An online doctoral degree in interior design may advance the professional development and leadership skills of experienced designers. In this three to five-year program, students may conduct extensive research in various facets of interior design, including construction, architecture, and textile design. Program coursework may include dissertation preparation courses alongside major-specific classes including design communications, organizational systems and design, and facility management and design.

Upon graduation, students may seek employment in their chosen field. Doctoral-level graduates may gain employment in post-secondary education, research and design, and commercial design.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree at minimum
• Program Length: Three to five years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment
• Projected Employment Growth: 19% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for doctoral-level interior design degree programs may consist of research-heavy dissertation preparation programs along with core coursework. These classes may allow students to focus on a specific area within the field, such as urban design, industrial design, or universal design. Core interior design classes may include the following:

• Organizational Systems and Design
• Interior Design Systems and Practices
• Design Communications
• Facility Management and Design
• Design Planning and Analysis
• Universal Design and Accessibility
• Environment and Aging

Career Options

Doctoral-level graduates may gain employment in post-secondary education, architecture, commercial interior design, and furniture design. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, interior design employment opportunities are projected to increase by 19% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• College Professor
• Senior Design Director
• Sustainable Designer
• Universal Designer
• Design Researcher

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook