| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1982
Location: Downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Type: Private, non-profit art college
Focus: Career preparation for artists, designers, and creative professionals
Accreditation: Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
PCA&D offers Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degrees in the following disciplines:
Animation & Game Art
Fine Art
Graphic Design
Illustration
Photography & Video
Additionally, the college offers certificate programs, continuing education classes, and workshops for lifelong learners and professionals looking to sharpen their skills.
PCA&D is located in the heart of Lancaster, a historic city with a thriving arts community.
The campus includes studio spaces, galleries, digital labs, and collaborative areas designed for creativity and innovation.
Students have access to modern tools and resources, including 3D printers, digital drawing tablets, and professional photography equipment.
Small Class Sizes: With a low student-to-faculty ratio, PCA&D emphasizes personalized attention and mentorship.
Exhibitions and Galleries: Students have opportunities to display their work in the college's gallery, which also hosts exhibitions by visiting artists.
Internships and Career Support: The college has strong industry connections, providing students with internships, networking opportunities, and career guidance.
Clubs and Organizations: PCA&D offers a variety of student-led organizations and activities to enhance campus life.
Application Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent
Portfolio submission (showcasing artistic skills and creativity)
Statement of purpose
Transcripts
PCA&D has a holistic admissions process that evaluates both artistic and academic potential.
Tuition varies by program but is competitive for a private art college.
Financial aid is available through scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. PCA&D is committed to making art education accessible and works closely with students to explore funding options.
Community Focus: PCA&D has strong ties to Lancaster’s vibrant arts scene, offering students opportunities to engage with local galleries, art organizations, and community events.
Creative Careers: The college emphasizes preparing students for successful careers in creative industries.
Professional Development: Career services, networking events, and alumni connections help students transition smoothly into the workforce.
Intimate learning environment with individualized attention
Opportunities to showcase work and build a professional portfolio
Focused preparation for careers in art and design fields
Location in Lancaster, a city known for its arts and cultural heritage
PCA&D's BFA programs are designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to succeed in competitive creative industries. The following BFA degrees are offered:
Animation & Game Art
Focus: Creating animations, designing characters, storyboarding, and developing assets for video games.
Skills Taught: 2D/3D animation, character development, storytelling, game design, motion graphics.
Career Opportunities: Animator, game designer, storyboard artist, motion graphic designer.
Fine Art
Focus: Traditional and contemporary approaches to painting, drawing, sculpture, and installation art.
Skills Taught: Studio practice, conceptual development, interdisciplinary art techniques.
Career Opportunities: Fine artist, curator, art instructor, gallery manager.
Graphic Design
Focus: Designing for print, web, and digital platforms, with an emphasis on branding, typography, and user experience (UX/UI).
Skills Taught: Adobe Creative Suite, typography, user experience design, packaging design, branding.
Career Opportunities: Graphic designer, UX/UI designer, art director, branding specialist.
Illustration
Focus: Developing skills to create illustrations for books, magazines, advertising, games, and animation.
Skills Taught: Traditional and digital illustration, concept art, character design, storytelling, visual development.
Career Opportunities: Illustrator, concept artist, comic artist, children’s book illustrator.
Photography & Video
Focus: Mastering the art of visual storytelling through photography and video production.
Skills Taught: Digital photography, video editing, cinematography, lighting, post-production.
Career Opportunities: Photographer, videographer, content creator, cinematographer.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2024-2025) |
|---|---|---|
|
Animation & Game Art |
4 Years |
$31,750 |
|
Fine Art |
4 Years |
$31,750 |
|
Graphic Design |
4 Years |
$31,750 |
|
Illustration |
4 Years |
$31,750 |
|
Photography & Video |
4 Years |
$31,750 |
Focused Art and Design Education: PCA&D offers specialized Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programs in Animation & Game Art, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, and Photography & Video.
Small Class Sizes: PCA&D fosters an intimate learning environment, allowing for personalized attention from faculty.
Diverse Art Community: Located in Lancaster, a city known for its thriving arts scene, PCA&D provides international students with opportunities to engage with local and national creative industries.
