Interior Design Master’s in the UK

Overview

Pursuing a master’s degree in interior design in the UK offers a comprehensive education that enhances your understanding of visual language while exploring various materials, techniques, and theories. This advanced degree equips students with the skills necessary to succeed in the dynamic field of interior design.

Curriculum and Skills Development

Students in an interior design master’s program will delve into the study of materials and learn how to manipulate and utilize them effectively. The curriculum includes the use of both machine and hand tools, creating functional and sketch models, and exploring concepts through 2D and 3D sketchbooks. Additionally, students will be trained in industry-standard design software and hardware, as well as illustration and photography applications, to bring their projects to life.

Career Opportunities and Salaries

Graduates of a master’s in interior design can expect an average salary of £35,700 per year, with potential earnings reaching up to £75,000 depending on skills and experience. The UK is renowned for its institutions that cater to art and design creatives, offering excellent opportunities to refine your abilities and pursue challenging and exciting career prospects.

Professional Training and Industry Connections

Most bachelor’s degrees in interior design at UK universities include digital presentation and project management skills, crucial for the business’s practical aspects. Interior design schools typically offer work placements and regular interactions with industry specialists, providing professional training opportunities on real-world projects. A master’s degree in interior design further encourages the development of independent thinking and skills.

Careers in Interior Design

Graduates of interior design programs can pursue a wide range of careers within the creative and design industries, including:

• Design Team Member: Collaborate with a team to create cohesive and innovative interior designs.
• Freelance Designer: Work independently, offering personalized design services to clients.
• Branding and Marketing: Develop visual identities and marketing strategies for brands.
• 3D Designer: Specialize in creating three-dimensional models and visualizations.
• Journalism: Write and report on trends and innovations in the interior design industry.
• Retail and Hospitality: Design functional and aesthetic spaces for commercial use.

Interior Design UK Entry Requirements

• International Baccalaureate (IB): Typically 34 points.
• A-levels: Generally ABB.
• IELTS: Overall score of 6.0, with no less than 5.5 in any component.

Note: Entry requirements can vary by university, so always check specific university criteria for accurate information.

Top Universities for Interior Design in the United Kingdom

The following universities are recognized for their top-ranked interior design programs according to the Guardian University Guide 2024:

• University of Arts London
• Middlesex University
• London Metropolitan University
• Manchester Metropolitan University
• University of the Creative Arts
• Coventry University
• University of East London
• Nottingham Trent University
• Glasgow School of Art
• University of Portsmouth

These institutions offer comprehensive programs and maintain high academic standards, making them ideal choices for pursuing a master’s degree in interior design.

Top Ten UK Universities for MA Interior Design

1. University of Arts London

• Course: MA Interior and Spatial Design
• International Fees: £32,260
• Admission Requirements: BA (Hons) degree or similar academic qualifications.

2. Middlesex University

• Course: Interiors (Architecture and Design) MA
• International Fees: £16,800
• Admission Requirements: Good honors degree (2:2 or higher) or equivalent certificate.

3. London Metropolitan University

• Course: Interior Design – MA
• International Fees: £18,150
• Admission Requirements: First-class or strong upper-second-class degree, or equivalent, in a related field.

4. Manchester Metropolitan University

• Course: MA Interiors
• International Fees: £20,500
• Admission Requirements: 2:1 BA (Hons) Interior Design/Interior Architecture or equivalent degree.

5. University of the Creative Arts

• Course: MA Interior Design
• International Fees: £18,000
• Admission Requirements: Solid honors degree or equivalent qualification in a related field.

6. Coventry University

• Course: Interior Design MA
• International Fees: £18,600
• Admission Requirements: BA (Hons), MDes in Interior Design or Architecture, or equivalent.

7. University of East London

• Course: MA Interior Design
• International Fees: £15,240
• Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in architecture or interior design with a 2:1 or 2:2.

8. Nottingham Trent University

• Course: MA Interior Architecture and Design
• International Fees: £17,500
• Admission Requirements: 2:2 Honors degree (or equivalent) in a related discipline.

9. Glasgow School of Art

• Course: MDes in Interior Design
• Admission Requirements: Solid honors degree in interior design or relevant work experience.

10. University of Portsmouth

• Course: Interior Architecture and Design MA
• International Fees: £18,100
• Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree from a UK university or international equivalent.

Study an Interior Design Master’s in the United Kingdom

If you’re interested in pursuing an interior design master’s degree at a top UK university or want to learn more about the application process, schedule a free consultation with LINGO today.

FAQs

1. What qualifications are required for pursuing a master’s degree in interior design in the United Kingdom?

   • Typically, a bachelor’s degree in interior design, architecture, or a related field is required. Some universities may consider applicants with extensive industry experience.

2. Which UK universities have the highest acceptance rates for master’s degrees in interior design?

   • Middlesex University, London Metropolitan University, and the University of East London have higher acceptance rates for interior design master’s programs.

3. How do I receive a full scholarship to study for a master’s in interior design in the UK?

   • Full scholarships are rare, but you can explore options through institutional, government, and private scholarships. Focus on merit-based, need-based, or international student scholarships and create a strong application highlighting academic achievements and a compelling statement of purpose.