Become an Interior Decorator
Certificate IV in Interior Decoration (MSF40122)
Accredited by Sydney Design School
Delivered entirely online
Explore all aspects of design for residential interiors with this hands-on, industry driven course. You’ll learn how to make considered creative decisions about colour, fabric, lighting, soft furnishings and space planning.
Our course is designed to push your boundaries and develop your skills, empowering you to tackle our major project – a whole house residential interior scheme. Your personal Educator will be on hand to provide detailed feedback and encouragement every step of the way by phone, email or video conferencing. Our Career Coach is also available from day one to make a plan for your future in interiors.
The Certificate IV in Interior Decoration (MSF40122) is delivered entirely online on behalf of our partner Sydney Design School. This internationally recognised qualification is accredited by the Australian Government (Registered Training Provider 91446). You will graduate as a professional Interior Decorator.
Total Flexibility
Study 10 hours per week
Over 1 – 2 years
Careers Coach
Make a plan for your future
from day one of your course
Accredited
Receive an internationally
recognised qualification



What does the course cover?
In this intensive and highly practical course we guide you through the process of creating just the right look and feel for the interior of a home from taking a brief from a client through to presenting a fully resolved interior scheme.
Subjects include:
- Design principles and concept development
- Colour theory, interior colour schemes, paint technology and specifications
- Interior decoration styles and trends
- Client liaison and communication
- Sketch drawing, rendering techniques and one and two point perspective
- Interior planning for residential including kitchens, bathrooms, living and outdoor spaces
- Technical drawing and model making
- Furnishing, fabrics, window treatments, furniture, lighting and upholstery
- Interior scheme development
- Sample boards and specifications
- The business of interior design and decoration
What are the Units of Study?
Competency-based training is a method of training which develops the skills, knowledge and attitudes required to achieve competency. There are no exams, you simply work through the exercises and upload your assessments. Our Educators will provide detailed feedback and you are free to resubmit your work until you reach competency and move on to the next unit.
There are four units in this course, for a full list of unit competencies click here.
IDO01: Foundations of Design and Colour
Develop an understanding of the Interior Design and Decoration Industry and what influences design styles. Be introduced to the foundations of design including concept development, elements and principles of design and composition. Explore the inspiring world of colour and learn how to create dynamic colour schemes. Explore the technicalities of paint and learn how to develop industry standard professional specifications.
IDO02: Interior Planning and Design
Be introduced to the fundamentals of residential interior design, planning and lighting. Explore all aspects of residential design including designing bathrooms, kitchens, living, bedrooms and outdoor spaces. Visualise space in two and three dimensions through model making and perspective drawing techniques.
IDO03: Interior Schemes and 3D Visualisation
Explore all aspects of interior decoration including furniture, furnishings, upholstery, window treatments and flooring. Learn how to construct an interior scheme and present professional sample boards and specifications.
IDO04: Residential Decoration
Prepare for the real world by working on a simulated residential project. Take a client brief and work through the design stages to the final presentation. Learn essential business skills, prepare a professional resume and portfolio ready to launch your dream career.
Is this course accredited?
You’ll receive an internationally recognised, Australian Government accredited Certificate IV in Interior Decoration (MSF40122) from our partner Sydney Design School (RTO 91446). This vocational qualification is written and developed by industry professionals to ensure our graduates study the most relevant and current content. This course is accredited by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), the national regulator for Australia’s vocational education and training sector.
How does it work?
Here’s some key facts about the course;
- You can start studying anytime, anywhere. You can apply online today
- The course is divided into 4 separate units of study
- The course is entirely self paced, you can study and pay unit by unit to suit your lifestyle
- We estimate that you will need to spend approximately 10 hours per week studying to complete the work within 1 – 2 years
- You have a maximum of 6 months to complete each unit
- The 4 units can be credited towards the Diploma of Interior Design if wish to extend your study
How does studying online work?
Once you have applied, our team will process your enrolment on the same day or the next business day. They will send you a unique login to our eCampus and then you can start studying!
Our course is delivered by interactive video tutorials and quality online resources. You’ll study unit by unit, reading the content and using your Design Kit to complete the practical assessments. To have your work marked simply take a clear photo and upload it into our eCampus.
Your online Educator will give you detailed feedback. Once your work has been marked competent you can move on to the next unit.
Will I be supported?
Absolutely. Our passionate team of Educators are all practising Interior Designers, Architects and specialists in online learning. They are on-hand throughout your study to give you guidance and support over the phone, on email or through video conferencing.
What are the entry requirements?
