Top 18 New York Schools of Interior Design to Consider in 2024
Choosing the right interior design college in New York can set the foundation for a successful career. This article ranks the top 18 New York schools of interior design, offering detailed insights into various interior design programs to help you decide where to enroll.
- Academic programs: Explore the diverse curriculum options and specializations each school offers.
- Unique advantages: Understand the unique advantages that set these schools apart, including faculty expertise, industry connections, and employment rates after graduation.
Discover which institution aligns best with your career goals and aesthetic vision.
TL;DR: Best New York Schools of Interior Design
- New York School of Interior Design: Focuses exclusively on interior design with rigorous training and a high industry placement rate. Offers various degrees including specialized master’s programs and other graduate programs.
- Pratt Institute: Combines practical design skills with critical thinking about sustainability and ethics, preparing students for leadership in interior design. Offers BFA and MFA programs with a strong focus on sustainability.
- New York Institute of Technology: Offers a CIDA-accredited BFA program that emphasizes sustainability and ethical practices in interior design, with high job placement rates. The interior design accreditation ensures the quality and rigor of the curriculum.
- Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT): Merges interior design skills with business knowledge, offering AAS and BFA degrees that prepare students for strategic roles in both design and business sectors.
- Parsons School of Design: Provides an Interior Design Certificate with an interdisciplinary approach, integrating design, technology, and sustainability, and offers flexible learning options including online courses.
18 Top Schools of Interior Design in New York
1. New York School of Interior Design
Website: https://www.nysid.edu/
The New York School of Interior Design excels in preparing students for a dynamic career in interior design through rigorous and focused training.
Its unique value lies in its specialized approach, focusing solely on interior design, which ensures depth and expertise in the field. The school provides a dynamic learning environment where innovative ideas and practical skills can thrive.
Students benefit from personalized attention, high industry placement rates, and cutting-edge design resources.
Academic Programs:
- BFA in Interior Design
- MFA in Interior Design
- MPS in Sustainable Interior Environments
- MPS in Interior Lighting Design
- MPS in Healthcare Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- Industry-specific curriculum that provides deep expertise in interior design.
- Extensive network connections for internships and job placements.
- State-of-the-art facilities and resources for hands-on learning.
- Faculty comprised of leading design professionals.
- Diverse study abroad programs to enhance global design perspectives.
Location:
2. Pratt
Website: https://www.pratt.edu/
Pratt Institute’s Interior Design BFA program in New York is renowned for fostering creative and innovative interior designers.
Its distinction comes from integrating practical design skills with critical thinking about sustainability and ethical responsibilities, setting graduates up for leadership roles in interior design practice.
Benefits for students include access to cutting-edge facilities, a robust network of professional connections, and hands-on learning that reflects current industry standards.
Academic Programs:
- BFA in Interior Design
- Minor in Interior Design
- MFA in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- Emphasis on sustainable practices and social responsibility in design.
- Opportunities for global exposure through study abroad programs.
- Extensive professional preparation, including mandatory senior thesis projects.
- Access to influential design communities in Brooklyn and Manhattan.
- Comprehensive support through state-of-the-art technology and studio spaces.
Location:
3. New York Institute of Technology
Website: https://www.nyit.edu/
New York Institute of Technology’s School of Architecture and Design stands out for its immersive Interior Design BFA program, blending theory with practical application.
This program is unique for its CIDA accreditation, ensuring rigorous standards that prepare students for professional success in interior design.
Students gain benefits from a curriculum that emphasizes sustainability and ethical practices. The program also includes computer-aided design, equipping students with essential skills and proficiency in industry-standard software, along with high job placement rates in prestigious firms.
Academic Programs:
- BFA in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- CIDA-accredited program for high industry standards.
- Strong focus on sustainability and ethics.
- High placement rates in top design firms.
- Rich opportunities for hands-on learning and real-world experience.
- Comprehensive preparation for the NCIDQ exam.
Location:
4. FIT NYC
Website: https://www.fitnyc.edu/
The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) offers a comprehensive Interior Design program that integrates design with business knowledge.
This program stands out due to its dual focus on design excellence and business acumen, preparing students for strategic roles in the industry. The curriculum includes essential topics like space planning, ensuring students are well-prepared for various aspects of interior design practice.
Students benefit from a curriculum that merges practical design skills with extensive business education, fostering a unique blend of creativity and commercial awareness.
