Isn’t it fascinating that the UK is home to some of the world’s most renowned interior design programs? For creative minds looking to bring spaces to life, studying interior design in the UK offers top-notch education combined with a rich design heritage.
From eligibility requirements and tuition costs to finding the best colleges, Here’s everything you need to know.
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If you’ve been wondering, “Which are the best universities for masters in interior design in the UK?” or “What are the best interior design courses in the UK for international students in 2025?” you’re about to get all the answers.
Let’s dive into the details and set your design dreams in motion!
Why Study Interior Design in the UK?
Everyone will be looking for a precise answer to this frequently asked question. Although there are countless explanations, the following are some of the most widely accepted ones:
- Globally Renowned Universities:
The UK is home to some of the world’s top design schools, offering programs that blend creativity with technical skills and practical experience. - Diverse Design Industry:
With a rich history of architecture and design, the UK provides students with exposure to a vibrant and dynamic design industry. - Hands-On Learning:
Many programs include real-world projects, internships, and collaborations with industry professionals, offering practical insights into the field. - Cultural Inspiration:
The UK’s blend of historical landmarks and contemporary design offers a wealth of inspiration for budding designers. - Global Career Opportunities:
A degree from a UK university is highly respected worldwide, opening doors to international career prospects. - Access to Scholarships:
The availability of diverse scholarships for international students helps reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. - Networking Opportunities:
Studying in the UK allows you to connect with industry leaders, peers, and alumni, building valuable professional relationships. - Innovative Curriculum:
UK interior design courses emphasise innovation and the latest industry trends, ensuring students stay ahead in their careers.
General Eligibility Criteria for Interior Design in the UK
Students must meet specific requirements to pursue interior design courses in the UK. These include:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualifications | – For bachelor’s: Minimum 60% in senior secondary school.- For master’s: Completed bachelor’s degree with at least 60%. |
| English Proficiency | Proof of proficiency through tests like IELTS. |
| Supporting Documents | – Statement of Purpose (SOP)- Letters of Recommendation (LOR) |
| Additional Requirements | – Work experience (if applicable)- Valid passport and student visa |
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List of Top Universities in the UK for Interior Design
1. Northumbria University
Located in the heart of Newcastle, London, Northumbria University offers the best interior design course in the UK. It hosts students from over 130 countries and offers a BA (Honours) degree in interior design. This course focuses mainly on creating unique designs in modern architectural spaces.
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Eligibility Criteria
- High school graduation, equivalent to the GCSE, with a score of 65% or more.
- Overall English language proficiency score of 6.0 in IELTS.
Tuition Fees
Approximately INR 53.5L (£50K) per year for international students.
2. Coventry University
Situated in Birmingham, Coventry University offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in interior design. The programs help hone students’ creativity quotient to aid their journey to becoming world-class interior designers. In the two-year master’s category, this university offers a Product Design Innovation MA and a Design Management MA.
Eligibility Criteria
For the master’s degree, you need a BA (Honours) in any interior design or product design field. Also, a valid score of 6.5 is mandatory in the IELTS proficiency test.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fee at Coventry University is quite affordable and is around INR 18L (£17K) per year.
3. Royal College of Art
Royal College of Art is one of the top-ranked universities in the world for arts and science. It is the only college in the UK dedicated exclusively to design and design-related courses. This college offers postgraduate degrees (MA and MDes) in art and design to students from over 60 countries.
Eligibility Criteria
- For MA programs, an undergraduate degree is mandatory.
- Fluency in English must be demonstrated through a valid IELTS test score.
- A portfolio showcasing your artwork must be submitted with the application.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fee for the program is around INR 34L (£32K) per year.
4. Glasgow School of Art
Glasgow School of Art is considered Britain’s premier university for higher education in architecture, fine arts, and design. The school receives praise year after year for creating quality artists, designers, and architects through its undergraduate and postgraduate programs in design. This school has secured a high rank of 8 in the QS university ranking for arts and science.
Eligibility Criteria
- Submit a digital portfolio showcasing your work.
- Provide a powerful Statement of Purpose (SOP).
- Display proof of English proficiency through a valid IELTS test score.
Tuition Fees
The average tuition fee for international students is around INR 21.5L (£20K) per year.
5. University of East London
The University of East London offers one of the UK’s top interior design courses abroad. Its globally recognised programs have shaped the futures of millions of students.
Eligibility Criteria
- Diploma in design or any related course
- High school graduation
- Grade C in GCSE English and mathematics
- Portfolio
Tuition Fees
The tuition fee for international students is around INR 16L (£15K) per year for 3 years.
