The global interior decoration and design industry is booming, with projections reaching $255 billion by 2027 (Statista). As urbanization accelerates and homeowners prioritize aesthetic and functional spaces, the demand for skilled interior designers has never been higher.
Whether you’re a creative enthusiast looking to turn your passion into a profession or a professional seeking to upskill, an interior decorating course can be your gateway to a rewarding, high-paying career. This guide explores:
- Key benefits of formal training vs. self-learning
- Lucrative career paths and salary expectations
- How to choose the right program based on your goals
By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to selecting the best course and kickstarting your design journey.
What is an Interior Decorating and Design Course
An interior design and decorating program is a structured program that trains students in space planning, color theory, furniture design, lighting, and sustainable architecture. These courses vary in duration, depth, and specialization, catering to different career goals.
When choosing an interior decorating education, prospective students often consider whether a shorter, skills-focused diploma or a longer academic degree better suits their goals. Here’s a comparison between Maritime Business College (MBC)’s 14-month Interior Decorating Diploma and a typical 3-year Bachelor’s Degree from other institutions:
Maritime Business College Interior Decorating Diploma (14 Months)
- Duration: Approximately 14 months, including an 8-week on-the-job training component.
- Best For: Individuals seeking a rapid entry into the interior decorating field, career changers, or those looking to upgrade specific skills quickly. It’s ideal for those who prefer a more vocational and practical approach.
- Curriculum Focus: Emphasizes hands-on skills directly applicable to interior decorating. Topics include construction plan drafting, space planning, visual communications, and the fundamental elements of design (color, lighting, textiles, furniture). It covers industry-standard software like AutoCAD, Google SketchUp, and Photoshop. There’s also a focus on kitchen and bath design, as well as an introduction to structural, technical, and mechanical systems and building codes for interior and commercial spaces.
- Career Pathways: Primarily prepares graduates for roles as interior decorator consultants in residential and commercial settings, potentially leading to self-employment. An articulation agreement with Yorkville University allows MBC graduates to further their studies toward a degree.
MBC Interior Decoration course details
MBC’s Interior Decorating Diploma curriculum provides hands-on training in essential design skills, including space planning (optimizing layouts for functionality and aesthetics), color theory (selecting harmonious palettes for different environments), and material selection (textiles, finishes, and sustainable options). Students master industry-standard software like AutoCAD (for technical drafting) and SketchUp (for 3D modelling), along with practical applications in kitchen and bath design. The program emphasizes real-world projects, teaching lighting strategies, furniture styling, and client presentation techniques, ensuring graduates are job-ready for residential and commercial decorating roles.
Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Decorating course (3-4 Years)
- Duration: Typically 3 to 4 years of full-time study.
- Best For: Students aiming for a long-term, comprehensive career in interior courses, including roles that may involve architectural modifications or specialized design fields. However, it may not be suitable for those who want to start their career quickly or are looking for short-term, practical skills, as it takes several years to complete.
- Curriculum Focus: These programs usually emphasize design theory, design history, and advanced digital tools (such as AutoCAD and SketchUp). Due to the academic focus and longer program length, students generally complete their education over several years before beginning their professional careers.
Meanwhile, MBC’s Interior Decorating Diploma is designed for individuals seeking a faster, hands-on learning experience. This program provides focused, practical training for those looking to develop job-ready skills and enter the decorating industry more quickly.
Interior Decorating Diploma at Maritime Business College, Launch Your Decorating Career
If you’re looking for a hands-on interior course that prepares you for the workforce quickly, Maritime Business Colleges’ Interior Decorating Diploma is the perfect choice. This career-focused program provides practical training in residential and commercial design, equipping you with the skills needed to succeed in Canada’s growing interior design and decorating industry.
Why Choose MBC Interior Decorating Diploma?
- The MBC course takes only 14 months.
- It helps beginners and people changing careers learn important skills quickly.
- It focuses on practical, hands-on training so students can start working sooner.
- It doesn’t mention degree programs too much, so it feels fresh and interesting to read.
- Industry-Aligned Curriculum
Learn from experienced instructors and gain real-world expertise in:- Space Planning and Layout Design: Create functional, beautiful interiors
- Color Theory and Material Selection: Master finishes, fabrics, and sustainable choices
- CAD and Design Software Use industry tools like SketchUp for presentations
- Client Consultations and Project Management: Develop professional communication skills.
- Hands-On Learning Approach
Our studio-based training ensures you get practical experience through:- Live design projects for residential and commercial spaces
- Portfolio development to showcase your work to employers
- Industry networking opportunities with Canadian design professionals.
- Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates of our interior decorating course find success in roles like:- Residential Interior Decorator
- Retail Space Designer
- Home Staging Consultant
- Design Sales Specialist
- Affordable Tuition and Flexible Options
Compared to 4-year degrees, our program offers:- Lower cost than university interior decorating programs
- Four-day classes to accommodate part-time work schedules
- Financial aid options for qualified students
- Why Study Interior Decorating in Canada
Canada’s design industry is booming, with growing demand for trained decorators in:- Interior Decorating
- Hospitality and retail design
- Sustainable interior solutions
Top 4 Benefits of Taking an Interior Decorating Course
- High Demand in the Job Market
The interior course industry is experiencing 4.5% annual growth (IBISWorld), with expanding opportunities across multiple sectors:
- Residential Design: Homeowners increasingly invest in professional space planning, especially for compact urban living.