Academic Programs:
- AAS in Interior Design
- BFA in Interior Design
Degrees Offered:
Unique Advantages:
- Integration of design skills with business studies.
- Access to New York’s vibrant design community for networking and career opportunities.
- Strong focus on real-world application through internships and industry partnerships.
- State-of-the-art facilities and resources for hands-on learning.
- Extensive alumni network in the design and business sectors.
Location:
5. Parsons School of Design
Website: https://www.newschool.edu/
Parsons School of Design at The New School offers a comprehensive Interior Design Certificate program focused on foundational skills and practical application in spatial and structural design.
Its unique value point is its interdisciplinary approach, integrating design with technology and sustainability.
Interior design students benefit from a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and industry-relevant skills, with direct access to New York’s vibrant design community and resources.
Academic Programs:
- Interior Design Certificate
Unique Advantages:
- Interdisciplinary approach blending design with technology.
- Emphasis on sustainability and ethical design practices.
- Access to New York City’s design industry and networking opportunities.
- Experienced faculty with industry connections.
- Flexible online and in-person course options.
Location:
6. SUNY Buffalo State University
Website: https://suny.buffalostate.edu/
Buffalo State’s Interior Design program, one of the leading interior design schools, offers a comprehensive education blending practical skills with artistic theory within a liberal arts context.
Its standout feature is the continuous accreditation for over a decade, affirming its quality and industry recognition.
Benefits include access to a diverse array of hands-on opportunities, from local partnerships like Explore Buffalo to global study programs, enhancing both practical and theoretical learning.
Academic Programs:
- B.F.A. in Interior Design
- Minor in Interior Design Studies
- Minor in Drafting Technologies for Interior Design
- Micro-credential in Interior Design-Fundamental Theory & History
Unique Advantages:
- Accredited by prestigious organizations ensuring eligibility for licensing exams.
- Rich collaboration opportunities with local and global organizations.
- Diverse study abroad programs in countries like Italy and Denmark.
- Opportunities for internships and undergraduate research with industry partners.
- Small class sizes for personalized instruction.
- Extensive career support and pathways in various design-related fields.
Location:
7. Suffolk County Community College
Website: https://www.sunysuffolk.edu/
Suffolk County Community College’s Interior Design program equips students with the skills to excel in designing functional and aesthetic spaces.
The program is distinctive for its affordable tuition, making quality education in interior design accessible to a broader range of students.
Students benefit from a hands-on learning approach, including real-world projects and industry-standard software training, which enhances their employability.
Academic Programs:
- A.A.S. in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- Affordable tuition rates.
- Comprehensive hands-on training with industry-standard software.
- Regularly updated curriculum reflecting current industry standards.
- Strong focus on practical experience through real-world projects.
- Access to extensive career services and job placement assistance.
Location:
8. Marist College
Website: https://www.marist.edu/
Marist College offers a unique Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design in Florence, Italy, merging American education standards with Italian design sensibilities. The Rhode Island School is another top institution known for its strong interior design programs.
The program stands out by offering the only four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree in interior design available in Florence, providing students with a distinctive blend of American and European design education.
Benefits for students include immersion in an international design environment, extensive practical experience through hands-on projects, and exposure to global design perspectives.
Academic Programs:
- B.F.A. in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- Only U.S. accredited four-year interior design degree in Florence.
- Classes taught in English with a focus on international design trends.
- Rich cultural immersion in the Italian design scene.
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary projects and collaborations
- Comprehensive support services for international students.
Location:
9. Lehman College
Website: https://www.lehman.edu/
Lehman College, recognized among the top interior design schools, offers a robust Interior Design program within its Department of Art, preparing students for diverse professional environments.
This program uniquely integrates a liberal arts education with professional training, providing a well-rounded foundation in both design and general education.
Students gain practical skills through hands-on projects and theoretical knowledge through a comprehensive curriculum that includes exposure to the latest design technologies.
Academic Programs:
- B.A. in Art with a concentration in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- Strong emphasis on integrating art and design principles.
- Access to New York City’s vibrant design community.
- Opportunities for internships and collaborative projects.
- Dedicated faculty with a wide range of professional experience.
- Extensive career support and networking opportunities.
Location:
10. New York Institute of Art & Design
Website: https://www.nyiad.edu/
The New York Institute of Art and Design (NYIAD) offers a comprehensive online Interior Design course that prepares students to become professional interior designers with a focus on practical skills and industry standards.
