Interior Design Careers
The professional interior designer is qualified by education, experience and examination to enhance the function and quality of interior spaces for the purpose of improving the quality of life, increasing productivity and, protecting the health, safety and welfare of the public.
The professional interior designer:
- analyzes the client’s needs, goals, and life safety requirements
- integrates findings with research and knowledge of interior design
- formulates preliminary design concepts that are aesthetic, appropriate, and functional and in accordance with codes and standards
- develops and presents final design recommendations through appropriate presentation media
- understands and designs for sustainability (for more see the Sustainable Development Goals)
- prepares working drawings and specifications for non-load bearing interior construction, reflected ceiling plans, lighting, interior detailing, materials, finishes, space planning, furnishings, fixtures, and equipment in compliance with universal accessibility guidelines and all applicable codes
- collaborates with professional services of other licensed practitioners in the technical areas of mechanical, electrical, and load-bearing design as required for regulatory approval
- prepares and administers bids and contract documents as the client’s agent
- reviews and evaluates design solutions during implementation and upon completion
What can you do with a Major in Interior Design?
There are so many options!
Students leave as designers who are ready to solve problems in a wide variety of career options, ready to translate design problems into design solutions. You will have an advantage in the job market for many positions, a few options include:
Occupations
- Architectural Drafter
- Art Director
- Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS)
- Civil Drafter
- Contract Designer
- Commercial & Industrial Designer
- Cost Estimator
- Custom Designer/Fabricator
- Design Consultant
- Design Contractor
- Environmental Designers
- Exhibit Designer
- Facility Planner
- Historic Preservationist
- Interior Designer
- Interior Photographer
- LEED Specialist
- Lighting Designer
- Kitchen and Bath Designer
- Manufacturer’s Representative
- Product Consultant/Designer
- Residential Consultant/Designer
- Set and Exhibit Designer
- Sustainable Design Consultant
- Transportation Designer
- Textile Designer
Work Settings
- Airports
- Aviation Manufacturers
- Architecture Firms
- Carpet and Textile Companies
- Corporate Facilities
- Design Magazines
- Department Stores
- Engineering Firms
- Freelance
- Furniture Manufacturers
- Government and GSA
- Historic Preservation Agencies
- Hospitals
- Interior Design Firms/Studios
- Hotel Chains
- Housing Developments
- Museums
- Photography Studios
- Property Management Firms
- Realtor Companies
- Restaurants
- Retail/Interior Products
- Schools
- Television and Motion Picture Studios
- Theaters
- Transportation Companies
- Utilities
More Helpful Information
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates Georgia has maintained a high annual mean wage for Interior Designers.
Interior design is part of the global market and specializations are almost endless, with job growth projected.
Knowledge of a foreign language and culture can be especially helpful.
For student job placement rates see the Accreditation page.
Professional Organizations
For a more in-depth understanding of the chosen interior design profession, a student should take time to familiarize themselves with other components outside of the academic community. Several of these organizations offer student membership and a variety of benefits to expand the students knowledge and professional network.
ASID, American Society of Interior Designers
ASID Georgia Chapter
IIDA, the International Interior Design Association
NCIDQ, the National Council for Interior Design Qualification
NEWH, the Hospitality Industry Network
NKBA, the National Kitchen and Bath Association
Last updated: 6/1/2023