Career Preparation: The college emphasizes professional development, internships, and portfolio building to prepare students for successful careers in the arts.
International students are eligible to enroll in the following degree programs:
Animation & Game Art (BFA)
Fine Art (BFA)
Graphic Design (BFA)
Illustration (BFA)
Photography & Video (BFA)
Each program has a 4-year duration and is designed to provide students with technical, creative, and professional skills in their chosen field.
International applicants must meet the following requirements:
Completed Application: Submit the application form through the PCA&D website or Common App.
Portfolio Submission: A portfolio of 8-12 recent works showcasing creativity and technical skills is required. Portfolios can include drawings, designs, paintings, videos, animations, or photographs.
Educational Transcripts: Submit official high school transcripts or equivalent academic records, translated into English if necessary.
English Language Proficiency: International students whose first language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency. Accepted tests and minimum scores include:
TOEFL: 80 (internet-based)
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo English Test: 105
Statement of Purpose: A written essay describing your goals, creative interests, and reasons for applying to PCA&D.
Letter(s) of Recommendation: At least one letter of recommendation from a teacher, mentor, or professional reference.
Passport Copy: A valid passport for visa purposes.
1. Choose a Program
Decide which Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program you want to pursue at PCA&D. The available programs are:
Animation & Game Art
Fine Art
Graphic Design
Illustration
Photography & Video
2. Submit an Online Application
Complete the online application via the PCA&D website or through the Common Application.
Pay the non-refundable application fee of $40 (fee waivers may be available for eligible students).
3. Prepare and Submit a Portfolio
The portfolio is a critical part of the application process and should showcase your creativity, technical skills, and potential for growth.
Portfolio Requirements:
Submit 8–12 pieces of your best and most recent artwork.
Include a variety of works (e.g., drawing, painting, design, illustration, photography, animation, or digital art).
Include pieces that demonstrate creativity, concept development, and technical skills.
Portfolios can be submitted digitally via SlideRoom, or physical portfolios can be reviewed during an in-person or virtual meeting.
Optional: Include a sketchbook or work-in-progress pieces to show your creative process.
4. Submit Official Academic Transcripts
Provide official transcripts from your high school (or equivalent for international students).
If applicable, include transcripts from any colleges or universities attended.
5. Write a Statement of Purpose
Write a personal essay (1-2 pages) addressing:
Why you want to attend PCA&D.
Your career goals in the arts.
Your creative inspirations and influences.
6. Submit Letters of Recommendation
Provide at least one letter of recommendation from an art teacher, mentor, or someone who can speak about your academic or creative abilities.
7. Prove English Language Proficiency (for International Students)
International applicants whose native language is not English must submit one of the following:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (internet-based).
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
8. Attend an Optional Admissions Interview
PCA&D encourages applicants to participate in an interview (in person or virtual) with an admissions counselor. This is an opportunity to discuss your portfolio, ask questions, and learn more about the college.
9. Check Financial Aid and Scholarships
Domestic students should complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to apply for federal financial aid. PCA&D’s FAFSA school code is 016021.
International students are considered for merit-based scholarships based on their application and portfolio. No separate application is required for these scholarships.
10. Await the Admission Decision
PCA&D has a rolling admissions process, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received.
Admission decisions are typically communicated within 2-4 weeks after the application and all required materials are submitted.
PCA&D primarily offers one major intake each year:
Fall Intake (August/September):
This is the main intake and the preferred entry point for all programs, including international students.
Applications for the fall semester typically open in the fall of the previous year (around October) and remain open until shortly before the semester begins.
Students are encouraged to apply early for better scholarship and housing opportunities.
Spring Intake (January):
Spring semester intake is offered on a limited basis, depending on program availability.
International students are advised to confirm the availability of this intake with the Admissions Office before applying.
To apply for any program at PCA&D, students must meet the following general academic and artistic eligibility requirements:
1. Academic Requirements
For Undergraduate (BFA) Programs:
High school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED, A-levels, IB diploma, or other international equivalent).
A strong academic record (specific GPA requirements are not specified, but academic performance will be considered).
