For many people, home décor begins as a passion—rearranging furniture, experimenting with colors, or styling shelves. But for those who want to elevate that passion into advanced expertise or even a career, pursuing a master’s degree in interior design or related fields can be the next big step. A master’s program not only refines your eye for design but also builds technical, managerial, and creative skills that allow you to influence the field at a professional level.
Here are the top five master’s programs that home décor enthusiasts should consider if they want to take their love of interiors to new heights.
1. Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Interior Design – Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
Why it stands out:
SCAD is consistently ranked among the best design schools in the United States, with campuses in Savannah, Atlanta, and an extensive online learning platform. Their MFA in Interior Design blends artistic creativity with cutting-edge technology.
Program highlights:
- Emphasis on advanced design theory, sustainable design, and material innovation.
- Access to state-of-the-art design labs and collaborative projects with industry leaders.
- Opportunities to work on real-world projects, often in partnership with corporations and nonprofits.
Best for: Enthusiasts who want to merge décor passion with professional practice, particularly those looking to become leaders in design firms or launch their own businesses.
2. Master of Arts (MA) in Interior and Spatial Design – University of the Arts London (UAL), Chelsea College of Arts
Why it stands out:
As one of Europe’s leading art and design institutions, UAL offers a prestigious program that explores interiors from both artistic and architectural perspectives.
Program highlights:
- Strong focus on experimentation, conceptual thinking, and critical analysis of space.
- Access to world-class design studios and London’s thriving design culture.
- Multidisciplinary projects that integrate furniture, lighting, and material design.
Best for: Home décor enthusiasts with a creative streak who want to push boundaries and explore interiors as both an art form and a practical discipline.
3. Master of Interior Architecture – Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
Why it stands out:
RISD is globally renowned for design education, and its graduate programs in Interior Architecture are among the most rigorous and respected.
Program highlights:
- Strong focus on adaptive reuse—transforming existing spaces into innovative interiors.
- Deep dive into materials, environmental impact, and spatial storytelling.
- Access to RISD’s collaborative community, which encourages partnerships with architects, artists, and furniture designers.
Best for: Enthusiasts who love décor but want to tackle larger, more complex projects, like redesigning historic spaces or working on sustainable interiors.
4. Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Interior Lighting Design – New York School of Interior Design (NYSID)
Why it stands out:
Lighting is often overlooked by casual home decorators, but it’s one of the most powerful elements in shaping a room’s mood and function. NYSID’s specialized MPS degree places lighting design at the forefront.
Program highlights:
- Advanced training in lighting technologies, design, and psychology.
- Integration of décor with function, from residential to commercial spaces.
- Faculty includes working professionals in New York’s vibrant design industry.
Best for: Décor lovers who want to specialize in one of the most transformative aspects of interior spaces—lighting.
5. Master of Design (MDes) in Interior Studies – Parsons School of Design, The New School (New York City)
Why it stands out:
Parsons is a household name in design education and is located in one of the world’s design capitals—New York City. Their Interior Studies master’s program focuses on blending aesthetics with social responsibility.
Program highlights:
- Emphasis on sustainable and human-centered design.
- Access to Parsons’ extensive alumni network and internship opportunities with top firms.
- Multidisciplinary learning, with opportunities to collaborate across fashion, product design, and architecture.
Best for: Enthusiasts who want a balance of creativity, sustainability, and practical industry connections.
Choosing the Right Master’s Program
When deciding which master’s program is best, consider:
- Your goals: Do you want to work in residential décor, commercial spaces, or specialized fields like lighting or sustainability?
- Location: Being in design hubs like New York, London, or Savannah provides networking opportunities, while online options offer flexibility.
- Curriculum: Some programs emphasize creativity and experimentation, while others focus on technical mastery and professional practice.
- Commitment level: MFA and MDes programs often require more time and research, while MAs can be shorter and more flexible.
Final Thoughts
For home décor enthusiasts, pursuing a master’s degree in interior design or a related field can transform a personal passion into a professional calling. Whether you choose SCAD for its cutting-edge technology, UAL for its conceptual artistry, RISD for adaptive reuse, NYSID for lighting specialization, or Parsons for its global reputation, each of these programs offers a unique pathway to mastery.
A master’s program isn’t just about credentials—it’s about gaining the skills, confidence, and creative edge to shape spaces that inspire and delight.