A Level Results? We're Open For Clearing - BA (Hons) Interior Design Places Available – Study Online - Choose Any Start Date! - Earn While You Learn – Low Tuition Fees - Full UK Student Loans Available -

ONLINE SHORT COURSE

Interior Design For Your Home

This Interior Design short course is perfect for beginners and design enthusiasts. Designed to introduce you to the principles of Interior Design in easy ‘bitesize’ chunks.

Start Date

Enrol at any time & choose your start date. No term times or semesters

Study Duration

Approximately 30 to 40 Hours. Self-paced Learning. (6 months maximum)

Assessment

No exams — Gain valuable feedback from National Design Academy Tutors

Qualification

NDA Certificate
Endorsed by AIM Qualifications Quality Mark

Make Your Start In Interior Design

This course is designed to introduce you to the principles of Residential Interior Design, whilst understanding the design process using a non-technical approach that is both fun and creative. Packed full of useful information, hints and tips, and exciting interactive activities, this course is sure to make your first experience of Interior Design a very positive one!

You will build your interior design confidence and explore colour, pattern and texture, combining these together to create successful design schemes for your own home. Your NDA Tutor will assess your personal projects and give you feedback and guidance to help develop your creative ideas even further.

No more guess work is needed, no more trawling through countless magazines and blogs; this course will give you all the information that you need to achieve success.

What Will I Study?

The course is organised into 5 separate projects, each one having a specific focus.

Project 1

Interior Design Inspiration & Colour Theory

This covers the key Interior design elements used by professional interior designers that are essential for any successful design. It also explains where to find your own inspiration for designs and how to understand the theory of colour and how colour affects our mood.

Project 2

Combining Colour, Texture & Pattern

Understand simple rules to ensure your rooms are balanced and perfectly proportioned. This includes choosing and applying colour, texture and pattern to create the perfect mood and feel within your home.

An introduction to wall and floor finishes, understanding the materials available to you and how these can be applied. Sourcing and designing the best window treatments and beautiful soft furnishings will also give you the confidence to bring your design schemes together within your home.

Project 3

Furnishing Your Space

This provides an introduction to the wide range of furniture and accessories you can choose from, giving you the confidence to make your own selections based on your individual style, taste and budget. It will also show you how to make a statement with furniture and how to combine form and function with furniture and accessories.

Project 4

Planning Your Space Effectively

This will teach you how to arrange your space and develop an understanding of basic layout principles appropriate for the use of the room. It will also show you how to measure your own rooms, how to use furniture templates to plan out your space and finally how to calculate quantities for your wallpaper and floor finishes.

Project 5

Your Own 'Personal Project'

Designed to bring together all the knowledge and skills you have gained during the course. A practical design project giving you the opportunity to redesign a room within your own home, making it both exciting and creative.

This can be a complete concept idea or a design that you actually intend to undertake in the future.

Within this section you will be given a step by step guide on how to approach your own design, as well as how you can present your information.

How Will I Study?

The course is accessed online via the Virtual Learning Studio or ‘My VLS,’ our exclusive, online platform. Delivered in 5 interactive projects tailored so that the content is both inspiring and engaging to help bring out the designer in you.

Projects 1 to 4 deliver a wealth of interactive course content, each followed by a ‘knowledge checker’. Here, you can test your own understanding through a variety of interactive activities and multiple choice quizzes.

You can rest assured that you are working at your own pace and can revisit the content and knowledge checkers, as and when you choose, which prepares you perfectly for working towards producing a design project of your very own.

Your own ‘Personal Project’ or project 5 will take you through step by step process to apply the knowledge and skills you have gained, giving you the opportunity to redesign a room within your own home, making it both exciting and practical at the same time. At the end of this project you will design and produce a professional Inspiration board, a presentation board and a room plan of your chosen design.

Once completed, you will upload your finished work via the VLS. This will enable you to gain valuable feedback from one of our experienced Interior Design tutors here at the NDA.

Online

Self Study

Tutor Feedback

What Will I Acheive?

During this course you will learn the following skills;

Key Interior Design principles and design inspiration

How to select and combine colour schemes successfully

How to combine colours, textures and patterns

How to add accessories and soft furnishings successfully

You will have the confidence and inspiration to design your own home following simple rules and hints & tips to achieve successful and professional results.

Selecting appropriate wall and floor finishes

Planning and furnishing a space effectively

How to produce a room plan of your chosen furniture layout

How to develop an inspiration & presentation board to illustrate your own design scheme

You will have a clear understanding of the fundamentals of Interior Design and apply these to a practical outcome, enhancing your creativity, awareness, and knowledge.

You will receive the NDA Short Course Certificate ‘Interior Design For Your Home’ Endorsed by AIM Qualifications Quality Mark.

Learn more

Skills Or Equipment Needed?

There are no specific skills needed in order for you to complete this course as this is aimed purely for beginners as an introduction to Interior Design.

You will require access to a desktop or laptop computer to access the course online. There are ‘hints and tips’ throughout the course content to help you achieve professional results.

Physical Boards

If you decide to use a physical approach and produce your boards by hand you may need to consider purchasing some equipment to help you achieve successful results.

A3 Mount Board/Card

Spray adhesive to stick your imagery/samples down

A glue stick can be used for paper, e.g. images and text

A craft knife or scalpel

Gridded cutting mat (at least A3 size) – This is optional but can be a great help when cutting

Digital Boards

If you would prefer to create your boards digitally, you may produce your boards using Microsoft Word, Powerpoint or Keynotes if you are working on a Mac.

Further Education & Careers

If this course has opened your eyes to the exciting world of interior design and you think this may be the career for you, then you can progress onto our Professional Interior Design Diploma accredited by AIM Qualifications. You can study the Diploma flexibly online or fast track online via our Zoom delivery option or with two weeks in-studio in the UK or in Dubai. And the best bit – NDA will give you a progression scholarship to reduce your Diploma fees.

Once you complete the Professional Diploma you will be able to start your own business, join a design practice or go on to study the BA (Hons) interior design degree, online with NDA, once again with a generous progression scholarship.

Study an NDA Professional Diploma

Learn more

NDA Progression Scholarships

Learn more

Study an NDA Bachelor’s Degree

Learn more

Pricing

UK Students

One Payment

£250

On enrolment

International Students

One Payment

$325

On enrolment

Gift Voucher

One Payment

Visit the NDA Shop

Voucher covers the full course fee

International fees are in US dollars.

