| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
CCAD provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various fields of art and design, including:
Undergraduate Degrees (BFA):
Animation
Fashion Design
Fine Arts
Game Art & Design
Illustration
Industrial Design
Interior Architecture & Design
Photography
Advertising & Graphic Design
Comics & Narrative Practice
Film & Video
Graduate Degrees (MFA):
Master of Fine Arts in Visual Arts
Master of Design (MDes) in Integrative Design
CCAD’s programs focus on blending foundational art and design principles with emerging technologies and trends. Students gain hands-on experience through studio-based learning, internships, and collaborative projects with industry professionals.
The CCAD campus is located in downtown Columbus, an area known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene. The campus includes state-of-the-art facilities such as:
Advanced computer labs and software for digital arts
Studios for painting, sculpture, photography, and other fine arts
Fabrication labs with equipment for 3D printing, laser cutting, and woodworking
A fully equipped fashion design studio
Cinematic production and editing facilities for film and video students
CCAD emphasizes career development and offers support through:
Internships with leading companies in industries like fashion, animation, and game design
A dedicated Career Services office that assists students with portfolio reviews, networking, and job placement
An annual CCAD Career Fair, connecting students with employers from around the country
Notable employers of CCAD graduates include Disney, Pixar, DreamWorks, Abercrombie & Fitch, Hasbro, Hallmark, and American Greetings, among others.
Diverse Community: CCAD has a vibrant and diverse student body, welcoming students from across the United States and around the world.
Artistic Opportunities: Students frequently participate in exhibitions, gallery shows, and art competitions.
Clubs & Organizations: CCAD offers various student-run clubs focused on specific interests like comics, photography, fashion, and gaming.
Events: The campus hosts annual events such as the Fashion Show, Chroma Exhibition, and the Animation Show of Shows, providing students opportunities to showcase their work.
CCAD alumni have achieved success in a wide range of creative fields. Many have gone on to become renowned artists, designers, illustrators, animators, and entrepreneurs. The alumni network is strong and provides valuable connections for graduates.
Columbus is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest and has a thriving arts and culture scene. The city is home to numerous galleries, museums (such as the Columbus Museum of Art), theaters, and creative businesses, offering abundant opportunities for internships, networking, and inspiration.
Undergraduate Admissions: Requires a completed application, high school transcripts, a portfolio of creative work, and optionally standardized test scores (SAT/ACT).
Graduate Admissions: Requires a portfolio, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and transcripts from previous institutions.
Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing an applicant’s artistic ability and creative thinking is a critical part of the admission process.
Strong emphasis on innovation, creativity, and professional preparation
Robust alumni network and industry connections
State-of-the-art facilities and technology
Centrally located in a vibrant, creative city
CCAD is an excellent choice for students who are passionate about art and design and want to develop their skills in an environment that nurtures creativity and prepares them for successful careers in the creative industries.
CCAD offers 12 BFA programs that cater to diverse creative fields:
Animation
Focus on 2D, 3D, and stop-motion animation.
Covers storyboarding, character design, and visual effects.
Prepares students for careers in film, TV, and gaming.
Advertising & Graphic Design
Combines graphic design principles with marketing strategies.
Students work on branding, packaging, and multimedia campaigns.
Graduates often work in advertising agencies, design firms, or as freelancers.
Comics & Narrative Practice
Focus on storytelling through comics and graphic novels.
Includes courses on illustration, scripting, and publishing.
Prepares students for careers as illustrators, writers, or independent creators.
Fashion Design
Students learn garment construction, textile design, and fashion illustration.
Emphasis on sustainability and innovation in fashion.
Graduates pursue careers in the fashion industry as designers, merchandisers, or stylists.
Film & Video
Hands-on training in filmmaking, cinematography, and editing.
Students create short films, documentaries, and experimental videos.
Career paths include director, producer, or video editor.
Fine Arts
Focus on painting, drawing, sculpture, and experimental art forms.
Encourages students to explore their artistic voice and techniques.
Graduates become professional artists, curators, or art educators.
Game Art & Design
Covers game design, 3D modeling, and character animation.
Students create playable games and work on team-based projects.
Prepares students for careers in video game development, animation, and interactive media.
Illustration
Focus on creating artwork for books, magazines, advertisements, and entertainment.
Covers traditional and digital illustration techniques.
