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Subjects to Ask Interior Designer Programs
After you have selected the interior designer degree that you would like to earn, you can start the process of analyzing your college options. Location will be an important issue, particularly if the campus needs to be within driving distance from your Madison WI residence. Of course if you have decided on attending an online school, or are willing to relocate to attend classes, then location may not be a qualification. The fee for tuition will decrease your options as well. But selecting the cheapest school or the one that is closest to your residence are not the best ways to make your decision. There are other things that you should consider as well, including the accreditation and reputation of the program. Below are a few questions that you may want to ask the schools you are considering to get those answers as well as others to help you compare and subsequently pick the ideal degree program.
Is the Interior Design Degree Program Accredited? It's imperative to make sure that the interior designer program and college that you enroll in has been accredited by either a regional or national agency. One of the most highly regarded in the industry is the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Schools receiving accreditation from the NASAD have gone through a rigorous assessment of their programs and instructors. 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 confirm that the reputation of the college and the quality of the training are outstanding, it might also help when obtaining financial aid or a student loan. Often they are not offered for non-accredited colleges. Also, a number of Madison WI employers will only hire graduates of accredited colleges for entry level jobs.
Does the School Prep you for Licensing? As we previously mentioned, a number of States do require that interior designers become licensed. This would require a passing score on the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) examination in addition to a degree from an accredited college. And in some of those States requiring licensing, two or more years of professional experience may be required also. So aside from furnishing an excellent education, the Madison WI program you select should also furnish the appropriate education to pass the NCIDQ examination and comply with the minimum licensing requirements for Wisconsin 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 position. Ask the schools that you are considering 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 trade and its students are sought after. It might also indicate that the college has a significant network of Madison WI business contacts where they can place students to obtain internships or jobs after graduation.
Is Financial Assistance Offered? Get in touch with the financial aid offices for the Madison WI schools you are evaluating and ask what kind of assistance they provide. Many of interior design programs offer financial assistance to their incoming students. Some colleges provide partial scholarships while others provide support in acquiring federal student loans or grants. Again it must be stressed that choosing an accredited school is imperative for qualification in most cases. Sometimes a college that has a higher tuition may actually be cheaper than its counterparts because they provide more generous financial aid.
How Small are the Classrooms? Small classes are more intimate and conducive to one on one instruction. If classes are larger, you probably will receive limited individual instruction from the teachers. Find out from the Madison WI schools you are considering what their typical teacher to student ratios are. If practical from your Madison home, visit the campus and attend a few classes. While there talk with a few students and ask what their experiences have been. Ask the instructors what their teaching approaches are and what their credentials are in interior design.
Are Classes Offered that Fit your Schedule? Finally, verify that the interior design program you select offers classes the fit your hectic schedule. This is particularly significant if you will continue working while going to college. If you can only go to classes at night or on weekends near Madison WI, make sure that those classes are offered. If working full-time means you can only enroll part-time, confirm that is an option as well. Finally, find out what the process is for making up classes missed because of work, sickness or family obligations.