What Our Students Say

Interior Design

Online & In-Studio Courses

Diploma, Bachelor's & Master's Degrees

Three Learning Levels

Diploma, Bachelor's & Master's degrees available.

Six Design Subjects

Choose to study in one of six specialist design subjects.

Guaranteed Progression

Completion of each learning level opens access to the next. Progression Scholarships available.

Recognised Worldwide & Fully Accredited

The National Design Academy is the only institution to offer truly flexible, online interior design courses that are nationally and internationally recognised.

Our Degrees are fully-accredited by our academic partner De Montfort University Leicester (DMU), ranked in Times’ top 3% of world universities.
Our Diploma courses are awarded by AIM Awards, an Ofqual approved National Awarding Organisation providing Ofqual Level 3 accreditation.

Courses

Students

1 +

Alumni

1 +

Countries

1 +

Choose Your Course

With no entry requirements, our Diploma courses are suitable for beginners. You’ll learn everything you need to start your own business or embark on a new career in this exciting industry, and you can study either online or in-studio.

Our Degree courses can be studied either online (full or part-time to fit in around your work and family life) or in-studio, and are awarded by one of the UK’s top Universities – De Montfort University.

Choose the level and design subject that’s right for you to learn more about it.

Government funding & student loans available for UK students.

Progression scholarships for all NDA UK & International students

If it hadn’t had been for the NDA I wouldn’t be where I am today. So, anybody thinking about doing the soft furnishing diploma, or indeed the interior design diploma, do it today. I’ve got lots of friends within the trade that have also done the NDA and some of them have done them online and are all running really successful soft furnishing businesses from home and in units.

Without the NDA I wouldn't have changed career. I get up in the morning and I'm passionate about my work and I can't wait to get new projects. I love what I do and I've never been able to say with in any of the jobs I've done before!

My experience at the NDA was absolutely fantastic! I was really grateful of the support. Having the process that I learnt with the NDA really helped me to offer a real professional service. I would certainly recommend the NDA!

Online Diplomas

Online Diploma

Professional Interior Design

A great introduction to interior design. Learn skills to design projects for your home, help friends and family with theirs, enter a design career, or set up your own business.

Ideal Progression: BA (Hons) Interior Design

Online Fast-Track Diploma (via Zoom)

Professional Interior Design

For students who want all the benefits of remote online learning, but are also looking for more structure and live interaction with tutors and peers, the ‘Online Fast-Track’ course offers an ideal mix.

Ideal Progression: BA (Hons) Interior Design

Online Diploma

Professional Garden Design

A great introduction to garden design. Learn skills to design projects for your garden, help friends and family with theirs, enter a design career, or set up your own business.

Ideal Progression: BA (Hons) Design for Outdoor Living

Online Diploma

Professional Soft Furnishings & Curtain Making

Learn specialist curtain making techniques to create beautiful hand finished curtains for your home, help friends and family with theirs, or set up your own business.

Ideal Progression: BA (Hons) Interior Design

In-Studio Diplomas

In-Studio Diploma

Professional Interior Design (UK)

A great introduction to interior design. Learn skills to design projects for your home, help friends and family with theirs, enter a design career, or set up your own business.

Ideal Progression: BA (Hons) Interior Design

In-Studio Diploma

Professional Interior Design (Dubai)

A great introduction to interior design. Learn skills to design projects for your home, help friends and family with theirs, enter a design career, or set up your own business.

Ideal Progression: BA (Hons) Interior Design

In-Studio Diploma

Professional Soft Furnishings & Curtain Making (UK)

Learn specialist curtain making techniques to create beautiful hand finished curtains for your home, help friends and family with theirs, or set up your own business.

Ideal Progression: BA (Hons) Interior Design

Bachelor's Degrees

Online BA (Hons) Degree

Interior Design

Develop your creative interest and enter a career as an interior designer or progress to Master’s level, by expanding your skills and knowledge of the global design industry.

Ideal Progression: Master’s (MA) Interior Design

Online BA (Hons) Degree

Heritage Interior Design

Perfect progression through the world of interior design with an emphasis on heritage style for period properties.

Ideal Progression: Master’s (MA) Interior Design

Online BA (Hons) Degree

Retail Design

Perfect progression through the world of interior design with an emphasis on the design of retail spaces.

Ideal Progression: Master’s (MA) Interior Design

Online BA (Hons) Degree

Design for Outdoor Living

Perfect progression through the world of interior design with an emphasis on the design of outdoor living spaces.

Ideal Progression: Master’s (MA) Interior Design

Top-Up Degrees

Online BA (Hons) Top-Up Degree

Interior Design

‘Top-up’ an existing two year design qualification to achieve a full BA (Hons) Degree in Interior Design, with just one further year of online study.

Ideal Progression: Master’s (MA) Interior Design

Online BA (Hons) Top-Up Degree

Design for Outdoor Living

‘Top-up’ an existing two year design qualification to achieve a full BA (Hons) Design for Outdoor Living with just one further year of online study.

Ideal Progression: Master’s (MA) Interior Design

Master's Degree

Online Master’s (MA) Degree

Interior Design

The final stage in the development of a professional interior designer. Gain expert knowledge to work at a senior or management level and the entrepreneurial skills to open your own design practice.

Short Courses

Online Short Course

Interior Design For Your Home

The perfect interior design course for beginners and design enthusiasts. Introducing you to the principles of Residential Interior Design in easy ‘bitesize’ chunks, whilst understanding the design process using a non-technical approach that is both fun and creative. No qualifications required. Enrol anytime & study online.

Online (via Zoom)

Interior Design Software Course

Enrol on this one-month workshop to learn the essential software programs used in professional interior design. This integrated course will provide you with skills in AutoCAD 2D, SketchUp and Photoshop – a great package to prepare you for your first professional interior design project.

All of our courses are fully accredited

Our Degrees are fully-accredited by our academic partner De Montfort University Leicester (DMU), and our Diploma courses are awarded by AIM Awards.

Online BA (Hons) Top Up
Interior Design

Online
BA (Hons) Top Up
Interior Design

Course Summary

The BA (Hons) Top-Up Degree in Interior Design consists of the final year from the full BA (Hons) Interior Design. For the first of your 3 modules you can choose to study Hotel Design or Exhibition Design depending upon which areas you would like to include in your professional portfolio.

