5 Best Interior Design Schools In Canada

Being good at any profession begins with having a good educational background or foundation. This equally applies to interior design and Canada offers some of the finest options. In addition to its vibrant design industry and diverse culture, you can find some of the best interior design schools in Canada to help you start out your career as an interior designer. These schools groom their students in the art, functionality, and creativity of interior design.

Hence, whether you dream of creating stunning residential spaces, designing innovative work environments, or crafting sustainable interiors, these schools in Canada promise the right education that will set you on the path to success. Undoubtedly, there are many great schools in the country and beyond. Nonetheless, this article will discuss five of the top-tier schools in the country. This will help to point you in the right direction as you search for the school that suits you the most.

Best Interior Design Schools In Canada

1. George Brown College

Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Program Duration: 3 years

George Brown College is among the best interior design schools in Canada. Its program is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of interior design theory, concept application, and technical drawing. Students learn to design for retrofits, renovations, and new construction in studios with the most up-to-date equipment and software. For these studio projects, students communicate the technical aspects of building interiors by developing plans, elevations, sections, renderings, and 3D models.

The Interior Design program in this school is not a decorating program. However, the selection of finishes is part of what students learn. The program focuses on people-centered design. Also, the college believes in nurturing creativity through education. Students do not need a portfolio to join the program, but a strong enthusiasm and passion for design are essential.

The Interior Design program at George Brown College is open to both domestic and international students. Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges, while international students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System. The tuition fees and program lengths vary depending on the student’s status and program.

2. Humber College

Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Program Duration: 4 years (Bachelor of Interior Design), 2 years (Interior Decorating diploma)

Among the best interior design schools in Canada, Humber College is one of those that offers both a Bachelor of Interior Design program and an Interior Decorating diploma program. Both programs are offered by the Faculty of Media & Creative Arts at Humber College.

Bachelor of Interior Design Program

The program balances creativity with sensible design thinking for the living environment. Here, students learn to design for commercial, institutional, and residential spaces. They also develop skills in design communication, design research, and design thinking. It includes courses such as Design Studio, Building Systems, Materials and Methods, and Professional Practice.

Also, the program includes a mandatory work placement and a self-directed volunteer project to help students connect their passion for design to the community and the design industry.

Furthermore, The Bachelor of Interior Design program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). It prepares students for entry-level interior design practice, advanced study, and professional membership. Graduates of the program will be able to apply for membership in professional interior design organizations such as the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO) and the Interior Designers of Canada (IDC)

Interior Decorating Diploma Program

The diploma program combines essential creative and practical elements with insights into current design trends. Students learn to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces for residential clients. Also, the program includes courses such as Design Fundamentals, Colour Theory, and Materials and Finishes.

Graduates of the program will be able to work as interior decorating consultants, sales representatives, or design assistants.

3. Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU)

Location: British Columbia, Canada
Program Duration: 4 years

Kwantlen Polytechnic University is one of the best interior design schools in Canada that offers a Bachelor of Interior Design program. It provides students with an intensive education in interior design. The program includes courses such as Design Studio, Building Systems, Materials and Methods, and Professional Practice.

In this school, students learn to design for commercial, institutional, and residential spaces. And they develop skills in design communication, design research, and design thinking. Also, Kwantlen Polytechnic University offers work-integrated learning opportunities, innovative applied research projects, and industry-proven faculty. These help students refine their talents and develop the people and technical skills they need to build their portfolio and network.

The program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and has first professional degree status. Graduates of the program will be able to apply for membership in professional interior design organizations such as the Association of Registered Interior Designers of British Columbia (ARIDBC) and the Interior Designers of Canada (IDC).

4. Vancouver Island University (VIU)

Location: Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
Program Duration: 4 years

This is another school that offers a Bachelor of Interior Design program in Canada. It combines theory with specialized knowledge and the development of proficiencies relative to the profession of interior design.

By far one of the best interior design schools in Canada, Vancouver Island University’s curriculum features lecture, studio, critique, and computer lab instruction. Students are also exposed to independent and collaborative projects, formal and informal presentations, field trips, an internship and a final major project spanning two semesters.

In VIU, the foundation courses and elective study provide an excellent foundation and structure for lifelong learning. It also ensures that students develop quantitative reasoning and critical thinking skills.

The program is a competitive entry two-step process. Students must first apply to Vancouver Island University and meet the minimum admission requirements. Then, they must apply to the Bachelor of Interior Design program and submit a portfolio of their work. If you wish to study at Vancouver Island University, you can contact the Office of Future Students for further assistance with the application process.

The Bachelor of Interior Design program in this school is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) and has first professional degree status. Graduates of the program will be able to apply for membership in professional interior design organizations such as the Interior Designers of Canada (IDC).

5. Université de Montréal (UdeM) University of Montreal

Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Program Duration: 3 years

If your first language is French and you prefer to learn in French, Université de Montréal is among the best interior design schools in Canada where you can go. It has a design school that offers a university education whose specific concerns relate to interior environments.

The program includes courses such as Design Studio, Building Systems, Materials and Methods, and Professional Practice. The students in this school learn to design for commercial, institutional, and residential spaces. They also develop skills in design communication, design research, and design thinking.

The Faculty of Environmental Design offers the Bachelor of Interior Design program at the Université de Montréal. The school also offers other design-related programs, such as a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a Master of Architecture. Beyond the Bachelors degree, UdeM also offers a DESS (Diplôme d’études supérieures spécialisées) in interior design which typically lasts for a year. The DESS is a specialization degree. Hence, anyone who wants to enroll in the program need to hold a Diploma or Bachelors degree in interior design.

Like other schools listed here, graduates of the program will be able to apply for membership in professional interior design organizations such as the Interior Designers of Canada (IDC).

Finally

We have provided some of the best interior design schools in Canada. However, the “best” school for you may depend on your individual preferences, career aspirations, and location. Be sure to explore each school’s offerings, visit campuses if possible, and connect with faculty and alumni to make an informed decision.

Each of the institutions bring a unique perspective to the field, emphasizing creativity, sustainability, and practical skills. So wether you’re drawn to the urban design scene in Toronto, or the cultural diversity in Montreal, there’s a Canadian interior design school that can help you achieve your goals. No matter which school you choose, a career in interior design promises a world of possibilities to transform spaces and create environments that inspire and enhance people’s lives.