The biggest decision facing aspiring young artists today is which art college to apply to. Wondering if they have the talent and dedication, not to mention the grades and money, to be accepted to one of these accredited and accommodating art colleges is another concern these art students have. Settling on one art college could mean the difference between becoming the dreaded “starving artist” and becoming a successful and well equipped individual ready to change the way modern culture looks today.

The prominent colleges of art education are listed below, along with application requirements.
Offering 16 studio majors, the Cleveland Institute of Art is seeking students serious about becoming professionals in their designing fields.

Tuition cost for a one-year program is $28,100 and a deposit of $200 during admission is recommended for students. In addition, applying artists are required to submit a portfolio of their artwork, transcript of grades, SAT or ACT scores, and evidence of favorable personal characteristics. The National Association of Schools of Art and Design as well as the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design accredit the Cleveland Institute of Art.

The prominent west coast college of art education is Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles, California. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, this art college is $28,346 for a one-year program and has a $50 application fee. To apply, submit a resume and autobiographical statement reviewing current work and how it reflects aesthetic and personal philosophy. Transcripts from past and present art colleges along with a portfolio of artwork are also required. Three letters of recommendation are optional but helpful for the admission process.

altimore, Maryland’s most prestigious art college is the Maryland Institute College of Art. This art education institute focuses on traditional forms such as nude and life drawing and features an excellent writing program. Founded in 1826, MICA is the nation’s oldest fully accredited, degree-granting of all art colleges. Admission requirements include curriculum resume, statement of purpose, proof of degree or equivalent, and three letters of recommendation. MICA is the third most expensive highly ranked art college at $29,700 per year program. They are looking for mature and highly self-motivated individuals with academic or professional experience.

Walt Disney is the most famous alumnus to come out of the Kansas City Art Institute, a college committed to stimulating public support, awareness, and participation in the visual arts. Applicants should possess four years of English, three years of social science studies, as well as art courses focused on drawing, color, and design. Unlike other art colleges, KCAI also includes a complete secondary school program and costs $32,550 for a one-year program.

The Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, Rhode Island has been instructing art education since 1877. Of all art colleges in the nation, RISD holds the best reputation from industrial designers. Accredited by the National Associate of Landscape Architects and the National Architectural Accrediting Board, it is also home to over 2,200 national and international students. RISD requires academic transcripts, three letters of recommendation, as well as an artwork portfolio to be considered for admission.