This is followed by a self-selected research project in an area of design close to your heart. Your year will finish with your Design Based Final Project, which you will have developed in conjunction with your Personal Tutor.

Who Should Do This Course?

Those who wish to top-up their FdA, BTEC (Level 4&5), HND or International 2 year degree in interior design to a full BA (Hons) Interior Design with just one year’s online study. This is an ideal route to a career as a professional interior designer or to progress onto an M.A.

Direct entry students, students transferring from another institution and international students with equivalent qualifications or alternatively, those with a CV and portfolio of relevant industry experience, are all welcome to apply: all applications are treated on an individual basis. There are no term times – so you can apply and start at any time.

Successful students completing this BA (Hons) top-up will receive a guaranteed place on the MA Interior Design with a generous progression scholarship.

Background – NDA BA (Hons) Student Work

Learning Online

Study flexibly online through our bespoke virtual learning studio (VLS)

The VLS is our exclusive, online resource which replaces the normal lectures given in Colleges and Universities. This provides links to other online resources and may contain videos, images, quizzes and lectures.

Students can rewind and re-watch until they are sure they have understood. No frantic note taking and no missing an important lecture! Study when and where it suits you! You will also be invited to attend group tutorials focussing on each course module. Delivered online via zoom, join NDA tutors and like-minded peers to discuss course content and gain valuable live feedback.

The majority of NDA students will complete their BA (Hons) top-up Degree online in approximately one year, others may take a little longer and a few may need the maximum study time of 3 years.

Support & Guidance

Personal Tutors

Every NDA student has a Personal Tutor to guide them through their qualification. You have unlimited access to your tutor and can contact them by email, telephone, Zoom, Skype or in-person as often as you wish.

Student Support Team

We also have a dedicated Student Support and Administration Team to help deal with any other queries such as payments, student loans advice and anything else you may need a helping hand with.

Our Student Helpline is available Monday–Friday from 9am–5pm UK Time.

Assessment

You will not have to take an exam! Your tutor will assess your design projects as you submit them throughout the course and your portfolio is moderated by De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) who will award your degree.

Student Loans

UK Student loans are the most popular way for NDA students resident in the UK to study as they cover the entire cost of their degree. Loans are not based on income or means tested and most students in England & Wales will qualify (Scotland & NI have different arrangements).

Accreditation

The BA (Hons) Top-Up Interior Design is awarded by our academic partner, De Montfort University Leicester (DMU).

What Will I Study?

You will study three modules for this BA (Hons) Top-up Degree

Module 1a (option)
Module 1b (option)
Module 2
Module 3

Exhibition Design

This module has two study options, which allows you to choose a project for your portfolio within the area of design that appeals to you most. Option 1 is exhibition design and within this you will explore the two main exhibition approaches; commercial trade shows and exhibitions within a gallery space. There are many elements to explore, including the visitor experience and branding.

Hotel Design

Option 2 for this module focuses on hotel design and tracks the evolution of this global industry. You will be given the opportunity to work with a building of your choice, developing an understanding for the impact a site will have on a target market and concept. This is a rich and diverse subject which will prove invaluable to anyone wanting to specialise in this area of design.

Research Study

It is at this stage of the course that you will truly get to choose the direction of the work you produce, starting with the research of a topic close to your heart. If there is an area of design that you are passionate about, then this is an exciting opportunity to incorporate this into your degree. Within this module you will write a dissertation, with the support and guidance of your tutor, who by now will have a great understanding of you and how you study. This dissertation will then feed into your final module; the independent study.

Independent Study

Building on the topic you have developed in the Research Study module, with the support of your tutor, you will be given double the amount of time of the previous modules, to focus on your chosen design based project. This will be the culmination of three years of hard work and will bring together all the skills you have learnt along the way. This module will provide you with visuals, presentation boards, development sketches and technical drawings to add to your portfolio.

Module 1a (option)

Exhibition Design

Module 1b (option)

Hotel Design

Module 2

Research Study

Module 3

Independent Study

Student Gallery

A sample of work completed by our talented interior design students

Entry Requirements

Qualifications

Applicants should hold one of the following:

English Language

The course is taught in English, so international students will require a good standard of written English to study. IELTS average 6.5 or TOEFL score of 550 is usually required, however all students are considered on an individual basis as we are aware that many international students have already been taught in English at school, college or university.

What's Next?

Progression

Take your career to the next level!

Career

Establish your own commercial or residential interior design practice
Work as a freelance designer in the exciting world of interior design
Work within a design or architectural practice
Work within a property development company as a home staging/ show home designer

Take Your Career to the Next Level!

After you top-up to a full BA (Hons) you will be offered a guaranteed place on the online M.A. Interior Design with a generous progression scholarship.

Student Spotlights

The interior design industry is growing year on year and the demand for qualified interior designers is on the rise globally. Have a look through our Student Spotlights to see what they have achieved.

Student Spotlight: Rebecca Jane Smith, BA (Hons) Interior Design

From Retail to Rich and Artful Interiors Meet Rebecca whose journey into the world of interior design is a testament to following one’s passion, no matter

Student Spotlight: Annabelle Westwater, BA (Hons) Interior Design

A Journey of Passion, Learning, and Design Excellence Meet Annabelle Westwater, a recent graduate of the BA (Hons) Interior Design online course at the National Design

Student Spotlight: Tamala Mwamba, BA (Hons) Interior Design

A Progressive Journey from Inspiration to Innovation Meet Tamala Mwamba, a talented designer whose journey has been shaped by her love for travel, nature, and creative

BA (Hons) Top-up Degree Tuition Fees

Please Note:Fees for this course will increase from 1st August 2025. Apply Now & Enrol before 31st July to secure the lower rate.

UK Students

Top-Up your Fda, HND
or BTEC to a BA (Hons)
with 1 year's online study

Tuition Fee £5,950

There are 3 ways for
UK students to pay
for their Top-Up Degree

COVERS ALL TUITION FEES

No Upfront Fees!

£ 5,950 On Enrolment

£ 620 Per Month*

£6,200 in total

* Monthly payments include admin fee.

