| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Undergraduate:
Illustration
Graphic Design
Industrial Design
Transportation Design
Film
Photography & Imaging
Fine Art
Entertainment Design
Interaction Design
Graduate:
Media Design
Industrial Design
Film
Transportation Systems & Design
Graphic Design
Art
Prestige & Industry Connections – ArtCenter has a strong reputation and partnerships with top companies like Tesla, Nike, and Disney.
Career-Oriented Education – Focus on real-world projects, internships, and hands-on learning.
Top Faculty – Many instructors are industry professionals.
Innovative Campus – Equipped with state-of-the-art studios, galleries, and labs.
Portfolio (highly competitive)
Statement of intent
Letters of recommendation (varies by program)
Transcripts
TOEFL/IELTS (for international students)
Tuition is around $50,000+ per year (varies by program).
Offers scholarships & financial aid based on merit and need.
Design & Visual Arts
Graphic Design
Illustration
Interaction Design (UI/UX & Digital Product Design)
Industrial & Product Design
Product Design
Industrial Design
Entertainment & Media
Entertainment Design (Concept Art & Animation for Film/Games)
Film (Directing, Cinematography, Editing)
Photography & Imaging
Automotive & Transportation
Transportation Design (Automobile, Yacht, Aircraft Design)
Fine Arts
Fine Art (Painting, Sculpture, Experimental Media)
Design & Innovation
Media Design Practices (UX, Digital Media, Social Innovation)
Industrial Design
Visual Arts & Communication
Graphic Design
Art (MFA in Fine Arts)
Transportation & Mobility
Transportation Systems & Design (Future Mobility & Sustainability)
Film & Entertainment
Film (Advanced Directing, Production, Visual Storytelling)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Entertainment Design |
4 Years |
$50,610 |
|
Film |
4 Years |
$50,610 |
|
Fine Art |
4 Years |
$50,610 |
|
Graphic Design |
4 Years |
$50,610 |
|
Illustration |
4 Years |
$50,610 |
|
Industrial Design |
4 Years |
$50,610 |
|
Interaction Design |
4 Years |
$50,610 |
|
Photography & Imaging |
4 Years |
$50,610 |
|
Product Design |
4 Years |
$50,610 |
|
Transportation Design |
4 Years |
$50,610 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Art (MFA in Fine Arts) |
2–3 Years |
$52,500 |
|
Film (MFA) |
2–3 Years |
$52,500 |
|
Graphic Design (MFA) |
2–3 Years |
$52,500 |
|
Industrial Design (MS/MDes) |
2–3 Years |
$52,500 |
|
Media Design Practices (MFA) |
2–3 Years |
$52,500 |
|
Transportation Systems & Design (MS) |
2 Years |
$52,500 |
Top-ranked for Art & Design – Recognized globally for programs in design, film, and visual arts.
Strong Industry Connections – Partnerships with companies like Disney, Nike, Tesla, and Apple.
Career-Oriented Learning – Hands-on projects, internships, and real-world experience.
Diverse & Inclusive Community – Students from over 50+ countries.
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Programs – Graphic Design, Transportation Design, Film, Fine Art, etc.
Graduate (Master’s) Programs – Industrial Design, Media Design, Film, etc.
Exchange & Study Abroad Programs – Partner institutions in Europe, Asia, and beyond.
1 Portfolio (Highly important! Must be strong and creative)
2 Application Form (Through ArtCenter’s website)
3 Statement of Intent (Why you want to study at ArtCenter)
4 Letters of Recommendation (Usually 1-2)
5 Official Transcripts (High school for undergrad, bachelor’s degree for master’s)
6 English Proficiency (for non-native speakers)
TOEFL: Minimum 80 iBT
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 115
Some programs may require additional materials, such as a resume or interview.
Merit-Based Scholarships – Awarded based on portfolio strength.
Need-Based Aid – Limited aid available for international students.
External Scholarships – Students can apply for scholarships from organizations like Fulbright, DAAD, and Chevening.
ArtCenter automatically considers all applicants for scholarships during the admission process.
F-1 Student Visa: International students must apply for an F-1 visa after receiving an I-20 form from ArtCenter.
Work Opportunities:
On-Campus Jobs – Allowed up to 20 hours/week.
OPT (Optional Practical Training) – Work in the U.S. for up to 12 months after graduation (or 36 months for STEM programs).
ArtCenter does not have dormitories, but international students can find off-campus housing in Pasadena and nearby areas. The college provides assistance with housing resources.
Step 1: Choose Your Program
ArtCenter offers undergraduate (Bachelor’s) and graduate (Master’s) programs in various art and design fields. Before applying, explore programs to find the best fit for your skills and career goals.
Popular Programs: Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Transportation Design, Film, Entertainment Design, etc.