This course is unique because it is approved by the Designer Society of America, allowing students to qualify for RIDQC certification upon completion, which significantly enhances their professional credentials.
Students benefit from 24/7 access to extensive online materials, personalized feedback from experienced designers, and a robust support system including career counseling and networking opportunities.
Academic Programs:
- Interior Design Certificate Course
Unique Advantages:
- Designer Society of America approved.
- Eligibility for professional certification.
- Extensive HD video instruction.
- One-to-one mentorship.
- Comprehensive career support services.
Location:
11. Russell Sage College
Website: https://www.sage.edu/
Russell Sage College offers a unique Interior + Spatial Design B.F.A. that is the only accredited program of its kind between Syracuse and New York City.
The program is renowned for its integration of professional practice with creative and sustainable design principles, enabling students to tackle real-world challenges effectively.
Students benefit from comprehensive studio classes, hands-on projects, and internship opportunities, ensuring they are well-prepared for professional certification and diverse careers in design.
Academic Programs:
- B.F.A. in Interior + Spatial Design
Unique Advantages:
- Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.
- Extensive hands-on projects including a year-long capstone project.
- Opportunities for internships with leading design firms.
- Access to advanced design technology and facilities.
- Strong focus on sustainable design practices.
Location:
12. Berkeley College
Website: https://berkeleycollege.edu/
Berkeley College offers a dynamic Interior Design program with unique opportunities to learn both in the classroom and in real-world settings, emphasizing practical skills and creative problem-solving.
The program is distinctively structured to provide not just foundational knowledge, but also advanced technical skills through the integration of current software like AutoCAD and Revit, setting students up for professional success in the design industry.
Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized instruction, and extensive career services, making the transition from student to professional smooth and effective.
Academic Programs:
- Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Interior Design
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- CIDA-accredited programs ensure industry standards.
- Strong emphasis on technology and hands-on learning.
- Opportunities for internships and real-world projects.
- Diverse faculty with substantial industry experience.
- Extensive career support to aid job placement.
Location:
13. Rochester Institute of Technology
Website: https://www.rit.edu/
Rochester Institute of Technology offers a comprehensive Interior Design BFA program that emphasizes the intersection of creativity and technology in interior design.
Its unique value lies in integrating cutting-edge technology with traditional design principles, providing students with a well-rounded and future-focused education.
Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art design labs, interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities, and a strong focus on sustainable design practices.
Academic Programs:
- BFA in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- Strong emphasis on technology integration in design processes.
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary projects across various design fields.
- Access to advanced design labs and resources for hands-on learning.
- Focus on sustainability and environmentally conscious design.
- Strong industry connections for internships and job placements.
Location:
14. School of Visual Arts (SVA)
Website: https://sva.edu/
The School of Visual Arts offers a BFA in Interior Design that blends artistic creativity with practical design skills, preparing students for a successful career in interior design.
Its unique value lies in its strong focus on artistic expression, allowing students to develop their unique design voice while mastering the technical aspects of interior design.
Students benefit from a vibrant creative community, access to industry professionals, and opportunities to showcase their work in New York’s dynamic design scene.
Academic Programs:
- BFA in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- Emphasis on artistic expression alongside technical skills in interior design.
- Located in the heart of New York City, offering access to a vast network of design professionals.
- Opportunities for students to exhibit their work in prestigious galleries and design shows.
- Faculty members are leading professionals in the field, bringing real-world experience into the classroom.
- Comprehensive career services to support students in securing internships and job placements.
Location:
15. School of Visual Arts (SVA)
Website: https://www.monroecc.edu/
Monroe Community College provides an AAS in Interior Design, offering a practical and affordable pathway to enter the interior design profession.
Its unique value lies in its focus on hands-on learning and industry readiness, allowing students to gain the skills needed to start their careers immediately after graduation.
Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized instruction, and access to the latest design software and technologies.
Academic Programs:
- AAS in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- Affordable education with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning.
- Small class sizes for personalized attention and mentorship.
- Access to industry-standard design software and technologies.
- Opportunities for internships and real-world experience through local industry connections.
- Strong support services for career placement and advancement.
Location:
16. Nassau Community College (NCC)
Website: https://collegecatalog.ncc.edu/
Nassau Community College offers an AAS in Interior Design, providing students with a solid foundation in both the creative and technical aspects of interior design.
