In order to get the most out of a room, interior designers use creativity, functionality
and analyzation. From the kitchen to the bathroom, to an office or home, each space
functions differently and requires unique furniture, decorations, colors and electronics
to bring out the best for its intended use.
The Associate in Applied Science program at Harper College is endorsed by the National
Kitchen and Bath Association. Course topics are based on the National Council for
Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam that is required to be a licensed Interior
Designer in Illinois.
Through the guidance of experienced faculty as well as hands-on learning with AutoCAD/CAD
Studio and field trips, you will be thoroughly prepared for a career in the interior
design industry by studying at Harper.
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It only takes 20 seconds to get started!
Earn a career-ready degree
The Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree is designed to prepare you for immediate entry into this career field. Coursework
in the AAS may also prepare you to transfer to a four-year college or university.
To learn more, visit our Transfer Information page or see your advisor.
Learn more about career outcomes for Harper's Interior Design degree and certificate
programs. Each career profile offers a complete picture on the local job market, including
salaries, open positions, top local employers and more. To learn more, visit our Interior Design Careers page.
Interior Designers
Interior Designers
* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Interior Designers career profile for most current data.
$58,661 Median Salary
-1.8% Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)
246 Job Postings
Description:
Plan, design, and furnish the internal space of rooms or buildings. Design interior
environments or create physical layouts that are practical, aesthetic, and conducive
to the intended purposes. May specialize in a particular field, style, or phase of
interior design.
Core tasks:
Design plans to be safe and to be compliant with the American Disabilities Act (ADA).
Use computer-aided drafting (CAD) and related software to produce construction documents.
Research health and safety code requirements to inform design.
Confer with client to determine factors affecting planning of interior environments,
such as budget, architectural preferences, purpose, and function.
Quick facts:
Set and Exhibit Designers
Set and Exhibit Designers
* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Set and Exhibit Designers career profile for most current data.
$43,693 Median Salary
-1.2% Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)
10 Job Postings
Description:
Design special exhibits and sets for film, video, television, and theater productions.
May study scripts, confer with directors, and conduct research to determine appropriate
architectural styles.
Core tasks:
Develop set designs, based on evaluation of scripts, budgets, research information,
and available locations.
Prepare rough drafts and scale working drawings of sets, including floor plans, scenery,
and properties to be constructed.
Prepare preliminary renderings of proposed exhibits, including detailed construction,
layout, and material specifications, and diagrams relating to aspects such as special
effects or lighting.
Read scripts to determine location, set, and design requirements.
For more information about starting your college education at Harper, please contact
Admissions Outreach at 847.925.6700 or fill out our request information form.