2. Portfolio Requirements
A portfolio of creative work is required for all applicants and is a key component of the admission decision.
Applicants must submit 8–12 pieces of their best and most recent artwork.
The portfolio should demonstrate:
Creativity and originality.
Technical skills relevant to the chosen program.
A range of work, including drawing, painting, photography, digital art, or animation (depending on the program of interest).
Optional: Include sketchbooks, works-in-progress, or other projects that showcase your creative process.
3. English Language Proficiency
For students whose native language is not English, proof of English language proficiency is required. Accepted tests and minimum scores include:
TOEFL (Internet-based): Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
Students who have completed their education in an English-speaking institution may be eligible for an English proficiency test waiver.
4. Personal Statement (Statement of Purpose)
Applicants must submit a 1–2 page essay that includes:
Reasons for choosing PCA&D.
Career aspirations in art and design.
Creative inspirations and interests.
5. Letter(s) of Recommendation
At least one letter of recommendation is required.
This letter should come from a teacher, mentor, counselor, or other individual familiar with the student’s academic and artistic potential.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount (USD) |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Based on the quality of the applicant's portfolio and academic performance during admission. |
Up to $15,000 per year |
Automatically considered during admission. |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
Awarded to top-performing students with exceptional academic records and outstanding portfolios. |
Up to $18,000 per year |
Automatically considered during admission. |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
Awarded to students with strong portfolios and good academic performance. |
(up to $10,000 per year) |
Automatically considered during admission. |
|
Portfolio Scholarships |
Based on creativity and technical skills demonstrated in the applicant's submitted portfolio. |
N/A |
Automatically considered during admission. |
|
Need-Based Scholarships |
Based on demonstrated financial need (domestic students only; FAFSA required). |
N/A |
Submit FAFSA and additional financial forms. |
|
Outside/Private Scholarships |
External scholarships provided by organizations and foundations (may be applied to tuition). |
N/A |
Apply through external providers. |
Facility/Service |
Details |
Approximate Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
PCA&D is located in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania, within walking distance of galleries, shops, and restaurants. |
N/A |
|
Campus Facilities |
The campus includes classrooms, art studios, computer labs, digital labs, and gallery spaces for exhibitions. |
Included in tuition fees. |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
PCA&D does not offer on-campus housing but helps students secure apartments or shared housing off-campus. |
$600–$1,200 per month (depending on type). |
|
Shared Apartments |
Students can share apartments or houses with other PCA&D students to reduce costs. |
$400–$800 per month per person. |
|
Private Apartments |
Single-occupancy apartments for students who prefer independent living. |
$900–$1,200 per month. |
|
Host Family Accommodation |
Some students opt to live with a local host family, offering a cultural experience. |
$500–$800 per month (with meals included). |
|
Utilities (electricity, water, internet) |
Utilities are usually separate from rent for apartments. |
$100–$200 per month. |
|
Meal Costs |
Students can prepare meals in their apartments or dine at local restaurants. |
$250–$400 per month (groceries/dining). |
|
Transportation |
Many students live within walking distance of the college; public transport is also available in Lancaster. |
$50–$100 per month (if needed). |
1. Academic and Creative Environment
Small Class Sizes: PCA&D's intimate learning environment fosters close interaction with professors and peers, enabling individualized mentorship and feedback.
Collaborative Community: Students from diverse artistic disciplines work together on projects, participate in critiques, and share creative ideas.
Studio Culture: The college emphasizes a studio-based education where students spend significant time working in their designated studios, surrounded by inspiration and peers.
2. Clubs and Organizations
PCA&D offers several student-led clubs and organizations to engage students outside the classroom and studio:
Art Clubs: Groups dedicated to specific disciplines like illustration, photography, animation, and game art.
Student Council: Represents the student body and organizes events, workshops, and activities throughout the year.
Diversity & Inclusion Groups: Promotes inclusivity and creates a safe space for students of all backgrounds to connect and support each other.
Volunteer and Community Service Groups: Opportunities for students to give back to the Lancaster community through art-focused projects.
