Discover Top Schools for Interior Design in Canada: Your 2025 Guide

Thinking about a career in interior design? Canada has some really great schools for it. Whether you're looking to get a degree or a diploma, there are options out there. This guide is for you if you want to find the best schools for interior design in Canada for 2025. We'll look at what makes these places stand out, so you can figure out where to start your design journey.

Key Takeaways

• Canada has many good schools for interior design, offering different programs like diplomas and degrees.

• These schools often teach both creative design ideas and practical skills needed for the job.

• Many programs include chances for students to get real work experience through internships or co-op placements.

• The job outlook for interior designers in Canada is positive, with steady growth expected.

• When choosing a school, consider factors like program accreditation, hands-on learning opportunities, and the school's location and resources.

1. Toronto Metropolitan University

Toronto Metropolitan University, often called TMU, has a really solid interior design program. It used to be known as Ryerson, and it's right in the middle of downtown Toronto. They have a Bachelor of Interior Design program that's accredited, which is a big deal. It's part of their Creative School and covers things like design dynamics and art history.

What's pretty impressive is their job placement rate – it's 100 percent. That means almost everyone who graduates finds work in the field. Alumni have worked with some big names like Nike and W Hotels. Plus, a respected publication called Azure even named it one of the top interior design schools globally.

Here's a quick look at some stats:

• Job Placement Rate: 100%

• Retention Rate: 90.3%

• Graduation Rate: 89.2%

They also have a Master of Interior Design (MID) program for those looking to go further. It's a one-year program focused on creative practice and design inquiry. You might even get opportunities to be a research or teaching assistant.

The program really focuses on real-world issues, making sure you think about things like health, inclusion, and sustainability when you're designing spaces. You get to use their fabrication facilities and woodworking shops too.

If you're thinking about applying for their Master's program, admissions for Fall 2026 are open. It's designed to help you shape future spaces by exploring different design ideas. You can find more details about the Master of Interior Design program on their site.

2. Emily Carr University of Art + Design

Emily Carr University of Art + Design, located in Vancouver, is a well-known spot for creative minds. They have a Bachelor of Design program with a specialization in Interior Design. It's part of a larger Environmental Design program and is accredited by CIDA, which is a big deal for professional recognition.

What's cool about Emily Carr is their focus on 'Respectful Design.' This means they really push for inclusivity and diversity in how spaces are created. You'll start with the basics like color theory and 2D design, then move into things like personal space, how to present your ideas, and designing for different social needs and accessibility.

By your final year, you'll be working on a big interior design thesis project. They also have this awesome event called GradEx where students show off their work to a ton of people from the industry. It's a great way to get noticed.

The program aims to equip students with a strong foundation in design principles while encouraging them to think critically about the social and environmental impact of their work. This approach helps shape designers who are not only skilled but also mindful of the broader context of their projects.

Here's a quick look at some stats:

• Retention Rate: 88%

• Job Placement Rate: 71%

• Graduation Rate: 48%

They also offer chances for experiential learning and internships, so you can get some real-world experience before you even graduate.

3. University of Manitoba

The University of Manitoba, located in Winnipeg, is a historic institution, being the first university established in Western Canada back in 1877. It offers a wide array of programs, but for aspiring interior designers, the Master of Interior Design (MID) program within the Faculty of Architecture is particularly noteworthy.

What really makes the University of Manitoba stand out is that its MID program is the only CIDA-accredited master’s program in Canada. This accreditation is a big deal, especially if you plan to practice interior design in Manitoba, as this degree is a requirement for professional accreditation there. They have a couple of paths you can take: a two-year First-Professional Program for those new to the field, or a one-and-a-half-year Post-Professional Program for those who already have a Bachelor of Interior Design and want to focus more on research. There's also a Pre-master’s Program if your background needs a little bridging.

Program Highlights:

• CIDA Accreditation: The only master's level program in Canada with this accreditation.

• Flexible Program Lengths: Options for first-professional, post-professional, and pre-master's studies.

• Research Focus: Strong theoretical grounding in human-centric and context-specific design principles.