International Students

Top-Up your 2 year
degree to a BA (Hons) with 1 year's online study

Tuition Fee $7,950

There are 2 ways for
International students
to pay for their Degree:

$ 7,950 On Enrolment

Save $650 by paying in full

Ready to pursue your passion for Interior Design?

What Our Students Say...

Hear what past and present students have to say about studying at the NDA

I would recommended to NDA to all people who have a passion for interior design, and those looking to get an Accredited UK Degree in Interior Design.

For a working mum like myself the flexibility of the course enabled me to study around my personal life. The course content was structured and provided ample reading information to underpin the knowledge required for the brief.

Studying with the NDA cemented the reasons why I decided to inaugurate myself into the study of interior design, giving me the drive and skills to commence my career as an interior designer.

The course was absolutely fantastic, I really enjoyed it. It's quite flexible; I've got two children at home, so while I was bringing them up I could also study and open up doors of opportunity for myself.

It's been a real journey, because I've worked more or less full time whilst I've done it, so it's a matter of studying every night. Now it's over I really miss it, I really, really enjoyed it, every minute.

The tutors at NDA have been great and have helped me to develop a lot from when I first started, I've come a long way since and It's given me a lot of confidence; I'm now going to start setting up as a freelance designer.

I started doing the course as a hobby, but now as I've gained experience working with friends and family, I'm thinking about actually changing it into a career, I just love it.

Online Master's (MA)
Interior Design

Online
Master's (MA)
Interior Design

Course Summary

The online Master’s Degree (M.A.) Interior Design prepares students for a senior or management role in the design industry. The course is studied flexibly, part-time online and can be studied alongside a career or other commitments. The M. A. consists of 6 modules in total. Starting with advanced research methods, skills which are fundamental to good interior design practice, modules also include innovative technology for interiors, how to understand and stay up to date with trend forecasting, and designing interiors for different cultures. The module on professional practice management will prepare you for a management career in the industry. You will complete a Master’s design project to form part of your professional portfolio. If you are already working in the design industry you can opt to use a live project relevant to your design practice as your Master’s project.

Take Your Career to the Next Level

If you have a BA (Hons) in Interior Design or a similar design qualification and would like to prepare for a senior or management role in the design industry, then this is the ideal next step. Alternatively, those without a Bachelor’s Degree but with an extensive CV and portfolio of relevant design industry experience may apply for entry onto the M.A.

Students graduating from other institutions and international students with equivalent qualifications are all welcome. There are no term times – so you can apply and start at any time. Architects with an existing interior design department or those intending to open one, can also study the M.A. to help them understand and manage the role and benefits of the interior designer within their practice.

Successful NDA students who have completed any BA (Hons) with NDA will be offered a guaranteed place on the online M.A Interior Design with a generous progression scholarship.

Background – NDA Master’s Degree (MA) Student Work

Learning Online

Study flexibly online through our bespoke virtual learning studio (VLS)

The majority of NDA students will complete their M.A. Interior Design online in approximately 18 months – 2 years, others may take a little longer and an extension may be arranged.

Support & Guidance

Personal Tutors

Student Support Team

We also have a dedicated Student Support and Administration Team to help deal with any other queries such as payments, student loans advice and anything else you may need a helping hand with.

Our Student Helpline is available Monday–Friday from 9am–5pm.

Assessment

UK Postgraduate Student Loans

UK Postgraduate Student loans are the most popular way for NDA students resident in the UK to study as they cover the entire cost of their degree. Loans are not based on income or means tested and most students in England & Wales will qualify (Scotland & NI have different arrangements).

Accreditation

The Master of Arts (M.A.) Interior Design is awarded by our academic partner, De Montfort University Leicester (DMU).

What Will I Study?

You will study six modules for this Master of Arts (MA) Interior Design

Advanced Research Methods

This module develops enhanced research skills in order to work at advanced level within the interior design profession. Research skills are fundamental to good interior design practice and the module includes research methods, the development of a design, client proposal and techniques for presenting research material in a visually stimulating manner. Mastering these skills will save you time and help you become more efficient when working within the interior design profession.

Innovative Technology - Interior Design

Innovation in products and materials is vital to the continuing development of interior design. Energy efficiency, minimum waste, the development of new colours and high-performance fabrics are just a few of the exciting innovations driving good practice within the industry. This module explores emerging technologies and materials for interior design giving you a greater understanding of the latest industry requirements.

Trend Forecasting in Interior Design

Trends in interior design happen as a result of predictions and forecasts being identified by specialist agencies and individual influencers. These initial observations then gather momentum and focus until they achieve commercial credibility with ‘trend bibles’ being purchased by both blue-chip companies and design-led manufacturers. This module investigates the individuals, agencies and processes which bring together the trends that are shaping our interiors on a global scale and how you can always stay up to date with future trends.

Cultural Contexts in Interior Design

The most interesting interiors all present a deep understanding of cultural influences from such diverse areas as painting, music, philosophy or literature. Apply the culture and history of different countries within an interior, for results that meet the demands of this exciting global industry. This module explores the ways in which interior designers may reference cultural contexts within their work, providing additional layers of interest to both commercial and residential interiors.

Interior Design Practice Management

The efficient control of the interior design process, from design to installation, is essential to the success of designer, practice and project. Considerations such as the organisation and communication of information, clear scheduling of contractors and deliveries, allocation of budget and minimisation of waste are all equally important. The efficient management of a large or small scale design practice is also essential to the smooth running of a project. This module provides you with the information you need to both successfully manage a project and efficiently manage a design practice.

Master’s Project in Interior Design

This is your chance to showcase your Masters Project which will form the basis of your portfolio. If you are already working in the design industry you can discuss with your tutor how you can opt to use a live project relevant to you or to your design practice. Your project will present your design ideas, critical thinking, awareness of trends and innovation and your ability to communicate through text and visuals. A clear schedule of work, a robust client brief and detailed budget complete the requirements for this exciting module.

Module 1

Advanced Research Methods

Module 2

Innovative Technology - Interior Design

Module 3

Trend Forecasting in Interior Design

Module 4

Cultural Contexts in Interior Design

Module 5

Interior Design Practice Management

Module 6

Master’s Project in Interior Design

Student Gallery

A sample of work completed by our talented interior design Master’s students

Entry Requirements

Qualifications

M.A. applicants should hold one of the following:

BA (Hons) with NDA in any subject.
BA (Hons) in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, 3D & Spatial Design, Architecture or other equivalent design-related degree subject studied at another university or institution.
International Students: Equivalent degree qualification in a relevant design subject.

