Part-Time Interior Design Course: Worth It? Pros, Cons & Career Impact

Interior Design

Part-Time Interior Design Course: Worth It? Pros, Cons & Career Impact

In today's fast-paced world, where balancing work and personal goals can be challenging, pursuing a part-time interior design course is a smart and flexible way to advance your career. If you dream of designing stunning spaces but are stuck in a 9-to-5  job, this article is for you.

Whether you're a working professional looking to switch careers or a creative individual wanting to polish your skills, we will help you decide—Is a part-time interior design course worth the investment of time, money, and energy? Will it land you jobs? And can you balance it with work? We will answer everything—from salary potential to must-know software, and why working professionals are rushing to enroll. Let’s dive in!

The Unseen Advantage: Why Choose a Part-Time Interior Design Course?

Before we dive deep into how a part-time education in interior design could be your golden ticket, let's address the elephant in the room, or should we say, the beautifully designed elephant in the room.

The interior design industry is not just growing; it's exploding. We're talking about a market that was valued at USD 145.24 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 153.24 billion in 2025 to USD 248.15 billion by 2034, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.50%.

But here's where it gets really interesting for career changers like you: There is expected to be a 13% increase in interior design jobs for the next decade. That's not just growth—that's a career opportunity of a lifetime waiting to happen.

The market in India is expected to hit ?48,000 crores by 2026. This is the perfect opportunity for you to follow your passion and design breathtaking spaces without losing your day job.

? Flexible Learning for Busy Professionals

Unlike full-time programs, a part-time interior design course lets you: 

? Study weekends/evenings so you can prioritise your work

? Keep your current job and maintain your lifestyle

? Learn at your own pace 

? High Demand for Skilled Designers

? The Indian interior design industry is growing at 12% annually (IBEF).

? Freelance designers earn ?30,000 – ?1,50,000/month (based on projects, skills and experience).

? Top firms like Livspace, Homelane, and DesignCafe hire certified part-time learners.

? Affordable & Career-Boosting

Full-time courses can cost ?3-5 lakhs, but a part-time certification ranges between ?20,000 – ?1,00,000—making it a smart investment for anyone looking to start their career in interior designing.

? Real-World Application From Day One

Unlike traditional courses, an interior design course for working professionals can do wonders. You’ll learn how to read floor plans, work with clients, and master digital tools like AutoCAD and SketchUp. These courses focus on the trends, tools, and tactics professionals use today

The Power of a Part-Time Interior Design Course

You can think of it as a career accelerator that respects your time. For people who already have commitments towards their work, family and loved ones. It's easier to let go of your ambitions and say I just don't have the time to enroll in a diploma or degree like Bdes in interior designing. This would be the perfect choice for you, a part-time course in interior design with flexible learning and practical application.

If you truly want to pursue interior designing and want to become a top interior designer in India, then the opportunity awaits you. This means you can boost your career, unlock creativity, and enter a high-paying industry—without quitting your job or compromising family time.

Salary Reality Check: What Can You Earn?

When you complete an interior design course, you open yourself to a lot of opportunities, although with a part-time job, you'll be eligible for entry-level with a basic salary of around 10-20K per month. You can also apply for internships and gain experience so that when you switch careers later, your skills will be in demand. 

5 Years Later? Sky’s the Limit!

  • Junior Designer: ?25K–?50K/month (Livspace, Homelane)
  • 3D Visualizer: ?35K–?70K (remote jobs available!)
  • Freelancer: ?50K–?1.5L/month (just 3–5 projects)
  • Senior Designer: ?1–2L/month
  • Entrepreneur: ?5L+/project (luxury homes, hotels)

So, the opportunities are endless, but are you up for it?

Still Thinking? Others Are Already Designing

While you’re waiting, others are learning, building portfolios, and landing jobs. Don’t fall behind—start your creative journey today with Wisdom Design College.

Ready to Transform Your Career?

If you’re passionate about design but need flexibility and don't want to dedicate too much time, a part-time interior design course is a smart investment. Especially, one focused on interior design software courses can be your ticket to success in interior design. The design industry is growing, employers are hiring, and flexible learning means you don’t have to put your life on hold to chase your dream.

Don’t wait. Explore our top-rated interior design course for working professionals and start your journey today!

FAQs

Can you study interior design part time?

Yes, many institutions offer part-time interior design courses in India with flexible schedules (evening/weekend classes, online modules, or self-paced learning). These programs cover design principles, colour theory, space planning, drafting, and industry-standard software like AutoCAD, Photoshop, and SketchUp, and often include practical projects and internships, which are ideal for working professionals.

Is it worth doing an interior design course?

Depends on your goals:

  • For a career: A formal course is valuable for building skills, credibility, and industry connections. The Indian interior design market is growing (projected to reach $30 billion by 2026), creating demand for trained professionals, even for part-timers.  
  • For side income/hobby: Shorter courses or certifications may suffice to start freelancing or personal projects, and earn a good income from a side hustle in interior design. 

Can interior design be a side job?

Yes, interior designing can be a rewarding side hustle. Many designers begin with freelance projects (e.g., home styling, 3D renders) alongside their job or studies. You can start offering consultations or working virtually with clients. Platforms like UrbanClap, Houzz, and freelance websites, along with Social Media like Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook, make it easier to find clients and projects while gaining followers in the process.

Which interior design course is best?

The best course depends on your background, goals, and preferred learning style. Some top-rated options in India include:

  • Wisdom College for Creativity & Design Diploma: 1-year part-time, hands-on projects, software training, and placement assistance. Best for students and working professionals alike.
  • Sukriti Architecture and Interiors (SPA) 6-Month Course: Focuses on foundational design principles and practical skills, suitable for beginners.
  • Samyak IT Solutions Diploma: Focuses on technical skills in AutoCAD, 3D Max, and Photoshop, with hands-on learning.

What is the salary of interior designer in India?

  • Entry-level (0–2 years): ?2.5–4 LPA. 
  • Mid-level (3–5 years): ?4–8 LPA.
  • Senior (5+ years): ?8–15 LPA (up to ?30L+ for top designers or firm owners). 
  • Freelancers: Can earn ?50K–1.5L/month with experience and skills.

Factors Affecting Salary: Location (metro cities pay more), experience and skills, and portfolio quality.