6. University of Portsmouth
The University of Portsmouth is a public university situated in Hampshire, ranked 61 in the Complete University Guide – University Ranking (UK). This university is also one of the four universities ranked Gold in the Government Teaching Excellence Framework. It offers both BA and MA degrees in interior design with a global reputation for employability.
Eligibility Criteria
- 75% or above in grade 12 examination (State board/CBSE)
- Minimum of 24-31 points in the International Baccalaureate (IB)
- A band score of 6.0 in the IELTS proficiency test
- Portfolio of work
For the master’s program, you must have an honours bachelor’s degree from a recognised university specialising in design or a relevant course.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fee is around INR 17.5L (£16K) per year.
7. Loughborough University
Loughborough University has strong links with various prominent design businesses worldwide. This improves the chances of students who complete the program here finding a good job. Loughborough offers a bachelor’s program for either four or three years.
The additional year is the placement year, where the student can apply for placements in interior design. This university has an excellent rank of 31 in the QS university ranking for arts and science.
Eligibility Criteria
- 85% or above in grade 12 examination (State board/CBSE)
- A band score of 6.5 in the IELTS proficiency test
Tuition Fees
International applicants need to pay INR 28L (£26K) per year for 3 years. If the student opts for the placement year, an additional 20% of the total fees must be paid.
8. University of Chester
The degrees offered by the University of Chester include BA (Honours) and Design MA. Through these programs, the university offers excellent insights into interior design for a deeper understanding of the subject. The program’s final year has project work to be completed to get the certificate.
Eligibility Criteria
- The qualification criteria for an Indian student to the master’s program is 65% in UG
- Band score of 6.0 on the IELTS proficiency test.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fee for international students is INR 15L (£14K) per year, including field trip costs.
Scholarships for Interior Design Courses in the UK
International students pursuing interior design courses in the UK have access to a wide range of scholarships provided by both universities and the UK government. These scholarships cater to various needs, including academic merit, sports achievements, and financial assistance.
These scholarships not only ease financial burdens but also enhance the study experience by recognising and rewarding academic and extracurricular excellence.
| University | Scholarships Available |
|---|---|
| Manchester Metropolitan University | – General International Award- Chancellor’s International Award (for undergraduate and postgraduate students) |
| Middlesex University London | – MDX Excellence Scholarship (for undergraduates)- Sports Scholarships (based on merit) |
| Kingston University | – Scholarships for international students (available for the first year of their degree) |
| London Metropolitan University | – International Excellence Scholarship (for postgraduate courses) |
| Coventry University | – Merit-Based Scholarships- Chevening Scholarship (for international students) |
| Teesside University | – Chevening Scholarship- International Development Scholarship- Commonwealth Scholarship- Global Excellence Scholarship |
In Summary
That concludes the list of top interior design courses abroad in the UK. Studying interior design in the UK in 2025 presents an exciting opportunity for aspiring designers to learn from some of the world’s leading institutions. With a range of programs focusing on creativity and technical skills, students can gain a solid foundation in design principles while developing a unique aesthetic vision.
The UK’s vibrant design industry and exposure to diverse cultural influences make it an ideal setting for interior design studies. Although costs vary, the value gained through quality education, hands-on experience, and networking potential with industry leaders makes this investment rewarding for a future in interior design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the eligibility criteria to study interior design in the UK?
A. Eligibility includes a minimum of 60% in senior secondary school for bachelor’s programs or a completed bachelor’s degree for master’s. You’ll also need proof of English proficiency (like IELTS), an SOP, LORs, and a valid passport with a student visa.
Q. Which are the top colleges for interior design in the UK?
A. Some of the top colleges include the Royal College of Art, University of Arts London, Loughborough University, Glasgow School of Art, and Manchester Metropolitan University, known for their excellent design programs.
Q. What is the average cost of studying interior design in the UK?
A. The tuition fees range from £12,000 to £35,000 annually, depending on the university and program. Additional costs include accommodation, living expenses, and materials for design projects.
Q. Are scholarships available for international students in interior design programs?
A. Yes, scholarships like the Chevening Scholarship, Commonwealth Scholarship, and university-specific awards such as the International Excellence Scholarship at London Metropolitan University are available.
Q. What English proficiency scores are required for admission?
A. Most universities require an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0, with no band less than 6.0. Equivalent scores in TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo English Test are also accepted.
Q. Can I work while studying interior design in the UK?
A. Yes, international students on a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations, helping cover living expenses and gaining experience.
Q. Is prior experience required for a master’s in interior design in the UK?
A. While prior work experience is not mandatory for most universities, having a portfolio showcasing your skills and creative work significantly strengthens your application.
Q. What career opportunities are available after completing an interior design degree in the UK?
A. Graduates can work as interior designers, set designers, space planners, or project managers. Many also find opportunities in architecture firms, design studios, or start their own businesses globally.
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