Natwerk Designs

career advice for interior designer in Canada..?

I'm from India.I was enrolled in a bachelor's program for Architecture(5 yrs) which i continued for two years before deciding to shift to Interior Design and I'm currently in the final year of my three year course in interior design (B.Sc.Interior Design)..I have a few questions regarding career options in Canada as a practicing Interior designer. As far as my knowledge goes , to have to practice I need to have some educational background from a canadian university?..My plans are to pursue a Master's program in lighting design..the problem is I cant seem to find universities in toronto that offer a Masters in any related field..i found one in Manitoba but thats way up north n im getting married and settled in Toronto by the end of next year... Also before taking up my masters what i would ideally like to do is gain practical experience and knowledge working in Toronto and then see if theres a particular area i would like to specialise in rather than lighting design. I'd like to know if working like this is possible without having a degree from a canadian university? Also what is the accreditation system in Canada for an international degree..?how can i find out if my current university is accredited in Canada..? would i have to clear exams..just how does it work?.. Any advice on the course of action to be taken would be highly appreciated. Thanks alot for your time..really appreciate it.

Public Comments

1. G'day Feebee 19, Thank you for your question. Your first concern is accreditation. Often, the best people to speak to is the professional association which is the Interior Designers of Canada in this instance. It states on its website that: 1. Education IDC supports quality assurance for interior design education programs in universities and colleges through affiliation with the Foundation for Interior Design Education Research (FIDER). FIDER provides the foundation for excellence in the interior design profession by setting standards for education and accrediting academic program that meet those standards. FIDER accreditation signifies that the interior design program is meeting educational requirements to prepare graduates for entry into the profession. 2. Professional Qualification IDC recognizes the international NCIDQ qualifying exam. The exam is used throughout Canada and the United States." You can check with it about whether your training meets FIDER accreditation and if not, what further studies you need to do to meet it. I have attached links to the directory of Interior Design Canada for the link in your province so you can contact them for advice. Once you clear up accreditation, I would start writing to interior designers in your area advising them of who you are and your qualifications. I would also join the local Interior Design professional association in your province as networking is often the key to getting a job. Regarding your masters, I would seek advice about a course you could do locally or by correspondence in Toronto. Good luck with your career and your marriage. Regards