Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $54,974/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$20,974/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 87.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,082 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design and Applied Arts. | Associate | $33,993 | $24,500 |
| Design and Applied Arts. | Bachelor | $33,993 | $26,057 |
| Design and Applied Arts. | Certificate | $28,598 |
The Risk Factor
87.5% of students at Interior Designers Institute graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
Interior Designers Institute delivers weak financial returns that make it difficult to justify the investment. Your median debt of $22,082 leads to earnings of just $54,974 after ten years, creating a challenging debt-to-income ratio that will strain your budget for years.
The school's single focus on design programs compounds the problem. All design and applied arts graduates earn between $28,598 and $33,993 annually, putting you well below the national average for college graduates. These low starting salaries make debt repayment particularly difficult, especially when you consider that interior design careers typically require years to build a client base and reach higher income levels.
The 87.5% graduation rate suggests you will likely complete your program, but completion alone does not solve the earnings problem. Newport Beach's high cost of living makes these salary levels even more problematic if you plan to work locally after graduation.
You should look elsewhere if you need strong immediate earning potential or carry other debts. This school makes sense only if you have family financial support, can attend without borrowing, or have realistic expectations about starting slowly in interior design while potentially working other jobs.
The relatively low percentage of students receiving aid (34.38%) suggests limited financial assistance options. Focus on minimizing borrowing through payment plans or part-time attendance if you decide to enroll. Consider whether community college design programs or state schools with interior design tracks might offer better value for developing the same skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Interior Designers Institute worth the cost for the salary you'll make?
With graduates earning around $55,000 ten years after completing their program and median debt of $22,000, the school offers a reasonable debt-to-income ratio. However, interior design is not a high-paying field, so students should have realistic salary expectations.
What is the job market like for Interior Designers Institute graduates?
The school has a strong 87.5% graduation rate, but interior design jobs are competitive and often project-based. Many graduates work as freelancers or for smaller firms, which can mean irregular income in the early career years.
How much debt do Interior Designers Institute students typically graduate with?
The median debt is $22,082, which is manageable compared to many design schools. This relatively low debt load makes the financial risk more reasonable given the modest earning potential in interior design.
Are there better alternatives to Interior Designers Institute for studying interior design?
For students focused purely on ROI, community college design programs or online certifications cost less and can lead to similar entry-level positions. However, Interior Designers Institute's higher graduation rate and industry connections may justify the extra cost for students who need more structure and support.