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Net sources for advice, schools, info

Whether you're a high school student or someone wanting a new career, the internet is a wonderful place to research your options.

You'll find listings of accredited schools, advice, career information, professional associations, job search help and more.

Spend some time with the links listed below and read up on career possibilities.

DESIGN EDUCATION FAQs

Q. I'm interested in a career in interior design. Where can I get some information about it?

There is quite a bit of research you can do on the net regarding design educations and careers. See the links and resources on these pages for more information: Design Career Information and Design Career Links.

Q. What books should I collect to start a design library for reference?

Browse some of the selections in our Bookstore. Also, be sure to read tips on finding books that you'll enjoy in the page Before You Buy Decorating Books.

Q. Where can I find out about interior design programs and degrees?

Visit this page with links to lots of great articles and tips on schools and design degrees: Design Educations.

Q. What are some of the top design schools?

Find links here to several well respected Top Design Schools. For a full list of accredited programs see the FIDER website.

Q. I need some answers to questions about studying interior design and possible career choices. Where should I look?

You'll find some good basic information on choosing an educational program, professional certifications, and more on this page of "must read" links for anyone planning a design career -- Advice to Students of Interior Design.

Q. I can't really afford to get an interior design degree. Are there any other alternatives?

There are some certificate programs at community colleges and tech schools that may offer 1 or 2 year programs in decorating. Phone the admissions offices of schools near you and ask about decorating programs. If a school doesn't have anything, then ask for referrals to other area schools, or speak to a career counselor to get leads.

Or, you may want to do some local research per the methods outlined in the book, "What Color Is Your Parachute" to interview people with careers you are interested in and get their ideas on your education and career opportunities. You'll be able to research seminars in rearranging and home makeovers, distance education, and more on this page -- Educational Alternative Programs.

Q. I'll be graduating in 6 months and need to think about looking for a job. Any suggestions?

Explore these links with tips and information on Design Jobs and Careers and the Career Info Index.

Q. What's the difference between an interior designer and a decorator?

Many people wonder what exactly is the difference between a designer and a decorator. In general, a "decorator" works with applying color and finishes to the room as it is (adding floorcoverings, paint, fabrics, windowcoverings, etc.) A "designer" (in addition to the decorator jobs), also works with space planning, remodeling, choosing and designing built-ins, working with the systems and infastructure of a room or building. Thus a designer is in need of more specialized education.

Q. I'm writing a paper on design careers. What are the professional associations for interior designers where I might get more information?

See this page for Professional Associations for designers.

Q. I have questions about setting up my own decorating business and finding clients.

Browse these articles and links for information on Hiring a Designer. Also, you'll want to read up on business practices, presentation techniques, tips, forms, and more in these books from our Bookstore: the Business of Interior Design. Find these books in libraries or buy in an online bookstore to get helpful ideas and sound advice about working as an interior decorator.

Q. I'm interested in being a lighting designer. Are there any websites with information on this career?

Yes. Visit these links to find information on lighting certification --

• The National Council on Qualifications for the Lighting Professions
• International Association of Lighting Designers
• Lightforum: Resource Center for the Lighting Industry

More Decorating FAQs