- Commercial Spaces: Corporations prioritize employee well-being, driving demand for office designers.
- Hospitality Industry: Hotels and restaurants compete through innovative interiors, creating steady work.
- Healthcare Design: Hospitals need functional, healing-focused spaces, a niche experiencing significant growth in demand.
Emerging trends like biophilic design (nature-inspired spaces) and smart home integration further boost opportunities.
- Lucrative Salary Potential
Interior decorating offers strong earning potential, with variations by experience and location:
Entry-Level Interior Decorator ($40,000–$60,000/year)
- Assist senior designers in space planning and client presentations.
- Common roles: Junior Designer, Design Assistant.
Mid-Career Professionals ($60,000–$100,000/year)
- Lead projects independently (e.g., home renovations, retail layouts).
- Specializations like kitchen/bath design can increase earnings by 20%.
Senior Interior Decorator ($80,000–$150,000+)
- Top earners work in luxury residential or corporate design
- Freelancers with niche expertise (e.g., sustainable design) charge $100–$250/hour.
Regional Variations:
- Salaries for interior decorators vary across Canada. For example, urban areas like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary often offer higher salaries due to demand and cost of living. On average, interior decorators in Canada earn around $58,000 per year, with higher earnings possible as experience grows.
- Flexibility (Freelance or Full-Time)
The interior course offers unmatched career flexibility:
Freelance and Remote Work
- E-design services (virtual consultations) grew 300% post-pandemic (Decorilla).
- Platforms like Houzz and Upwork connect designers with global clients.
Entrepreneurial Paths
- Start a design blog or YouTube channel to monetize expertise.
- Launch a product line (e.g., furniture, home decor).
Corporate Roles
- In-house positions at real estate firms or retail chains offer stability.
- Enhance Creativity and Technical Skills
Modern interior courses teach cutting-edge tools:
Must-Learn Software
- AutoCAD: Industry standard for 2D/3D drafting.
- SketchUp: User-friendly 3D modelling for beginners.
Creative Skill Development
- Color Psychology: Use hues to influence mood (e.g., blues for calm).
- Space Optimization: Techniques for small apartments (e.g., multifunctional furniture).
Career Paths after an Interior Decorating Course
- Residential Interior Decorator
- Skills Needed: Client consultation, material sourcing, and project management.
- Growth Tip: Specialize in aging-in-place design (booming with elderly populations).
- Commercial Decorator (Offices, Retail)
- Trends: Hybrid workspaces and experiential retail (e.g., Apple Stores).
- Sustainable Design Consultant
- Projects: Net-zero homes, recycled material sourcing.
- Set Decorator (Film/Theatre)
- Portfolio Tip: Showcase mood boards and scale models.
Still seeking the best alternative interior design courses in Canada (2025)?
The interior decorating education landscape offers diverse pathways for aspiring decorators. Whether you’re looking for prestigious degree programs or practical diplomas, this guide breaks down the top interior decorating courses in Canada to help you make an informed decision.
If you are looking for a diploma course to get the professional interior decoration course in Nova Scotia, Halifax, and MBC, we will be your career growth partner.
Turn your passion for design into a rewarding career with our Interior Decorating Diploma Program. This hands-on course teaches you essential skills in residential and commercial design, including space planning, color theory, furniture selection, and decor styling. Learn from industry-experienced instructors and master project management, drafting, and visual communication to create stunning, functional spaces.
Gain real-world experience with an 8-week interior design internship, preparing you for success as a professional decorator. Whether you dream of styling homes, offices, or retail spaces, this program gives you the expertise to thrive.
Interior Decorating Diploma Course Modules
At Maritime Business College, our program covers these key modules with clear learning outcomes:
Interior Decorating & Styling
Master design fundamentals, including color theory, lighting, textiles, and furniture. Gain hands-on skills to transform residential and commercial spaces.
Kitchen and Bath Design
Specialize in this high-demand area by learning functional layouts, material selection, and client-centred solutions that balance aesthetics with durability.
Professional Practice & Business Management
Build a strong foundation in business essentials for interior decorators, including project management, marketing, and legal responsibilities. Learn how to operate within a design firm or launch your own consultancy with confidence and professionalism.
Residential and Commercial Space Planning
Develop technical expertise in construction standards, building codes, and industry software (AutoCAD, SketchUp, Photoshop) for professional-grade designs.
Each module delivers practical, career-focused training for aspiring decorators in Halifax.
FAQs about the best interior decorating courses in Canada
1. How long does an interior decorating course take?
Most certificates take 6 to 12 months. Degrees usually take 3 to 4 years. Our MBC course is a 14-month diploma that gives you the skills to start working faster.
2. Why should I study interior decorating in Canada?
Canada has good schools and growing job chances in decorating. MBC offers a hands-on course that helps you get ready for real work.
3. Is interior decorating a good career choice?
Yes! The decorating field is growing fast, so there are lots of jobs for skilled people.
4. What software will I learn?
You’ll learn important tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Photoshop that designers use every day.
5. What makes MBC’s course special?
We focus on practical training and real projects. You also get an 8-week internship to gain real work experience.
6. Can I work while studying at MBC?
Yes, our class schedule is flexible so you can have a part-time job while you learn.
7. Can I grow my career after finishing the MBC course?
Definitely! You can work in homes, stores, offices, or even start your own decorating business. You can also study more if you want.
