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Interior design is a booming industry in Wisconsin.
According to the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, there are currently six accredited interior design programs in the state.
This number is sure to grow as more people become interested in pursuing a career in this creative field.
With a growing industry and good pay prospects, becoming an interior designer in Wisconsin is a great career choice.
States Requirements for Interior Designers
To work as an interior designer in Wisconsin, you must first obtain a bachelor’s or master’s degree in interior design from a postsecondary institution.
Interior design programs generally take two to four years to complete and result in either a bachelor’s or associate’s degree.
After you have completed your education, you will have to pass the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) test.
To be certified as an interior designer, you must first pass this exam.
Aside from fulfilling the NCIDQ certification requirements, you must have at least two years of interior design experience working in a professional capacity.
You will be able to apply for a license from the Wisconsin Board of Examiners of Interior Designers once you have satisfied all of these criteria.
4 Interior Design Schools in Wisconsin
Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design
The Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design has a four-year Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture + Design.
This program is meant to train students for a career in interior design.
The subject matter covers both theoretical and practical aspects of interior design, giving students the tools they need to succeed in the industry.
The program also includes a professional internship, which allows students to apply what they have learned in school to a real-world setting.
- Tuition for in-state students: $33,120
- Tuition for out-of-state students: $33,120
- Number of students enrolled: 841
Madison Area Technical College
The two-year Associate of Applied Science in Interior Design degree program at Madison Area Technical College is designed to educate students for a career in the field of interior design.
The subject matter focuses on design theory, as well as furniture creation.
Students may also participate in an internship that offers them the opportunity to apply their learning directly.
- Tuition for in-state students: $4,104
- Tuition for out-of-state students: $4,104
- Number of students enrolled: 16,879
Moraine Park Technical College
The two-year Associate of Applied Sciences in Interior Design degree program at Montcalm Technical College is offered.
This course of study focuses on design, color theory, and furniture design principles.
Students may also complete an internship to acquire practical experience while learning about interior design.
- Tuition for in-state students: $3,840
- Tuition for out-of-state students: $3,840
- Number of students enrolled: 7,843
Mount Mary University
The University of Mount Mary in Michigan offers a four-year bachelor’s degree in interior design.
This program aims to equip students with the skills necessary to pursue a career as an interior designer.
The curriculum covers both theoretical and practical aspects of interior design, giving students the knowledge they need to be successful in the field.
Students can also participate in the program’s professional internship, which allows them to apply what they’ve learned.
- Tuition for in-state students: $29,760
- Tuition for out-of-state students: $29,760
- Number of students enrolled: 2,063
Interior Design Schools in Wisconsin – Summary Table
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design | 273 E Erie St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 |
| Madison Area Technical College | 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704 |
| Moraine Park Technical College | 235 N National Ave, Fond du Lac, WI 54935 |
| Mount Mary University | 2900 Menomonee River Pkwy, Milwaukee, WI 53222 |
Salary
The average salary for an interior designer in Wisconsin is $52,849.
This is slightly higher than the national average salary for this profession, which is $48,769.
With experience and/or education, interior designers in Wisconsin have the potential to earn much more.
The highest-paid 10% of interior designers in the state make an average of $78,610 per year.
So, if you are looking to start a career in interior design, Wisconsin is a great place to do it!
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Milwaukee | $48,266 |
| Madison | $47,786 |
| Green Bay | $46,784 |
| Kenosha | $47,910 |
| Racine | $47,910 |
| Appleton | $46,794 |
| Waukesha | $48,084 |
| Oshkosh | $46,492 |
| Eau Claire | $45,470 |
| Balsam Lake | $51,520 |
Regional Salary in Wisconsin
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appleton, WI | 30 | $56,400 | $27.12 | $80,910 | $22,660 |
| Green Bay, WI | 40 | $62,950 | $30.26 | $89,970 | $38,850 |
| Madison, WI | 200 | $61,620 | $29.62 | $88,510 | $36,790 |
| Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI | 370 | $59,580 | $28.65 | $93,020 | $36,780 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a state interior design board in Wisconsin?
Yes, the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing is responsible for the regulation of interior designers in the state.
To practice interior design in Wisconsin, you must first obtain a license from the department.
Why is Wisconsin a great place to live?
Some people choose to live in Wisconsin because of the state’s natural beauty.
Others are attracted to the state’s strong economy and its many job opportunities.
There are also several excellent schools in Wisconsin, making it a great place to raise a family.
What is the most important element of interior design in Wisconsin?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual interior designer’s preferences and style.
However, some common elements of interior design in Wisconsin include using natural materials, such as wood and stone, and incorporating traditional Wisconsin elements, such as barn doors and quilts.
What is Wisconsin known for?
Wisconsin is known for its dairy industry, as well as its many lakes and rivers.
The state is also home to several popular tourist destinations, such as the Wisconsin Dells and Lake Geneva.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Certified Interior Designer
Interior Design Schools by State