Interior design courses can help you learn space planning, color theory, furniture arrangement, and lighting design. You can build skills in creating mood boards, selecting materials, and understanding client needs. Many courses introduce tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, that support visualizing designs and presenting concepts effectively. You'll also explore key topics such as sustainable design practices, historical styles, and the impact of design on well-being, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the field.

Skills you'll gain: Design Strategies, Project Design, Design, Consultative Approaches, Design Elements And Principles, Project Planning, Client Services, Project Management, Aesthetics
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

IE Business School
Skills you'll gain: Creative Thinking, Creative Problem-Solving, Creativity, Brainstorming, Architectural Design, Storytelling, Design Thinking, Design Elements And Principles, Curiosity, Empathy, Design Strategies, Teamwork, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Creative Design, Collaboration, Cultural Responsiveness
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Adobe Express, Typography, Logo Design, Responsible AI, Digital Design, Layout Design, Creative Design, Visual Design, Graphic and Visual Design Software, Graphic Design, Adobe Firefly, User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX) Design, Color Theory, Content Creation, Generative AI Agents
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: 3D Assets
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Canva (Software), Design, Digital Design, Design Elements And Principles, Product Design, Color Theory, Graphic Design, Intellectual Property, Product Promotion, E-Commerce, Digital Assets, Marketing, Marketing Collateral
Advanced · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Skills you'll gain: 3D Modeling, 3D Assets, Autodesk, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Editing
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

The University of Sydney
Skills you'll gain: Design Thinking, Human Centered Design, Innovation, Service Design, Prototyping, Ideation, Product Development, Design, Case Studies, User Feedback
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

The Museum of Modern Art
Skills you'll gain: Art History, Performing Arts, Photography, Liberal Arts, Aesthetics, Creativity, Electronic Media, Culture, Cultural Diversity, Media and Communications, Public History, Design, Content Creation, Storytelling, Social Impact, Multimedia, Social Justice, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Sustainability Standards, Research
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: 3D Modeling, Autodesk Maya, Visualization (Computer Graphics), 3D Assets, Computer Graphics
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

California Institute of the Arts
Skills you'll gain: Typography, Design Elements And Principles, Graphic Design, Graphic and Visual Design Software, Design, Logo Design, Digital Design, Graphic and Visual Design, Color Theory, Photo Editing, Adobe InDesign, Image Quality, Style Guides, Branding, Art History, Layout Design, Design Research, Visual Design, Design Strategies, Adobe Illustrator
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: 3D Modeling, Autodesk, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Simulations
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Parsons School of Design, The New School
Skills you'll gain: Building Design, Sustainable Design, Sustainable Architecture, Public Health, Architectural Design, Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Health Assessment, Sustainability Standards, Materials science
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Interior design is the art and science of enhancing the interior of a space to achieve a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing environment. It involves a comprehensive understanding of architecture, furniture design, color theory, and spatial arrangements. Interior design is important because it directly impacts how people feel and function in a space. A well-designed interior can improve productivity, enhance mood, and promote well-being, making it essential in both residential and commercial settings.
A variety of job opportunities exist in the field of interior design. You could work as a residential interior designer, commercial designer, or even specialize in areas like sustainable design or hospitality design. Other roles include interior stylist, design consultant, and project manager. Each of these positions allows you to apply your creativity and technical skills to transform spaces, making them functional and visually appealing.
To succeed in interior design, you should develop a range of skills. Key skills include creativity, an eye for aesthetics, spatial awareness, and knowledge of design software. Additionally, understanding color theory, materials, and building codes is crucial. Strong communication and project management skills are also important, as you'll often collaborate with clients, contractors, and other professionals.
Some of the best online courses for interior design include options that cover fundamental principles and advanced techniques. For instance, the Blueprint to Brilliance Through Interior Design course offers insights into creating impactful designs. Other courses may focus on specific software tools or design methodologies, providing a comprehensive learning experience tailored to various interests.
Yes. You can start learning interior design on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in interior design, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
Learning interior design can be approached through various methods. Start by enrolling in online courses, reading design books, and following design blogs or social media accounts. Practical experience is also invaluable; consider volunteering for design projects or internships. Engaging with the design community through forums and workshops can further enhance your learning journey.
Interior design courses typically cover a range of topics, including design principles, color theory, space planning, and furniture selection. You may also learn about lighting design, sustainable practices, and the use of design software. Courses often include practical projects that allow you to apply what you've learned in real-world scenarios.
For training and upskilling employees in interior design, courses that focus on practical applications and industry standards are ideal. Programs that include hands-on projects and collaboration with experienced designers can be particularly beneficial. Consider options that provide insights into current trends and technologies in the field, ensuring that learners are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the industry.