You don’t need any previous experience just enthusiasm and a passion for interiors! We start from the basics and gradually build your skills, knowledge and confidence. You will need basic computer knowledge and the ability to navigate the Internet.
In terms of equipment you will need a computer or laptop with Microsoft Office, access to the Internet (preferably broadband), access to an A4 scanner / printer (Min 1000+ DPI) and a digital camera or smart phone.
You are required to upload your assessments as a PDF so you will require software on your smart phone such as Turbo Scan or Genius Scan.
To study with Interior Design Online you will need a strong command of the English language (verbal, written and comprehension) and, if required, be able to score at least 6 in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test here or an equivalent.
If required, our team will be in contact with you by telephone to assess your English language proficiency, prior to an enrolment confirmation being sent. If your application is not successful due to your language ability your payment will be refunded in full.
What does the course cost?
The course is separated into 4 units of study;
- Unit 1 Foundations of Design and Colour + Design Kit (free shipping) | $2,290
- Unit 2 Interior Planning and Design | $1,795
- Unit 3 Interior Schemes and 3D Visualisation | $1,795
- Unit 4 Residential Decoration | $1,795
- Total course cost | $7,675 (GST Free)
Additional costs for students outside Australia
Shipping is free internationally but if you are studying outside Australia you will be responsible for paying any GST, customs charges or duties on arrival.
What are my payment options?
We know the investment you’re making in your future is an important one, which is why we offer a range of payment options.
Option 1 – Pay Upfront and Save
Pay for the total course cost at enrolment through PayPal or credit card and receive a 10% discount.
- Course cost | $7,675 (GST Free)
- Less 10% discount
- Total Course cost | $6,907.50 (GST Free)
Option 2 – Pay Unit by Unit
Pay for Unit 1 at time of enrolment and then pay for each subsequent unit when you finish your current unit.
Option 3 – Pay by Instalment
Pay an initial unit deposit through PayPal or credit card at the time of enrolment, followed by 2 monthly instalments via Ezidebit. Please note, payment by instalment is available to Australian students only. For full instalment details, click here.
If you require a longer instalment plan to pay for your first unit please contact our team on info@interiordesignonline.edu.au for more options.
Note: A 2% PayPal processing fee will be applied at checkout for all payments.
Design Kit
You will need a Design Kit which includes all of the tools and equipment that you require to undertake this course. The fee for your Design Kit is included in the cost of your first unit. Shipping is free internationally but if you are studying outside Australia you will be responsible for paying any GST, customs charges or duties on arrival.
VET Student Loans
VET Student Loans are not available for our online courses. Students studying a Diploma course at our physical campus, Sydney Design School may apply.
What are my career options?
You will graduate with an industry-ready portfolio of work. Our Careers Service – IDO Connect will help you to prepare a professional resume and will assist you with identifying job opportunities in your local area. You’ll also get access to our exclusive online job board GRADSPACE.
We strongly encourage you to source work experience or positions in the interiors industry while you are studying to reinforce the new skills you are learning.
What will I become?
- Interior Decorator
- Interior Stylist
- Colour Consultant
- Adviser for a product, furniture or lighting supplier
- Entrepreneur in your own interiors business
How do I apply?
You can apply online today. Follow the link below to enter your details into our online application form. You’ll then be directed to PayPal to pay for your course securely online. You can use a PayPal account or proceed as a guest using your credit card. You can choose to pay for the course in full, by unit or by instalments.
Please allow one business day for our team to process your application and payment. You will then receive a confirmation of your enrolment via email including your login to our eCampus and payment receipt. This will be followed by a welcome email from your personal online Educator. We will arrange a suitable time for a phone call to get to know you and give you a guided tour of our eCampus. Your Design Kit will be posted to you and should arrive within one week or your enrolment but you won’t need the resources until much further into your course.
Our partner, Sydney Design School, offers a guided online delivery option for this course. Stay connected and on track with their live online classroom.
Your Educator will present your lesson live online via Zoom, two days per week from 9.30am – 3pm.



“The team are professional, supportive and most of all encouraging, I never felt alone. The online layout is easy to follow and each module came with full examples and videos to help assist in the online learning experience. It was a pleasure.”
– Certificate IV graduate Renee Mazzetti / Australia
What tools will I need?
When you enrol into the Certificate IV in Interior Decoration you’ll receive our Design Kit by post containing all the tools you need to start studying. The cost of the kit is included in the first unit of your course.
Presentation board featured by Sydney Design School Certificate IV student Molly Ward.
Excited to get started?
