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Interior Design

Diploma

Become an interior designer: build professional skills across ten practical assignments - from concept to presentation - with expert guidance and in-depth feedback.

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Why this course?

Launch your career as an interior designer. This comprehensive, beginner-friendly programme equips you to create, present, and deliver complete design projects - ideal for enthusiasts, career-changers, or anyone formalising their skills. No prior qualifications required.

Structured around ten practical assignments, you'll progress from fundamentals to more advanced practice: researching and developing concepts, interpreting client briefs, space planning and circulation, colour theory and materials, lighting principles, technical drawing and visual communication, and presenting resolved room schemes for residential and commercial contexts. Each assignment builds your confidence and industry awareness while developing a professional workflow.

You'll learn with expert-created materials - video tutorials, written guides, and project briefs - and receive timely tutor support with detailed feedback on every submission. By the end, you'll have a polished portfolio and the practical know-how to plan, communicate, and deliver interior design solutions.

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COURSE DETAILS

About this course



Graduation & what to expect

UPCOMING

Diploma courses

View the next available start dates for this course and choose the option that works best for you, including Home Study, Classroom Based and Live Online study. Select a course below to see the schedule, location and fees.

Date Start Date:
ANYTIME
HOME STUDY
The Home Study course allows you to learn entirely at your own pace and can be started anytime.

Best for: Students who want complete flexibility and prefer to study independently.

SCHEDULE

Online Self-Directed Learning

£715 Payment plans available
Enrol now
Date Next Intake:
SEPTEMBER 2026
LIVE ONLINE
Live-online classes are available as either full-day Saturday sessions or weekday evenings.

Best for: Students who want live teaching and interaction with other students while studying from home.

LOCATION

Virtual Classes by Zoom

AVAILABLE SCHEDULES

8 full days, Saturdays

Starts: September 12th (09:30 - 16:30)

View schedule
Or

16 evenings, Tuesdays

Starts: September 15th (18:30 - 21:00)

View schedule
£1,385 Payment plans available
Enrol now
Date Next Intake:
SEPTEMBER 2026
CLASSROOM BASED
In-person classes are available on campus as either full-day Saturday sessions or weekday evenings.

Best for: Students who enjoy learning practical skills in a classroom environment alongside other creatives.

AVAILABLE LOCATIONS

AVAILABLE SCHEDULES

8 full days, Saturdays

Starts: September 12th (09:30 - 16:30)

View schedule
Or

16 evenings, Tuesdays

Starts: September 15th (18:30 - 21:00)

View schedule
£1,805 Payment plans available
Enrol now
info

Entry requirements: To enrol on this course, you must be over 18 years of age.

BAC

BAC

Accreditation

The National Academy of Creative Arts is an accredited provider of the British Accreditation Council (BAC), a leading authority in quality assurance for independent education in the UK. Recognised globally by students, agents and government bodies, the BAC mark represents the highest standards in teaching, student welfare and institutional management.

STUDY MODES

Explore Our Flexible Learning Paths

Not sure which learning format is right for you? Compare our flexible study modes to understand how Home Study, Classroom Based and Live Online courses work, and how each option supports your learning.

Choosing your study mode

Home Study courses allow you to learn entirely at your own pace.

You will study through the Online Learning Centre, which provides access to instructional videos, written lessons, and course assignments, working through course materials and assignments independently while receiving feedback and guidance from your designated tutor.

There are no scheduled classes or assessment submission dates, giving you maximum flexibility to study around work, family, or other commitments.

Best for: Students who want complete flexibility and prefer to study independently.

Home Study

Classroom courses combine flexible online learning with in-person practical classes.

You will complete your course materials and assignments through the Online Learning Centre, guided by a designated tutor while also attending practical classes taught by an industry professional.

These sessions focus on hands-on skills, demonstrations, and practical techniques, rather than assessment delivery.

Students attend 12 monthly classes held on Saturdays, or 24 weekly sessions, held in the evening.

Classes are available in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh, Belfast, Cardiff, and Bristol.

Best for: Students who enjoy learning practical skills in a classroom environment alongside other creatives.

Classroom Based

Live Online courses offer the same structure as our classroom courses, but with live teaching delivered online.

You will complete your course materials and assignments through the Online Learning Centre, guided by a designated tutor while also attending practical classes taught online by an industry professional.

These sessions focus on demonstrations, practical skills, and discussion, helping you apply what you are learning in your course.

Students typically attend 12 monthly classes or 24 weekly sessions in a small group environment.

Best for: Students who want live teaching and interaction with other students while studying from home.

Live Online

MAP

Class Locations

The National Academy of Creative Arts runs in-person classes in the following locations. Live-online and home-study courses are also available and can be completed from the comfort of your own home.