• Access to Facilities: Includes a fabrication lab (FABLab), CADLab, and a specialized Architecture/Fine Arts Library.

The program really pushes students to think about design not just in terms of aesthetics, but also how spaces impact people and their specific environments. You'll explore things like universal access and cultural theory, which adds a really important layer to your design thinking. Plus, there's a co-op period built in, so you get to mix the theory you learn with actual hands-on experience.

4. Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Kwantlen Polytechnic University, often called KPU, is a solid choice if you're looking for an interior design degree in British Columbia. They have a Bachelor of Interior Design program that's actually accredited by CIDA, which is a big deal for quality. It's a four-year program, and they really push for students to get hands-on experience.

What's pretty cool about KPU is their focus on polytechnic education. This means you're not just sitting in lectures; you're doing things. They build in co-ops, practicums, and even paid internships right into the program. The stats they share are pretty impressive, with 100 percent of their interior design grads finding jobs in the field. That's the kind of outcome you want to see.

Here's a bit about what you'll get into:

• Studio Work: A big chunk of the learning happens in studios. You'll dig into design history, learn different ways to approach design problems, and get good at communicating your ideas visually. They also have site studios where you'll actually measure spaces and work with different materials.

• Technical Skills: You'll cover the practical stuff like building codes, how people move through spaces (circulation), drafting, and using design software.

• Real-World Prep: There's a professional practice part where you can work with a registered designer. It's like a trial run for your career, helping you transition from school to the job market more smoothly.

KPU has campuses spread out across the Greater Vancouver Area, so you have options for where you study. They also emphasize small class sizes, which means you can actually connect with your professors and get more individual attention. It feels like they're really trying to set you up for success after graduation with a strong portfolio and industry connections.

KPU's approach seems to be all about blending theory with a lot of practical application. They want you to graduate not just with a degree, but with the skills and experience that employers are looking for right away. It's a good mix of academic learning and getting your hands dirty in design projects.

5. George Brown College

George Brown College, located right in the heart of downtown Toronto, really focuses on giving students hands-on experience. They have three campuses there, so it's pretty convenient if you're in the city. Their interior design program is a three-year advanced diploma, and it's run out of their Architectural Studies school. They have January and September start dates, which is nice for flexibility.

What's cool about George Brown is their emphasis on real-world application. While it's not CIDA-accredited, they boast some pretty impressive stats: an 83.3 percent job placement rate and a 74.6 percent graduate satisfaction rate. That tells you something, right? They also have a competitive co-op program in the final year, which is a fantastic way to get your foot in the door. Plus, if you do well, you might even get advanced standing in one of their degree programs, like the Honours Bachelor of Interior Design. It's a blended program too, meaning you can mix online and on-campus learning.

Here's a quick look at what you can expect:

• Practical and Technical Skills: You'll learn more than just design theory. Expect to get good at 2D and 3D drawing, modeling, and rendering. They also cover specification writing, which is super important for actual projects.

• Project Variety: The sample projects are diverse, covering everything from renovations and retrofits to new construction and leasehold improvements.

• Industry Connections: The co-op program is a big deal here, offering a chance to work on real projects before you even graduate.

George Brown really tries to bridge the gap between what you learn in the classroom and what you'll actually do on the job. They want you to be ready to jump into the industry.

If you're looking for a program that's deeply connected to the city and prioritizes practical skills, George Brown is definitely worth checking out. You can find more details about their programs on the George Brown College website.

6. Sheridan College

Sheridan College has been around for a while, over 50 years actually, and they offer a bunch of different programs. For interior design, they have a four-year degree that's accredited by CIDA. That's a pretty big deal.

What's cool about Sheridan is their focus on making sure students stick with it and actually finish. They have really high rates for student retention and graduation, and most people who go there end up getting jobs in the field. Plus, their program meets the requirements to sit for the NCIDQ exam, which is important if you want to be a registered designer in Ontario.

They also take students on trips to places like New York and Chicago. It's not just about sitting in a classroom; they want you to see real design in action. You'll learn about building systems and construction, and get hands-on with software like AutoCAD and SketchUp.