Apply NowBecome an
Interior Decorator
Certificate IV in Interior Decoration (MSF40122)
Accredited by Sydney Design School
Delivered entirely online
Explore all aspects of design for residential interiors with this hands-on, industry driven course. You’ll learn how to make considered creative decisions about colour, fabric, lighting, soft furnishings and space planning. Our course is designed to push your boundaries and develop your skills, empowering you to tackle our major project – a whole house residential interior scheme. Your personal Educator will be on hand to provide detailed feedback and encouragement every step of the way by phone, email or video conferencing. Our Career Coach is also available from day one to make a plan for your future in interiors.
The Certificate IV in Interior Decoration (MSF40122) is delivered entirely online on behalf of our partner Sydney Design School. This internationally recognised qualification is accredited by the Australian Government (Registered Training Provider 91446). You will graduate as a professional Interior Decorator.
Total Flexibility
Study 10 hours per week
Over 1 – 2 years
Careers Coach
Make a plan for your future
from day one of your course
Accredited
Receive an internationally
recognised qualification



Course Content
In this intensive and highly practical course we guide you through the process of creating just the right look and feel for the interior of a home from taking a brief from a client through to presenting a fully resolved interior scheme.
Subjects include:
- Design principles and concept development
- Colour theory, interior colour schemes, paint technology and specifications
- Interior decoration styles and trends
- Client liaison and communication
- Sketch drawing, rendering techniques and one and two point perspective
- Interior planning for residential including kitchens, bathrooms, living and outdoor spaces
- Technical drawing and model making
- Furnishing, fabrics, window treatments, furniture, lighting and upholstery
- Interior scheme development
- Sample boards and specifications
- The business of interior design and decoration
Units of Study
Competency-based training is a method of training which develops the skills, knowledge and attitudes required to achieve competency. There are no exams, you simply work through the exercises and upload your assessments. Our Educators will provide detailed feedback and you are free to resubmit your work until you reach competency and move on to the next unit.
There are four units in this course, for a full list of unit competencies click here.
IDO01: Foundations of Design and Colour
Develop an understanding of the Interior Design and Decoration Industry and what influences design styles. Be introduced to the foundations of design including concept development, elements and principles of design and composition. Explore the inspiring world of colour and learn how to create dynamic colour schemes. Explore the technicalities of paint and learn how to develop industry standard professional specifications.
IDO02: Interior Planning and Design
Be introduced to the fundamentals of residential interior design, planning and lighting. Explore all aspects of residential design including designing bathrooms, kitchens, living, bedrooms and outdoor spaces. Visualise space in two and three dimensions through model making and perspective drawing techniques.
IDO03: Interior Schemes and 3D Visualisation
Explore all aspects of interior decoration including furniture, furnishings, upholstery, window treatments and flooring. Learn how to construct an interior scheme and present professional sample boards and specifications.
IDO04: Residential Decoration
Prepare for the real world by working on a simulated residential project. Take a client brief and work through the design stages to the final presentation. Learn essential business skills, prepare a professional resume and portfolio ready to launch your dream career.
Accreditation
You’ll receive an internationally recognised, Australian Government accredited Certificate IV in Interior Decoration (MSF40122) from our partner Sydney Design School (RTO 91446). This vocational qualification is written and developed by industry professionals to ensure our graduates study the most relevant and current content. This course is accredited by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), the national regulator for Australia’s vocational education and training sector.
How does it work?
Here’s some key facts about the course;
- You can start studying anytime, anywhere. You can apply online today
- The course is divided into 4 separate units of study
- The course is entirely self paced, you can study and pay unit by unit to suit your lifestyle
- We estimate that you will need to spend approximately 10 hours per week studying to complete the work within 1 – 2 years
- You have a maximum of 6 months to complete each unit
- The 4 units can be credited towards the Diploma of Interior Design if wish to extend your study
How does studying online work?
Once you have applied, our team will process your enrolment on the same day or the next business day. They will send you a unique login to our eCampus and then you can start studying!
Our course is delivered by interactive video tutorials and quality online resources. You’ll study unit by unit, reading the content and using your Design Kit to complete the practical assessments. To have your work marked simply take a clear photo and upload it into our eCampus.
Your online Educator will give you detailed feedback. Once your work has been marked competent you can move on to the next unit.
Will I be supported?
Absolutely. Our passionate team of Educators are all practising Interior Designers, Architects and specialists in online learning. They are on-hand throughout your study to give you guidance and support over the phone, on email or through video conferencing.