Industry Experience

We welcome applications from mature students with a CV showing extensive experience at a senior level in interior design, architecture or similar plus one comprehensive example from your professional portfolio of a design project you have completed to include visuals/plans/sample boards/drawings etc.

English Language

What's Next?

The interior design industry is growing year on year and the demand for senior qualified interior designers and design practice managers is on the rise globally.

M.A. Graduates can establish a commercial or residential interior design practice
Work within a design or architectural practice at a senior or management level
Work as a senior freelance designer in the exciting world of interior design
Work within a property development company as a senior interior designer

Student Spotlights

Have a look through our Student Spotlights to see what they have achieved.

Student Spotlight: Piers Thurston, MA Interior Design

Meet Piers Thurston, a recent graduate of the MA Interior Design course at the National Design Academy. After initially studying film, Piers realised his passion for

Student Spotlight: Giorgia Lacey-Colley, MA Interior Design

A Natural Creative Meet Giorgia Lacey-Colley, an MA Interior Design Graduate whose journey in interior design has been shaped by a rich blend of family influence and

Student Spotlight: Denisa Jusic, MA Interior Design

From Corporate HR to Interior Designer Based in Essex and specialising in residential design, Denisa Jusic found her passion for interior design whilst following her father

UK Students

Master's Degree (MA)
18 months–2 years
flexible online study

Tuition Fee £7,250

There are 3 ways for
UK students to pay
for their Degree:

COVERS ALL TUITION FEES

No Upfront Fees!

£ 7,250 On Enrolment

£ 750 Per Month*

£7,500 in total

* Monthly payments include admin fee.

International Students

Master's Degree (MA)
18 months–2 years
flexible online study

Tuition Fee $9,800

There are 2 ways for
International students
to pay for their Degree:

$ 9,800 On Enrolment

Save $700 by paying in full

Ready to take your passion for Interior Design to the next level?

What Our Students Say...

Hear what past and present students have to say about studying at the NDA

While searching the courses, I found the NDA very professional, flexible and fresh. I needed to complete a course while managing a career and a family with kids. NDA gave me this opportunity.

I hadn’t originally planned to do the MA, but when I finished the BA, I found that I really missed the learning experience, having talked it through with several of the tutors I decided to go for it!

I used the Master’s course to help me focus on key areas of specialism within interior design. The course also provided the opportunity for me to study trends and product development which will develop my creative potential when applied to design and innovation.

I think NDA is a great outlet for distance learning that is well equipped for this type of study, and also maintains a high level of standards and professionalism. I have recommended the MA program to a few of my colleagues. Thank you NDA!

The Virtual Learning System made working on projects, contacting tutors and other students extremely easy and user friendly (it honestly felt like I was part of a community) right in the comfort of my own home!

Online BA (Hons)
Interior Design

Course Summary

The BA (Hons) Interior Design course offers students a more in-depth and professional approach to specific interior design projects both residential and commercial. It takes you from the history of interior design to the latest trends in contemporary interiors. It includes modules on space planning, furniture, creative lighting and the art of show home design & home staging – in high demand throughout the industry.

The degree also includes all elements of the client brief and professional practice to prepare you for your future career in the design industry. You will complete a comprehensive final design project which can form part of your professional portfolio as you enter your exciting career in interior design.

Who Should Do This Course?

This course is the ideal next step for students who have already successfully completed the Diploma in Professional Interior Design with the National Design Academy, hold an equivalent UK or international qualification in a design subject or alternatively, have a portfolio of relevant industry experience. Direct entry students, transferring students from other institutions, and international students are all welcome. There are no term times – so you can apply and start at any time.

Successful students completing this BA (Hons) will be offered a guaranteed place on the NDA Online M.A. Interior Design with a generous progression scholarship.

Background – NDA BA (Hons) Student Work

Learning Online

Study flexibly online through our bespoke virtual learning studio (VLS)

The majority of NDA students will complete their BA (Hons) Degree online in approximately 3 years, others may take a little longer and a few may need the maximum study time of 8 years.

Support & Guidance

Personal Tutors

Student Support Team

We also have a dedicated Student Support and Administration Team to help deal with any other queries such as payments, student loans advice and anything else you may need a helping hand with.

Our Student Helpline is available Monday–Friday from 9am–5pm UK Time.

Assessment

Student Loans

Accreditation

The BA (Hons) Interior Design degree is awarded by our academic partner, De Montfort University Leicester (DMU).

What Will I Study?

You will study eleven modules for the BA (Hons) Interior Design

Research & Contextualisation

Interior design is a vibrant and exciting industry, and within this module you will be introduced to world leaders in both residential and commercial design. Research underpins all good design projects therefore this module will introduce you to the skills and methods needed to undertake this research. You will gain a comprehensive knowledge of interior design and its history through the ages; knowledge which you will be able to apply to future modules.

Space Planning

However beautiful a space, if it is not functional it will not work for the user. Form and function is essential for good design. In this module you will learn how to design a space to meet the requirements of its function. You will learn how to plan and design an efficient, comfortable and safe space within a number of different briefs for both residential and commercial interiors. You will also start to learn the importance of development work at the initial stages of a project and how a concept will aid the design process.

Design in Historical Context

To understand the present, you need to understand the past, and in this module you will be encouraged to actively research heritage buildings within your local area, utilising some of the skills developed in the research module. This module examines the factors that have played a part in the development of interior design since the Renaissance and gives you the opportunity to recreate some of the most fascinating design styles throughout history.

Creative Lighting and Technology

Good lighting and the creative use of technology is integral to any good interior design project. This module will cover the vast array of products and technologies which can be used within a space to create a dynamic yet functional scheme for both residential and commercial projects. You will further develop the scheme produced in your Space Planning module, adding lighting and audio-visual technology to an already developed furniture plan, ensuring that the space is fit for the purpose identified by the client.

Sustainable Design and Technology

Regardless of the sector you decide to specialise in, you will need to understand how and when to use sustainable products, materials and technologies, as this is a growing concern among clients. As a designer you need to be able to offer your clients the same range of options whilst being conscious of current environmental issues. Within this module you will address these issues and discover a range of architects and designers who specialise in eco-friendly interiors, all whilst exploring the world of restaurant design.

