Become an Interior Designer in Missouri: Why STLCC is a Smart Path
March 18, 2026
Posted by School of Communication, Design and Creative Arts in Programs and Pathways
If you’re considering a creative career that blends problem-solving, technology and the capacity to shape how people live and work, interior design might be your calling.
What Do Interior Designers Do?
Interior designers help clients improve everyday spaces, from living rooms to hospital waiting areas, and work for design firms, architecture practices, showrooms, construction companies, health care systems and hospitality groups.
For aspiring designers in Missouri, St. Louis Community College offers a practical launchpad into the profession. The big questions prospective students ask are sensible: Is interior design a viable career? Are there real job opportunities in interior design? What does the path to becoming an interior designer look like?
At STLCC, students pursuing an associate in applied science (AAS) in interior design gain affordable access to industry-standard training, build portfolios through hands-on projects and make connections with a collaborative design community. Graduates are well-positioned for immediate employment or to transfer to a four-year university.
One student’s story shows how it comes together.
A Career Change That Worked: Kim Gamel’s Story
After 20-plus years in marketing and public relations, Kim Gamel made her first career shift when her son was a young child. “I pivoted and went into container gardening. I actually started my own business, got my master gardener’s certification and did that part-time for about 11 years.”
The work unlocked her eye for composition, color and proportion. “I really loved the design aspect,” she says. But the physical demands made it tough to scale solo. “I realized this isn’t something I could really do long term — at least not without hiring other people that could lift the heavy urns and all that.”
When her son was older, she briefly returned to the corporate world but longed for something more creative. Then she listened to a familiar nudge: “What about interior design?” Encouraged by a friend in the field who praised STLCC’s program and its range of student ages and backgrounds, Gamel took a few classes to try it out.
“It was harder than I thought, but I just really enjoyed the interior design classes. And now, this is my fourth semester. I should be finishing in May.”
Gamel’s experience reflects what many career-changers value at STLCC: rigorous, supportive training for real work, with flexible day or evening classes that let you progress at a workable pace.
The Skills and Software Employers Expect
Modern interior design is as technical as it is creative. STLCC’s interior design curriculum aligns to industry outcomes so graduates can create comprehensive design solutions, communicate technical specifications and understand building codes.
Students also learn the same digital tools used by top firms. “Every semester I was learning a new software: AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Enscape, Adobe Suite [Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop],” Gamel notes. “It was definitely a sharp learning curve, but it’s given me a lot of tools.”
Through foundational courses like architectural drafting, space planning and materials and specifications, students learn to translate creative vision into professional construction documents and 3D visualizations. Along the way, the program reinforces collaboration, client communication and professional standards.
Real-World Feedback and Industry Relevance
A unique strength of STLCC’s interior design program is its advisory board of practicing professionals. “Our advisory board doesn’t just review student portfolios; they also help shape our curriculum,” says Erin LeClerc, program director. “They give students direct feedback on their strengths and areas for improvement, and they keep us up to date on emerging trends, from new software to how AI is being used in the industry.”
This means students graduate with skills that are not only current but also directly aligned with what employers are seeking. The program’s accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) also ensures a rigorous, industry-recognized standard.
Learning by Doing: Internships and Industry Exposure
Inside the classroom, students build practical, client-ready portfolios. Outside, they connect with the local design community.
Gamel joined Meramec’s interior design club and discovered the value of networking: tours of a Frank Lloyd Wright residence and Hotel 21C, behind-the-scenes visits to firms and conversations with designers across residential and commercial sectors. “It’s helpful to get an all-around picture of what your opportunities are,” she explains.
“Success comes to somebody who’s willing to put in the effort and the time.”
— Kim Gamel, STLCC interior design student
Gamel also secured a residential interior design internship through her network. “I do a lot of sourcing for clients,” she says. “I organize all the memos (samples), maintain the library, and help with installs.” That real-world experience is the kind of thing employers notice.
Residential or Commercial? You Can Explore Both
STLCC’s curriculum is structured to give students a broad foundation and then help them specialize.
“Our program is designed so that students start with residential design, then move into kitchens and bathrooms, and finally commercial design — all in their first year,” says LeClerc. “In the second year, they go deeper into both residential and commercial projects, building on what they’ve learned.”
From the start, Gamel was most interested in residential design. “I love the fabrics, textiles, specifications,” she says.
As she engaged with more industry events, her view evolved. “I’ve had more exposure to the commercial side, and I think it depends on the firm and their clients,” Gamel says. “There are definitely opportunities on the commercial side.”
This flexibility is a core outcome of STLCC’s pathway. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles such as junior designer, design assistant or CAD/BIM drafter in both residential and commercial firms. That agility can help as the economy and job market change.
The STLCC Advantage: Affordability, Flexibility, and Community
Gamel’s experience highlights how achievable this career change can be. With evening classes available, students balancing work or family can still finish on a two-year timeline.
The program’s affordability lowers financial barriers, especially compared with four-year options, and the community is genuinely supportive.
“I was surprised at the friendships,” Gamel says. “Even with classmates my son’s age. People have been very gracious and open, just talking and getting good feedback.”
How to Get Started
- Talk to STLCC’s interior design program director to discuss first steps and advising.
- Try a class: “There’s no harm in taking a class here and there,” Gamel says. “It’s a low-risk way to confirm your interest.”
- Learn the tools: Expect to grow into software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. The learning curve is real but manageable with faculty support.
- Network with purpose: Join the interior design club. Attend tours and firm visits. Ask professionals for 15-minute coffee chats. Bring your portfolio and ask for feedback.
Transferring to a Four-Year Program: Pathways Beyond STLCC
For students who want to build on their associate degree and pursue a bachelor’s in interior design or a related field, STLCC offers clear transfer pathways. The interior design AAS program has agreements with several colleges and universities in Missouri that guarantee course credits can transfer smoothly, saving you time and money as you work toward a four-year degree.
Whether you’re aiming for advanced design study, specialized certifications, or even graduate school, starting at STLCC gives you a strong foundation. Advisors can help you map courses to ensure you meet transfer requirements and maximize your credit hours.
Ready to take the next step?
Explore STLCC’s interior design AAS degree, talk with an advisor, or visit a class. Whether you’re starting your first career or making a meaningful pivot, STLCC can help you turn your talent into a career-ready design portfolio.
