ITM Institute Of Design And Media

What Is an Interior Design Course? Eligibility, Subjects, Fees, Scope & Career

ITM Guide

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What Is an Interior Design Course? Eligibility, Subjects, Fees, Scope & Career

Choosing a creative career today means balancing passion with practicality. Among the many design-focused options available, interior design stands out as a profession that blends creativity, technical knowledge, and real-world problem-solving. If you are exploring what is interior design course is, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know-right from eligibility and subjects to fees, duration, and career scope in India.

Introduction: What Is Interior Design Course?

An interior design course is a structured academic program that trains students to plan, design, and enhance interior spaces for homes, offices, retail outlets, hospitality spaces, and public buildings. When people ask what is interior design course is, they are essentially asking how professionals learn to combine aesthetics with functionality.

Interior design goes beyond decoration. It involves understanding space planning, materials, lighting, ergonomics, building services, and client requirements. This is why an interior design course includes both creative and technical training.

Students choose this career because it allows them to:

  • Express creativity in a practical, market-driven field
  • Work on diverse projects across residential and commercial sectors
  • Build independent practices or work with reputed studios

In India, the scope of interior design has expanded rapidly due to urbanization, real estate growth, and lifestyle changes. As a result, students increasingly seek information on interior design courses after 10th, 12th, and even graduation.

Overview of Interior Design Courses in India

Interior design education in India is available at multiple levels, making it accessible to beginners and advanced learners alike.

Types of Interior Design Courses

  • Interior design certificate course - Short-term, skill-focused programs
  • Diploma courses - Industry-oriented practical training
  • Interior design degree course - Comprehensive academic programs
  • Postgraduate programs - Advanced specialization

The best interior design courses typically balance theory, studio practice, and software training. Students learn how to conceptualize spaces, prepare layouts, and present professional design solutions.

Interior Design Course Eligibility & Requirements

Understanding interior design courses eligibility is essential before applying.

Eligibility Criteria

  • After 10th: Certificate or foundation diploma programs
  • After 12th: Diploma, BSc, or B.Des programs
  • After graduation: PG diplomas or master’s programs

Students from any stream, including science, arts, and interior design courses after 12th commerce, are eligible for most programs.

Skills Required

  • Creative thinking and visual imagination
  • Basic drawing and observation skills
  • Interest in materials, colors, and layouts
  • Willingness to learn software tools

When evaluating interior designing course eligibility and fees, institutions also consider aptitude tests or portfolio submissions for degree programs.

Interior Design Courses After 10th, 12th & Graduation

Interior design offers flexible entry points.

After 10th

An interior design course after 10th usually includes certificate or foundation programs that focus on basics such as design principles and drafting.

After 12th

Interior design courses after 12th are the most popular. Options include diplomas, B.Des interior design course, and BSc programs.

After Graduation

Students can pursue advanced diplomas or master’s programs to specialize in areas like commercial or sustainable design.

Interior Design Course Duration

The interior design course duration depends on the program type.

  • Certificate courses: 6-12 months
  • Diploma courses: 1-2 years
  • Degree courses (BSc/B.Des): 3-4 years
  • Advanced programs: 1-2 years

A BSc interior design course provides a deeper academic grounding, while short-term courses are ideal for beginners or professionals switching careers.

Interior Design Courses Fees in India

One of the most common questions is about interior design courses fees.

Fee Range

  • Certificate courses: ₹50,000 - ₹1,50,000
  • Diploma courses: ₹1,00,000 - ₹3,00,000
  • Degree courses: ₹2,00,000 - ₹4,00,000 (siksha.com)

Factors Affecting Fees

  • Institute reputation
  • Course duration
  • Software and lab facilities
  • Industry exposure

Government institutes generally have lower fees compared to private colleges. When comparing interior design course duration and fee, students should also evaluate placement support and infrastructure.

Interior Design Course Subjects & Curriculum

The subjects in interior designing course are designed to build both creative and technical competence.

Common subjects include:

  • Design principles and elements
  • Space planning and ergonomics
  • AutoCAD and 3D software
  • Lighting design
  • Material and construction studies
  • Architecture basics
  • Furniture and product design

For beginners, interior design for beginners courses focus on foundational concepts before moving to advanced applications.

Best Interior Design Courses in India (2026 List)

When asking which course is best for interior design, degree programs usually offer the strongest long-term value.

