Which Are the Best Interior Design Courses After 12th?

Overview

Interior design goes beyond simply making spaces aesthetically pleasing; it involves more than just arranging furniture or selecting a color scheme. It is about transforming rooms, homes, offices, and commercial areas into environments that people enjoy. This process requires creativity, technical expertise and a thorough understanding of how spaces function. With an increasing number of people seeking unique and functional designs, the demand for skilled interior designers is on the rise.

If you’ve just finished your 12th grade and have a passion for design, this is the perfect time to explore interior design courses. These programmes will not only teach you the fundamentals of design but also prepare you for a creative and rewarding career.

This blog will guide aspiring interior designers in selecting the best courses available after 12th, detailing essential information such as interior design entrance exam, course options, fees, eligibility criteria, and career prospects. Whether you're looking for undergraduate degrees, diplomas or certifications, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed choice and take the first step towards a career in interior design.

Table of contents

• Why Choose Interior Design?
• Eligibility for Interior Design Courses
• Top Interior Design Courses After 12th
• How to Get Into These Courses: Online entrance exams
• Best Colleges for Interior Design in India
• Career Opportunities After Interior Design
• Trends Shaping the World of Interior Design
• Interior Design subjects covered in courses
• Interior Design online courses
• How to Choose the Right Course for You?
• FAQs About Interior Design Courses After 12th

Why Choose Interior Design?

If you’re someone who loves creativity but also wants to solve real-world problems, interior design might be your calling. It’s not just about picking the right colors or furniture; it’s about transforming spaces to make them beautiful, functional, and meaningful.

Interior designers tackle real challenges like making small apartments feel spacious, creating workspaces that boost productivity, improving accessibility for people with disabilities, or designing homes that adapt to different lifestyles and needs, minimalist yet functionality for small spaces and more. They solve problems that impact how people feel, move, and live in a space.

Imagine being the person who turns a dull, cramped room into a stunning, efficient space that people love to live or work in. That’s the magic of interior design and you can be the creator of that magic.

Here’s why so many young people are gravitating toward this field:

•  A Creative Playground

Do you have a knack for creativity? Interior design gives you the opportunity to turn your ideas into real, impactful spaces. Whether you're envisioning a cozy living room that feels like home or crafting the perfect atmosphere for a café, this career invites you to explore and express your creativity in meaningful ways. No two projects are ever the same, and you'll get to experiment with colors, lighting, furniture, textures, and even technology to transform environments and elevate everyday experiences.

• Limitless Career Opportunities

One of the best things about interior design is how versatile it is. Think beyond just homes—interior designers are shaping offices, restaurants, hotels, retail spaces, hospitals, and even movie sets. The demand for interior designers spans across industries, so you’ll always find opportunities to work on exciting projects.

Plus, the career paths are diverse. You can work with design firms, start your own studio, specialize in a niche like sustainable design, or even become a design consultant. The possibilities are endless, and you get to carve a career that fits your personal interests and skills.

• Global Scope

Dreaming of working abroad or collaborating with international clients? Interior design can take you places—literally. Many courses offered in India are recognized globally, which means your skills will be in demand in countries across the world. From the sleek, minimalist designs of Scandinavia to the ornate, rich interiors of the Middle East, you’ll find opportunities to work on projects that span cultures and continents.

• Rising Demand

With rapid urbanization, booming real estate markets, and a growing focus on lifestyle and aesthetics, interior designers are in demand like never before. As people invest more in creating spaces that reflect their personalities, the need for skilled designers who can bring unique visions to life continues to grow.

Whether it’s designing compact urban apartments, luxury villas, or innovative office spaces, interior designers are becoming an essential part of modern life. This demand translates to great job opportunities and competitive salaries, making it a smart career choice for young aspirants.

• Making an Impact

Here’s the real kicker—you’re not just designing spaces; you’re shaping experiences. Your work can improve how people live, work, and feel. Imagine designing a hospital room that feels less clinical and more comforting for patients, or creating an office space where employees feel energized and productive. Interior design is a career where your creativity directly impacts lives in meaningful ways.

• Future-Ready Career

In today’s world, technology and sustainability are transforming interior design. Tools like virtual reality (VR) and 3D rendering allow designers to bring ideas to life before they’re even built. Meanwhile, the focus on eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs means you’ll be at the forefront of creating a better future for the planet.

• A Profession That Stands Out

Interior design isn’t just another job; it’s a lifestyle. It’s about seeing beauty in the details and finding joy in solving challenges. As an interior designer, you’re constantly learning, evolving, and staying ahead of trends. It’s a career that keeps you on your toes and rewards you with the satisfaction of turning dreams into reality.