Step 2: Prepare Admission Requirements
The application requirements vary by program, but the general requirements include:
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Admission Requirements
1 Application Form – Submit online via ArtCenter’s application portal.
2 Portfolio – A strong, creative portfolio is essential (requirements vary by program).
3 Statement of Intent – A short essay (500-700 words) explaining your goals and why you want to study at ArtCenter.
4 Transcripts – High school diploma or equivalent.
5 Letters of Recommendation – 1-2 (optional but recommended).
6 English Proficiency (for international students)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 115
Graduate (Master’s) Admission Requirements
1 Application Form – Submit online.
2 Portfolio – A professional-level portfolio showcasing your work.
3 Statement of Intent – A detailed personal statement about your goals and experience.
4 Resume/CV – Outlining relevant experience and achievements.
5 Letters of Recommendation – 2-3 letters from academic or professional references.
6 Transcripts – A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
7 English Proficiency (for international students) – Same as undergraduate requirements.
Step 3: Submit the Online Application
Apply online through ArtCenter’s application portal.
Application Fee: $50 (Non-refundable).
Step 4: Submit Your Portfolio
Portfolio Guidelines:
Must be program-specific (e.g., designers should showcase design work, filmmakers should submit film projects).
High-quality images, videos, or interactive media.
Demonstrate creativity, originality, and technical skills.
Check out ArtCenter’s portfolio requirements here: Portfolio Guidelines.
Step 5: Attend an Interview (if required)
Some graduate programs or competitive undergraduate programs may require an interview (in-person or virtual).
Step 6: Wait for the Admission Decision
ArtCenter reviews applications on a rolling basis, but early submissions are recommended.
Decision notifications usually take 4-6 weeks after the deadline.
Step 7: Apply for Financial Aid & Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships – Automatically considered with your application.
Need-Based Aid – Available for U.S. citizens; limited options for international students.
External Scholarships – Students can apply for additional funding from external sources.
Step 8: Accept Your Offer & Apply for a Student Visa (International Students Only)
If accepted, you’ll receive an admission letter and an I-20 form for the F-1 student visa.
Apply for your visa at the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate and schedule an interview.
Intake Session |
Application Deadline |
Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (Main Intake) |
Early Action: February 1 | Regular: April 1 |
September |
|
Spring (Limited Intake) |
October 1 |
January |
Some programs may have limited availability for the Spring intake. Fall is the primary intake with the most program options.
1 Educational Qualification:
High school diploma or equivalent (such as GED, IB, or A-Levels).
2 Portfolio:
A strong creative portfolio specific to the chosen program.
3 English Language Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 115
4 Statement of Intent:
A written essay explaining your interest in the program.
5 Letters of Recommendation: (Optional but recommended)
1-2 letters from teachers or mentors.
1 Educational Qualification:
A bachelor’s degree in a related field from an accredited institution.
2 Portfolio:
A professional-level portfolio showcasing expertise in your field.
3 Resume/CV:
Work experience (preferred but not mandatory).
4 English Language Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 115
5 Statement of Intent:
A detailed explanation of your career goals and why you want to study at ArtCenter.
6 Letters of Recommendation:
2-3 professional or academic references.
Ranking Organization |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings (Art & Design Category) |
Top 20 Globally |
|
U.S. News & World Report (Best Fine Arts Schools – Graduate Programs) |
Top 10 in the U.S. |
|
Design Schools Hub (Global Design Schools Ranking) |
Top 5 in the World |
|
Business Insider (Best Design Schools in the World) |
Top 10 |
|
Red Dot Design Ranking (Top Design Schools for Industrial & Product Design) |
Top 5 in the World |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount |
Applicable for |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
ArtCenter Merit Scholarship |
Strong portfolio & academic performance |
(Partial to Full Tuition) |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
Automatically considered upon admission |
|
ArtCenter Entrance Scholarship |
New students with outstanding portfolios |
(Typically Partial Tuition) |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
No separate application needed |
|
ArtCenter Continuing Scholarship |
Current students with high academic & creative performance |
N/A |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
Requires strong GPA & faculty recommendations |
|
ArtCenter International Student Scholarship |
International students with exceptional portfolios |
(Partial Tuition) |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
Limited awards available |
|
Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Scholarship |
Transfer students who are PTK members |
Up to $12,000 per year |
Undergraduate (Transfer Students) |
Must provide proof of PTK membership |
|
Outside & External Scholarships |
(e.g., Fulbright, DAAD, Chevening) |
Depends on external provider |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
Students must apply independently |
Facility |
Details |
Estimated Cost (USD/year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Pasadena, California (Main Campus) |
N/A |
|
Campus Buildings |
Hillside Campus, South Campus, Design Studios, Galleries |
N/A |
|
Student Housing |
No on-campus dorms; students live in off-campus housing |
N/A |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Apartments, shared housing, private rentals |
$12,000 – $20,000 |
|
ArtCenter Student Housing (Managed Housing) |
Limited furnished apartments near campus |
$15,000 – $18,000 |
|
Housing Assistance |
ArtCenter helps students find housing through a housing portal |
N/A |
|
Dining Facilities |
On-campus cafes and nearby restaurants |
$3,000 – $6,000 |
|
Library & Research Centers |
ArtCenter Library, Archives, and Digital Media Lab |
N/A |
|
Labs & Studios |
Printing labs, photography studios, 3D modeling workshops |
N/A |
|
Transportation |
Shuttle services between campuses, public transport access |
N/A |
ArtCenter has two main campuses in Pasadena, California:
Hillside Campus (Main campus with studios and galleries).
