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Subjects to Ask Interior Designer Schools
After you have decided on the interior design degree that you want to earn, you can start the task of evaluating your school options. Location will be an important issue, particularly if the college has to be within driving distance from your Tempe AZ residence. Naturally if you have decided on attending an online school, or are able to move to attend classes, then location may not be a qualifier. The expense for tuition will decrease your options as well. But picking the cheapest school or the one that is nearest to your house are not the optimal ways to make your selection. There are other variables that you need to consider as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the college. Below are a few concerns that you may want to ask the colleges you are considering to obtain those answers in addition to others to help you compare and subsequently choose the right degree program.
Is the Interior Design Degree Program Accredited? It's essential to confirm that the interior design program and school that you enroll in has earned accreditation from either a national or regional organization. One of the most respected in the industry is the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Schools receiving accreditation from the NASAD have gone through a demanding evaluation of their programs and teachers. Just verify that both the degree program and the college have been accredited by a U.S. Department of Education acknowledged accrediting agency. Not only will it help establish that the reputation of the school and the quality of the education are exceptional, it might also help when obtaining financial assistance or a student loan. Often they are not accessible for non-accredited schools. Also, a number of Tempe AZ employers will only hire graduates of accredited schools for entry level jobs.
Does the School Prep you for Licensing? As we mentioned earlier, some States do mandate that interior designers get licensed. This would require a passing score on the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam as well as a degree from an accredited college. And in some of those States requiring licensing, two or more years of occupational experience may be required as well. So aside from furnishing an excellent education, the Tempe AZ school you select should also provide the appropriate instruction to pass the NCIDQ exam and fulfill the minimum licensing requirements for Arizona or the State where you will be working.
What is the School's Job Placement Rate? After you have graduated and earned your interior designer certification, you will probably need some support in finding your first position. Ask the schools that you are looking at if they have a job assistance program. If so, ask what their job placement rates are. A high rate is a good indication that the school and its programs are highly esteemed within the interior design field and its students are in demand. It might also signify that the school has a significant network of Tempe AZ business connections where they can place students to obtain internships or jobs after graduation.
Is Financial Aid Available? Contact the financial aid offices for the Tempe AZ schools you are looking at and find out what kind of assistance they provide. A number of interior design colleges offer financial assistance to their new students. Some colleges offer partial scholarships while others provide help in securing federal student loans or grants. It must be emphasized again that selecting an accredited program is important for qualification in most cases. Sometimes a school that has a higher tuition may ultimately be cheaper than its counterparts because they provide more generous financial assistance.
How Small are the Classrooms? Small classes are more personal and conducive to one on one instruction. If classes are large, you may receive minimal individual attention from the teachers. Ask the Tempe AZ colleges you are reviewing what their average teacher to student ratios are. If convenient from your Tempe home, visit the campus and attend a few classes. While there speak with some students and ask what their experiences have been. Ask the instructors what their teaching styles are and what their backgrounds are in interior design.
Are Classes Accessible that Accommodate your Schedule? Finally, make certain that the interior designer program you enroll in offers classes the fit your hectic schedule. This is especially important if you plan to continue working while attending school. If you can only go to classes in the evening or on weekends near Tempe AZ, verify that those classes are offered. If you have a full-time job and can only enroll part-time, confirm that is an alternative also. Finally, find out what the protocol is for making up classes missed because of illness, work or family emergencies.