Interior Design Programs in Lakewood, Colorado
Becoming an Interior Designer in Lakewood, Colorado
If you’re considering a career as an Interior Designer in Lakewood, Colorado, you’re embarking on a creative and rewarding journey. Interior Designers play a crucial role in shaping the aesthetics and functionality of spaces, whether residential, commercial, or public. This guide will walk you through the educational paths, certification requirements, and local opportunities available to aspiring Interior Designers in Lakewood.
About Lakewood
Lakewood, Colorado, is a thriving city located just west of Denver. Known for its beautiful parks and proximity to the Rocky Mountains, Lakewood offers a unique blend of urban and natural environments. The city is home to the Lakewood Cultural Center and Belmar, a bustling shopping and entertainment district. For more information about Lakewood, visit the official city website.
Interior Design Programs in Lakewood, Colorado
While Lakewood itself may not have a large number of dedicated Interior Design schools, there are several reputable programs nearby:
- Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD)
- Location: Lakewood, CO
- Program: Offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, which is CIDA-accredited. The program focuses on sustainable design practices and prepares students for the NCIDQ certification.
- RMCAD Interior Design Program
- Arapahoe Community College
- Location: Littleton, CO (approximately 15 miles from Lakewood)
- Program: Provides an Associate of Applied Science in Interior Design, covering foundational design principles and technical skills.
- Arapahoe Community College Interior Design Program
- University of Colorado Denver
- Location: Denver, CO (approximately 10 miles from Lakewood)
- Program: Offers a Bachelor of Science in Architecture with an Interior Design emphasis, integrating architecture and interior design studies.
- University of Colorado Denver Interior Design Program
Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Lakewood
Lakewood and the surrounding Denver metro area are home to several prominent design firms and architecture companies:
- Rowland+Broughton Architecture / Urban Design / Interior Design
- Location: Denver, CO
- Description: A full-service design firm known for its innovative and sustainable design solutions. They offer opportunities for Interior Designers to work on diverse projects.
- Rowland+Broughton Careers
- Gensler
- Location: Denver, CO
- Description: A global design and architecture firm with a strong presence in Denver, Gensler provides a collaborative environment for Interior Designers.
- Gensler Careers
- Davis Partnership Architects
- Location: Denver, CO
- Description: Known for their comprehensive design services, Davis Partnership Architects offers opportunities for Interior Designers to engage in multidisciplinary projects.
- Davis Partnership Architects Careers
Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs
To enroll in an Interior Design program in Lakewood, Colorado, prospective students typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
- Portfolio: Some programs may require a portfolio showcasing your design work.
- Interview: An interview may be part of the application process for certain schools.
- Entrance Exams: Some programs might require standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT.
Interior Design Certification and Licensure
In Colorado, becoming a licensed Interior Designer involves meeting specific educational and work experience requirements, as well as passing the NCIDQ exam:
- Educational Requirements: An associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in Interior Design is necessary.
- Work Experience: Depending on your degree, you will need 2-4 years of work experience under a certified Interior Designer.
- NCIDQ Certification: Passing the NCIDQ exam is essential to become a licensed Interior Designer. The exam consists of three sections: IDFX, IDPX, and PRAC.
- Title Act: Only those who meet the criteria can use the title “Registered Interior Designer” or “Certified Interior Designer” in Colorado.
For more information on certification, visit the NCIDQ website.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an Interior Designer in Lakewood, Colorado, is an exciting opportunity to blend creativity with functionality. With the right education and certification, you can transform spaces and improve lives. Contact a local school today to explore your options and take the first step toward your new career.
For more information on the job outlook for Interior Designers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.