Interior Design Programs in Fontana, California

Becoming an Interior Designer in Fontana, California

Are you considering a career as an Interior Designer in Fontana, California? This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a certified Interior Designer, including educational paths, certification requirements, and local opportunities. Interior Designers are professionals who create functional and aesthetically pleasing indoor spaces. They work in various settings, from residential to commercial, and require a mix of creativity and technical skills. There are several educational paths to becoming an Interior Designer, including bachelor’s and associate degrees, as well as certification programs.

About Fontana

Fontana, located in San Bernardino County, California, is a city known for its rich history and diverse community. It offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living, with landmarks such as the Auto Club Speedway and the Mary Vagle Nature Center. For more information about Fontana, visit the official city website.

Interior Design Programs in Fontana, California

While Fontana itself may not host a wide array of Interior Design schools, nearby cities offer excellent programs:

  1. California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB)
    • Location: San Bernardino, CA (approximately 20 miles from Fontana)
    • Program: CSUSB offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art with a concentration in Interior Design. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of design principles and practical skills.
    • CSUSB Interior Design Program
  2. Chaffey College
    • Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA (approximately 10 miles from Fontana)
    • Program: Chaffey College offers an Associate of Science in Interior Design. This program focuses on foundational design skills and prepares students for entry-level positions.
    • Chaffey College Interior Design Program
  3. Mt. San Antonio College
    • Location: Walnut, CA (approximately 30 miles from Fontana)
    • Program: Mt. SAC provides an Associate of Science in Interior Design, emphasizing both residential and commercial design.
    • Mt. SAC Interior Design Program

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Fontana

Fontana and its surrounding areas offer several employment opportunities for aspiring Interior Designers:

  1. HMC Architects
    • Location: Ontario, CA (approximately 15 miles from Fontana)
    • Description: HMC Architects is a leading firm specializing in healthcare, education, and civic architecture. They offer various career opportunities for Interior Designers.
    • HMC Architects Careers
  2. Gensler
    • Location: Los Angeles, CA (approximately 50 miles from Fontana)
    • Description: Gensler is a global design and architecture firm known for its innovative projects. They provide numerous opportunities for creative professionals.
    • Gensler Careers
  3. LPA Inc.
    • Location: Irvine, CA (approximately 45 miles from Fontana)
    • Description: LPA Inc. is an integrated design firm offering services in architecture, engineering, and interior design. They are committed to sustainable design practices.
    • LPA Inc. Careers

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

To enroll in an Interior Design program, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may require a portfolio submission, entrance exams, or interviews. It’s essential to check specific requirements for each school.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

In California, becoming a certified Interior Designer involves several steps:

  • Education: Complete an accredited program by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).
  • Experience: Gain at least two years of supervised work experience.
  • Examination: Pass the NCIDQ exam.
  • Certification: Apply for certification through the California Council for Interior Design Certification (CCIDC). Only those certified can use the title “Certified Interior Designer” or “CID”.
  • Continuing Education: Complete 10 CEUs every two years to maintain certification.

For more information, visit the California Council for Interior Design Certification (CCIDC).

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an Interior Designer in Fontana, California, is an exciting journey. With the right education and certification, you can create beautiful and functional spaces that enhance people’s lives. Contact a local school today to begin your path to becoming a certified Interior Designer.

For more information on the job outlook for Interior Designers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.