View Upcoming classes

OUTCOMES

What will you learn?

Style your own interior spaces with confidence

Learn key design principles and techniques to create spaces that reflect your personal taste.

Choose colours, furnishings, and materials creatively

Understand how to select and combine colours, finishes, and décor for a harmonious look.

Plan simple room layouts

Gain the skills to arrange your own living spaces for comfort, flow, and function.

Develop a mood board for inspiration

Create a mood board that helps you visualize and refine your ideas for personal projects.



Our teaching approach


PROGRAM

Course Overview

Welcome to a transformative journey into the world of interior design! This module serves as your gateway to mastering the art of creating stunning spaces that reflect beauty and functionality. Unearth the fascinating history of interior design and learn how foundational principles like balance, rhythm, and harmony can elevate your projects. Get acquainted with essential colour theory, discover the secrets to spatial layouts, and stay ahead with the latest trends shaping this vibrant industry. Let your creativity flourish as you gain the skills to craft spaces that captivate and inspire.

Key learnings:

  • History of Interior Design
  • Basic Design Principles: Balance, Rhythm, Harmony
  • Introduction to Colour Theory
  • Understanding Spaces and Layouts
  • Trends in Interior Design

Unlock the potential of your interior design projects with our comprehensive module designed to equip you with the tools and techniques that define the success of every designer. Dive into the art of sketching and drawing essentials, explore cutting-edge design software, and make informed choices with materials and finishes that will transform your ideas into stunning realities. Elevate your creativity with mood boards, and discover the secrets of effective lighting design to bring your masterpiece to life.

Key learnings:

  • Sketching and Drawing Basics
  • Introduction to Design Software
  • Material and Finish Selections
  • Basics of Lighting Design
  • Creating Mood Boards

Discover how to transform every room in your home into a functional and stylish haven with our expertly crafted module. Learn to design the most important spaces, like living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms, with clever techniques that marry practicality with aesthetics. Even small spaces can become cozy retreats with our smart solutions, making your home both welcoming and efficient.

Key learnings:

  • Designing a Living Room: Functionality and Aesthetics
  • Kitchen Design Principles
  • Bathroom Design Considerations
  • Bedroom Design for Comfort and Style
  • Space-Saving Solutions for Small Spaces

Discover a world of design possibilities with our comprehensive module, perfect for transforming your space into a masterpiece. Dive into the nuances of traditional, contemporary, minimalist, and eclectic styles while embracing sustainable practices. Learn to identify and seamlessly apply these design principles, empowering you to curate a space that reflects your unique personality and preferences.

Key learnings:

  • Exploring Traditional Design Styles
  • Contemporary Design: Characteristics and Principles
  • Minimalist Design: Maximizing Simplicity
  • Eclectic Design: Creatively Combining Elements
  • Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design

Elevate your interior design projects with essential project management skills tailored specifically for the industry. Discover how to effectively plan and organize your projects, manage budgets, and build strong collaborations with suppliers and vendors. Learn the ins and outs of contract management and master the art of project documentation and client communication to ensure your design concepts are flawlessly executed from start to finish.

Key learnings:

  • Planning and Organising a Design Project
  • Budgeting for Interior Design Projects
  • Working with Suppliers and Vendors
  • Basics of Contract Management
  • Project Documentation and Client Communication

Transform your design projects with our comprehensive module on colour mastery! Discover how the psychology of colour can help you create the perfect ambience and elevate your spaces. Dive into advanced colour schemes and palettes, uncover the powerful effect of lighting on colour, and stay ahead with the latest colour trends and forecasts. This knowledge will empower you to expertly apply colour across diverse spaces, ensuring your designs captivate and inspire.

Key learnings:

  • Psychology of Colour
  • Advanced Colour Schemes and Palettes
  • Lighting and Colour Impact
  • Colour Trends and Forecasting
  • Applying Colour in Various Spaces

Unlock the secrets to creating captivating and efficient spaces with our comprehensive module designed for interior design enthusiasts and professionals alike. Dive into advanced techniques for space planning and discover strategic furniture placement methods that enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Learn how to integrate ergonomic principles for comfort and efficiency, master zoning in open-plan areas, and optimize flow and circulation to make every environment a masterpiece.

Key learnings:

  • Advanced Space Planning Techniques
  • Strategic Furniture Placement
  • Ergonomics in Interior Design
  • Zoning in Open-Plan Spaces
  • Optimizing Flow and Circulation

Discover an extensive range of materials and finishes that will elevate your design projects to new heights. Dive into the world of textiles, woods, and metals, including cutting-edge and eco-friendly options. This module will empower you to seamlessly navigate the selection process, ensuring your designs reflect the latest in material technology. Perfectly tailored to complement your design vision, you'll learn to select finishes for walls, floors, and ceilings with confidence and flair.