Entry Requirements
You don’t need any previous experience just enthusiasm and a passion for interiors! We start from the basics and gradually build your skills, knowledge and confidence. You will need basic computer knowledge and the ability to navigate the Internet.
In terms of equipment you will need a computer or laptop with Microsoft Office, access to the Internet (preferably broadband), access to an A4 scanner / printer (Min 1000+ DPI) and a digital camera or smart phone.
You are required to upload your assessments as a PDF so you will require software on your smart phone such as Turbo Scan or Genius Scan.
To study with Interior Design Online you will need a strong command of the English language (verbal, written and comprehension) and, if required, be able to score at least 6 in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test here or an equivalent.
If required, our team will be in contact with you by telephone to assess your English language proficiency, prior to an enrolment confirmation being sent. If your application is not successful due to your language ability your payment will be refunded in full.
Course Cost
The course is separated into 4 units of study;
- Unit 1 Foundations of Design and Colour + Design Kit (free shipping) | $2,290
- Unit 2 Interior Planning and Design | $1,795
- Unit 3 Interior Schemes and 3D Visualisation | $1,795
- Unit 4 Residential Decoration | $1,795
- Total course cost | $7,675 (GST Free)
Additional costs for students outside Australia
Shipping is free internationally but if you are studying outside Australia you will be responsible for paying any GST, customs charges or duties on arrival.
Payment Options
We know the investment you’re making in your future is an important one, which is why we offer a range of payment options.
Option 1 – Pay Upfront and Save
Pay for the total course cost at enrolment through PayPal or credit card and receive a 10% discount.
- Course cost | $7,675 (GST Free)
- Less 10% discount
- Total Course cost | $6,907.50 (GST Free)
Option 2 – Pay Unit by Unit
Pay for Unit 1 at time of enrolment and then pay for each subsequent unit when you finish your current unit.
Option 3 – Pay by Instalment
Pay an initial unit deposit through PayPal or credit card at the time of enrolment, followed by 2 monthly instalments via Ezidebit. Please note, payment by instalment is available to Australian students only. For full instalment details, click here.
If you require a longer instalment plan to pay for your first unit please contact our team on info@interiordesignonline.edu.au for more options.
Note: A 2% PayPal processing fee will be applied at checkout for all payments.
Design Kit
You will need a Design Kit which includes all of the tools and equipment that you require to undertake this course. The fee for your Design Kit is included in the cost of your first unit. Shipping is free internationally but if you are studying outside Australia you will be responsible for paying any GST, customs charges or duties on arrival.
VET Student Loans
VET Student Loans are not available for our online courses. Students studying a Diploma course at our physical campus, Sydney Design School may apply.
Career Outcomes
You will graduate with an industry-ready portfolio of work. Our Careers Service – IDO Connect will help you to prepare a professional resume and will assist you with identifying job opportunities in your local area. You’ll also get access to our exclusive online job board GRADSPACE.
We strongly encourage you to source work experience or positions in the interiors industry while you are studying to reinforce the new skills you are learning.
What will I become?
- Interior Decorator
- Interior Stylist
- Colour Consultant
- Adviser for a product, furniture or lighting supplier
- Entrepreneur in your own interiors business
How do I apply?
You can apply online today. Follow the link below to enter your details into our online application form. You’ll then be directed to PayPal to pay for your course securely online. You can use a PayPal account or proceed as a guest using your credit card. You can choose to pay for the course in full, by unit or by instalments.
Please allow one business day for our team to process your application and payment. You will then receive a confirmation of your enrolment via email including your login to our eCampus and payment receipt. This will be followed by a welcome email from your personal online Educator. We will arrange a suitable time for a phone call to get to know you and give you a guided tour of our eCampus. Your Design Kit will be posted to you and should arrive within one week or your enrolment but you won’t need the resources until much further into your course.



Would you prefer to study live
online from home?
Our partner, Sydney Design School, offers a guided online delivery option for this course. Stay connected and on track with their live online classroom. Your Educator will present your lesson live online two days per week.
Live Online Classes
“The team are professional, supportive and most of all encouraging, I never felt alone. The online layout is easy to follow and each module came with full examples and videos to help assist in the online learning experience. It was a pleasure.”
– Certificate IV graduate Renee Mazzetti / Australia
What tools will I need?
When you enrol into the Certificate IV in Interior Decoration you’ll receive our Design Kit by post containing all the tools you need to start studying. The cost of the kit is included in the first unit of your course.
Presentation board featured by Sydney Design School Certificate IV student Molly Ward.
Excited to get started?
Apply Now