3. Events and Activities
PCA&D students participate in numerous events on and off-campus:
Art Shows and Exhibitions:
Students have opportunities to display their work in PCA&D’s on-campus galleries or at local galleries in Lancaster.
Senior Thesis Exhibition: A major end-of-year event where graduating students showcase their final projects.
Visiting Artist Lectures: Regular visits from accomplished artists and industry professionals provide inspiration, insights, and networking opportunities.
Workshops and Seminars: Hands-on learning experiences and career-focused events on topics like portfolio development, freelancing, and art techniques.
First Friday Art Walk: A monthly event where galleries and creative spaces in downtown Lancaster open their doors for the public. PCA&D students frequently participate or attend.
4. Career Preparation and Professional Development
Internships: PCA&D has strong ties with local and regional businesses, offering students internship opportunities to gain real-world experience in their chosen fields.
Career Services: The college provides resources for resume writing, interview preparation, and networking with industry professionals.
Portfolio Development: Throughout their education, students build professional portfolios that showcase their skills and creativity for potential employers or clients.
5. Housing and Living in Lancaster
While PCA&D does not provide on-campus housing, the college supports students in finding off-campus accommodation. Living in Lancaster offers:
Affordable Living Costs: Shared apartments and other housing options are reasonably priced, especially compared to larger cities.
Accessible City: PCA&D is located in downtown Lancaster, making it easy for students to walk or bike to nearby shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Cultural Diversity: Lancaster is known for its welcoming atmosphere and growing multicultural community.
6. Lancaster Arts Scene
The city of Lancaster provides an inspiring backdrop for students:
Galleries and Museums: PCA&D students have access to a range of cultural institutions, including the Demuth Museum, the Lancaster Museum of Art, and numerous independent galleries.
Public Art and Murals: Lancaster features an active public art scene, with murals and installations scattered throughout the city.
First Friday Art Walk: A vibrant event held on the first Friday of each month, featuring art exhibits, music, and performances in the downtown area.
7. Support Services for Students
PCA&D provides a variety of services to ensure student success:
Academic Advising: Faculty advisors help students plan their coursework, address challenges, and explore career options.
Counseling Services: Mental health and wellness support is available to all students.
Peer Support: PCA&D fosters a close-knit community where students can collaborate and support each other.
Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: PCA&D is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all students feel welcome and valued.
8. Dining and Social Life
Cafes and Restaurants: Lancaster boasts a variety of affordable eateries, coffee shops, and bakeries where students can relax and socialize.
Markets and Events: The Lancaster Central Market, one of the oldest farmers' markets in the U.S., is a popular spot for fresh food and a taste of the local culture.
Community Events: Lancaster hosts festivals, art fairs, and cultural events throughout the year, offering students the chance to engage with the local community.
9. Opportunities for Leadership and Involvement
PCA&D encourages students to take on leadership roles and get involved in campus initiatives:
Student Council Leadership: Representing the voice of the student body and organizing events.
Campus Ambassadors: Assisting with admissions events, campus tours, and outreach.
Collaborative Projects: Students frequently collaborate on creative projects that impact the college and local community.
10. International Student Experience
For international students, PCA&D offers:
Orientation Programs: Designed to help international students transition to life in the U.S. and at PCA&D.
Cultural Activities: Opportunities to share their culture and learn about others, creating a diverse and supportive community.
Host Family Options: For students looking to immerse themselves in American culture while living in Lancaster.
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Career-Focused Curriculum |
All programs include courses in professional practices, teaching students about freelancing, contracts, and industry standards. |
|
Portfolio Development |
Students graduate with a strong, industry-ready portfolio showcasing their work, which is critical for creative job opportunities. |
|
Internships |
PCA&D has partnerships with local, regional, and national companies, helping students gain internship experience in their fields. |
|
Networking Opportunities |
Through guest lectures, workshops, exhibitions, and alumni events, students connect with industry professionals. |
|
Career Services Office |
Provides career counseling, resume building, portfolio review, and interview preparation. |
|
Capstone Projects |
Every student completes a senior thesis or capstone project that demonstrates their expertise and problem-solving abilities. |
|
Job Placement Assistance |
The Career Services Office helps connect students with job opportunities, internships, and freelance projects. |
|
Alumni Network |
Graduates can leverage PCA&D’s alumni network to find mentors, job leads, and professional connections. |
PCA&D tracks alumni success through employment statistics and career pathways. Here are key highlights of employment outcomes:
1. Employment Rates
According to PCA&D, over 90% of graduates are employed or pursuing advanced education within one year of graduation.
