Answer : First, it's important to point out that an interior designer is not the same as a decorator. A decorator focuses solely on aesthetics and isn't involved in the design process or how the finished space functions. Interior designers are professionals who have training and expertise in both design and function. There are many different schooling options for becoming an interior designer, ranging from four year graduate degrees to two year associate degree programs which can lead to either a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or Associates Art & Design (AAD). Regardless of where you enter school, there will be courses covering topics like historic style trends, sustainable furniture choices, 3D modeling.