Key learnings:

  • Exploring Materials: Textiles, Metals, Woods
  • Innovative and Sustainable Materials
  • Finishes for Walls, Floors, and Ceilings
  • Technological Advances in Materials
  • Material Selection Process for Projects

Transform your spaces with expert lighting design knowledge that brings your visions to life! Dive into this module to discover the perfect lighting fixtures for every setting, maximize the use of natural light, and master the art of creating the perfect ambiance. Plus, explore the exciting world of smart lighting and automation to elevate the functionality and mood of any environment.

Key learnings:

  • Principles of Lighting Design
  • Types of Lighting Fixtures and Their Uses
  • Incorporating Natural Light
  • Creating Atmosphere with Lighting
  • Smart Lighting and Automation

Transform your interiors into captivating spaces with our comprehensive module that focuses on the art of styling and accessorizing. Elevate your design projects by mastering the placement and use of art, choosing the perfect textiles and soft furnishings, and crafting themed spaces that reflect distinctive styles and character. Unlock the secrets to telling compelling interior design stories through these essential finishing touches.

Key learnings:

  • Art and Accessories in Interior Design
  • Styling Shelves and Surfaces
  • Selecting and Hanging Wall Art
  • Textiles and Soft Furnishings
  • Creating Themed and Styled Spaces

TUTORS

Meet Our Interior Design Educators

All our tutors are creative professionals working in the industry.

See all tutors

FAQ

Can't find what you need?

Find answers to commonly asked questions about admissions, programs, financial aid, and more. If you have a question that's not listed here, feel free to reach out to us directly.

The National Academy of Creative Arts is dedicated to helping aspiring creatives develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to succeed in today's creative industries.

Whether you're looking to start a new career, develop your professional skills or pursue higher education, we offer flexible study options, experienced tutors and industry-focused courses designed around real-world practice.

As part of the Further Learning Group, an established education provider supporting thousands of students across specialist academies, we're committed to delivering a high-quality learning experience from enquiry through to graduation.

Yes.

We offer a range of professionally recognised qualifications, including Certificates, Diplomas, Professional Diplomas and Pearson BTEC Higher National qualifications.

Selected higher education pathways also provide the opportunity to progress to a BA (Hons) Top-Up Degree, validated and awarded by the University of Hertfordshire.

Our BTEC qualifications are awarded by Pearson, one of the world's leading education organisations, giving students confidence that they're studying qualifications recognised by employers and educational institutions.

Absolutely.

Our flexible study options are designed to fit around your lifestyle. Depending on your chosen course, you can study from home, attend live online classes or join classroom sessions, allowing you to balance your studies with work, family and other commitments.

We know everyone learns differently, so many of our courses are available in a choice of study modes.

Depending on the course, you can choose from:

  • Home Study
  • Live Online Classes
  • Classroom-Based Learning

Whichever option you choose, you'll receive expert tutor support throughout your studies.

Not usually.

Many of our students begin with little or no previous experience. Whether you're taking your first steps into a creative subject or building on existing skills, our tutors will support you throughout your learning journey.

Individual entry requirements vary for higher education courses, and these are clearly explained on each course page.

Yes.

From the day you enrol, you'll have access to experienced tutors who provide guidance, feedback and encouragement throughout your studies.

You'll also have access to our Online Learning Centre, comprehensive learning resources and our Student Services team, ensuring you always have someone to turn to whenever you need help.

That's exactly what many of our students are looking to achieve.

Our courses are designed to develop practical, industry-relevant skills that prepare you for employment, freelance opportunities or further study.

Selected courses also include optional work placement opportunities, helping you gain valuable real-world experience.

Yes.

We offer selected higher education pathways that enable students to progress from the Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) to the Higher National Diploma (HND) and then to a BA (Hons) Top-Up Degree, validated and awarded by the University of Hertfordshire.

These pathways combine practical, industry-focused learning with recognised higher education qualifications.

We're here to help.

Whether you're exploring a creative hobby, preparing for university, changing careers or looking to advance professionally, our friendly Course Advisors can help you choose the course and study option that's right for your goals.

People increasingly want flexible ways to develop creative skills without putting their careers or personal lives on hold.

A high-quality online creative course allows you to learn from experienced tutors, study at times that suit you and build practical, industry-relevant skills from anywhere. At the National Academy of Creative Arts, many courses are also available through Live Online and Classroom-Based learning, giving you the flexibility to choose the study experience that works best for you.

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