| Course | Prerequisite | May Be Taken Concurrently |
|---|---|---|
| Part I | None | Yes |
| Part II | None | Yes |
| Part III | Part II | No |
| Business Practices | Part II | Yes |
| SketchUp | Part II | Yes |
Curriculum
A Program Designed to Build Designers
Metropolitan Design School’s Interior Design Diploma Program combines technical skills, creative development, and professional business training to prepare students for successful careers in the interior design industry.
Program Overview
Metropolitan Design School is a New York State Licensed Private Career School, offering a diploma in Interior Design measured in clock hours rather than credit hours. Sealed and stamped diplomas are awarded to students upon successful completion of all program requirements.
Our curriculum blends creative design principles with real-world application. Students learn residential and commercial design, material selection, color theory, space planning, and business practices through immersive, in-person instruction.
Program Flexibility
Students can take one class per semester or double up depending on their schedule and goals.
Course Descriptions
ID-1001 — Part I: Practical Aspects of Interior Design: Principles and Elements of Design, Historical Styles, Color Theory
Mondays 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM 16 Weeks
Start Date: March 2, 2026 (End Date: June 29, 2026)
Students study the fundamentals of color, including its three dimensions and psychological impact, while exploring principles of design, textiles, and art historical styles. Coursework includes creating color boards, sketching, and analyzing periods of ornament and décor.
ID-1002 — Part II: Practical Aspects of Interior Design: Space Planning, Hand Drafting, Elevations and Sustainability
A continuation of Part I, this course focuses on advanced space planning, dimensioning, materials, finishes, and furniture layouts. Students complete floor plans, elevations, and presentation boards, integrating lighting and ceiling design.
Tuesdays 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM 16 Weeks
Start Date: March 3, 2026 (End Date: June 23, 2026)
ID-1003 — Part III: Commercial Interior Design: Building Codes, Isometric Drawings, Lighting and Electrical
An introduction to contract (non-residential) design. Students build on the skills developed in Part II while learning advanced lighting, perspective, and isometric drawing techniques. Emphasis is placed on creative presentation, concept development, and oral communication.
Prerequisite: Part II
Wednesdays 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM 16 Weeks
Start Date: March 4, 2026 (End Date: July 1, 2026)
ID-1011 — Professional Business Practices: Contracts, Pricing, and Project Management
(Business)
This course examines the financial, legal, and managerial aspects of interior design. Topics include contracts, pricing, estimating, project management, and client communication. Students gain insight into budgeting, ethics, and the day-to-day operations of a design business.
Prerequisite: Part II
10 Weeks
*Not Offered Spring 2026 Term
DR-003 — SketchUp with SU Podium Rendering
(Digital Design and Visualization)
A technical course introducing SketchUp and SU Podium as tools for 3D modeling and realistic rendering. Students learn to create professional floor plans, presentations for clients and portfolios.
Prerequisite: Part II
Thursdays 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM 8 Weeks
Start Date: April 16, 2026 (End Date: June 4, 2026)
Program Progression & Prerequisites
Students can complete the program at their own pace, with the following structure:
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of Metropolitan Design School will:
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of design principles, color theory, and spatial planning.
- Use professional software, including SketchUp and SU Podium Rendering.
- Understand the business and ethical standards of the design profession.
- Build a portfolio that showcases creativity, professionalism, and technical expertise.
Start Building Your Design Career
Whether you’re beginning your education or refining your skills, Metropolitan Design School’s curriculum offers the knowledge and confidence to transform your creativity into a career.