Interior Decorating

Diploma of Applied Arts

Duration: 4 semesters plus 8 week work term

Program Description

The Interior Decorating program is designed specifically for individuals with a flair for creativity, imagination and design. It prepares graduates to work in a wide range of professional service and sales-oriented environments as well as for self-employment. Students will study the effective use of color, fabrics, lighting, furniture, window treatments, antiques and much more in order to functionally and attractively decorate residential, commercial and public spaces. Courses in drawing, computers, retailing, marketing and entrepreneurship round out this exciting program and prepare participants to become adaptable employees or business owners. When the academics are done, you’ll tie it all together with an 8 week work-term, mentored by an industry professional.

CDECA: The Canadian Decorator’s Association (CDECA) is a professional not-for-profit association representing both student and accredited decorators and designers, and affiliate business across Canada. Check out their website, www.cdeca.com, for more information on Interior Decorating.

Program Courses

• Communication Skills
• Introduction to Computers with Publisher
• Introduction to Freehand Drawing
• AutoCAD I
• Student Success
• History of Furniture I
• Furnishings and Fabrics
• Decorating Styles
• History of Furniture II
• Photoshop I
• Marketing
• Business Development
• Computer Drafting and Design
• Introduction to Floral Design
• Colour and Lighting
• Space Planning
• Antique Furniture
• Window Treatments
• Presentation and Illustration
• Bookkeeping
• Human Relations and Ethical Issues
• Spreadsheets
• Work Term

Employment Opportunities

Upon successful completion of the Interior Decorating program, graduates will be prepared to supervise and coordinate the installation and arrangement of furniture and furnishings as well as provide advice to clients on the selection of colour schemes, layout, lighting, furniture, floor coverings, curtains, paint and wallpaper, and hardware products. Employment opportunities exist with Interior Decorators/Designers, retailers, builders, architects, and through self-employment.

Please click here for additional labour market information.

Entrance Requirements

High School Graduates or Equivalent

High School Graduates or equivalent are eligible for admission to the Interior Decorating program. Students must complete an application form and provide a copy of High School, Adult Basic Education, or G.E.D. results. Under certain circumstances, students who do not complete the formal High School requirements may be accepted upon the recommendation of a High School Principal or Guidance Counsellor. Please contact an Admissions Officer for further details.

Mature Students

Mature students are eligible for admission to the Interior Decorating program. These students must be at least 19 years of age, complete an application form, provide a copy of recent marks, and write a Canadian Adult Achievement Test (CAAT) as arranged by Academy Canada.

Note: Applicants with color blindness may find some aspects of this program challenging. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our Admissions Office at 1-800-561-8000.

For further information, please contact an Admissions Officer at 1-800-561-8000 or visit the information request page.

To apply for the Interior Decorating or other Academy Canada programs online, click here.

Program start dates are subject to sufficient enrollment.

Academy Canada reserves the right to modify any programs, courses, topics, objectives, etc.