Academy of Art University - Online

History & Mission

Established in 1929 by Richard S. Stephens, a creative director for Sunset magazine, Academy of Art University was originally opened to teach Advertising Art. Stephens formulated the school's unique philosophy: hire established professionals to teach future professionals. Stephens' son Richard A. Stephens took over the presidency in 1951, and in 1992 daughter Elisa Stephens succeeded her father as the President of the Academy of Art University.

Accreditation

Accredited member of Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), Council for Interior Design (BFA) and National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) for M.Arch

Admissions/Scholarships

Academy of Art University believes that all students interested in studying art and design should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams. Our no-barrier admissions policy makes this possible. Academy of Art University welcomes:

• Students with all levels of experience
• Transfer students
• International students
• Continuing art education students
• Pre-college students

Requirements:

• AA, BFA, BA and portfolio development programs - high school diploma or equivalent. No portfolio required.
• MFA and MA programs - Bachelors degree, submission of portfolio and statement of intent.

Scholarships

The Academy offers three unique scholarship programs in additional to other forms of financial aid.

1. Teacher Grant
2. Summer & Saturday Art Experience
3. Portfolio Grant

Facilities/Housing

Academy of Art University has a vibrant urban campus with more than 30 facilities, including 14 residence halls and apartment buildings. A convenient courtesy shuttle bus system transports students between all Academy buildings.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The Academy takes its facilities beyond the typical art school. From two green screens to a bronze-casting foundry to world-class Mac and PC labs, students have the very best at their fingertips, preparing them for a career beyond the University.

Residence Halls

Students making their homes in the Academy's residence halls become part of a tightly knit artist community. Making friends with students from other countries and other areas of interest is an important part of becoming a whole artist. Being exposed to different cultures opens students' minds to new perspectives, while working with students in other departments broadens practical skills and knowledge.

Career Resources

Students develop a unique combination of artistic talent and business savvy that attracts some of the biggest companies in the world. The Academy's career resources team works tirelessly to assist students in career development, resulting in:

• An exceptional job placement rate of 80 percent.
• Careers with companies like Pixar, Disney, LucasArts, Sony, Yahoo, Gensler, Apple, Red Envelope, Escada, Marc Jacobs, Zac Posen and many more.

Academy Life

San Francisco is recognized worldwide as a mecca for creativity. Within a few blocks of Academy campuses are art galleries, the retail fashion center, the theater district, museums, Moscone Convention Center, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and Yerba Buena Gardens. Inspiration can be found anywhere!

Students also have access to:

• Research facilities
• Campus activities/clubs
• Intercollegiate, intramural and club sports