Its unique value lies in its comprehensive curriculum, which combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for immediate entry into the interior design industry.
Students benefit from experienced faculty, industry-standard design labs, and opportunities for real-world experience through internships and collaborations.
Academic Programs:
- AAS in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- Comprehensive curriculum that balances creative and technical education.
- Experienced faculty with extensive industry knowledge.
- Access to state-of-the-art design labs and resources.
- Strong focus on practical experience through internships and collaborative projects.
Location:
17. Alfred State College
Website: https://www.alfredstate.edu/
Alfred State College offers a comprehensive Interior Design program that combines hands-on learning with a strong foundation in design theory, preparing students for successful careers in the interior design industry.
Its unique value lies in its emphasis on practical experience, with students engaging in real-world projects and design challenges throughout their studies.
Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized instruction, and access to modern design studios equipped with the latest technology.
Academic Programs:
- AAS in Interior Design
- BS in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- Emphasis on real-world design projects and challenges.
- Small class sizes for individualized attention and mentorship.
- Access to cutting-edge design studios and technology.
- Opportunities for internships and industry collaborations.
- Strong focus on career readiness with dedicated support for job placement.
Location:
18. Onondaga Community College (OCC)
Website: http://catalog.sunyocc.edu/
Onondaga Community College offers an AAS in Interior Design, providing students with a strong foundation in design principles and practical skills necessary for a career in interior design.
Its unique value lies in its comprehensive, affordable education that combines hands-on experience with academic rigor, making it accessible for students seeking to enter the design field.
Students benefit from experienced faculty, modern design studios, and opportunities to participate in community-based design projects.
Academic Programs:
- AAS in Interior Design
Unique Advantages:
- Affordable education with a focus on hands-on learning.
- Experienced faculty dedicated to student success.
- Access to modern design studios equipped with the latest tools and software.
- Opportunities to work on community-based design projects, providing real-world experience.
- Strong support services for career development and job placement.
Location:
How to Choose the Best Interior Design School in NYC
Choosing the best interior design school in NYC is a key step in shaping your future career.
With so many options available, it’s important to consider the factors that will provide the most value to your education and professional growth, including the various accredited interior design programs offered by different colleges.
By focusing on the following key aspects, you can ensure that the school you select aligns with your goals and sets you up for success in the competitive world of interior design:
- Accreditation and reputation: Accreditation ensures that the school meets industry standards, while a strong reputation can enhance your job prospects after graduation.
- Curriculum and specializations: A comprehensive curriculum with relevant specializations will help you build the skills needed for your specific career interests in interior design.
- Faculty expertise and industry connections: Learning from experienced professionals with industry connections provides valuable insights and networking opportunities that can be pivotal in your career.
- Facilities and resources: Access to modern design studios, software, and other resources is crucial for hands-on learning and mastering the tools of the trade.
- Internship and job placement opportunities: Schools with strong internship programs and job placement services help you gain real-world experience and transition smoothly into the workforce.
- Alumni success: The achievements of a school’s alumni can indicate the quality of its programs and the potential for your own success in the field.
- Student reviews: Honest feedback from current and former students can provide insights into the day-to-day experience at the school, including the quality of instruction and support services.
- Cost and financial aid: Understanding the tuition costs and available financial aid options ensures that you can afford your education without compromising on quality.
Pro Tip: To truly understand what a school has to offer, go beyond the brochures and websites. If possible, visit the campuses in person to experience the environment and facilities firsthand.
During your visit, take the time to speak with current students and faculty members – they can provide insights into the school’s culture, the quality of instruction, and the day-to-day student experience.
If an in-person visit isn’t feasible, attend virtual open houses or webinars that many schools offer.
These events often include Q&A sessions where you can ask specific questions about the program, resources, and support services.
Additionally, connect with alumni through social media or professional networks like LinkedIn to get an honest perspective on how the school has impacted their careers. This firsthand research can help you make a well-rounded and confident decision.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that will set the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in interior design.
Conclusion to the Top 18 New York Schools of Interior Design
Selecting the right interior design school in New York is a strategic decision that impacts your career trajectory.
This guide has presented the top 18 schools in the state, each with unique programs and benefits tailored to diverse educational needs and career aspirations.
As you evaluate your options, consider the specific advantages and academic offerings of each institution to find the best fit for your professional goals in the field of interior design.
For a detailed look at what each school offers, revisit the links provided in their descriptions.
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