2024 Best Colleges for Design in America

• Saint Louis, MO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  1,558 reviews

Alum: I am thankful for my undergraduate experience at Washington University in St. Louis. The college has great connections for post-grad opportunities in multiple fields - business, medicine, research, engineering. I was easily able to switch between the Arts & Sciences program and the Business School at the end of my sophomore year. There is a huge focus on medicine, so even for other career paths there are healthcare adjacent offerings (e.g. Healthcare Management, Bio Medical Engineering, Global Health, Psychology/Neuroscience/Philosophy). The brand name and resources do carry for other non-health related professions too. The classwork can be tough so it's best you find out which paths are a good fit for you in terms of academic rigor, class size, and teaching style. Your counselors can help with this. Good size of the school - not too big to get lost, but not too small to know everyone and the campus is very very beautiful! I suggest visiting and talking to alum to learn more!... Read 1,558 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $28,298

• SAT range 1490-1570

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  3,993 reviews

Sophomore: So far I have not started my sophomore year as I am transferring from Pepperdine University. However, from what I have heard, seen, and experienced from USC is that it gives students the opportunity to explore their creative and intellectual sides simultaneously. I recently attended a transfer orientation session and it was filled with school spirit and gave us transfer students an opportunity to connect with the school as well as with other transfers. This orientation was packed with exciting events that truly made each person who attended eager to get on campus in August. USC offers many different programs along with a variety of specific classes and clubs. I am excited to see how this year goes and I am looking forward to joining the many opportunities that USC offers their students!... Read 3,993 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $26,021

• SAT range 1410-1540

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,465 reviews

Alum: I went to CMU for undergraduate and graduate school. As an undergraduate science major, I often had trouble completing my assignments despite being the valedictorian of my high school. Many years later I realized the school was trying to teach us how to problem solve, learn things on our own, and get used to the feeling of being lost. In another word, they were training us to be leaders and pioneers. In hindsight, I wish we had career and academic counselors assigned to each student at CMU so we could talk to someone when we were struggling. Tepper was an entirely difference experience. It was hard work, but I got excellent career support and I didn't feel as lost as I did at Mellon College of Science. My Tepper education went a long way in helping me to pass all three levels of CFA exams on my first try. Thank Goodness! After six years at CMU, I was completely prepared to tackle any projects that came my way. I guess all that hard work was worth it.... Read 1,465 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $37,450

• SAT range 1480-1560

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  5,513 reviews

Junior: I came into UCLA as a transfer student and immediately joined the transfer summer program. The support I received from the program was incredible. I was able to form a community, make new friends, and explore the seemingly endless opportunities UCLA has to offer. Within the first month, I had an opportunity to join a physics lab. This is something that I wanted to do since I began my college journey. To be able to have this opportunity at UCLA is something that I have only dreamt of until now. Additionally, the people that you meet here at UCLA are all incredible and smart in their own ways. I have met tons of ambitious students with their own unique goals and career aspirations. It seems like this is a place filled with endless opportunity!... Read 5,513 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $13,393

• SAT range —

• Gainesville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  7,979 reviews

Sophomore: The student organizations, resources for students, and variety of courses is incredible. Every day I discover a new opportunity for professional and personal growth and the resources for mental and physical health are phenomenal. The fitness centers on campus have classes, personal training, and top notch equipment. There are so many ways to get involved and a club for EVERY interest, both personal and professional. My only complaints are that the advisors can be hit or miss. Some advisors are incredible and give you a breath of information and provide you with a ton of resources but some advisors left me with more questions than answers. Some of the professors are amazing and passionate and the reason why I changed my major to economics. On the other hand some professors were so incredibly bad that I changed my major to something outside of their discipline. Some professors courses are incredibly unorganized and were more about them showing off than helping students. Great school!... Read 7,979 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $9,809

• SAT range 1300-1470

• Atlanta, GA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  2,166 reviews

Sophomore: I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Georgia Tech. The campus is beautiful, there are plenty of community engagements, and the environment is friendly. Of course, let this not distract from the fact that Georgia Tech is a school that requires a lot of discipline. The library will be your deep friend as you get assignments complete. All in all, however, this school is far from impossible; there were some days I had enough time to play basketball for four hours after class! If you manage your time, stay focused, and find a community, you'll have an absolute blast at Georgia Tech.... Read 2,166 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 16%

• Net price $17,360

• SAT range 1310-1500

• Boston, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  3,584 reviews

Sophomore: I really enjoyed my time there! There are a lot of events for different types of people, like women and non-binary rock-climbing events, Asian student get-togethers, community fast breaking for Muslim students, Questbridge scholar movie nights, and many more. One thing I would like to see change is better advertisement and outreach for extracurriculars and clubs. Other than during Splash, it is difficult to see what kinds of different groups are doing and if you can join.... Read 3,584 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $25,852

