Choosing which type of online school to "attend" to pursue training in interior design is usually the first and hardest obstacle to overcome. Traditional colleges and universities do not typically offer programs in interior design or even online degree programs. Some highly respected art institutes, like the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and the Academy of Art University, do offer online degree programs in interior design. Other schools offering online interior design training, like Westwood College, tend to be colleges for working adults or vocational schools whose reputation in the academic community is not nearly as well-established. Choosing a school with an established reputation may make the difference in landing a career in the field.
Courses of study offered among the various online interior design schools varies by institution. Each institution tends to offer its own degree programs with courses that are determined largely on the strengths of faculty members who offer courses in their fields of expertise. Courses of study range across a variety of sub-disciplines in the field. Basic courses in color theory, professional development, basic drafting and computer-aided design and even survey courses in interior or contemporary architecture are usually a part of the required curriculum.
The types of degrees offered online by colleges and institutes of interior design range from the associate's degree to the master's degree. An Associate of Arts degree is the minimum degree needed by students for entry-level positions in the field. The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degree is often preferred among employers. At the master's degree level, the Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) is rarely offered online. The Academy of Art University is one of the few online institutions offering the degree.
Accreditation is a key factor to consider in choosing a school as well. At the very least, an online school should be accredited by one of the regional accrediting agencies of the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). This body is recognized (but not approved) by the U.S. Department of Education (the department does not "approve" accrediting agencies; recognition is an indication of legitimacy). Additional accreditation should also be considered, but only in conjunction with regional accreditation.
Careers in interior design are not limited to the a simple position as an "interior designer." Online training from an accredited school can lead to a variety of career options. Interior design students can lead to related careers in facilities planning, consulting, drafting and even sales.