So, if you’re someone who wants a career that blends creativity with practicality, offers global opportunities, and lets you leave your unique mark on the world, interior design could be the perfect fit. It’s a profession where your ideas, your passion, and your hard work come together to create spaces—and futures—that truly inspire.

Eligibility for Interior Design Courses

The eligibility criteria for interior design courses vary depending on the level of study you choose—diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, or certification programmes. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you understand what’s required at each level:

1. Diploma Courses

Diploma programmes are a great way to get started in interior design, especially if you want to gain hands-on skills quickly.

• Eligibility: You need to have completed either Class 10 or Class 12, depending on the programmes.
• Duration: These courses typically last 1–2 years.
• Focus: Practical knowledge and industry-relevant skills, such as using interior design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp.

Diplomas are ideal for those looking to enter the workforce quickly or those who want to test the waters before committing to a longer degree program.

2. Undergraduate Programmes

Undergraduate courses like BA, BSc, or BDes in Interior Design are comprehensive programmes that provide a strong foundation in design principles, history, and technical skills.

• Eligibility:
  • You’ll need to have completed Class 12 from a recognized board.
  • Most colleges require a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in your Class 12 exams.
  • Some institutions may ask you to clear an entrance exam, such as NID DAT, UCEED, or NIFT Entrance.
• Duration: Typically 3–4 years.
• Focus: These programmes balance creative exploration with technical training, covering areas like space planning, material selection, and sustainable design.

If you’re serious about a career in interior design and want a solid foundation in both creative and technical skills, an undergraduate program is a great place to start. It offers structured learning, industry exposure, and the chance to build a strong portfolio. That said, there are also diploma courses, certifications, and postgraduate options depending on where you are in your journey and what kind of specialization you’re looking for.

3. Postgraduate Courses

Postgraduate programmes like MDes, MA, or MBA in Interior Design are aimed at those who want to specialize or advance their knowledge in the field.

• Eligibility:
  • A bachelor’s degree in a related discipline is usually required (e.g., design, architecture, fine arts).
  • Some programmes may also require work experience or a portfolio of your design projects.
  • Interior Design entrance exams like iDAT, CEED, NIFT Entrance, or CUET-PG may be part of the admission process.
• Duration: Most postgraduate courses last 2 years.
• Focus: Advanced design concepts, research methodologies, and leadership skills for managing large-scale projects or running a design business.

Postgraduate courses are perfect for those looking to specialize in niches like furniture design, sustainable architecture, or lighting design, or for those aspiring to leadership roles.

4. Certificate Courses

Certificate courses in interior design are short-term courses designed to provide specific skills or knowledge.

• Eligibility:
  • Many programmes are open to anyone with an interest in interior design.
  • However, some advanced certificates may require prior experience or a basic understanding of design principles.
• Duration: Usually ranges from a few weeks to a year.
• Focus: Certificate courses often target specific aspects of interior design, such as 3D modeling, Vastu Shastra, or contemporary design trends.

These courses are a great option for professionals looking to upskill, hobbyists wanting to learn design basics, or students exploring the field before committing to a full-fledged degree.

Additional Tips for Eligibility

1. Entrance Exams: For UG and PG programmes, familiarize yourself with popular interior design entrance exams like UCEED, NID DAT, iDAT and NIFT Entrance. Preparing for these exams can significantly improve your chances of getting into top colleges.

2. Portfolio Preparation: Many design schools, especially for postgraduate and some undergraduate programmes, require a portfolio showcasing your creative work. Start building your portfolio early, including sketches, digital designs, and any freelance or personal projects.

3. Research Colleges: Eligibility criteria may vary between institutions. Always check the specific requirements of the colleges you’re interested in. Here’s a list of top 5 interior design colleges to consider in 2025.

Top Interior Design Courses After 12th

Several courses can help you build a strong foundation in interior design. Let’s dive into the most popular ones:

How to Get Into These Courses: Online entrance exams

Getting into a good interior design programme often involves an entrance exam or merit-based admission. Some of the popular entrance tests are:

• NID DAT: For undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at the National Institute of Design.
• UCEED: Conducted by IITs for BDes admissions.
• NIFT Entrance Exam: For design courses at the National Institute of Fashion Technology.
• CUET: For admissions to various universities.
• MAH CET: A state-level test for design programmes in Maharashtra.
• iDAT: The IIAD Design Aptitude Test conducted by Indian Institute of Art & Design, assessing creative aptitude, logical reasoning, and visual ability for design program admissions.

Start preparing early, as these exams test your creativity, design aptitude, and sometimes your general knowledge.