• SAT range 1360-1520

• Notre Dame, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,412 reviews

Alum: Best decision I ever made. Extraordinary undergraduate engagement through inspired teaching and mentoring. Lifelong friendships with faculty and peers. A commitment to reasoned discourse. Study abroad encouraged and facilitated even if pre med. Gorgeous campus. Inclusive residential life. Brilliant yet helpful classmates from every state and over 100 countries. I still regularly talk to my roommates 34 years later. Unparalleled sports with far reaching esprit de corps. As an undergraduate English Philosophy Pre Med Major whose now a Pediatric Psychiatrist, I would love to do it all again. When I occasionally go back to campus I love perusing the bookstore stacks to see what kids are reading these days in the disciplines. I remain grateful they have not abandoned their mission to form young people to be a force for good in the world. When I talk to current students, they give me hope.... Read 1,412 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 15%

• Net price $30,513

• SAT range 1410-1550

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,332 reviews

Sophomore: As a University of Pennsylvania student, my experience has been transformative. The academic rigor and diverse courses allowed me to explore passions and develop critical thinking. Accessible and knowledgeable faculty shaped my journey, while the vibrant campus life fostered a sense of community among students from diverse backgrounds. I appreciate the emphasis on research opportunities, collaborating with renowned scholars, and Philadelphia's cultural scene, offering internships and networking. However, addressing the cost of attendance with more financial aid options and scholarships is essential for equal access. Moreover, enhancing inclusivity and support for underrepresented groups would strengthen our community further. Overall, UPenn has provided exceptional opportunities, but improvements can make it an even more accessible and inclusive institution for all students.... Read 1,332 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $14,578

• SAT range 1480-1570

• Austin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  6,678 reviews

Senior: I've had an amazing experience at UT. Pursuing a career in journalism, it's an honor to be studying at one of the best journalism programs in the world! I've learned so much from such amazing and accomplished journalists, and I've been able to grow my knowledge and journalistic writing and center in on exactly what path I want to go down in journalism. Along with that, I've been able to pursue other academic interests of mine through pursuing an additional degree in sociology and a certificate in human rights and social justice. I've been able to broaden my knowledge on the issues that plague marginalized communities around the world and through this I've been able to strengthen my reporting and story telling as a journalist. I've also completed four internships throughout my time at the university, and will be studying abroad in the fall! I've grown and gained so much during my time here, and I can't wait to see how much I'll learn and grow during my last year.... Read 6,678 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $16,589

• SAT range 1230-1500

• Providence, RI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  349 reviews

Alum: Rhode Island School of Design is a prestigious art school worldwide, and therefore it creates a community of cutting-edge student body and faculty. The friends and network I've met at RISD are life-long and will continue to be a source of inspiration and collaboration in the future. All the departments in the school are extremely challenging and require refined conceptual and critical thinking as well as technical skill. My critical thinking skills still serve me to this day, even for things that are not related to the arts. Really, the only negative thing I can say is that the school itself did not have courses to prepare me for post-graduation and entering the work force. At least at the time. Also, it is a very expensive school! However, still worth it (for me).... Read 349 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $38,234

• SAT range 1310-1480

• Boston, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  3,686 reviews

Alum: Northeastern provides lots of amenities to make students with different backgrounds comfortable. Lots of offerings help students feel supported in their mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing (e.g. meditation/prayer room, mental wellness programs, gym incl. group fitness programs, cafes on campus incl. Starbucks). The School is in the city, however still is one big campus which is rather rare for city campuses. I've had a good experience with my classes. There is a big variety to choose from. The international students could have been better integrated into the American student body. However clubs on campus allowed to meet people from all backgrounds. The variety of clubs and initiatives on campus is vast! The school has a great connection to the industry and the co-op program allows you to graduate with practical experience. NEU also offers lots of guidance on landing a job and help with applications. Overall, as a student I felt very supported.... Read 3,686 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $38,927

• SAT range 1430-1550

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  855 reviews

Niche User: What I remember about Pratt the most were the encouraging professors and helpful faculty. Architecture students were by guided skilled, professional instructors. They empower their students and are always available for extra help. Counselors are also super helpful with anything regarding courses and financial aid. The curriculum was well paced. Writing assignments helped boost design thinking. Each semester developed our design creativity. Design studios can be tough at first. More importantly, studios were a collaborative environment where we learned to work with professors. In each class, everyone's input is valued. Follow your creative intuitions first, be open to advice from professors and you will make beautiful creations! The work is intensive, as expected of the field of study. each section struggles together. Tuition is very high for out-of-state. Some instructors went over the alotted time but that's as far as the complaints go. Valued education..... Read 855 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $46,486