Prepares students for careers as freelance illustrators, concept artists, or storyboard artists.
Industrial Design
Students design innovative products, tools, and user experiences.
Courses include ergonomics, prototyping, and design thinking.
Career paths include product designer, furniture designer, or UX designer.
Interior Architecture & Design
Focus on designing functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces.
Covers furniture design, lighting, and sustainable design practices.
Graduates work as interior designers or space planners.
Photography
Covers both traditional and digital photography techniques.
Students learn image editing, lighting, and visual storytelling.
Career opportunities include fine art photography, commercial photography, and photojournalism.
Studio Art with Emphasis on the History of Art & Visual Culture
Combines studio art practices with the study of art history and visual culture.
Students explore art in historical, cultural, and theoretical contexts.
Ideal for those pursuing careers in art criticism, curation, or academia.
CCAD offers two graduate degrees tailored for advanced creative professionals:
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Visual Arts
An interdisciplinary program allowing students to explore a range of media.
Focus on personal artistic development and research.
Includes studio practice, critiques, and thesis exhibitions.
Master of Design (MDes) in Integrative Design
Focuses on using design thinking to solve complex, real-world problems.
Emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Prepares graduates for leadership roles in design, business, and technology industries.
In addition to major programs, CCAD offers a range of minors that allow students to expand their skill sets and interests:
Art History
Copywriting
Industrial Design
Illustration
Business
Comics & Narrative Practice
Photography
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Animation |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
|
Advertising & Graphic Design |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
|
Comics & Narrative Practice |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
|
Fashion Design |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
|
Film & Video |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
|
Fine Arts |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
|
Game Art & Design |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
|
Illustration |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
|
Industrial Design |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
|
Interior Architecture & Design |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
|
Photography |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
|
Studio Art with Emphasis on Art History & Visual Culture |
4 Years |
$38,000 |
Master’s Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Visual Arts |
2 Years |
$37,370 |
|
Master of Design (MDes) in Integrative Design |
2 Years |
$37,370 |
Global Community
CCAD has students from various countries, making it a diverse and inclusive environment.
The campus fosters global perspectives and cross-cultural exchanges.
High-Quality Education
CCAD is one of the oldest private art and design colleges in the U.S., with over 140 years of experience.
Offers cutting-edge programs that combine creative skills with emerging technologies.
Career Opportunities
Strong industry connections with global companies like Disney, Pixar, DreamWorks, and Abercrombie & Fitch.
Internships and career fairs help students build their professional networks.
Affordable Living in Columbus, Ohio
Columbus is a mid-sized, vibrant, and affordable city compared to larger U.S. cities like New York or Los Angeles.
Home to a thriving arts and culture scene, which provides inspiration and opportunities for creative students.
Undergraduate (Bachelor of Fine Arts - BFA):
CCAD offers 12 BFA programs:
Animation
Advertising & Graphic Design
Comics & Narrative Practice
Fashion Design
Film & Video
Fine Arts
Game Art & Design
Illustration
Industrial Design
Interior Architecture & Design
Photography
Studio Art with Emphasis on Art History & Visual Culture
Graduate Programs:
MFA in Visual Arts
MDes in Integrative Design
Step 1: Choose Your Program
CCAD offers 12 undergraduate Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programs. Choose a program that aligns with your creative interests (e.g., Animation, Fashion Design, Illustration, etc.).
Step 2: Meet Admission Requirements
To apply, you need to fulfill the following:
Application Form
Submit your application through the CCAD application portal or via the Common Application.
Application Fee: $50 (non-refundable). Fee waivers may be available.
Portfolio of Creative Work
A portfolio is required for all applicants. Submit 8–15 pieces of your best work that demonstrate creativity, originality, and technical skills.
Work can include drawings, paintings, animations, digital art, designs, photography, or projects that align with your chosen field.
Portfolios should be submitted online via SlideRoom or through the Common App.
High School Transcripts
Provide official transcripts from your high school or secondary school.
If you have completed college coursework, include those transcripts as well.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 105.
Essay or Statement of Purpose (Optional but Recommended)
A personal essay (300–500 words) describing your creative interests, career goals, and why you want to attend CCAD.
Optional Standardized Test Scores
SAT or ACT scores are optional but can be submitted if you believe they strengthen your application.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Submit all required documents, your portfolio, and the application fee by the priority deadlines:
Fall Intake: February 1 (priority)
Spring Intake: November 1 (priority)
Rolling admissions may be available after priority deadlines, but spaces fill up quickly.
