If you want to study interior design in Kenya, you can choose a foundation course, certificate, diploma or university degree. The best starting point depends on your KCSE results, the qualification you want and how much time and money you can commit. Below are institutions with interior design programmes listed on their own websites, followed by questions to help you compare them.
Programme details checked on 7 November 2026. Schools may change fees, entry requirements and intakes, so confirm your exact course with admissions before paying.
1. Start with IDAK for professional guidance
The Interior Designers Association of Kenya (IDAK) supports the profession through membership and professional development. IDAK is an association, not a college offering the qualifications below. If you are a student or graduate, see IDAK’s membership guide to understand how you can connect with the profession while you study.
2. Kenya College of Interior Design (KENCID)
KENCID’s interior design course page describes study in Nairobi covering space planning, technical drawing and digital workflows, materials, furniture, lighting and professional practice. The college lists three entry routes:
- Diploma: KCSE mean grade C- or equivalent, or a relevant recognised certificate; seven semesters, including practice-oriented learning.
- Certificate: KCSE mean grade D plain or equivalent, or an accepted foundation qualification; three semesters.
- Foundation: KCSE mean grade D- or equivalent; two semesters.
The programme page gives a useful starting point, but ask KENCID for the current fee structure, intake dates and awarding details. Some older KENCID pages describe a six-semester diploma, while the current course page says seven; ask admissions which structure applies to your intake.
3. University of Nairobi
If you are looking for a degree, the University of Nairobi lists a four-year Bachelor in Interior Design, programme code B321, on its faculty admissions page. Its programme information lists a KCSE C+ route with subject-cluster requirements and other pathways for applicants with relevant qualifications. The curriculum includes interior architecture, furniture design, professional practice and a research project. Check current subject requirements, availability and the full fee schedule with the university.
4. Buruburu Institute of Fine Arts (BIFA)
BIFA’s interior design programme lists TVET-CDACC Level 5 and Level 6 training. Its course page describes design drawing, finishes, furniture and fittings, soft furnishings and project management. For diploma applicants, it lists KCSE C- or equivalent, demonstrated artistic talent and an interview for candidates considered for selection. Ask BIFA for the current duration, fees and requirements for the level you want.
5. Nairobi Institute of Technology (NIT)
NIT lists a Level 6 Diploma in Interior Design and a Level 5 Certificate. Its diploma page lists KCSE C-, a relevant Level 5 certificate or BTEC Level 3 among its entry routes. The listed subjects include drawing, colour theory, model making and computer graphics. Confirm the current programme length and applicable fees directly with NIT.
6. NIBS Technical College
NIBS lists interior design at CDACC Levels 5 and 6. On its programme page, Level 5 is shown as six terms at KSh 24,750 per term, and Level 6 as eight terms at KSh 26,750 per term. These are listed term figures, not a confirmed full-course quote; ask whether examinations, materials and other charges are extra and confirm the qualification title and current intake.
7. Thika Institute of Business Studies (TIBS)
TIBS lists a Diploma in Interior Design, with CDACC as examiner, a two-year duration and a KCSE C- minimum on its course page. Ask the college for its current fees, campus, timetable and practical training arrangements before you apply.
How should you choose between them?
- Check the exact qualification and entry route. A certificate, diploma and degree serve different goals. Ask who awards the qualification and how to verify its current recognition.
- Compare the work you will produce. Ask to see examples of drawings, models, digital visualisations and finished student projects. Find out how much supervised studio and practical work you will do.
- Calculate the whole cost. Ask for tuition, registration, exam, software, materials, transport and placement costs in writing. A per-term price alone may not be the full amount.
- Ask about progression and experience. If you want to progress to a higher qualification, confirm the receiving institution’s requirements. Ask how attachments are arranged and whether a placement is guaranteed.
- Visit or speak to the school. Talk to admissions and, if possible, current students or graduates. Choose the course that fits your circumstances rather than assuming one institution is best for everyone.
If you are still deciding on your career path, read how to become an interior designer in Kenya. Once you start training, explore IDAK’s student and graduate membership.
