of studying interior design is important. Tuition fees for interior design programs can vary based on factors like whether the institution is public or private, and the level of study (undergraduate or graduate). Community colleges often offer more affordable tuition rates for interior design programs compared to private institutions.

However, tuition for interior design programs can range from as low as $15,000 to upwards of $40,000 per year, depending on the type of school and program chosen.

Tuition Breakdown

The tuition for interior design programs in Illinois varies widely. Community colleges, for instance, offer cost-effective options with an associate degree in interior design costing less than $10,000. Illinois Central College lists its tuition for the Interior Design program at approximately $9,600 for the 2024-25 academic year, excluding additional costs such as supplies and fees.

In contrast, annual tuition for a bachelor’s degree in interior design at some Illinois universities can reach around $16,000, not including other associated expenses.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Despite varying tuition costs, financial aid options like federal and state grants, loans, work-study programs, and private scholarships can help mitigate the cost of interior design programs. Some scholarships available for interior design students in Illinois include:

ABC Illinois Chapter Scholarship: $1,000
ASID Illinois Chapter Scholarship: $2,500
IIDA Illinois Chapter Scholarship: $5,000
Illinois Community College Board Scholarship: $10,000
Illinois Design Association Scholarship: $25,000

These scholarships, interior design granted, can help ease the financial burden of pursuing an interior design education.

Community college students enrolled in interior design can access financial assistance, with personalized plans offered through the financial aid office.

Real-World Readiness: Curriculum and Skills

Foundational Courses and Specializations

Illinois interior design programs offer foundational courses covering essential topics such as color and design, drafting, space planning, and historical interiors. Beyond this, they provide opportunities for specialization in areas such as kitchen and bath design, lighting, and computer applications, with hands-on experience in a design firm-like environment.

For instance, the Harper College interior design program curriculum prepares students for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam, necessary for licensure as an Interior Designer in Illinois.

Technology and Systems Integration

Another distinguishing feature of Illinois interior design programs is the incorporation of technology and systems. Columbia College Chicago’s Interior Architecture program showcases the importance of balancing manual and digital project work. These programs emphasize proficiency in a wide array of computer applications, demonstrating their commitment to industry-relevant technology education.

Furthermore, hands-on learning experiences, including the use of AutoCAD/CAD Studio and field trips, are integral to the curriculum at Harper College, overseen by experienced faculty.

Student Success Stories

Hearing from those who’ve already traversed this path can provide invaluable insight as you explore your options. Kiersten Laansma Vankerkhoff, an alumnus of Judson University’s Interior Design program, provided a positive testimonial about her educational experience. Testimonials like these play a crucial role in showcasing the effectiveness of interior design programs in Illinois.

Alumni Achievements

Diving deeper into success stories, one Illinois interior design graduate built a flourishing career with a strong foundation from their education. Their career includes diverse roles in educational and municipal design, as well as corporate design.

The graduate currently holds the position of director of workplace strategy at IA Interior Architects, evidencing their leadership in the industry.

From Classroom to Career

Moreover, the journey of an Interior Design student from Illinois, who aspires to open her own design firm in Los Angeles, further underscores the potential of these programs. Her global travel experiences and exposure to various cultures and unique furniture pieces have significantly influenced her passion and approach to interior design.

The student even plans to incorporate her equestrian background into her future interior design projects, specifically with regards to designing stables.

Step-by-Step Admissions Guide

Understanding the admissions process for Illinois’ interior design programs can be extremely beneficial as you plan your journey. To become a registered interior designer in Illinois, a combination of education and work experience is required, including meeting the educational requirement of at least two years in an educational program and four years of work experience.

Following this, prospective interior designers in Illinois are expected to pass the interior design qualification examination, also known as the Council for Interior Design Qualification (CIDQ) exam, after completing the required six years of education and experience.

Preparing Your Application

Understanding the requirements is crucial before you begin completing your application. The following skills and abilities are crucial for an interior design program application:

Natural creative sense and artistic ability
Understanding of color theory
Drafting skills
Familiarity with AutoCAD

Additionally, high school courses in English, math, art, and computer sciences are beneficial for students preparing to apply to interior design programs.

Contacting the Admissions Office

Engaging with admissions offices can be advantageous as you go through the application process. They can provide essential program information and clarify the application process. When reaching out, students should have prepared questions regarding program details, admission requirements, and deadlines.

Direct communication with admissions representatives can clarify the application process and help avoid misunderstandings.