South Campus (Home to graduate programs and research spaces).
A tight-knit community with small class sizes, ensuring close mentorship with faculty.
The campus hosts exhibitions, workshops, and guest lectures by top industry professionals.
Various student-run organizations cater to interests like film, photography, sustainability, and gaming.
Active international student community, with events celebrating diverse cultures.
Professional clubs like ACCD Graphic Design Club, Industrial Design Society of America (IDSA), and Women in Industrial Design provide networking opportunities.
Grad Show & Gallery Exhibitions – A platform for students to showcase their work to industry professionals.
Guest Speaker Series – Talks from top designers, filmmakers, and entrepreneurs.
Hackathons & Design Challenges – Competitions in UX/UI, industrial design, and innovation.
Field Trips & Industry Visits – Students visit companies like Tesla, Disney, and IDEO.
ArtCenter does not have dormitories, but students find housing in Pasadena, Glendale, and Los Angeles.
Many students live in shared apartments or private rentals, with ArtCenter assisting in finding accommodations.
The campus is near cafes, museums, and creative hubs, providing inspiration outside of class.
On-campus cafes offer fresh meals, snacks, and coffee.
Students often eat at nearby restaurants or cook at home.
Shuttle services run between Hillside and South Campus.
Public transport is available, but many students drive or bike to campus.
Strong industry connections with companies like Nike, Apple, Disney, and BMW.
Students frequently participate in internships, sponsored projects, and company collaborations.
Career Services offer portfolio reviews, networking events, and job placement support.
90%+ employment rate within one year of graduation (varies by program).
Top recruiters include Apple, Tesla, Nike, Disney, Google, BMW, Pixar, Netflix, and IDEO.
Internship opportunities during studies, leading to full-time jobs.
Dedicated Career & Professional Development Office for job placement, portfolio reviews, and networking.
ArtCenter has collaborations with leading global brands in various industries:
Transportation & Automotive:
Tesla
BMW
Ford
Honda
Mercedes-Benz
General Motors
Entertainment & Media:
Walt Disney Studios
Pixar
DreamWorks
Netflix
Sony Pictures
Product & Industrial Design:
IDEO
Samsung
Nike
Adidas
Apple
Graphic & Interaction Design:
Facebook (Meta)
Adobe
Microsoft
IBM
Grad Show (Career Fair): Final-year students present their work to industry professionals.
Internships & Sponsored Projects: Students collaborate with companies on real-world projects.
Portfolio Reviews & Career Coaching: Industry experts provide personalized feedback.
Alumni Network: ArtCenter alumni work in top companies worldwide, helping graduates find opportunities.
Salary depends on the industry and job role, but here are general figures:
Field |
Average Salary (USD/year) |
|---|---|
|
Industrial & Product Design |
$70,000 – $100,000+ |
|
Transportation Design |
$80,000 – $120,000+ |
|
Entertainment Design |
$65,000 – $100,000+ |
|
Graphic Design |
$50,000 – $85,000+ |
|
UX/UI & Interaction Design |
$75,000 – $110,000+ |
|
Photography & Imaging |
$45,000 – $70,000+ |
|
Film & Media Production |
$55,000 – $100,000+ |
Salaries can be higher with experience and strong portfolios.
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 60% – 70%
While the acceptance rate seems moderate, admission is highly dependent on the strength of the applicant’s portfolio, statement of intent, and overall creative potential rather than just academic grades.
Portfolio Quality – The most important factor; must demonstrate creativity, originality, and technical skill.
Program Competitiveness – Some programs (e.g., Transportation Design, Entertainment Design) are more selective.
Statement of Intent – A strong essay explaining your goals and artistic vision helps your application stand out.
Academic Performance – While not the main focus, a solid academic background is beneficial.
Letters of Recommendation – Strong recommendations can improve admission chances.
Location: 1700 Lida Street, Pasadena, CA 91103, USA
Houses most undergraduate programs (e.g., Industrial Design, Transportation Design, Graphic Design).
Features studios, workshops, galleries, and advanced technology labs.
Surrounded by the San Gabriel Mountains, offering a scenic environment.
Location: 950 S. Raymond Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105, USA
Home to graduate programs, research labs, and exhibition spaces.
Hosts Media Design Practices, Film, Fine Art, and Interaction Design programs.
Includes Hoffmitz Milken Center for Typography (HMCT) and design incubators.
