Residential Planning degree programs will help expand your panache for interior decorating. At most schools, a Residential Planning program teaches students the basics of interior design, making it ideal for anyone hoping to promptly gain practical experience in the residential planning field. Armed with a Residential Planning degree, a graduate is prepared to land entry-level positions such as residential planner, manufacturers representative or free-lance design consultant. This is typically a year long diploma program, and it is usually transferable if you choose to pursue a more advanced interior design degree.