Best Undergraduate Colleges for Interior Design in New England

Interior design is a dynamic field that blends creativity, technical skill, and an understanding of human behavior to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. For students in New England looking to pursue this path, the region offers several outstanding undergraduate programs known for their innovative curricula, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections. Here’s an article highlighting some of the best undergraduate colleges for interior design in New England:

1. Wentworth Institute of Technology – Boston, MA

• Program Overview: Wentworth offers a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). The program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning with a focus on design theory, sustainability, and professional practice.
• Why It’s Great: Located in the heart of Boston, Wentworth provides access to a vibrant design community and numerous internship opportunities. The program is ranked #1 in New England by College Factual for 2025, reflecting its strong reputation.
• Notable Features: Two required co-op experiences, state-of-the-art design studios, and a curriculum that prepares students for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam.

2. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) – Providence, RI

• Program Overview: RISD’s Interior Architecture program offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) with a focus on adaptive reuse, allowing students to explore the transformation of existing spaces.
• Why It’s Great: RISD is one of the top art and design schools in the country, known for its interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on creative problem-solving. Its location in Providence provides a rich cultural and architectural context.
• Notable Features: Strong emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility, access to RISD’s renowned art resources, and opportunities for international study.

3. Suffolk University – Boston, MA

• Program Overview: Suffolk offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design, accredited by CIDA, with a curriculum that balances artistic expression, technical skills, and professional development.
• Why It’s Great: Situated in downtown Boston, Suffolk provides students with exposure to a thriving design industry and numerous networking opportunities. The program emphasizes career readiness with professional development courses and internships.
• Notable Features: Access to augmented and virtual reality technology, a strong community of alumni in the design field, and a focus on ethical challenges in design.

4. Endicott College – Beverly, MA

• Program Overview: Endicott’s Bachelor of Science in Interior Design is a CIDA-accredited program that focuses on both residential and commercial design, blending creativity with practical application.
• Why It’s Great: The college’s location on the North Shore of Massachusetts offers a picturesque setting and proximity to Boston, enhancing internship and career opportunities. It’s known for its small class sizes and personalized instruction.
• Notable Features: Three required internships, a senior thesis project, and a strong emphasis on portfolio development for professional entry.

5. New England Institute of Technology (NEIT) – East Greenwich, RI

• Program Overview: NEIT offers a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design, focusing on hands-on training and the integration of building science and technology into design practice.
• Why It’s Great: With a technical focus, NEIT prepares students for the evolving demands of the industry, offering a practical education in a supportive environment. It ranks among the top schools in Rhode Island for overall quality.
• Notable Features: State-of-the-art design studios, a curriculum that includes advanced visualization tools, and a community enrichment program that integrates real-world projects.

6. University of New Haven – West Haven, CT

• Program Overview: The University of New Haven offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design with options for a general concentration or a pre-architecture track, accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD).
• Why It’s Great: The program emphasizes a balance of creativity and technical skills, with a focus on preparing students for entry-level practice or graduate studies in architecture.
• Notable Features: Strong industry connections in the New York metro area, hands-on studio experiences, and a curriculum that includes architectural drawing and building construction.

7. Paier College of Art – Hamden, CT

• Program Overview: Paier offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design, focusing on artistic and technical skills for both residential and commercial design.
• Why It’s Great: This small, private institution provides a personalized education with a strong emphasis on individual creativity and professional preparation.
• Notable Features: Small class sizes, a focus on portfolio development, and a curriculum that prepares students for the NCIDQ exam.

Honorable Mentions:

• Boston Architectural College (BAC) – Boston, MA: While primarily known for its graduate programs, BAC offers a Bachelor of Interior Architecture with a focus on practical, real-world design experience.
• Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) – Boston, MA: MassArt offers a BFA with an architectural design concentration, providing a strong artistic foundation for interior design-related careers.
• University of Massachusetts Dartmouth – North Dartmouth, MA: The BFA in Interior Architecture and Design combines design with a liberal arts education, offering a well-rounded approach.

Choosing the Right Program:

• Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by CIDA or NASAD, as these ensure a high standard of education recognized by the industry.
• Location: New England’s proximity to major design hubs like Boston and Providence offers unique opportunities for internships, networking, and exposure to architectural history.
• Practical Experience: Programs with required internships, co-ops, or real-world projects provide invaluable hands-on experience.
• Specialization: Some programs offer concentrations like sustainable design or pre-architecture, so consider your specific interests.
• Faculty and Resources: Schools with experienced faculty and modern facilities can enhance your learning experience.

New England’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant design community make it an ideal region for studying interior design. Whether you’re drawn to the technical focus of Wentworth, the artistic prestige of RISD, or the personalized approach of Paier, these programs offer exceptional opportunities to launch a successful career in interior design.