Home Staging and Show Home Design

There are many factors which influence the sale or re-sale of residential properties, and in this module you will focus on how to design interiors that sell! By designing two different properties for clients who will not be the intended residents the way in which you communicate your ideas will be different. As part of this module you will learn how to produce letters to clients, design packs and 3D visuals.

Professional Practice

In this module you will be given the tools you need to create your own design practice and a marketing plan specifically tailored to you and your chosen career path. You will also explore the importance of branding to a business, and be given the opportunity to develop your own brand, which can form part of your portfolio and used to develop your future career prospects. You will also have the skills required to work within an existing practice at a professional level.

Major Design Project

Through the development and presentation of a major design project, this module will allow you to apply everything that you have learnt so far. Working from concept, to development, through to completion, you will produce a great range of work to include within your portfolio. There is a choice of different client briefs, allowing you to tailor the direction of your project to your specialist field of degree study. For this module, you will also complete work experience, which will give you a unique insight into the design industry.

Exhibition Design

Hotel Design

Research Study

Independent Study

Module 1

Research & Contextualisation

Module 2

Space Planning

Module 3

Design in Historical Context

Module 4

Creative Lighting and Technology

Module 5

Sustainable Design and Technology

Module 6

Home Staging and Show Home Design

Module 7

Professional Practice

Module 8

Major Design Project

Module 9a (option)

Exhibition Design

Module 9b (option)

Hotel Design

Module 10

Research Study

Module 11

Independent Study

Student Gallery

A sample of work completed by our talented interior design students

The Final year of this BA (Hons) is available as a ‘top-up degree’

If you have already studied an FdA, BTEC, HND, or international 2 year degree or equivalent in Interior Design or relevant design subject or have professional interior design experience you can enter directly onto the final year.

Entry Requirements

Qualifications

Applicants should hold one of the following:

NDA Professional Diploma.
Level 3 Diploma, City & Guilds, NVQ, BTEC, HNC in a Design subject or equivalent.
A Level in Art and/or Design equivalent.
Art & Design Foundation Year (university or college).
Portfolio of previous Interior Design experience.
International Baccalaureate Art & Design equivalent.
High School Diploma containing Art & Design with portfolio.
International equivalent qualification.

English Language

Don’t Meet the Requirements?

No problem! If you do not have the required qualifications to study a degree you can study an NDA Diploma either online or in-studio, for a guaranteed place on one of our online Bachelor’s Degrees afterwards. Please view our Diploma Courses for more information.

What's Next?

Progression

Take your career to the next level!

Career

Establish your own commercial or residential interior design practice
Work as a freelance designer in the exciting world of interior design
Work within a design or architectural practice
Work within a property development company as a home staging/ show home designer

Student Spotlights

Student Spotlight: Rebecca Jane Smith, BA (Hons) Interior Design

From Retail to Rich and Artful Interiors Meet Rebecca whose journey into the world of interior design is a testament to following one’s passion, no matter

Student Spotlight: Annabelle Westwater, BA (Hons) Interior Design

A Journey of Passion, Learning, and Design Excellence Meet Annabelle Westwater, a recent graduate of the BA (Hons) Interior Design online course at the National Design

Student Spotlight: Tamala Mwamba, BA (Hons) Interior Design

A Progressive Journey from Inspiration to Innovation Meet Tamala Mwamba, a talented designer whose journey has been shaped by her love for travel, nature, and creative

BA (Hons) Tuition Fees

Please Note:Fees for this course will increase from 1st August 2025. Apply Now & Enrol before 31st July to secure the lower rate.

UK Students

BA (Hons)
3 Year Degree

Tuition Fee £5,250* Year One

3 ways to pay
for UK students:

COVERS ALL TUITION FEES

No Upfront Fees!

£ 5,250 On Enrolment

£ 550 Per Month*

£5,500 in total

* Fee per level/year subject to change after 1st August each year.
* Monthly payments include admin fee.

International Students

BA (Hons)
3 Year Degree

Tuition Fee $7,650* Year One

2 ways to pay for
International students:

$ 7,650 On Enrolment

Save $600 by paying in full

Ready to pursue your passion for Interior Design?

What Our Students Say...

Hear what past and present students have to say about studying at the NDA

A really great challenge is completed (for now) but who knows for the next one.... a big thanks to Stephen my Tutor who pushed me in the right way to improve me and my skills since the first to the last day of this amazing experience! A big virtual hug from Italy!

I would recommended to NDA to all people who have a passion for interior design, and those looking to get an Accredited UK Degree in Interior Design.

For a working mum like myself the flexibility of the course enabled me to study around my personal life. The course content was well structured and provided ample reading information to underpin the knowledge required for the brief.

Studying with the NDA cemented the reasons why I decided to inaugurate myself into the study of interior design, giving me the drive and skills to commence my career as an interior designer.

I started doing the course as a hobby, but now as I've gained experience working with friends and family, I'm thinking about actually changing it into a career, I just love it.

Online (Flexible)

Professional Interior Design Diploma

As a not-for-profit foundation, we are so confident in the price of our Diploma’s that if you can find the same level of education for less, we will match it!

NEW 3 Course Bundle!

Dive deeper with our Ultimate Design Mastery Bundle – Interior, Exterior, CAD. Enrol now, save 10%

Start Date

Enrol at any time & choose your start date. No term times or semesters.

Entry Requirements

No previous qualifications required, just an interest & enthusiasm for interior design.

Study Duration

Online: 8-10 months
Online Fast-Track:
14 weeks
In-Studio: 12 weeks

UK Student Loans

No up front fees to pay!
If you are aged 19+ and have lived in England for 3+ years you are eligible.

Assessment

No exams — Tutor assessment only, portfolio moderation by AIM Qualifications.

Course Summary

This Diploma will provide you with the skills you need to design your own project or help family and friends with theirs, to start your own business or enter a new career and, it will even give you the confidence to move on to study a degree! No qualifications are required to study this diploma course, so – if you already hold a Level 3 or A-Level equivalent qualification in an Art and Design based subject, you can enrol straight onto one of our degree courses.

Who Should Do This Course?

If your answer is yes… then the National Design Academy has just the course for you!