Step 4: Financial Aid & Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships: All undergraduate applicants are automatically considered for scholarships based on their academic performance and portfolio strength.
Submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) if you're a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to apply for need-based aid.
International students are also eligible for CCAD scholarships but cannot submit FAFSA.
Step 5: Admission Decision
Once your application is complete, you’ll receive an admission decision within 2–3 weeks.
Accepted students will receive an offer letter and information about scholarships or financial aid.
Step 6: Confirm Enrollment
After acceptance, submit your enrollment deposit (typically $300) to secure your spot.
International students will receive the I-20 form for their student visa application after confirming enrollment.
Step 1: Choose Your Program
CCAD offers two graduate programs:
MFA in Visual Arts
MDes in Integrative Design
Step 2: Meet Admission Requirements
To apply, you need to provide:
Application Form
Submit your application via CCAD's online application portal.
Application Fee: $50 (non-refundable).
Portfolio of Creative Work
Submit a portfolio showcasing your professional and creative abilities.
Typically 15–20 pieces of work, including projects that demonstrate advanced artistic or design skills.
Statement of Purpose
A written statement (500–750 words) outlining your creative interests, career goals, and how the program aligns with your aspirations.
For MDes applicants, this statement should address how design can solve real-world problems.
Résumé or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Provide a professional résumé that highlights your academic background, work experience, exhibitions, or other relevant achievements.
Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or mentors familiar with your creative work and academic potential.
Transcripts
Provide official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities.
International students must submit translated transcripts if they are not in English.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 105.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Complete your application and submit all required materials by the priority deadlines:
Fall Intake (August): February 1 (priority)
Applications may still be accepted on a rolling basis depending on availability.
Step 4: Financial Aid & Scholarships
Graduate students are automatically considered for limited merit-based scholarships.
Financial aid, assistantships, or external funding opportunities may also be available.
Step 5: Admission Decision
Graduate admissions decisions are typically made within 4–6 weeks of submitting a completed application.
CCAD offers two primary intakes each year:
Intake |
Semester Start Date |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake |
August |
Priority: February 1, Rolling: Ongoing |
|
Spring Intake |
January |
Priority: November 1, Rolling: Ongoing |
The Fall Intake is the primary intake, offering a full range of programs and scholarships.
The Spring Intake has limited availability for certain programs, especially for graduate students.
1. Academic Qualifications
Completion of high school (secondary school) or equivalent.
A strong academic record is preferred but not mandatory.
2. Portfolio
Applicants must submit 8–15 pieces of original creative work that showcase their artistic and design skills.
The portfolio may include:
Drawings, paintings, or sculptures.
Photography, digital art, or graphic design.
Sketches, animations, or game art projects.
Any creative projects relevant to the chosen program.
Tip: Portfolios should demonstrate technical skills, creativity, and a passion for art and design.
3. English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
International applicants whose first language is not English must meet one of the following requirements:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 105.
Proof of English language study or completion of an English language program may also be considered.
4. Optional (But Recommended)
Personal Essay or Statement of Purpose: 300–500 words outlining your goals, why you want to attend CCAD, and your artistic journey.
Letters of Recommendation: Not mandatory but may strengthen your application.
Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT): Optional. Can be submitted to support the application but are not required.
1. Academic Qualifications
Completion of a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in art, design, or a related field.
Applicants from non-art/design backgrounds may be considered based on their portfolio and professional experience.
2. Portfolio
A professional portfolio of 15–20 pieces showcasing advanced creative and technical skills.
Include projects relevant to the program being applied for (e.g., visual arts for MFA, design thinking for MDes).
Portfolios should highlight the applicant’s ability to conceptualize and execute projects with a focus on originality and skill.
3. Statement of Purpose
A written essay (500–750 words) explaining your creative interests, professional goals, and how the program aligns with your aspirations.
For MDes applicants, address how you aim to solve real-world problems using design thinking and innovation.
4. Résumé or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Include details about your academic background, work experience, exhibitions, awards, and other relevant achievements.
5. Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or mentors familiar with your academic and creative work.