Best Colleges for Interior Design in India

Choosing the right college plays a big role in shaping your future as a designer. A good design school doesn’t just teach you interior design softwares or theory as it helps you think creatively, work collaboratively, and build a portfolio that reflects your unique perspective. India is home to several reputed institutions that offer good interior design programmes, blending technical skills with conceptual thinking and industry exposure.

Here are some other colleges across India that also offer strong interior design programs:

Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD), New Delhi

IIAD offers Interior Architecture and Design in academic collaboration with Kingston School of Art, London. The programme stands out for its global curriculum, studio-based learning approach, and strong industry connections. Students work on real-world projects, receive mentorship from practicing professionals, and are encouraged to develop innovative and sustainable design solutions. With a focus on both aesthetics and functionality, IIAD prepares students for a dynamic career in interior and spatial design.

Other colleges are mentioned below:

Career Opportunities After Interior Design

A career in interior design offers diverse paths. Here are some roles you can consider:

• Interior Designer: Create designs for homes, offices, or commercial spaces.
• Space Planner: Optimize layouts for better functionality.
• Sustainability Consultant: Incorporate eco-friendly designs into projects.
• Design Journalist: Cover trends and innovations in the field.

Some top recruiters include Home Lane, Bonito Designs, Square Yards, and Synergy Corporate Interiors. The average starting salary for interior designers in India is ₹4.2 LPA, but experienced professionals can earn significantly more.

Trends Shaping the World of Interior Design

Interior design is an ever-evolving field, adapting to shifts in lifestyle, technology and societal priorities. Here are some of the most impactful trends shaping the industry today:

1. Sustainability

With a growing emphasis on environmental consciousness, sustainability has become a cornerstone of modern interior design.

• Designers are increasingly opting for eco-friendly materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, and recycled metals.
• Energy-efficient solutions, such as LED lighting and smart thermostats, are being integrated into designs to reduce the carbon footprint of spaces.
• There’s also a focus on creating designs that are timeless, reducing the need for frequent renovations and waste.

2. Smart Homes

The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the way we interact with our living spaces.

• Automated lighting, climate control, and security systems are becoming standard features in modern designs.
• Smart furniture—like beds that adjust to your comfort level or coffee tables with built-in charging ports—adds both convenience and functionality.
• Voice-controlled assistants like Alexa and Google Home are seamlessly blending into interiors, making homes more intuitive and user-friendly.

3. Minimalism

“Less is more” continues to dominate the design world.

• Minimalist interiors focus on clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and neutral color palettes.
• The emphasis is on functionality and quality over quantity, with carefully curated furniture and decor pieces that serve both aesthetic and practical purposes.
• This trend resonates with the modern preference for simplicity and mindfulness in daily life.

4. Biophilic Design

Biophilic design bridges the gap between indoor spaces and the natural world, creating environments that promote well-being.

• Designers are incorporating natural elements like indoor plants, water features, and wooden finishes.
• Large windows, skylights, and open layouts are being used to maximize natural light and create a seamless connection with the outdoors.
• Research shows that biophilic design can reduce stress, improve air quality, and enhance productivity, making it especially popular in workspaces and homes.

5. Adaptive Reuse

In a world where sustainability and preservation are gaining importance, adaptive reuse is a trend that’s here to stay.

• This approach involves transforming old buildings and spaces into functional, modern environments while maintaining their historical essence.
• Examples include converting warehouses into loft apartments or redesigning old factories as creative office spaces.
• Adaptive reuse not only conserves resources but also adds a unique character to interiors, blending the old with the new.

Interior Design subjects covered in courses

Interior design courses cover a diverse range of subjects, blending theory with hands-on practice to equip students with the skills needed to excel in the field. Here’s an overview of what you can expect to study:

Core Subjects:

• Design Principles: Learn the foundational concepts of design, including balance, proportion, and harmony, which form the basis of effective interiors.
• Space Planning: Understand how to maximize functionality and aesthetics in different types of spaces, from small apartments to commercial offices.
• CAD Software: Gain expertise in industry-standard tools like AutoCAD and SketchUp for creating precise digital layouts and 3D renderings.
• Material Studies: Explore various materials, such as wood, glass, metal, and textiles, and their applications in sustainable and stylish designs.
• Lighting and Acoustics: Discover how lighting and sound dynamics influence the mood and usability of a space.

Electives and Specialization Options:

Many programmes allow students to tailor their education by choosing electives or focusing on specialized areas, such as:

• Furniture Design: Creating bespoke furniture pieces that complement interior themes.
• Sustainable Design: Emphasizing eco-friendly practices and materials.
• Set Design: Crafting immersive environments for film, theater, or events.
• Residential or Commercial Design: Diving deep into specific sectors to build niche expertise.

