What Are the Pros and Cons of Pursuing an Online Vs On-Campus Interior Design Degree?
- Mar 20, 2024
- 1 min read
Should you pursue your Interior Design Degree Online or On Campus?
So, this is an interesting question because I do believe both have their pros and cons. However, every individual’s situation is different, so one may be a better / preferred option for you, vs for someone else. Let's break down the pros and cons of each option.
ON-CAMPUS DEGREE PROS:
You Learn How To Sell Yourself
Through an on-campus setting, you will be presenting to a room full of other students, your professors, and often times other professionals who sit in on presentations as guests / recruiters. Trust me, the feedback and criticism will toughen you up real quick and force some confidence onto you.
You Build Strong Relationships
It’s always a good idea to build a strong relationship with professors, who are professionals and experts in the field. This opens the door to networking opportunities.
University is also a place where you will meet many types of people and that’s always a sure way to open your mind to learn more about yourself. There were people of all ages in my classes, from all around the world, with different stories to tell. If that taught me anything through the challenges of Uni, it would be that we are all exactly where we’re meant to be.
More Intimate Relationships With Professor
To add to my point above, you will have a better opportunity at proper sit-downs with your professors. There was nothing I loved more than being able to brainstorm with my professors. It was truly an added learning experience, watching the way they (as professionals) would think and put ideas down on paper, re-correcting my designs to be more efficient.
A More Motivated Structure / Environment
For me, the on-campus setting was very structured and forced me to show up as my best. Being on a campus with other students working, traditional classroom settings, campus rules and so forth, creates an environment that naturally fuels you to commit.
Also, having to face professors weekly and have physical presentations, definitely forces you to not play the fool!
On Campus Resources
Being on-campus carries the convenience of enjoying all of the resources available to you, such as the campus libraries, doctor and mental health resources, workshops, events, and many more.
As for design resources, it was helpful that we had a room filled with materials for presentations. Past students and sometimes design reps would donate samples of wood, fabric, wallcovering, drapery etc. Sometimes, past students would also donate foam board, so it was nice not having to purchase any!
Doing CAD work also requires a strong computer. Having computer labs at school could help you save on having to purchase a new laptop! (I spent many late nights with my friends in the computer labs.)
ON-CAMPUS DEGREE CONS
Ohhh Tuition! I Hope You Had A Great Savings!
Attending an on-campus program can be much more costly than pursuing your degree online. It's just like going to work vs working from home; money is to be spent in transportation and food. Let's not forget the difference between in-state tuition, out of state tuition, international tuition. Yeah, they don't tell you everyone in your class pays varied amounts for tuition based on where they are from/located.
Though some students live in the same state and can commute from home (which definitely saves them on bucks), most students in University are from out of state, or even from another country! This means...dorm living. Dorm living comes with a heavy price too.
Traditional Classrooms May Not Be For You
Some of us prefer flexibility in our learning environments. I personally (at that phase of life) enjoyed going to school, with other students and sitting in a traditional classroom setting. For you, you probably learn best through the comfort of a cafe, or your home.
It Can Get Lonely
If you're out-of-state or international, you're likely away from your family and your closest friends. It does get lonely, but don't let that be a huge con. Uni is still a great place to meet some great friends. I actually met two of my best friends, who will probably be life-long friends! Open your mind to new adventure.
ONLINE DEGREE PROS
Flexibility
Online Classes means flexibility. Many of us have jobs we can't let go of, families to took care of, many other responsibilities we can't leave behind. Taking classes online often allows you to work your degree into your schedule.
I've met many persons who are already committed to careers, but have had a change of heart to switch over to Design. Taking your degree online allows you to kick start pursuing your dreams, while staying true to your responsibilities.
Traditional Classrooms May Not Be For You
Some of us learn better at our own pace. When taking online classes, you may have days you just wanna lounge around on the couch completing assignments. You can even go to libraries and cafes.
As creatives, we often require flexibility in our work environments. This is why so many design firms have multiple work spaces for their employees. Sometimes you need a firm computer setup for CAD Drawings. Other times, you want to sit outdoors formulating design concepts, or just play around with materials on your living room rug!
Save Money on Presentations!
When doing degrees online, you can use Powerpoint, Photoshop, IDesign, whatever you want for your presentations! There is often no need for purchasing foam board and a load of supplies. All of the printing of images etc really added up.
Save Money on Everything!
Yup, Online Degrees usually cost less. You also don't have to pay for dorms, extra meals, transportation! Work from the comfort of your home with way less expenses!
ONLINE DEGREE CONS
How Self-Disciplined Are You?
Is Home Really A Quiet Place?
A Social Life
You May Have To Invest In Some Tech
Accreditation
Unfortunately, many persons see Online Degrees as a "joke". It's a mindless stereotype which makes no sense, I know. Though, the world is changing for the better and Online Degrees are gaining more credit, there are still a few firms, even friends and family who may not want to take you seriously.
Don't let that stop you though. With everything going on in the world, Online Degrees will quickly become very acceptable in the near future.
I hope this gave you some clarity! Whether you want to pursue your degree online or on-campus, is all up to you!
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or comments.
Melissa :)
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