The Best Interior Design Master's Courses in the UK

If you choose to study an interior design master's in the UK, you will develop your understanding of visual language while improving your knowledge about the range of materials, approaches, techniques, and theories used to advance in this exciting field.

With an interior design master's degree, students will learn about materials and how to manipulate and use them, receive training in using machine and hand tools, creating working models and sketch models, and develop ideas through sketchbook work, both 2D and 3D. You'll be trained with industry standard design software and hardware, using illustration and photography software to bring your finished models to life.

The average salary earned by an interior design master's graduate is £35,700 gross per year, whilst salaries can go up to £75,000 per year depending on the candidate's skills and experience. UK universities are renowned destinations for art and design creatives who are looking to hone their skills and achieve fantastic, challenging work opportunities.

Are you interested in applying or learning more? Contact SI-UK for a free consultation on your future today.

Top Ten UK Universities for MA Interior Design

Learn more about the best UK universities for studying interior design master's degree below (Guardian University Guide 2024).

1. University of the Arts London

The MA in Interior and Spatial Design at Camberwell College of Arts (UAL’s interior design faculty) critically investigates space through theoretical and practical research. The course is biassed toward a research-led practice. Thus, all students studying this course are encouraged through a path of personal critical discovery that starts with figuring out the initial area of an individual’s research interest. 

• Suggested course: MA Interior and Spatial Design
• Entry requirements: BA (Hons) degree or equivalent academic qualifications.
• International fee: £32,260

2. Middlesex University

At Middlesex University, pursuing the MA in Interiors (Architecture & Design) allows students to explore interior spaces. The programme encourages creative experimentation, highlighting the potential and limits of interiors in various contemporary contexts. Students develop individual practices through field research, studio workshops, and critical analysis.

Middlesex's commitment to addressing urban challenges and sustainability aligns with the course's focus on re-imagining existing spaces. Graduates are equipped to shape a better world by presenting innovative theories and proposals.

• Suggested course: Interiors (Architecture and Design) MA
• Entry requirements: A good honours degree, 2:2 or above, or equivalent qualification.
• International fee: £16,800

3. London Metropolitan University

London Metropolitan University's Interior Design MA is a research-driven programme catering to graduates in interior design and related disciplines, promoting collaboration with industry professionals. Situated in the School of Art, Architecture, and Design, it adopts a multidisciplinary approach essential for success in the evolving design sector.

The course adapts to the changing landscape where design skills are increasingly versatile, emphasising generic and transferable skills in the built environment. London Met focuses on contemporary design, and its global perspective ensures a vibrant community dedicated to meaningful change.

• Suggested course: Interior Design - MA
• Entry requirements: A first-class or strong upper-second-class degree, or equivalent, in a related subject.
• International fee: £18,150

4. Manchester Metropolitan University

At Manchester Metropolitan University, the MA Interiors programme focuses on practical and theoretical aspects through core units. "Design Thinking" instils applied understanding, emphasising problem-solving through iterative design processes. "Design Studio" units offer contexts for in-depth research, encouraging conceptual risk-taking in real-world applications.

The programme culminates in "Design Studio 3," where students synthesise and present their Major Design Project, showcasing high-quality visual communication and critical engagement with theoretical underpinnings. The curriculum prepares graduates with creative, technical, and professional skills in interior design or interior architecture.

• Suggested course: MA Interiors
• Entry requirements: 2:1 BA (Hons) Interior Design/Interior Architecture or equivalent Architectural or Design undergraduate degree, completed within five years of the postgraduate course application.
• International fee: £20,500

5. University for the Creative Arts

At the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) in Canterbury, the MA Interior Design course offers an exciting opportunity to advance interior design expertise. Students cultivate individual spatial design approaches in a supportive environment through research-led practice and experimental design.

The programme encourages diverse areas like interaction design, VR, immersive events, and retail. With one-to-one tuition, seminars, and studio space, students engage with industry experts, ensuring a well-rounded skill set for a successful entry into the global interior design market.

