Basic Interior Design
Certificate Program

If you’re ready for an overall introduction to the field of interior design, our one-year Basic Interior Design certificate program might be for you.

Although it’s a non-degree program, your credits here can be applied to an AAS or BFA. You can take classes part-time or full-time, and you can participate in person or online. No portfolio is required for admission.

For more information about the Basic Interior Design certificate program, contact admissions@nysid.edu , or call 212-472-1500, ext. 205.

The Basic Interior Design certificate curriculum emphasizes the fundamental skills and knowledge of interior design, architecture, and the visual and decorative arts. Introductory courses focus on drawing, design concepts, and design history, thereby building a foundation-level understanding of the technical and aesthetic principles essential to comprehending space planning, color, drafting, and materials and finishes.

• The program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis

• Courses are offered onsite and online

• The curriculum focuses on the foundation of interior design

• All credits can be applied to the AAS or BFA programs

The BID certificate alone is not sufficient for graduates to be eligible for licensure without further professional education and experience. Click here to read Gainful Employment information specific to this non-degree certificate program, which is eligible for financial aid.

Basic Interior Design certificate curriculum (24 Credits)

All students, including non-matriculated students and those taking continuing education courses, have advisors from their initial contact with the College. Advisors will discuss the different programs and schedule options, and evaluate transfer credits, even before formal application to the College is made. The course guide and the degree requirements listed below apply to students matriculating in Fall 2017 and Spring 2018.

NYSID Faculty

New York School of Interior Design is a great learning institution because of its faculty. They come from a wide variety of backgrounds and bring practical and theoretical experience from their professional lives.

We have more than 100 faculty members who are practicing designers at many of the top design firms in the country: Gensler, HOK, Perkins+Will, Rockwell Group, and Robert A.M. Stern Architects to name a few. Many are also principals of their own firms--for instance Kati Curtis of Kati Curtis Design, Stefan Steil of Steilish Interiors & Architecture, and Warren Ashworth of his self-titled architecture firm.

NYSID Profiles

Advisory Board

NYSID advisory boards are voluntary boards of leaders who serve to guide and advocate for the college's programs.

Basic Interior Design online certificate

The Basic Interior Design online certificate provides the same rigorous education that we offer on campus, but with greater flexibility. NYSID instructors teach every course and the curriculum and learning goals are the same as the onsite courses. You can study on your own time and at your own pace — watch recorded lectures and demonstrations, participate in active discussions with fellow students and the instructor, and access handouts and assignments whenever it is convenient for you.

Students matriculated in the onsite BID (with the exception of international students) may take up to 9 credits in the online format; students matriculated in the online BID may take up to 9 credits in onsite courses. Any academic credits earned online will directly apply to future degree programs. You can view NYSID's International student requirements as well.

Email the office of undergraduate admissions at admissions@nysid.edu with questions about the BID online program.