12 Interior Design Programs in Colorado for Emerging & Mid-Career Professionals

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Interior design is a dynamic, multidisciplinary field rooted in art, architecture, space planning, and human experience. Whether you’re dipping your toe into the industry for the very first time or pivoting toward a second career, Colorado might surprise you with its diverse range of interior design programs. From CIDA-accredited degrees in interior architecture to flexible online interior design certificates, these programs provide students with industry-standard tools, design theory, and real-world experience to thrive in today’s design industry. This DesignDash Guide spotlights twelve programs in Colorado tailored to both emerging professionals and mid-career changemakers ready to reimagine their path. We hope you find your educational home below!

12 Interior Design Programs in Colorado for Emerging and Mid-Career Professionals

Colorado State University (CSU) – B.S. in Interior Architecture and Design

Nestled in the heart of Fort Collins, the Colorado State University interior design program offers a CIDA-accredited curriculum that seamlessly blends artistry with applied science. This comprehensive degree in interior architecture prepares students for dynamic careers in the interior design industry, with a curriculum rich in color theory, lighting design, space planning, and construction management.

CSU’s program focuses on providing interior design students with both creative exploration and technical fluency in tools like computer aided drafting (CAD) and industry standard software. Through professional development opportunities, study abroad options, and internships with leading design firms, interior design graduates emerge with real-world skills, confidence, and an eye for sustainability.

If you plan to seek interior design accreditation (through the NCIDQ, for example), CSU’s program is a good choice. Many professional designers do go this route—whether emerging straight out of high school or pursuing a second career later in life.

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University of Colorado Denver – Interior Design Certificate

For mid-career professionals who want to pivot or elevate their practice, the University of Colorado Denver offers a robust graduate-level interior design certificate. Grounded in the principles of environmental design and sustainability, this program equips interior designers with practical skills and advanced knowledge in areas such as space planning, professional practice, and graphic communication.

The curriculum supports students in mastering the courses required to design functional, health-conscious spaces that align with contemporary needs. With a strong emphasis on project management and technical competency, this interior design program helps professionals stay ahead of the curve in an evolving industry.

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Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) – BFA in Interior Design

Bold, inventive, and deeply rooted in creative education, the interior design degree at RMCAD is ideal for aspiring designers who view interiors as living art. As one of Colorado’s premier CIDA-accredited programs, RMCAD prepares interior design students to thrive in both residential and commercial design settings.

The curriculum merges the principles of interior architecture with practical training in lighting design, manual drafting, CAD, and computer aided design, all while nurturing each student’s individual artistic voice. This program focuses not only on technique and technology but also on cultivating the leadership and collaboration skills essential for success in a modern design firm.

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University of Colorado Boulder – Program in Environmental Design

The University of Colorado Boulder’s Program in Environmental Design offers a distinctive, interdisciplinary pathway for those drawn to the intersection of architecture, sustainability, and human-centered design. While not a traditional interior design program, it provides students with a strong foundation in space planning, environmental systems, and the technical and conceptual frameworks that support functional, aesthetically rich spaces.

With coursework that integrates color theory, graphic communication, and professional practice, this degree cultivates design thinking and applied science in equal measure. Graduates of this program often pursue careers that influence the built environment—from interiors to urban spaces—making it an excellent launchpad for both emerging professionals and those seeking to reimagine their role in the design industry.

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Arapahoe Community College – AAS in Interior Design

For students seeking an accessible, hands-on education in interior design, Arapahoe Community College offers a powerful AAS degree accredited by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA). This interior design program emphasizes both foundational knowledge and technical expertise, preparing students to become certified kitchen and bath designers or pursue broader career opportunities in residential design.

Courses required in this program cover everything from CAD and manual drafting to color theory and bath design, offering the practical skills needed to meet today’s professional standards. Interior design students benefit from project-based learning and direct preparation for certification exams, positioning them for immediate success in the design world.

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Front Range Community College – AAS in Interior Architecture and Design

Blending creativity with technical depth, Front Range Community College’s AAS degree in Interior Architecture and Design is designed to provide students with a well-rounded, career-ready education. This interior design program includes a suite of interior design courses focused on residential and commercial applications, lighting design, and computer aided design, alongside electives in bath design and sustainable practices.

Students may also pursue an interior design certificate or engage in service-learning with local community partners—an invaluable opportunity for developing real-world experience. With its flexible structure and focus on job opportunities in the design industry, this program supports both emerging designers and professionals seeking to upskill with purpose.