6. English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 105.
Proof of English language study or completion of an English language program may also be accepted.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Amount (USD) |
Type |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Creative Achievement Award |
Undergraduate applicants with a strong portfolio and academic performance. |
Up to $20,000 per year |
Merit-Based |
Automatically considered during application. |
|
Presidential Scholarships |
Highly competitive; exceptional academic and creative achievements. |
Up to Full Tuition |
Merit-Based |
Limited number available for top applicants. |
|
CCAD Scholarships |
Undergraduate students with talent and financial need. |
(up to $15,000 per year) |
Merit and Need-Based |
Awarded at the discretion of the admissions team. |
|
Transfer Student Scholarships |
Transfer students with a strong academic record and portfolio. |
Up to $14,000 per year |
Merit-Based |
Automatically considered for eligible transfer students. |
|
International Student Scholarships |
International undergraduate students with outstanding portfolios and academic performance. |
Up to $15,000 per year |
Merit-Based |
Automatically considered for international applicants. |
|
Graduate Merit Scholarships |
Graduate students (MFA or MDes) with a strong portfolio and academic record. |
typically up to $10,000 per year |
Merit-Based |
Automatically considered for graduate applicants. |
|
CCAD Endowed Scholarships |
Current CCAD students meeting specific donor criteria. |
N/A |
Merit/Need-Based |
Requires separate application after enrollment. |
|
External Scholarships |
Students are encouraged to apply for external scholarships from private organizations. |
N/A |
External |
Examples: Fulbright, EducationUSA, etc. |
|
Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG) |
Ohio residents with demonstrated financial need. |
N/A |
Need-Based |
Requires FAFSA submission. |
Facility |
Details |
Cost (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Housing |
CCAD offers on-campus housing in two main residence halls for students. |
|
|
Schottenstein Hall |
- Suite-style housing for first-year students. |
|
|
|
- Features shared bedrooms, communal bathrooms, and lounge areas. |
|
|
Design Square Apartments |
- Apartment-style housing for upperclassmen and graduate students. |
|
|
|
- Fully furnished apartments with private or shared bedrooms. |
|
|
|
- Includes kitchen, living area, and bathroom in each unit. |
|
|
Room & Board Costs |
- Shared Room in Schottenstein Hall: Approximately $10,860/year. |
$10,860/year (shared room) |
|
|
- Single Room in Design Square Apartments: Approximately $13,100/year. |
$13,100/year (single room) |
|
|
- Meal Plan (mandatory for on-campus residents): $4,690–$5,310/year. |
Meal plan included in total cost |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
CCAD provides resources for students looking for private off-campus apartments near campus. |
Approx. $700–$1,200/month depending on location and amenities. |
|
Student Life & Amenities |
- Campus includes art studios, computer labs, fabrication labs, and galleries. |
|
|
|
- Health and wellness center available to students. |
|
|
Dining Facilities |
- CCAD offers dining options through the campus dining hall, Crane Café. |
Costs included in the meal plan. |
|
|
- Vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly meals available. |
|
|
Laundry Facilities |
- On-campus residence halls include free laundry facilities for residents. |
Included in housing costs. |
|
Security & Safety |
- 24/7 on-campus security and keycard access for all housing buildings. |
Included in housing costs. |
|
Parking |
- Parking permits available for students who bring cars to campus. |
Approx. $150–$200/year. |
1. Academic and Creative Environment
Studio-Centric Learning: Students spend a significant amount of time in hands-on studio work, collaborating on creative projects, and developing their portfolios.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to professional-grade equipment, including 3D printing labs, animation labs, digital fabrication labs, woodworking studios, and more.
Exhibitions and Showcases: Students frequently participate in art exhibitions, gallery shows, and the annual CCAD Chroma Exhibition, where they showcase their work to the public and industry professionals.
2. Clubs & Organizations
CCAD has several student-run clubs and organizations that cater to a variety of interests, fostering a sense of community and providing opportunities for personal growth. Examples include:
Animation Student Collective: A club for animation enthusiasts to collaborate, share tips, and work on projects.
Fashion Club: For students interested in fashion design, trends, and industry connections.
Comics Club: Focuses on creating comics, storytelling, and graphic novels.
Photography Club: A space for photographers to collaborate and showcase their work.
Dungeons & Dragons Club: A popular club for tabletop gaming enthusiasts.
Diversity & Inclusion Groups: Clubs and events that celebrate diverse identities and promote inclusivity, such as the Black Student Leadership Association (BSLA) and Queer Alliance.
