If a person is beginning her studies immediately after high school and can afford and attend a school on a campus, then this is a good choice. Mixing with other students with the same interests and passions can be invaluable. Sharing ideas outside of the classroom and working on group projects prepares the student for work in a design studio or furniture store. There are many art institute campuses across the country.
Associate degrees can be earned at technical schools, like Ivy Tech in Indiana, or at junior colleges. If the cost of tuition is an issue, these schools charge lower fees. And finishing studies in two years means designers can be out working in the field sooner. While they won't be able to work as a bachelor's-degreed designer, there are many interesting work opportunities, including residential decorating.
If a student must work full-time while going to college or cannot afford the costs of going away to school, online classes are available. A full degree is earned, and B.A. graduates qualify to take the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam just as campus graduates do. Phoenix and Westwood colleges offer online classes.
Internships allow students to get the hours of experience required to get certified, get hands-on experience in the real world, and build up their portfolios. Some schools will help you find one, others require that you find one on your own.
Some studios or stores require further training once you get the job. You may have to become familiar with product lines, store policies, billing procedures, and other information particular to your place of work.