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Pikes Peak State College – AAS in Interior Design

At Pikes Peak State College, the AAS in Interior Design offers a balanced blend of artistry, technical training, and hands-on experience tailored to both aspiring and transitioning interior designers. The curriculum equips students with a strong foundation in residential design, while also covering commercial interiors, lighting design, and space planning.

Students engage with software like AutoCAD and Revit and develop practical skills in drafting and construction management. This program focuses on preparing students to meet real-world demands with confidence, offering coursework that aligns with current job opportunities and admission requirements for advanced certifications. Whether entering the field or seeking professional development, this program can easily be a launchpad for design careers rooted in creativity and function.

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Heritage School of Interior Design (Denver)

Heritage School of Interior Design in Denver offers a boutique-style educational experience for those seeking a focused, career-driven path into the interior design industry. With offerings such as the Fundamentals of Interior Design and Master Certification programs, Heritage prioritizes practical skills and professional practice, making it a top choice for mid-career professionals and career changers alike.

Courses required in the program include manual drafting, CAD, color theory, and space planning, along with workshops on business essentials and client presentations. Students benefit from immediate immersion in real-world design challenges, using software and learning from professional designers active in the field. They emerge as confident, portfolio-ready graduates poised to thrive in both residential and commercial interiors.

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Metropolitan State University of Denver – Online Certified Residential Interior Designer Training

For those looking to balance flexibility with comprehensive training, the Metropolitan State University of Denver offers an online interior design certificate that prepares students for the Residential Interior Design Qualifying Certification (RIDQC). This self-paced program provides students with the tools to master residential design, color theory, lighting design, and professional practice—all critical components of a successful career in interior design.

The curriculum also covers drafting, project management, and the use of industry standard software, supporting learners in developing the skills required to work in or start their own design firm. Whether you’re entering the field or deepening your expertise, this program supports your goals with convenience and credibility.

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Colorado State University Online – Certified Residential Interior Designer Course

Designed for emerging professionals and career shifters alike, the Colorado State University Online Certified Residential Interior Designer Course offers a flexible, comprehensive introduction to the interior design industry. Focused on residential design, the program provides students with foundational knowledge in space planning, lighting design, and color theory, while also introducing essential technical skills like CAD and computer-aided drafting.

As part of this certificate, students prepare for the RIDQC exam and earn the R.I.D.E. credential, which signals readiness for real-world design challenges. The program focuses on developing the practical skills and professional practice competencies needed to work independently or within a design firm, which makes it a smart choice for anyone ready to turn creativity into career opportunities.

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Front Range Community College – Online Residential Interior Designer Course

Front Range Community College offers an entirely online path for students seeking to enter or advance within the interior design field. This residential interior designer course is tailored to help students build core competencies in interior architecture, space planning, and applied science, while also preparing for the RIDQC certification exam.

The program includes training in software, CAD, and essential business skills—ensuring that graduates are well-versed in both creative development and professional practice. Ideal for students balancing work, life, and education, this flexible certificate provides a streamlined path to credentialing, career advancement, and a meaningful role in the interior design industry.

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American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) – Interior Design Fundamentals Credential

For educators, trainers, and professionals aiming to validate core interior design knowledge, the AAFCS Interior Design Fundamentals Credential offers a nationally recognized certification grounded in best practices. This program focuses on design fundamentals, space planning, and color theory, while emphasizing critical thinking and problem-solving in real-world scenarios.

It supports professional development by providing students with the academic and technical language needed to thrive in educational, corporate, and community environments. Whether you’re guiding future interior design students or enhancing your qualifications in a multidisciplinary role, this credential demonstrates commitment to excellence and deep understanding of the interior design field.

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How to Pick the Perfect Program for You

Choosing the right interior design program comes down to understanding your goals and where you are in your design journey. If you’re an emerging designer seeking comprehensive education, look for programs that provide a degree in interior design or interior architecture, offer interior design accreditation, and emphasize foundational courses like color theory, lighting design, CAD, and construction management. These programs often include hands-on studio experience, exposure to professional practice, and access to job opportunities through internships and design firm connections.

On the other hand, if you’re pursuing a second career or seeking to deepen your expertise, consider programs that prioritize flexibility, professional development, and certification. An interior design certificate or online training focused on practical skills, industry-standard software, and real-world application may align better with your lifestyle and goals.

No matter your path, the right education can empower you to design functional, beautiful, and health-forward spaces—and shape a career you truly love.