The learning spaces are designed to feel more like actual design studios than typical classrooms, which I think is a smart move. It helps you get into the mindset of a working designer.

Here's a quick look at some of their stats:

• Student Retention Rate: 98%

• Graduation Rate: 83%

• Job Placement Rate: 92%

They also have a materials library specifically for interior design, which is a nice touch. Field trips, lectures, and competitions are part of the deal, and you can even do an internship or co-op for more practical experience.

7. Yorkville University

Yorkville University is a bit of a unique player in the Canadian interior design scene. Founded in 2003, it has campuses in Fredericton, Toronto, and Vancouver, but what really stands out is their Bachelor of Interior Design program. It's CIDA-accredited, which is a big deal for professional recognition.

What's cool about Yorkville is their flexibility. They offer the program fully online, which is pretty rare for a CIDA-accredited degree, or you can do it on campus in Toronto. This means you can potentially study from anywhere. The program is also designed to be completed relatively quickly, often in about 2.5 years if you're going full steam ahead. They also have a unique quarterly intake system, so you don't have to wait for a specific fall start date.

The curriculum at Yorkville aims to blend theory with practical application. You'll get into software like AutoCAD and Revit, but also focus on different design sectors such as hospitality, healthcare, and retail. They emphasize sustainable design principles, which is super important these days.

Beyond the classroom, students are expected to complete a practical internship. This usually involves around 180 hours with a design firm, plus some community service hours. This hands-on experience is a big part of what makes their graduates job-ready. In fact, Yorkville boasts a really high job placement rate, often cited around 96 percent. They even have a bursary available for international students enrolling in the program, which can be up to $20,000.

Key features of the Yorkville program include:

• CIDA Accreditation: Ensures the program meets high professional standards.

• Flexible Delivery: Fully online or on-campus options available.

• Accelerated Degree: Potential to complete your Bachelor's in 2.5 years.

• Industry Connections: Emphasis on practical experience through internships.

• Quarterly Intakes: Start your studies multiple times a year.

If you're looking for a CIDA-accredited degree with a lot of flexibility, especially if an online format appeals to you, Yorkville University is definitely worth checking out. Their focus on practical skills and diverse market sectors prepares students well for the job market. You can explore their Bachelor of Interior Design program for more details.

8. Humber College

Humber College is a big player in Canadian post-secondary education, and its interior design program is no exception. Located in Toronto, this polytechnic institution really focuses on blending what you learn in class with actual, hands-on experience. They aim to get you ready for the job market from day one.

The program is a three-year diploma that’s CIDA-accredited, which is a pretty big deal in the interior design world. You'll spend time learning about design software, how buildings work, and how to manage projects. There's even an optional co-op semester, giving you a chance to get some real work experience before you even graduate. They also have a Bachelor of Interior Design program that runs for four years, which is also CIDA-accredited.

Here’s a quick look at what makes Humber stand out:

• Practical Focus: Expect a curriculum that balances creative ideas with practical design thinking. You'll learn to innovate but also to make sure your designs are buildable.

• Experienced Faculty: The instructors often have real-world experience in the design industry, so you're learning from people who are actually doing the work.

• Industry Connections: In your final year, you'll work with mentors from the industry on a big project, taking it from the initial idea all the way to the final construction documents.

Their stats show a high student retention and job placement rate, which is always good to see. They really try to mimic a professional design studio environment, with dedicated studios, computer stations, and material libraries. You'll also get to go on field trips to see how people use different spaces.

Humber's approach means you're not just learning theory; you're actively preparing for the challenges and realities of working as an interior designer. The emphasis on practical application and industry relevance is clear throughout the program.

If you're looking for a program that emphasizes practical skills and industry readiness, Humber College is definitely worth checking out. You can explore their interior design programs for more details.

9. LaSalle College

LaSalle College, located in Montreal, offers a dynamic Interior Design program that really gets you hands-on with the creative process. It's a place where you can learn the ropes of transforming spaces, from sketching out initial ideas to figuring out the nitty-gritty details of materials and lighting. They focus on giving students a solid foundation in design principles, but also push you to think about how people actually use spaces.