The NDA Accredited Diploma in Professional Interior Design will help you to start that business you have always promised yourself, and even gain you a place on one of our degree courses if you decide you would like to study further. You don’t need any previous qualifications – just enthusiasm for design.

What Will I Study?

You will study eight dedicated units during this professional diploma

Interior Design & the Role of the Designer

This unit introduces you to the fundamental elements and principles that are common within a successful design scheme and how they are adopted by Professional Interior Designers today. You’ll learn how and why interior design has changed over time and to identify key interior design trends. What you learn in this unit will provide an essential foundation to underpin your future designs. This unit also includes:-

The 7 design elements of good design
Interior Design history and contemporary practice
The role of an Interior Designer and different project types
Professional presentation boards
How to write a short design report

Using Colour in Interior Design

This unit will spark your creativity by giving you the opportunity to play with colour. You’ll explore practical colour theory to enable you to design both historical and contemporary colour schemes. This unit also includes:-

Basic colour principles and terminology
The impact of colour in a design scheme
The psychological importance of colour in an interior space
Historical and contemporary colour trends
Creating a successful interior design colour scheme

Exploring Surface Finishes in Interior Design

This unit covers the wide and exciting range of surface finishes now available to create fabulous interiors. You’ll explore the versatility and impact of materials for walls, floors and soft furnishings and how to use them to create an effective design scheme. This unit also includes:-

The characteristics and suitability of different materials
Sourcing and using materials to develop a design scheme
Practical skills to represent colour, pattern and texture
How to visually present your design ideas

Plans and Space Planning in a Professional Context

This unit shows you how to plan the space for a room design. From initial sketches to final layouts, you will visualise and present design solutions to meet a client brief. This unit also includes:-

Understanding the space and the client brief
Traffic flow and zoning of space
Developing floor plans by hand
Creating elevations by hand
Practical sketching and hand drawing techniques

Furniture & Accessories in Interior Design

This unit focusses on the limitless range of furniture and accessories available to the Interior Designer. You’ll learn to recognise key styles in furniture and accessory design and how to select and source appropriate furniture and accessories to meet a client brief. This unit also includes:-

Understanding of different furniture and accessory styles, historical and contemporary
Influential practitioners and design movements
The characteristics and suitability of furniture and accessories
Choosing and sourcing items
Producing furniture layouts

Creative Lighting in Interior Design

This unit explores the potential of creative lighting in interiors and develops your knowledge of lighting design, including traditional and contemporary products. You’ll learn how to choose lighting for your schemes and how to deal with suppliers. This unit also includes:-

Understanding different lighting products and lamps
Task, ambient and decorative lighting
Lighting levels for room design
Cool and warm lighting
Creating a lighting scheme for a furniture layout
Applying symbols appropriate to industry lighting plans
Developing a lighting plan to meet a client brief

Professional Practice in Interior Design

This unit explores the diverse possibilities for a career in the Interior design industry and helps prepare you to work successfully in the professional environment, whether this be in an established practice or setting up an interior design business. With a focus on your personal and professional development, you will consider the steps you should take to achieve your own progression ambitions. This unit also includes:-

Being employed, self-employed and setting up an interior design service
Portfolio development
Working with others in a professional environment
Effective marketing and promotion
How to charge for your design service
Studying for a degree

Professional Interior Design Project

For this final unit of the course, you bring together all your newly learned skill by producing conceptual designs to create a wonderful interior design scheme for a new client. When complete, your work will form an asset to your developing portfolio to show future clients. This unit also includes:-

Developing a design concept
Creating a colour scheme
Selecting surface finishes
Space planning, including furniture and accessory arrangements
Creating a lighting plan
Professional presentation techniques

Unit 1

Interior Design & the Role of the Designer

The 7 design elements of good design
Interior Design history and contemporary practice
The role of an Interior Designer and different project types
Professional presentation boards
How to write a short design report

Unit 2

Using Colour in Interior Design

Basic colour principles and terminology
The impact of colour in a design scheme
The psychological importance of colour in an interior space
Historical and contemporary colour trends
Creating a successful interior design colour scheme

Unit 3

Exploring Surface Finishes in Interior Design

The characteristics and suitability of different materials
Sourcing and using materials to develop a design scheme
Practical skills to represent colour, pattern and texture
How to visually present your design ideas

Unit 4

Plans and Space Planning in a Professional Context

This unit shows you how to plan the space for a room design. From initial sketches to final layouts, you will visualise and present design solutions to meet a client brief. This unit also includes:-

Understanding the space and the client brief
Traffic flow and zoning of space
Developing floor plans by hand
Creating elevations by hand
Practical sketching and hand drawing techniques

Unit 5

Furniture & Accessories in Interior Design

Understanding of different furniture and accessory styles, historical and contemporary
Influential practitioners and design movements
The characteristics and suitability of furniture and accessories
Choosing and sourcing items
Producing furniture layouts

Unit 6

Creative Lighting in Interior Design

Understanding different lighting products and lamps
Task, ambient and decorative lighting
Lighting levels for room design
Cool and warm lighting
Creating a lighting scheme for a furniture layout
Applying symbols appropriate to industry lighting plans
Developing a lighting plan to meet a client brief

Unit 7

Professional Practice in Interior Design

Being employed, self-employed and setting up an interior design service
Portfolio development
Working with others in a professional environment
Effective marketing and promotion
How to charge for your design service
Studying for a degree

Unit 8

Professional Interior Design Project

Developing a design concept
Creating a colour scheme
Selecting surface finishes
Space planning, including furniture and accessory arrangements
Creating a lighting plan
Professional presentation techniques

Student Gallery

A sample of work completed by our talented interior design students

One Great Course, Three Ways To Study

Choose from flexible online learning, online fast-track (zoom lectures) or in-studio fast-track classes

Online

8–10 Months (Flexible)

The online flexible Professional Diploma course is designed to be flexible to allow you to study around your career, family, and other commitments. Choose your own start date and study from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection.

The online diploma is a 8-10 month course however, many students who have more time to study complete earlier. All assignments consist of design projects which are assessed by your Personal Tutor – there are no examinations.

Online Fast-Track

14 weeks home study and weekly online lectures (via zoom)

The course consists of a 8-week study period that covers each of the 8 subject units in the Diploma course, one unit per week. 2.5hr live zoom lectures are organised two days per week. Up to 6 ‘Independent Study’ weeks within the duration let students complete any unfinished assignments.