3. Campus Events & Activities
CCAD hosts a wide range of events throughout the year to keep student life exciting and engaging:
Chroma: Best of CCAD: An annual campus-wide exhibition showcasing the best work by CCAD students from all disciplines.
Fashion Show: A professional-level event where fashion design students present their collections to the public.
Animation Show of Shows: Screenings of the best international animated films.
Film & Video Festival: Student films and creative projects are showcased to audiences.
Workshops & Speaker Series: Regular workshops on industry trends, guest lectures by professionals, and creative talks by alumni.
Gallery Exhibitions: Students have the opportunity to display their work in CCAD galleries, such as the Beeler Gallery.
4. Residence Life
Living on campus provides students with a vibrant and supportive community where they can connect with peers:
Creative Community: Students live among peers who share similar passions for art and design, fostering collaboration and inspiration.
Events in Residence Halls: Resident Assistants (RAs) organize events such as movie nights, art workshops, and social gatherings to help students connect.
5. Wellness & Student Support
CCAD is dedicated to supporting the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of its students:
Counseling Services: Free mental health counseling is available to all students to address personal, academic, or emotional challenges.
Health Services: Resources for finding local healthcare providers, as well as support for health insurance and wellness needs.
Fitness Center: Access to fitness facilities and classes to promote physical health.
Peer Support Groups: Opportunities to connect with others for support, mentorship, or shared experiences.
6. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
CCAD values diversity and ensures that students from all backgrounds feel welcome and supported:
Cultural Events: Celebrations of cultural diversity through events like Heritage Month celebrations and cultural awareness workshops.
Queer Alliance & Safe Spaces: LGBTQ+ support groups and inclusive environments on campus.
International Student Support: Assistance with adjusting to life in the U.S., including visa support, cultural integration programs, and workshops.
7. Career Development Opportunities
CCAD helps students prepare for careers in the creative industries through:
Career Services: Offers resume reviews, portfolio development, interview prep, and career counseling.
Internships: Partnerships with major companies like Disney, Pixar, Abercrombie & Fitch, DreamWorks, and others provide hands-on industry experience.
Annual CCAD Career Fair: A networking event where students connect with employers and showcase their portfolios.
Alumni Network: Access to CCAD's strong alumni network, which includes professionals working in top creative companies around the world.
8. Exploring Columbus, Ohio
CCAD’s location in downtown Columbus offers students a variety of cultural, social, and professional opportunities:
Arts and Culture: Columbus is home to the Columbus Museum of Art, local galleries, and regular art events such as Gallery Hop in the Short North Arts District.
Affordable Living: Columbus has a low cost of living compared to other major U.S. cities, making it student-friendly.
Local Food Scene: A diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks to explore.
Entertainment: Access to live music, theaters, and sports events in downtown Columbus.
Internship Opportunities: Columbus is home to many creative businesses, offering ample internship and networking possibilities.
9. Part-Time Jobs & Work Opportunities
Students can take advantage of part-time job opportunities to gain experience and support their expenses:
On-Campus Jobs: Positions such as working in the library, galleries, or as a Resident Assistant (RA).
Off-Campus Work (For International Students): F-1 visa holders may work through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs.
10. Safety & Security
24/7 Campus Security: The campus has round-the-clock security patrols and keycard access to residence halls.
Emergency Resources: CCAD has resources and plans in place to ensure students’ safety during emergencies.
Employment Rate
CCAD boasts an 87% employment rate for graduates working in creative fields or related industries within a year of graduation.
Many alumni secure positions in top companies, studios, and organizations in the U.S. and globally.
Industry Connections
CCAD has strong relationships with renowned companies and brands in industries like animation, fashion, gaming, industrial design, and advertising.
Students often collaborate on real-world projects during their coursework, gaining experience and exposure to industry practices.
Internships as a Pathway to Jobs
Over 70% of CCAD students complete at least one internship during their time at the college.
Internships often lead to full-time employment post-graduation.
