Interior Design Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Becoming an Interior Designer in Virginia Beach, Virginia

If you’re considering a career as an Interior Designer in Virginia Beach, Virginia, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming an Interior Designer, including education paths, certification options, and local opportunities. An Interior Designer is a professional who plans, researches, coordinates, and manages projects to enhance the interior environment of a space. There are various education paths to becoming an Interior Designer, including degree programs, certification courses, and on-the-job training.

About Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a coastal city located in southeastern Virginia, known for its beautiful beaches, boardwalk, and rich history. As a major tourist destination, Virginia Beach offers a unique blend of urban and coastal living, making it an exciting place to pursue a career in Interior Design. For more information about the city, visit the official Virginia Beach website.

Interior Design Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach offers several options for those interested in pursuing Interior Design programs:

  1. Tidewater Community College – Interior Design Program
    • Located in the heart of Virginia Beach, Tidewater Community College offers an Interior Design program that provides a solid foundation in both commercial and residential design. The program covers essential skills such as space planning, color theory, and material selection. Learn more about the program here.
  2. Virginia Wesleyan University – Certified Residential Interior Designer Course
    • Virginia Wesleyan University offers a Certified Residential Interior Designer course, which prepares students for the Residential Interior Designer Exam (RIDE). This course is ideal for those looking to enhance their professional credentials. Find more information here.
  3. The Art Institute of Virginia Beach
    • Located in the Town Center area, The Art Institute of Virginia Beach provides a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design. This program emphasizes creativity and practical skills, preparing students for a dynamic career in the field. Explore the program here.

Interior Design Employment Opportunities in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach hosts several design firms and architecture companies where aspiring Interior Designers can seek employment:

  1. Clark Nexsen
    • Situated in the Town Center area, Clark Nexsen is a prominent architecture and design firm offering diverse opportunities for Interior Designers. They focus on innovative and sustainable design solutions. Visit their careers page.
  2. HBA Architecture & Interior Design
    • Located in the Pembroke neighborhood, HBA Architecture & Interior Design is known for its comprehensive design services in various sectors, including commercial, educational, and residential projects. Check out their employment opportunities.
  3. Work Program Architects
    • Based in the ViBe Creative District, Work Program Architects is a collaborative firm that values creativity and community engagement. They offer exciting opportunities for Interior Designers. Learn more about their team.

Prerequisites for Interior Design Programs

To enroll in an Interior Design program, prospective students 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 program you’re interested in.

Interior Design Certification and Licensure

In Virginia, certification is not mandatory to work as an Interior Designer. However, obtaining certification can enhance your credentials. The Certified Residential Interior Designer course at Virginia Wesleyan University is one option. National certification through the NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) is also available and recognized. For more information, visit the NCIDQ website.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an Interior Designer in Virginia Beach is an exciting journey. With numerous educational programs and employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to pursue your passion. 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 website.