The Costs for Interior Design Education

The costs for an interior design style education vary greatly depending on the type of school. A degree from a private college will cost more than a degree from a state university or a community college. A student should thoroughly research different schools and compare tuition costs before making a final decision.

Costs for Interior Design Schools

• The costs for an interior design education will vary by school.


• A list compiled by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation ranked the best design schools in the United States. This list is a brief indicator of the cost of an interior design program, at both public and private institutions.


• Three public universities were found on this list: Kansas State University, Arizona State University and the University of Cincinnati. The estimated tuition cost for full-time state resident students at Kansas State was around $5,000 per year. For non-resident students, the tuition was estimated at $14,000. Estimated tuition cost for in state students at Arizona State was $5,000, and for non-residents was $15,000 per year. Tuition fee at the University of Cincinnati was about $8,000 for in state students, and $22,000 for non residential students.


• Private institutions on the list included The Pratt Institute and Cornell University. The estimated tuition cost at Pratt was $39,000 per year, and at Cornell, $42,000 per year.


• To complete an interior design program in a private art institute can also be expensive. The Art Institute of Atlanta offers traditional classroom courses, as well as online courses. The total tuition for a four-year program is $88,000.

Educational Options Available to Interior Design Students

• Students can choose to attend a community college, a private or state university, or an online interior design program.


• Degrees include an Associate's degree in Interior Design, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, Bachelor of Science in Interior Design, and Master's of Fine Arts in Interior Design.


• The majority of schools offer financial assistance in student loans, scholarships, grants and government financial aid.


• The student should verify the school is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation. Accreditation is an assurance that the student will receive an education that prepares to become a skilled professional.