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Subjects to Ask Interior Design Programs
Now that you have selected the interior designer degree that you wish to earn, you can start the task of assessing your college options. Location will be an important factor, particularly if the school needs to be within commuting distance from your Apex NC home. Naturally if you have decided on attending a school online, or are able to move to attend classes, then location may not be a qualification. The fee for tuition will limit your choices as well. But choosing the most affordable school or the one that is closest to home are not the optimal ways to make your selection. There are other things that you need to consider as well, such as the accreditation and reputation of the program. Following are a list of questions that you may want to ask the programs you are reviewing to obtain those answers as well as others to help you examine and ultimately select the right degree program.
Is the Interior Designer Degree Program Accredited? It's necessary to confirm that the interior design program and school that you select has earned accreditation from either a national or regional agency. One of the most respected in the field is the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Schools receiving accreditation from the NASAD have undergone a demanding evaluation of their programs and teachers. Just confirm that both the college and the degree program have been accredited by a U.S. Department of Education recognized accrediting agency. Not only will it help confirm that the reputation of the school and the quality of the education are exceptional, it might also help when applying for financial aid or a student loan. Often they are not offered for non-accredited colleges. Also, a number of Apex NC employers will only employ graduates of accredited colleges for entry level jobs.
Does the Program Prep you for Licensing? As we previously mentioned, a number of States do mandate that interior designers become licensed. This would require a passing score on the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) examination as well as a degree from an accredited school. And in some of those States mandating licensing, 2 or more years of work experience may be required also. So in addition to providing an outstanding education, the Apex NC program you choose should also furnish the suitable education to pass the NCIDQ examination and fulfill the minimum requirements for licensing for North Carolina or the State where you will be employed.
What is the College's Job Placement Rate? Once you have graduated and received your interior designer certification, you will undoubtedly need some help in finding your first job. Ask the schools that you are considering if they have a job assistance program. If so, ask what their job placement rates are. A high rate is an excellent indication that the college and its programs are held in high regard within the interior design trade and its students are in demand. It could also signify that the college has a sizable network of Apex NC business contacts where they can place students to obtain internships or employment after they graduate.
Is Financial Aid Available? Contact the financial aid offices for the Apex NC schools you are reviewing and ask what type of support they offer. A number of interior design schools provide financial aid to their incoming students. Various schools offer partial scholarships and others provide help in obtaining grants or federal student loans. It must be stressed again that choosing an accredited college is essential for qualification in most cases. Sometimes a school that has a higher tuition may ultimately be cheaper than its competitors because they provide more generous financial assistance.
How Big are the Classrooms? Small classes are more personal and conducive to personalized instruction. If classes are larger, you may receive little individual attention from the teachers. Find out from the Apex NC colleges you are considering what their average teacher to student ratios are. If convenient from your Apex home, visit the school and attend a few classes. While there speak with some students and find out what their experiences have been. Ask the instructors what their teaching styles are and what their experiences have been in interior design.
Are Classes Accessible that Fit your Schedule? Last, make certain that the interior design program you enroll in provides classes the fit your active schedule. This is especially important if you plan to continue working while going to school. If you can only attend classes in the evening or on weekends near Apex NC, make certain that those classes are offered. If working full-time means you can only enroll part-time, verify that is an option also. Finally, find out what the process is for making up classes missed because of work, sickness or family obligations.