CCAD graduates work for leading companies in diverse creative fields. Some top employers include:
Animation & Film
Disney Animation Studios
Pixar
DreamWorks
Nickelodeon
Cartoon Network
Fashion & Retail
Abercrombie & Fitch
L Brands (Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works)
Express
Macy’s
Gaming & Entertainment
Electronic Arts (EA)
Blizzard Entertainment
Ubisoft
Bungie Studios
Hasbro
Advertising & Design
Hallmark
American Greetings
IDEO
Pentagram
Industrial & Product Design
Honda
Procter & Gamble (P&G)
General Electric (GE)
Fisher-Price
Service |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Career Counseling |
Individualized career guidance to help students identify their career goals and prepare for the job market. |
|
Portfolio Reviews |
Students receive feedback on their portfolios from faculty, peers, and industry professionals to refine their work. |
|
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance |
Support for crafting professional resumes, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles. |
|
Mock Interviews |
Practice interviews to build confidence and improve communication skills. |
|
Internship Support |
Assistance with finding internships in students’ chosen fields. |
|
Annual Career Fair |
A major event where students meet and network with employers from leading creative companies. |
Internships play a significant role in students' professional development and job placement. Examples include:
Fashion Design Students: Intern with companies like Abercrombie & Fitch or L Brands to work on garment design and merchandising.
Animation Students: Secure internships at studios like Nickelodeon or Disney to gain hands-on experience in animation and storyboarding.
Industrial Design Students: Work with companies like Honda or P&G on innovative product design projects.
CCAD alumni have established successful careers in diverse creative industries. Here are a few notable examples:
Nathan Greno
Role: Director at Disney Animation Studios
Achievement: Directed the animated film Tangled.
Kevin Liles
Role: Senior Art Director at Abercrombie & Fitch
Achievement: Leads design teams for global fashion brands.
Allison Beckwith
Role: Visual Effects Artist at Pixar
Achievement: Worked on films like Toy Story 4 and Soul.
Diana Choi
Role: Designer at Hallmark
Achievement: Creates designs for cards, gifts, and branding.
Program |
Placement Rate |
Fields of Employment |
|---|---|---|
|
Animation |
90% |
Film, TV, gaming, visual effects (Disney, Pixar, Nickelodeon). |
|
Fashion Design |
85% |
Fashion design, merchandising, retail (Abercrombie, L Brands). |
|
Game Art & Design |
88% |
Video game design, 3D modeling, character design (EA, Blizzard, Ubisoft). |
|
Illustration |
87% |
Publishing, advertising, concept art (American Greetings, Hasbro). |
|
Advertising & Graphic Design |
85% |
Branding, graphic design, multimedia design (Hallmark, IDEO). |
|
Industrial Design |
83% |
Product design, automotive design (Honda, Fisher-Price). |
|
Industry/Field |
Average Starting Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Animation & Film |
$45,000–$65,000 |
|
Fashion Design |
$40,000–$55,000 |
|
Game Design |
$50,000–$70,000 |
|
Graphic Design & Advertising |
$40,000–$60,000 |
|
Industrial Design |
$50,000–$75,000 |
|
Illustration |
$40,000–$55,000 |
CCAD hosts an Annual Career Fair where students can:
Meet recruiters and employers from leading creative companies.
Showcase their portfolios and discuss job opportunities.
Network with industry professionals and alumni.
Some of the companies that attend the CCAD Career Fair include Disney, Pixar, Hallmark, Abercrombie & Fitch, and American Greetings.
CCAD provides extensive resources to prepare students for placements:
Portfolio Development: Students work closely with faculty and career counselors to build a professional portfolio that meets industry standards.
Workshops and Seminars: Regular career workshops focus on industry trends, freelancing, and professional skills.
Networking Events: Alumni networking events, industry panels, and employer visits help students connect with professionals.
High Acceptance Rate:
With a 91% acceptance rate, CCAD is considered a welcoming institution for students, particularly those with strong portfolios and a genuine interest in art and design.
The college values artistic potential and creativity more than solely focusing on traditional academic metrics like GPA or standardized test scores.
Portfolio Emphasis:
A strong portfolio is the most crucial aspect of the application process. Students who effectively showcase their skills, creativity, and potential in their portfolio have a higher chance of acceptance.
CCAD seeks students who are passionate about their craft, regardless of their prior experience or formal training.
International Students:
International students are also encouraged to apply, as CCAD supports a diverse student community.
Meeting the English language proficiency requirements (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) and providing proof of financial support are key for international applicants.
Academic Requirements:
While CCAD does not have strict GPA requirements, a solid academic background is preferred. The focus is more on artistic talent than test scores (SAT/ACT scores are optional).
Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD)
60 Cleveland Ave,
Columbus, OH 43215,
United States.