• Suggested course: MA Interior Design
• Entry requirements: A good honours degree or equivalent qualification in a related discipline.
• International fee: £18,000

6. Coventry University

Coventry University's Interior Design MA is crafted to deepen knowledge and experience in professional interior architecture and design. The course aims to elevate students to an advanced level of study focused on original, creative responses to challenging design problems. The programme offers a 'professional experience' opportunity to enhance skills and employability. 

Encouraging a global perspective, students explore human relationships with spatial environments, manufacturing processes, and the quest for uniqueness. Coventry University's top rankings highlight its commitment to quality education and career prospects.

• Suggested course: Interior Design MA
• Entry requirements: BA (Hons), MDes degree in Interior Design or Architecture or equivalent.
• International fee: £18,600

7. University of East London

The University of East London's 12-month MA in Interior Design engages students in creative and experimental processes, fostering the ability to grasp complex design ideas. Adopting a hands-on approach aligned with the 'making' ethos, the programme offers unique experiences through live projects, competitions, and field trips.

Exploring the role of design in the rapidly changing contemporary landscape, students address questions about the future of spaces like offices, libraries, and shops in a rigorous, experimental, and creative manner.

• Suggested course: MA Interior Interior
• Entry requirements: Bachelor's degree with Upper Second Class (2:1) or Second Class (2:2) in Architecture or Interior Design.
• International fee: £15,240

8. Nottingham Trent University

At Nottingham Trent University, the MA Interior Architecture and Design programme offers a platform for exploring crucial interior, spatial, and architectural design discussions. Focused on redefining how we interact with our surroundings, the course integrates explorative design projects and skill-based modules within a studio-centric culture. 

Emphasising research, students investigate methodologies in context, fostering independent exploration and discussion. Designed for graduates and professionals alike, the programme encourages creative expression and critical thinking and challenges the nature of interior architecture and design. The high satisfaction rate and employability statistics underscore the programme's success.

• Suggested course: MA Interior Architecture and Design
• Entry requirements: 2.2 Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant (cognate or semi-cognate) discipline.
• International fee: £17,500

9. Glasgow School of Art

At the Glasgow School of Art, the MDes in Interior Design offers a unique blend of practice and research-based learning. This programme nurtures independent and innovative designers who challenge societal norms and rethink the field of interior design. 

Students engage in an academically rigorous environment, exploring the historical and theoretical framework in the first stage, multidisciplinary approaches in the second stage, and boundary-breaking solutions merging research and practice in the third stage. Graduates emerge as advanced practitioners, ready to shape the discipline's central tenets.

• Suggested course: MDes in Interior Design
• Entry requirements: A good honours degree in interior design or equivalent professional practice.

10. University of Portsmouth

The University of Portsmouth's Interior Architecture and Design MA offers a dynamic learning experience. Course highlights include networking with industry professionals, collaboration with the Portsea community and St Luke’s Church, and engaging with adaptive reuse strategies at places like Wymering Manor. 

The programme's strong links to regional and national design practices and opportunities to exhibit at various shows provide a comprehensive education. Students explore the intersection of communities and the environment, addressing issues like climate change and socially engaged projects.

• Suggested course: Interior Architecture and Design MA
• Entry requirements: A bachelor's degree from a UK university or an international equivalent.
• International fee: £18,100

Study an Interior Design Master's in the UK

If you want to learn more about studying an interior design master's at a top UK university or want to begin your application to study in the UK, book a free consultation with SI-UK London today.

FAQ

What qualifications do I need to study for a master's in interior design in the UK?

To pursue a Master's in interior design in the UK, typically, you'll need a relevant bachelor's degree in a related field like interior design, architecture, or a closely related discipline. Some universities may also consider applicants with significant industry experience.

Which universities in the UK have the highest acceptance rate for masters in interior design?

Universities with higher acceptance rates for masters in interior design are Middlesex University, London Metropolitan University, and the University of East London.

How can I get a full scholarship to study master's in interior design in the UK?

Full scholarships for a Master's in Interior Design are very unlikely. You can explore opportunities by researching scholarships offered by universities, government bodies, and private organisations. Look for merit-based scholarships, financial need-based awards, and international student scholarships. Craft a strong application, showcasing academic achievements and a compelling statement of purpose.