According to the US Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook section on Interior Designers: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos293.htm

Education and training. Postsecondary education is necessary for entry-level positions in interior design. Training programs are available from professional design schools or from colleges and universities and usually take 2 to 4 years to complete. Graduates of 2-year or 3-year programs are awarded certificates or associate degrees in interior design and normally qualify as assistants to interior designers upon graduation. Graduates with a bachelor's degree usually qualify for a formal design apprenticeship program.

The National Association of Schools of Art and Design accredits approximately 300 postsecondary institutions with programs in art and design. Most of these schools award a degree in interior design. Applicants may be required to submit sketches and other examples of their artistic ability. Basic coursework includes CAD, drawing, perspective, spatial planning, color and fabrics, furniture design, architecture, ergonomics, ethics, and psychology.

The Council for Interior Design Accreditation also accredits interior design programs that lead to a bachelor's or masters degree. In 2008, there were over 150 accredited programs in interior design in the United States; most are part of schools or departments of art, architecture, and home economics.

For information on degrees, continuing education, and licensure programs in interior design and interior design research, contact:

American Society of Interior Designers, 608 Massachusetts Ave. NE., Washington, DC 20002. Internet: http://www.asid.org

For a list of schools with accredited bachelor's degree programs in interior design, contact:

Council for Interior Design Accreditation, 206 Granville Ave, Suite 350, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Internet: http://www.accredit-id.org

For general information about art and design and a list of accredited college-level programs, contact:

National Association of Schools of Art and Design, 11250 Roger Bacon Dr., Suite 21, Reston, VA 20190. Internet: http://nasad.arts-accredit.org

For information on State licensing requirements and exams, and the Interior Design Experience Program, contact:

National Council for Interior Design Qualification, 1602 L St. NW., Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036. Internet: http://www.ncidq.org