Launch your career in interior decorating.
The Interior Decorating Professional Certificate is offered by the University of Richmond School of Professional & Continuing Studies. The program provides an introduction to interior decorating theory and practice while also providing a foundation in launching or managing an interior decorating business.
The Interior Decorating Professional Certificate program equips students with industry skills and knowledge to begin a career in the interior decorating field. It may also enable working professionals to upskill toward career advancement, or to add interior decorating skills to an existing professional skillset toward promotion.
Program Structure
The professional certificate consists of four modules, field experiences and a capstone presentation. The 90-hour program takes 7 months to complete and earns 9 CEUs.
Classes include foundational instruction in architecture, furniture and color theory. Students will also learn about materials, sourcing and industry specific business practices while also establishing fundamental business skills needed to be a successful interior decorator. Field experiences are included in various classes.
The capstone decorating project provides students to opportunity to design their own interior decorating project. This project will receive feedback from colleagues and interior decorating professionals, and it provides students a portfolio-grade project that can be shared with current and prospective employers.
Cost and Schedule
The Interior Decorating Professional Certificate costs $2,249. No application or application fee is required, and all texts, materials and supplies are included.
Classes are held one night each week from 6–9 p.m. on the University of Richmond campus. Ample parking is available with valid parking pass, included in program cost. An occassional Saturday class may be scheduled.
Enrolled students will receive a detailed schedule that includes any required Saturday class sessions.
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Modules
Foundations
Covers background knowledge in architecture and furniture styles and history as well as color theory. Includes the following topics:
- Introduction
- Finance/Accounting
- Principles & Elements of Design
- Architecture & Furniture Styles
- Color Theory & Paint
Materials
Offers practical knowledge of materials used in the industry including flooring, textiles, wall and window treatments and lighting. Includes the following topics:
- Soft Furnishings & Wall Treatments
- Textiles
- Window Treatments
- Flooring
- Room Layout & Space Planning
Industry Aspects
Presents the day-to-day knowledge needed to be successful in identifying market trends and sourcing materials. Includes the following topics:
- Kitchens & Bathrooms
- Home Design 3D
- Sourcing Materials
- Styles
- Trends
Business Tools
Addresses knowledge and skills needed to establish a business, including marketing, business planning, finance, and legal issues. Includes the following topics:
- Marketing & Social Media
- Business Plan, Systems & Practices
- Business/Legal Process
- Closing the Deal
Additional Requirements
Field Experience
Students will receive a full tour and application instructions from the owners of the Designers Market of Richmond. 12,000 square foot showroom includes a vast array of fabrics, furniture, accessories, wallcoverings, lighting, carpet and rugs. Coverstraditional, transitional, contemporary or modern styles. Designers Market is open only to the Interior Decorating trade, so the field visit is a unique opportunity for participants.
Capstone Project
The program culminates with an independent decorating project using Home Design 3D to demonstrate knowledge and skills learned in the program. Each student will present their project to the teachers and students enrolled in the program, receiving constructive feedback for improvement. The project provides certificate earners a portfolio that demonstrates their newly acquired interior decorating skills.