Practical Assignments and Projects:

Interior design is a highly application-oriented field, and most courses emphasize real-world practice:

• Studio Projects: Work on mock projects to develop designs for hypothetical clients.
• Internships: Gain industry exposure by working with established design firms.
• Portfolio Development: Build a strong interior design portfolio showcasing diverse projects to impress potential employers or clients.

Interior Design online courses

Interior design courses are available on several online platforms, ranging from basic courses to more advanced and specialised courses in the field of Interior Design as well as related fields. Candidates can also refer to Interior Design Online Courses Given below are some of the online Interior Design courses.

How to Choose the Right Course for You?

Selecting the right interior design course is an important decision, and it requires careful thought about your goals, interests, and resources. Let’s break it down step by step:

1. Understand your interests

Begin by considering what excites you most about interior design. Are you drawn to the creative aspects, like selecting colors, fabrics, and themes? Or do you enjoy the technical side, like working with layouts, blueprints, and software tools like CAD? If you’re unsure, think about which tasks feel less like work and more like an enjoyable challenge. Knowing your preferences can guide you toward courses that focus on your strengths.

2. Explore specialisations

Interior design is a vast field with multiple niches. For instance:

• If you’re passionate about sustainable design, look for programmes that emphasize eco-friendly materials and green architecture.
• If furniture design excites you, seek out courses like BDes. in Interior and Furniture Design.
• For those fascinated by creating luxury interiors, some programmes focus on high-end residential and commercial spaces.

Choosing a course with a relevant specialization ensures you’re building skills that align with your long-term career goals.

3. Evaluate your budget

Interior design courses can range from affordable diplomas to high-investment bachelor’s or master’s programmes. Be realistic about what you can afford and research financial aid options. Many reputed colleges offer scholarships, grants, or payment plans to ease the financial burden. Don’t forget to account for additional costs like software tools, study materials, or design kits that may not be included in the tuition fees.

4. Research college reputation

The institution you choose plays a significant role in shaping your career. Look for interior design colleges with:

• A strong reputation in design education.
• Good placement records with top design firms or brands.
• Positive reviews from alumni who have successfully built careers in interior design.

Explore the curriculum and teaching methodology as well. Does the college emphasize hands-on learning, internships, and projects? These experiences are invaluable for building a portfolio and gaining real-world exposure.

5. Long-term career plans

Finally, think about where you see yourself after completing the course. If you aim to work internationally, look for programmes recognized globally. If freelancing or running your own design studio is your dream, choose courses that emphasize business and entrepreneurial skills.

By carefully considering these factors, you’ll not only pick the right course but also set the stage for a fulfilling career in interior design. Remember, this is your first step toward creating spaces that inspire and transform lives—make it count!

FAQs About Interior Design Courses After 12th

What is the qualification for interior designing?

To pursue undergraduate programmes like B.Des or B.Sc in Interior Design, you need to have completed Class 12 with at least 50% marks. Some colleges may also require you to pass an entrance exam. For diploma courses, Class 10 or 12 is generally required, and for postgraduate programmes, a relevant bachelor’s degree is needed.

Which exam is best for interior design?

The interior design entrance exams you need to prepare for depend on your course and college. Popular exams include:

• UCEED: For B.Des programmes.
• NID DAT: For NID’s design courses.
• NIFT Entrance Exam: For interior design programmes at NIFT.
• MAH CET: For Maharashtra-based interior design programmes.
• CUET: For several universities.
• iDAT: Many private institutions conduct their own entrance tests that evaluate creativity, logical reasoning, and design aptitude.

In addition to national-level tests, many design colleges conduct their own entrance exams to assess candidates based on their unique program requirements. These exams typically evaluate a mix of creative thinking, design aptitude, logical reasoning, and communication skills. These college-specific exams allow institutions to gauge how well a candidate’s mindset and potential align with their curriculum and teaching approach.

Does interior design have scope?

Yes, interior design has significant career opportunities. Roles include Interior Designer, Space Planner, Furniture Designer, and Lighting Designer. The average salary for an interior designer in India is INR 4.2 LPA, with high demand in both India and globally.

Which degree is best for interior design?

• B.Des in Interior Design: Creative and design-focused.
• B.Sc in Interior Design: Technical, focusing on software and construction.
• B.A in Interior Architecture and Design: Combines architecture and interior design principles.

Each degree offers different strengths depending on whether you prefer a creative or technical approach.

What is the highest qualification in interior design?

The highest qualifications include:

• Master's Degree (M.Des in Interior Design): Specialize in areas like sustainable or smart design.
• Ph.D. in Interior Design: For research and teaching.
• Postgraduate Diplomas/Certifications: Specialize in niche areas such as furniture or lighting design.

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