Interior Design Programs in Des Moines, Iowa
Becoming an Interior Designer in Des Moines, Iowa
Are you considering a career as an Interior Designer in Des Moines, Iowa? This guide will help you navigate the process, from understanding what an Interior Designer does to exploring local education paths and certification requirements. Interior Designers are professionals who enhance the functionality and aesthetics of interior spaces, making them both beautiful and practical. There are various educational paths to becoming an Interior Designer, including degree programs, certification courses, and hands-on training.
About Des Moines
Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, is known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and thriving arts scene. The city is home to the Des Moines Art Center and the historic East Village neighborhood, offering a blend of modern and classic design inspiration. For more information about Des Moines, visit the official city website.
Interior Design Programs in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines offers several options for those interested in pursuing Interior Design programs:
- Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)
- Located in Ankeny, just a short drive from downtown Des Moines, DMACC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Interior Design. The program focuses on practical skills and design principles. Learn more about their program here.
- Iowa State University
- Situated in Ames, approximately 30 miles from Des Moines, Iowa State University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design. This program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and provides a comprehensive education in design theory and application. More details can be found here.
- Kirkwood Community College
- Located in Cedar Rapids, about 120 miles from Des Moines, Kirkwood Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Interior Design. This program emphasizes hands-on learning and industry-standard practices. Visit their program page here.
Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Des Moines
Des Moines hosts several prominent design firms and architecture companies:
- Shyft Collective
- Located in the East Village, Shyft Collective is a multidisciplinary firm specializing in interior design, architecture, and project management. They offer career opportunities for aspiring designers. Visit their employment page here.
- Slingshot Architecture
- Based in the Western Gateway neighborhood, Slingshot Architecture focuses on innovative and sustainable design solutions. They regularly seek creative talent to join their team. Explore their opportunities here.
- RDG Planning & Design
- Situated in the heart of downtown Des Moines, RDG Planning & Design offers a collaborative environment for designers and architects. They provide various career paths in interior design. Check their careers page here.
Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs
To enroll in an Interior Design program in Des Moines, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may require a portfolio submission or an interview to assess your design aptitude. It’s important to check specific prerequisites for each institution.
Interior Design Certification and Licensure
In Iowa, becoming a licensed Interior Designer involves several steps:
- Education: Complete a post-secondary interior design program accredited by CIDA or an equivalent.
- Experience: Accumulate 3,520 work hours under a registered interior designer’s supervision.
- Certification: Pass the NCIDQ exam, which includes the IDFX, IDPX, and PRAC sections.
- State Licensing: Register with the Iowa Interior Design Examining Board. Iowa is a title registration state, so only registered individuals can use the title “Registered Interior Designer.”
For more information, visit the Iowa Interior Design Examining Board and the Council for Interior Design Qualification.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an Interior Designer in Des Moines, Iowa, is an exciting journey. With the right education and certification, you can transform your passion for design into a fulfilling profession. Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards your new career.
For more information on the job outlook for Interior Designers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.