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Subjects to Ask Interior Design Schools
When you have chosen the interior design degree that you wish to earn, you can start the task of reviewing your college options. Location will be an important factor, particularly if the college has to be within driving distance from your Durham NC home. Of course if you are interested in attending an online school, or are willing to relocate to attend classes, then location might not be a qualifier. The expense for tuition will narrow down your choices also. But choosing the least expensive college or the one that is nearest to your house are not the optimal ways to make your selection. There are other variables that you should consider as well, including the accreditation and reputation of the college. Following are a list of questions that you may want to ask the colleges you are considering to obtain those answers as well as others in order to help you assess and ultimately choose the ideal degree program.
Is the Interior Design Degree Program Accredited? It's necessary to verify that the interior designer program and college that you choose 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). Colleges earning accreditation from the NASAD have undergone an extensive assessment of their programs and teachers. Just verify that both the college and the degree program have been accredited by a U.S. Department of Education recognized accrediting organization. Not only will it help verify that the reputation of the college and the quality of the education are outstanding, it may also help when applying for financial assistance or a student loan. Often they are not available for non-accredited schools. Also, many Durham NC employers will only hire graduates of accredited programs for entry level positions.
Does the Program Prep you for Licensing? As we mentioned earlier, several States do require that interior designers get licensed. This would require a passing score on the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam in addition to a degree from an accredited program. And in some of those States requiring licensing, 2 or more years of professional experience may be required as well. Therefore aside from providing an excellent education, the Durham NC school you select should also furnish the proper education to pass the NCIDQ examination and satisfy 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 design certification, you will no doubt need some assistance in finding your first position. Ask the schools that you are looking at if they have a job assistance program. If so, find out what their job placement rates are. A higher rate is an excellent sign that the college and its programs are held in high regard within the interior design profession and its graduates are in demand. It might also indicate that the college has a sizable network of Durham NC business connections where they can refer students to obtain internships or employment after graduation.
Is Financial Assistance Provided? Contact the financial assistance departments for the Durham NC colleges you are looking at and ask what type of aid they offer. Many of interior designer colleges offer financial aid to their incoming students. Some schools offer partial scholarships while others provide support in acquiring federal student loans or grants. It must be emphasized again that choosing an accredited school is essential for qualification in most cases. Often a college that has a higher tuition may effectively be cheaper than its counterparts because they provide more generous financial aid.
How Big are the Classrooms? Small classes are more intimate and conducive to one on one instruction. If classes are large, you probably will receive limited individual instruction from the teachers. Find out from the Durham NC colleges you are considering what their average teacher to student ratios are. If practical from your Durham home, go to the college and monitor a few classes. Take the opportunity to speak with some students and ask what their experiences have been. Ask the instructors what their teaching philosophies are and what their backgrounds are in interior design.
Are Classes Accessible that Fit your Schedule? Finally, verify that the interior designer college you choose offers classes the fit your busy schedule. This is particularly significant if you plan to continue working while attending school. If you can only attend classes in the evening or on weekends near Durham NC, make certain that those classes are offered. If working full-time means you can only enroll part-time, check that is an option also. Finally, find out what the procedure is for making up classes missed due to work, family or illness.