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Topics to Ask Interior Design Programs
When you have selected the interior design degree that you would like to earn, you can begin the process of reviewing your college options. Location will be a critical issue, especially if the campus must be within commuting distance from your Prescott Valley AZ home. Obviously if you have decided on attending an online school, or are willing to relocate to attend classes, then location may not be a qualifier. The fee for tuition will decrease your options as well. But choosing the least expensive college or the one that is closest to your house are not the ideal ways to make your decision. There are other factors that you need to look at as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the program. Below are a few questions that you may want to ask the programs you are considering to get those answers in addition to others to help you compare and ultimately pick the appropriate degree program.
Is the Interior Designer School Accredited? It's essential to confirm that the interior designer school and program that you select has been accredited by either a regional or national organization. One of the most respected in the industry is the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Schools earning accreditation from the NASAD have undergone a rigorous evaluation of their teachers and programs. Just confirm that both the college and the degree program have been accredited by a U.S. Department of Education acknowledged accrediting agency. Not only will it help establish that the reputation of the college and the quality of the education are excellent, it might also help when obtaining financial aid or a student loan. Often they are not accessible for non-accredited schools. Also, a number of Prescott Valley AZ employers will only employ graduates of accredited schools for entry level jobs.
Does the College Prep you for Licensing? As we mentioned earlier, some States do require that interior designers become licensed. This would necessitate a passing score on the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) examination as well as a degree from an accredited program. And in some of those States calling for licensing, at least 2 years of professional experience may be required also. So in addition to providing an exceptional education, the Prescott Valley AZ school you choose should also provide the suitable training to pass the NCIDQ exam and meet the minimum licensing requirements for Arizona or the State where you will be employed.
What is the Program's Job Placement Rate? Once you have graduated and obtained your interior designer certification, you will undoubtedly need some assistance in finding your first job. Ask the schools that you are reviewing if they have a job assistance program. If yes, ask what their job placement rates are. A higher rate is an excellent sign that the college and its programs are held in high esteem within the interior design profession and its students are in demand. It could also indicate that the school has a sizable network of Prescott Valley AZ business relationships where they can place students to secure internships or jobs after they graduate.
Is Financial Aid Offered? Contact the financial aid offices for the Prescott Valley AZ colleges you are looking at and find out what type of aid they provide. A number of interior designer schools offer financial assistance to their incoming students. Some schools offer partial scholarships while others provide help in obtaining federal student loans or grants. It must be emphasized again that choosing an accredited school is important for qualification in most cases. Often a college that has a higher tuition may effectively be less expensive than its counterparts because they provide more generous financial aid.
How Big are the Classes? Small classes are more personal and conducive to one on one instruction. If classes are larger, you probably will receive limited individual attention from the teachers. Ask the Prescott Valley AZ colleges you are looking at what their average student to teacher ratios are. If practical from your Prescott Valley home, go to the campus and monitor a couple of classes. Take the opportunity to speak with some students and ask what their experiences have been. Ask the instructors what their teaching styles are and what their credentials are in interior design.
Are Classes Accessible that Fit your Schedule? Last, make certain that the interior design program you choose offers classes the fit your active schedule. This is particularly significant if you will continue working while attending school. If you can only go to classes at night or on weekends near Prescott Valley AZ, confirm that those classes are offered. If you have a full-time job and can only attend part-time, check that is an alternative also. Finally, find out what the process is for making up classes missed due to work, sickness or family obligations.