Art Center College of Design

Pasadena, United States of America

Art Center College of Design, located in Pasadena, California, is a globally recognized institution for art and design education. Known for its rigorous programs, ArtCenter provides students with hands-on training in various creative fields.
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Frequently Asked Questions

ArtCenter is intensely industry-focused and professionally oriented. Its curriculum is built around real-world projects with partner companies, its faculty are working professionals, and it emphasizes a rigorous design process that prepares students for immediate impact in their careers.
Yes, ArtCenter College of Design is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
Yes, ArtCenter offers campus tours and information sessions for prospective students. You can schedule a tour through their website to see the facilities, including the famous wind tunnel and various departmental studios.
While academic records are reviewed, the portfolio is the most critical component. It must demonstrate strong conceptual thinking, technical skill, and a clear potential to succeed within ArtCenter's demanding studio environment.
Interviews are not typically required for undergraduate applicants but are recommended for Graduate applicants. However, an admission committee may request an interview as part of the review process for any applicant.
ArtCenter has rolling admissions but key deadlines exist for priority scholarship consideration. Typically, Fall term deadlines are in February, and Spring term deadlines are in October. Always check the official admissions page for exact dates.
ArtCenter's Department of Campus Safety operates 24/7, providing security officers, escort services to nearby transit stops, controlled access to buildings, and emergency blue light phones on campus.
The Health and Wellness initiative offers confidential counseling services, workshops on stress management, and resources to support mental, physical, and emotional health throughout the academic journey.
The college uses an emergency notification system to send alerts via text, email, and phone calls for urgent situations. Regular drills and a detailed emergency response plan are in place for various scenarios.
The curriculum is overwhelmingly hands-on and project-based. From the first term, students are in studios and labs, applying theoretical concepts learned in liberal arts and science classes directly to their creative work.
Yes, students can take electives outside their major, and the curriculum includes required Liberal Arts and Sciences courses. However, the course load for the core major is very intensive, limiting extensive cross-disciplinary study.
While not always mandatory for every major, internships are strongly encouraged and supported. The Career and Professional Development office helps students find opportunities, and many majors offer course credit for approved internships.
ArtCenter offers merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs. Both domestic and international students are eligible for merit-based scholarships.
All applicants are automatically considered for most merit-based scholarships upon application review. Some named scholarships may require a separate application. Completing the FAFSA is required for need-based federal aid for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens.
International students are not eligible for U.S. federal aid but are eligible for merit-based scholarships from ArtCenter. They must demonstrate the ability to pay the remaining costs through personal funds as part of the visa process.
ArtCenter does not own traditional dormitories. Instead, it offers housing resources and partnerships with several off-campus apartment complexes near both the Hillside and South Campuses to help students find accommodation.
The Hillside Campus is in Pasadena, a vibrant city with museums, restaurants, and shops. The South Campus is in the adjacent urban area of Pasadena. The region is culturally rich but requires a car or use of public transport for most errands.
Many students use personal vehicles, but the Metro L (Gold) Line light rail has a stop near the Hillside Campus, connecting to Los Angeles. Buses, ride-sharing, biking, and walking are common for local trips.
International students on an F-1 visa are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows them to work in their field in the U.S. for up to 12 months after graduation. Students in certain STEM-designated majors may qualify for a 24-month extension.
Yes, the Career and Professional Development office assists all students, including international students, with job search strategies, portfolio presentation, and networking. However, securing a job and visa sponsorship is ultimately the student's responsibility.
To stay longer, you must transition to a employer-sponsored work visa (like an H-1B), which requires petitioning by your employer and is subject to an annual lottery system. ArtCenter's career advisors can provide general guidance on this process.

University Of Art Center College of Design Application Statistics

$ 1500
3.3

University Of Art Center College of Design Application Statistics

$ 1500
3.3

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  • 1700 Lida St, Pasadena, CA 91103, United States
  • +1 626-396-2200

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