PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
IIDA Virginia/West Virginia is compiled of designers, architects, students, educators, and industry partners who share a common goal of elevating the profession of interior design. We support this mission through meaningful networking opportunities, advocacy efforts, continuing education, and volunteer engagement across the region. The chapter is committed to offering relevant programming, project tours, and events that inspire, connect, and inform our members. We also celebrate the achievements of our community through member spotlights, awards, and recognition initiatives.
SCHOLAR SERIES
ELEVATE is the Virginia-West Virginia Chapter’s theme guiding our vision, goals, and programming.
Our Scholar Series serve as an educational platform for our chapter, designed to deepen industry knowledge, spark dialogue, and strengthen connections within the design community through curated lectures, case-study presentations and interactive discussions led by respected practitioners and emerging voices.
The goal of the Scholar Series is to enrich professional development and position our chapter as a hub for thoughtful leadership, cultivating a space where learning, innovation, and collaboration thrive.
NCIDQ
The National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Certification is the industry’s recognized standard for professional competency in interior design. Earning NCIDQ Certification demonstrates that an interior designer has the knowledge and experience required to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. It is widely recognized by employers, clients, and regulatory agencies and is a key credential for professional practice and licensure in many jurisdictions.
To learn more about NCIDQ, visit their website:
NCIDQ TIPS & RESOURCES
Take the IDFX exam early
If you’re still in school or a recent graduate, take advantage of having course material fresh in your mind before moving on to the work-experience requirements.
Practice with the exam software
Knowing how to navigate the testing platform before exam day can reduce stress and help you make the most of your time, especially during the practicum portion.
Lean on your network
Connect with coworkers, mentors, classmates, and study groups to ask questions, discuss concepts, and learn from others’ experiences. Talking through topics helps reinforce your understanding.
Choose study materials wisely
Stick with reputable resources and avoid relying solely on information shared through social media or unofficial study guides. Quality matters more than quantity.
Build a support system
Preparing for the NCIDQ takes time and commitment. Whether it’s a study partner, accountability group, mentor, or family member, having people in your corner can make the process more manageable.
Focus on passing, not perfection
Your score isn’t what defines your success, earning your certification is. Stay persistent, trust your preparation, and remember that many successful designers don’t pass every section on the first try.
The IIDA Virginia/West Virginia Chapter is here to support you along the way. Our prep course sessions are typically held in the spring before April exam administration. Keep an eye out for those events!
In the meantime, check out 6 Tips and Tricks to Help You Ace the NCIDQ Exam.
CONTINUING
EDUCATION (CEU)
Continuing Education Units (CEUs) help interior designers stay current with evolving industry standards, building codes, design practices, and emerging technologies. For many licensed and certified professionals, completing CEUs is required to maintain licensure or professional credentials, including NCIDQ Certification in jurisdictions where continuing education is mandated. Beyond meeting requirements, CEUs provide valuable opportunities to expand your knowledge, sharpen your skills, and grow professionally throughout your career.
CEU
OPPORTUNITIES
Continuing education is an important part of maintaining your professional credentials and staying informed on the latest industry standards, codes, and best practices. IIDA Professional and Associate Members are required to complete 10 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) per year, with two years to remain in compliance with IIDA membership requirements. Compliance periods begin January 1 of each even-numbered year and end December 31 of the following odd-numbered year.
- Members who joined before January 1 of an even-numbered year must complete their CEUs by December 31 of the following odd-numbered year.
- Members who join after January 1 of an even-numbered year begin their first compliance period on January 1 of the next even-numbered year.
The IIDA Virginia/West Virginia Chapter offers CEU opportunities throughout the year to help members meet these requirements while staying connected with the design community.
If you complete a CEU course that is not already approved by the Interior Design Continuing Education Council (IDCEC), you may request approval by contacting [email protected]. Members are encouraged to self-report completed CEUs through the IDCEC Registry, although many course providers report attendance directly. Be sure to keep copies of any completion certificates for your records, as they may be needed to verify your credits. If you do not know your IDCEC number, you can retrieve it through the IDCEC Registry or by contacting [email protected].
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
RESOURCES FROM HQ & CIDQ