Some design occupations, notably industrial design, require a bachelor's degree. Interior designers also generally need a college education, preferably a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of applied arts degree. Interior designers must also be knowledgeable about Federal, State, and local codes, and toxicity and flammability standards for furniture and furnishings. Employers seek individuals who are knowledgeable about textiles, fabrics, and ornamentation as well as trends in the fashion world. In contrast to the other design occupations, a high school diploma ordinarily suffices for floral design jobs.
Most floral designers learn their skills on the job.
When they hire trainees, employers generally look for high school graduates who have a flair for color and a desire to learn. However, completion of formal training is an asset for floral designers, particularly for advancement to the lead floral designer level. Graduates of 2-year programs generally qualify as assistants to designers. Four-year colleges and universities grant the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. The curriculum in these schools includes art and art history, principles of design, designing and sketching, and specialized studies for each of the individual design disciplines such as garment construction, textiles, mechanical and architectural drawing, computerized design, sculpture, architecture, and basic engineering.