Top Options

The best interior design course in India is one that combines depth of curriculum, industry exposure, and strong faculty support.

Interior Design Courses in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai & Thane

Mumbai is a major hub for design education and professional practice.

Why Mumbai?

  • Exposure to real-world projects
  • Presence of leading design studios
  • Strong internship opportunities

Students often search for interior design courses in Mumbai with fees to compare options.

Approximate fee ranges:

  • Mumbai: ₹1.5 - ₹4 lakhs (siksha.com)
  • Interior design courses in Navi Mumbai: Slightly more affordable
  • Interior design courses in Thane: Good balance of cost and quality

Job Opportunities After Interior Design Course

Completing an interior design course opens diverse career paths.

  • Interior Designer
  • Space Planner
  • Furniture Designer
  • Residential Designer
  • Commercial Designer
  • Lighting Consultant
  • 3D Visualizer

Meeting interior design courses requirements ensures graduates are industry-ready from day one.

Skills You Gain from an Interior Design Course

Beyond technical knowledge, students develop transferable skills:

  • Creative problem-solving
  • Technical drawing and visualization
  • Software proficiency
  • Client communication
  • Project and time management

These skills make interior designers adaptable across industries.

Why Interior Design Is a Promising Career in India

Interior design is no longer a niche profession. With real estate growth, demand for personalized spaces, and expanding commercial infrastructure, the need for trained designers continues to rise.

For students exploring an interior design course for beginners, this field offers:

  • Creative satisfaction
  • Entrepreneurial opportunities
  • Freelance and studio-based careers

Why to choose ITM Institute of Design & Media?

Choosing the right institute is crucial for building a successful career in interior design, and ITM Institute of Design & Media stands out for its industry-focused approach to design education.

ITM offers a practical, industry-aligned curriculum that goes beyond theory. The courses are designed to reflect current design trends, tools, and professional practices, ensuring students are job-ready upon graduation. From space planning and material studies to AutoCAD and 3D visualization, learning is hands-on and application-driven.

The institute is backed by experienced faculty members who are practicing professionals in the design and creative industries. Their real-world insights help students understand how the interior design industry actually works, not just how it is taught in textbooks.

One of ITM’s biggest advantages is its strong internship and placement support. Students gain exposure through live projects, internships, and industry collaborations, thereby significantly improving their employability.

Located in Mumbai/Navi Mumbai, India’s design and commercial hub, ITM provides unmatched exposure to design studios, architecture firms, and real client projects. This strategic location offers excellent networking and career opportunities.

With modern design labs, studio-based learning, and dedicated career guidance, ITM Institute of Design & Media is an ideal choice for students after 10th, 12th, or graduation who want to build a strong, future-ready career in interior design.

Conclusion

Interior design is a career that blends creativity, technical expertise, and real-world problem-solving. Understanding what is an interior design course is helps students make informed decisions about their education, career path, and future opportunities. With flexible entry points after 10th, 12th, or graduation, varied course durations, and diverse specializations, interior design offers something for every aspiring creative professional.

However, success in this field depends not only on talent but also on the quality of education and industry exposure you receive. This is where choosing the right institute becomes crucial. With its industry-oriented curriculum, experienced faculty, hands-on studio training, and strong internship and placement support, ITM Institute of Design & Media provides a solid foundation for building a successful interior design career.

Located in Mumbai/Navi Mumbai, India’s design and commercial hub, ITM offers students real-world exposure, professional networking, and practical learning that aligns with current industry demands. For students serious about turning their creative passion into a rewarding profession, ITM Institute of Design & Media is a strong and future-ready choice.

FAQs on What Is Interior Design Course

What is the eligibility for an interior design course?

Students can join after 10th, 12th (any stream), or graduation, depending on the program.

What is the duration of an interior design course?

Certificate: 6-12 months
Diploma: 1-2 years
Degree: 3-4 years

What subjects are taught in interior design?

Space planning, AutoCAD, materials, lighting, furniture design, and 3D modelling.

How much does an interior design course cost?

Fees range from ₹50,000 to ₹4,00,000 depending on course level and institute.

Can I do interior design after 12th Commerce?

Yes, interior design courses accept students from all streams.

Which interior design course is best?

Degree courses like B.Des or B.Sc. Interior Design are ideal for long-term careers.

Are interior designers in demand in India?

Yes, due to rapid urban development and growth in real estate and commercial spaces.