What's cool about LaSalle is their emphasis on practical experience. You'll likely work on real-world projects, which is super helpful for building a portfolio and understanding what clients actually want. They also seem to have a good handle on current industry trends, so you're not just learning old-school techniques.

Here's a quick look at what you might get into:

• Core Design Principles: Learning about space planning, color theory, and how to create functional layouts.

• Technical Skills: Getting comfortable with design software and drafting techniques.

• Material and Lighting: Understanding how different materials affect a space and the impact of lighting.

• Project Development: Working through design challenges from concept to presentation.

The program aims to equip students with the skills needed to tackle various design projects, whether it's a cozy home or a bustling commercial space. It’s about making spaces that look good and feel right for the people who will be in them.

Graduates from LaSalle often find themselves ready to jump into the industry, whether that's working for a design firm or striking out on their own. It’s a good option if you're looking for a program that balances creative exploration with practical application.

10. Georgian College

Georgian College, located in Barrie, is a multi-campus institution that stands out for its commitment to social innovation. It's even recognized as a change maker college by Ashoka U. Their Honours Bachelor of Interior Design is a four-year, full-time program. While it's not CIDA-accredited, Georgian boasts impressive stats: a 92.1 percent retention rate, an 88 percent job placement rate, and it's recognized by both ARIDO and IDC. Graduates can even pursue an alternative path to ARIDO membership.

The program focuses on a unique studio-based learning style. You'll tackle creative design problems, supported by courses in digital media, communications, and building science. This approach helps students develop sophisticated designs and document them effectively.

Georgian's learning environment is designed to challenge students to rethink the built environment and advocate for positive change. The curriculum emphasizes constructing detailed designs and creating documentation to communicate concepts clearly.

Here's a quick look at some key metrics:

• Retention Rate: 92.1%

• Graduation Rate: 91.7%

• Job Placement Rate: 88%

Students often praise the small class sizes, which allow for better relationships with instructors and more hands-on experience. The college is also noted for being well-organized and having a friendly atmosphere. It's a solid choice if you're looking for a practical education with good industry connections, and you can find more details about their programs on the Georgian College website.

Ready to Design Your Future?

So, you've looked through some of the top spots in Canada for interior design programs in 2025. It’s a field that really mixes creativity with practical skills, and Canada seems to have some solid options whether you're aiming for a degree or a diploma. Remember, picking the right school is a big step, but it's all about finding a place that fits your style and career goals. With job growth looking pretty good in this area, getting the right training could set you up for a really interesting career. Good luck with your applications and getting started on your design journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I learn in an interior design program in Canada?

You'll learn the basics of design, like how to use colors and arrange spaces. You'll also learn about different materials, how to use design software, and even things like building rules and how to manage projects. Many programs include hands-on projects and chances to work in real design settings.

What are the typical costs for studying interior design in Canada?

The cost can differ, but usually, tuition for interior design programs in Canada is between $10,000 to $35,000 Canadian dollars each year. You'll also need to budget about $15,000 to $20,000 annually for living expenses like housing and food.

What kind of jobs can I get after studying interior design in Canada?

After finishing your studies, you could work as an Interior Designer, a Space Planner, a Lighting Designer, or a Design Consultant. There are also jobs in areas like kitchen and bath design or as a CAD technician. Many graduates find work with big design firms or even start their own businesses.

Do I need a portfolio to apply for interior design programs?

Yes, most interior design programs ask for a portfolio. This is a collection of your design work that shows off your creativity and skills. It's a really important part of your application.

Are there opportunities to gain work experience while studying?

Absolutely! Many Canadian interior design programs offer co-op placements or internships. These are great ways to get real-world experience, build your resume, and make connections in the design industry before you even graduate.

What are the job prospects for interior designers in Canada?

The job outlook for interior designers in Canada is good. The number of jobs is expected to grow, and there's a steady demand for skilled designers. Canada's growing design sector and multicultural cities offer many exciting career possibilities.