In-Studio Fast-Track

10 days In-Studio 10 weeks home study (12 weeks total)

If you prefer a classroom-based study environment then our In-Studio blended learning course could be for you. It is particularly useful if you are looking to fast-track your qualification, either for a new career or for progression to degree level study.

You spend 5 days in-studio followed by 5 weeks home study projects, then a further 5 days in-studio with up to an additional 5 weeks to complete any project work for submission. Throughout home study, you have full online access to our resources and your Personal Tutor.

Fees & Funding...

UK residents pay approximately 50% course fees and funding from the UK government will pay the rest.

No up front fees to pay! If you are aged 19+ and have lived in England for 3+ years you are eligible.

Accreditation

All NDA Professional Diplomas are accredited by AIM Qualifications. NDA is the only design school to be able to offer funding & student loans because our Diplomas are fully accredited.

What Will I Need To Study?

Alongside a computer and an internet connection, there is also essential and recommended design equipment required to complete your NDA Course, all available through the NDA Art Shop at student prices!

What's Next?

Higher Education

Successful completion of your NDA Diploma provides a guaranteed place on one of our online BA (Hons) degrees with a generous Progression Scholarship. Degrees are validated by De Montfort University (DMU).

For those who wish to continue their study at an on campus university, all NDA Professional Diplomas carry a UCAS tariff point value. You can top up any existing UCAS points you may have with points from an NDA Diploma.

Diploma in Professional Interior Design = 24 UCAS tariff points.

Careers

The NDA Diploma in Professional Interior Design is designed to help you start your own Interior Design business. Like the Diploma course itself, you can work flexibly for your clients around your family commitments and gradually expand your business.

Many of our Diploma students start their own business and study for their degree flexibly alongside their client projects.

Student Success Stories...

Student Spotlight Case Study: Adrian Pembroke Tallett

A Deep Dive into Creativity and Resilience At the National Design Academy (NDA), we believe education has the power to transform lives. Our students come from

Student Spotlight: Kim Bunce, Professional Interior Design

Pursuing her Passion Meet Interior Designer Kim Bunce. Based in Buckinghamshire, Kim is passionate about bringing spaces together that transform a house into a home. She

Student Spotlight: Laura Ruddy, Professional Interior Design

A Creative With Many Hats Say hello to Interior Designer Laura Ruddy. A creative with many hats, Laura pursued her passion for interior design when she

Ready to pursue your passion for Interior Design?

What Our Students Say...

Hear what past and present students have to say about studying at the NDA

It has been so enjoyable and informative, I have gained a world of information with regards to Interior Design... all in all it was a fantastic experience. The amount of information supplied by the NDA for every unit was very informative, enlightening and more than sufficient for the subject at hand.

I chose to study the Interior Design Diploma at the NDA primarily because of its AIM Awards accreditation. The distance learning was of great importance because of my other commitments and meant that I could achieve a good balance between work, personal life and study.

It was an easy decision to study with the NDA. One of the things that made the whole process so much easier was the VLS platform. It's a great method of communication between student and tutor but also in terms of receiving work and submitting feedback.

I would recommend anybody with a willingness to study Interior Design to consider the National Design Academy. The tutor support is fantastic and it is a great way to gain qualifications without having to put the rest of your life on hold.

NDA has projected a superb and comprehensive layout for the Diploma course. The VLS is very user friendly and the resources and gallery sections are very detailed and informative. The front desk staff of the NDA have also been very helpful and friendly - overall the NDA has really proven to be an all round superior learning institution for the world of Interior Design.

It is an amazing course which exceeded my expectations as I thought it would be less informative instead I learned more than I expected to learn and the assignments were more challenging than I imagined. Thanks for the amazing course!

I have enjoyed the course immensely. Not only have I gained some knowledge into the interior design world but my main gain is in my confidence which has really grown during the course, which has been noticed by friends and colleagues…

I chose to study Interior Design because I’ve always thought that I’d be good at it. I started by doing the Diploma course at the NDA just to see if I had ‘it’ and if I enjoyed the subject, and I loved it! So much so that I jumped straight from that course to the Degree.

ONLINE SHORT COURSE

Interior Design For Your Home

Start Date

Study Duration

Assessment

Qualification

Make Your Start In Interior Design

What Will I Study?

Interior Design Inspiration & Colour Theory

Combining Colour, Texture & Pattern

Furnishing Your Space

Planning Your Space Effectively

Your Own 'Personal Project'

How Will I Study?

Online

Self Study

Tutor Feedback

What Will I Acheive?

Skills Or Equipment Needed?

Physical Boards

Digital Boards

Further Education & Careers

Pricing

UK Students

One Payment

£250

International Students

One Payment

$325

Gift Voucher

One Payment

Visit the NDA Shop

What Our Students Say

Interior Design

Online & In-Studio Courses

Diploma, Bachelor's & Master's Degrees

Recognised Worldwide & Fully Accredited

Choose Your Course

Online Diplomas

In-Studio Diplomas

Bachelor's Degrees

Top-Up Degrees

Master's Degree

Short Courses

All of our courses are fully accredited

Online BA (Hons) Top UpInterior Design

OnlineBA (Hons) Top Up Interior Design

Start Date

Course Duration

Course Summary

Who Should Do This Course?

Learning Online

Support & Guidance

Assessment

Student Loans

Accreditation

What Will I Study?

Exhibition Design

Hotel Design

Research Study

Independent Study

Exhibition Design

Hotel Design

Research Study

Independent Study

Student Gallery

Entry Requirements

What's Next?

Student Spotlights

BA (Hons) Top-up Degree Tuition Fees

UK Students

UKStudent Loan

One Payment

10 x Monthly Payments

International Students

One Payment

10 x Monthly Payments

Ready to pursue your passion for Interior Design?

What Our Students Say...

Online Master's (MA)Interior Design

Online BA (Hons) Top Up
Interior Design

Online
BA (Hons) Top Up
Interior Design

UK
Student Loan

Online Master's (MA)
Interior Design

Online
Master's (MA)
Interior Design

UK
Postgraduate Loan

Online BA (Hons)
Interior Design

Online BA (Hons)
Interior Design