Graduates often find work in fields directly related to their major, such as graphic design, illustration, animation, photography, and fine arts.
2. Industries and Job Titles
PCA&D alumni work across a range of creative industries, holding positions such as:
Animation & Game Art: Character Designer, 2D/3D Animator, Game Developer.
Graphic Design: UX/UI Designer, Web Designer, Brand Strategist, Art Director.
Illustration: Concept Artist, Editorial Illustrator, Children’s Book Illustrator.
Photography & Video: Photographer, Videographer, Cinematographer, Digital Content Creator.
Fine Art: Studio Artist, Art Educator, Gallery Manager, Curator.
3. Top Employers
PCA&D graduates have gone on to work with notable companies and organizations, such as:
Design Agencies: Saatchi & Saatchi, Ogilvy, Pentagram.
Animation Studios: Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, Blue Sky Studios.
Media Companies: The New York Times, National Geographic, Getty Images.
Tech & Game Companies: Epic Games, Ubisoft, Electronic Arts.
Local and Regional Employers: Many graduates also find opportunities in Lancaster and nearby cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and New York.
PCA&D emphasizes internships as a vital component of career preparation. Students have opportunities to intern with:
Design firms
Animation studios
Photography studios
Advertising agencies
Museums and galleries
Internships provide students with:
Real-world experience in their chosen field.
Networking opportunities with industry professionals.
A chance to add professional work to their portfolios.
Every PCA&D student completes a senior thesis or capstone project, which is showcased in an annual Senior Show & Celebration.
This event attracts industry professionals, potential employers, and the local community, providing students with a platform to present their work and make professional connections.
The Career Services Office at PCA&D plays a key role in helping students transition from college to career. Services include:
Resume and Cover Letter Assistance: Tailored for creative professionals.
Portfolio Reviews: Ensures students' work meets industry standards.
Mock Interviews: Prepares students for real-world job interviews.
Job Boards and Listings: Access to job postings, freelance opportunities, and internships through PCA&D's career portal.
PCA&D takes pride in its alumni, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in art and design. Examples include:
Artists exhibiting in prominent galleries.
Illustrators working for publishers and media outlets.
Graphic designers leading creative campaigns for major brands.
Animators contributing to award-winning films and games.
Entrepreneurs running their own studios or freelance businesses.
PCA&D also prepares students to work as freelancers or start their own creative businesses:
Courses in business practices and marketing for artists help students understand how to price their work, market themselves, and manage contracts.
Many graduates establish careers as independent artists, designers, or photographers.
Even after graduation, PCA&D continues to support its alumni:
Career Services Access: Alumni can use career resources and services indefinitely.
Alumni Events: Networking opportunities to stay connected with the PCA&D community.
Continuing Education: Graduates can take continuing education courses to refine their skills or learn new ones.
PCA&D evaluates applicants holistically, focusing on:
Portfolio Quality: The portfolio is the most critical component of the application and is assessed for creativity, originality, and technical skill.
Academic Performance: A high school diploma (or equivalent) is required, and a solid academic record is considered, although there is no specific minimum GPA requirement.
Personal Statement: A well-written essay that explains the applicant’s goals, artistic influences, and reasons for choosing PCA&D can strengthen the application.
Letters of Recommendation: At least one letter from a teacher, mentor, or professional familiar with the applicant’s creative abilities is required.
English Language Proficiency: For international students, meeting the minimum requirements for TOEFL (80), IELTS (6.5), or Duolingo (105) is essential.
Pennsylvania College of Art & Design
204 North Prince Street
Lancaster, PA 17603
United States
