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Topics to Ask Interior Design Programs
Now that you have decided on the interior design degree that you wish to earn, you can begin the process of analyzing your school options. Location will be a critical issue, particularly if the school has to be within driving distance from your South Milwaukee WI residence. Of course if you have decided on attending a school online, or are able to relocate to attend classes, then location might not be a qualification. The expense for tuition will narrow down your choices as well. But choosing the least expensive college or the one that is nearest to your house are not the best ways to make your decision. There are other things that you need to look at also, such as the accreditation and reputation of the school. Below are a few concerns that you may want to ask the schools you are reviewing to get those answers as well as others in order to help you compare and subsequently choose the appropriate degree program.
Is the Interior Designer College Accredited? It's imperative to confirm that the interior designer program and college that you select has earned accreditation from either a regional or national organization. One of the most highly regarded in the industry is the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Schools obtaining accreditation from the NASAD have undergone a rigorous assessment of their programs and instructors. 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 verify that the reputation of the college and the quality of the education are excellent, it might also help when applying for financial aid or a student loan. Often they are not offered for non-accredited schools. Also, a number of South Milwaukee WI employers will only employ graduates of accredited schools for entry level positions.
Does the College Ready 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) examination in addition to a degree from an accredited school. And in several of those States requiring licensing, 2 or more years of occupational experience may be required also. So besides furnishing an exceptional education, the South Milwaukee WI school you choose should also provide the appropriate instruction to pass the NCIDQ examination and satisfy the minimum requirements for licensing for Wisconsin or the State where you will be employed.
What is the Program's Job Placement Rate? Once you have graduated and attained your interior designer certification, you will undoubtedly want some help in finding your first job. Ask the colleges that you are considering if they have a job placement program. If so, find out what their job placement rates are. A high rate is a good sign that the school and its programs are held in high regard within the interior design profession and its graduates are sought after. It could also signify that the college has a significant network of South Milwaukee WI business connections where they can refer students to secure internships or employment after graduation.
Is Financial Assistance Offered? Get in touch with the financial assistance offices for the South Milwaukee WI colleges you are evaluating and find out what type of aid they offer. A number of interior design schools provide financial assistance to their new students. Certain colleges offer partial scholarships while others provide help in acquiring grants or federal student loans. It must be stressed again that enrolling in an accredited program is essential for qualification in most cases. Sometimes a school that has a higher tuition may ultimately be less expensive than its counterparts because they offer more generous financial aid.
How Small are the Classrooms? Smaller classes are more personal and conducive to personalized instruction. If classes are larger, you probably will receive limited individual attention from the teachers. Ask the South Milwaukee WI programs you are looking at what their average teacher to student ratios are. If convenient from your South Milwaukee home, go to the college and attend a few classes. Take the opportunity to talk with a few students and find out what their experiences have been. Ask the instructors what their teaching philosophies are and what their credentials are in interior design.
Are Classes Available that Fit your Schedule? Finally, confirm that the interior design program you enroll in provides classes the fit your active schedule. This is especially significant if you plan to continue working while going to school. If you can only attend classes in the evening or on weekends near South Milwaukee WI, make sure that those classes are available. If you have a full-time job and can only attend part-time, check that is an alternative as well. Finally, find out what the protocol is for making up classes missed due to work, sickness or family obligations.