• SAT range 1190-1410

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,644 reviews

Sophomore: The Fashion Institute of technology is very welcoming and vibrant. The campus has a palpable creative energy. So far, my journey at FIT has been an incredibly transformative one. This institution has propelled me towards personal and professional growth. The professors at FIT are not only teaching you in classes but they bring in real-world knowledge into the class. They encourage you to think creatively and critically. Since I am an international student, I believe that the campus has a rich and diverse community of students. Interacting with the students from various cultures and backgrounds and helped me broaden my perspectives. FIT offers various opportunities to develop professionally. It has abundance of resources for students even though it’s a college covered in just one block. I believe that my experience over here is extraordinary and I cannot imagine what other opportunities the college has for me ahead!... Read 1,644 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 52%

• Net price $8,637

• SAT range —

• Valencia, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  284 reviews

Senior: I transferred from Los Angeles Mission Community College to California Institute of the Arts in 2020. Since, I have been studying Music Technology and Digital Arts and am set to graduate this upcoming Fall! With my time at Calarts coming to a close, I am incredibly sad to leave my Calarts family behind. I love the Music Technology faculty, the amazing courses I have taken such as; Interface Design, Creative Producing for music, Advanced Electronic Ensemble, and Visual Programming (the list goes on)! These classes are some of the few that left me inspired and motivated to continue learning and pursuing my artistry after college. Nonetheless, these are classes that were very specific to my learning goals, that I would not have commonly found at any other university. My mentor, Madeline Falcone, has done an OUTSTANDING job of supporting me in my academic goals, while also pushing my artistry to the next level. I would love if the tuition was lower, because I am currently 120k in debt.... Read 284 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $53,916

• SAT range —

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,650 reviews

Junior: To start, living on my own in the city has been an authentic experience that has helped me grow as a young adult, taking on new responsibilities and meeting different people! Overall, college is what you make it. There are so many resources and opportunities, some clearly offered and pushed, and some just found by research or who you know (so be friendly and make connections!). Regarding classes, my professors are very inspiring, with expertise and experience. With the educational aspect, you'll learn the concrete information (rules and details of a concept) by studying and reading; you have to put in your own effort if you want to learn, either on your own time out of class, or for an assignment. Discussions and work in class with the professor are more on the abstract side of things, regarding ideals and philosophies, making you think about the world around you and how you can make a positive impact. Content and work differs by class, but your education relies on your effort!... Read 5,650 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $50,991

• SAT range 1450-1570

• Coral Gables, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  3,018 reviews

Freshman: I'm having a great time at UM! Move-in is phenomenal; the school provides professional movers to help families unload their vehicles and get students' belongings to the rooms. Orientation programming is fun and includes a variety of activities for students and parents. Class registration for engineering students is completely stress-free. On top of it all, classes are going well. If I had to do all over again, UM would still be my #1 choice.... Read 3,018 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $34,492

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Lancaster, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  139 reviews

Senior: PCA&D as a school is a very unique experience. It has also changed so much since my Freshman year that I feel like I am in a unique position to showcase how things have improved. Housing does continue to be a problem for the school. Due to the size, it would be a poor investment to make dorms for students, as we only have around 300-400 students total at the school. But there is now a considerable amount more housing options than when I first attended. (though I would still recommend renting outside the school.) The true key to what makes the school great is the professors. They genuinely care so much about making sure you get what you're paying for. It also helps that they actually know who you are, due to the small class sizes. There is only so much I can fit in 1000 characters, so I'll just say this. PCA&D is a school that has changed a lot, but I would say it's for the better! I'm so glad I chose this school. I really feel like I'm ready for the real world after this last year.... Read 139 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $26,452

• SAT range —

• Davis, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  5,052 reviews

Senior: Davis has been an extraordinary experience as a pre-med student! The faculty's expertise and genuine care for students have been remarkable. They provide engaging lectures, one-on-one guidance, and research opportunities. The pre-med advising team is accessible and immensely helpful, supporting me in every aspect of my journey. The campus is beautiful, offering study spaces and research facilities with cutting-edge resources. The inclusive environment fosters collaboration with like-minded peers, making it feel like a family. Davis also provides numerous healthcare and medicine-related clubs and organizations, enhancing networking opportunities. The university's ties to local hospitals and medical centers have opened doors for internships and clinical experiences, giving me invaluable exposure to the medical field. My time at Davis has been transformative and inspiring, preparing me for medical school and beyond. I highly recommend Davis to any aspiring pre-med student.... Read 5,052 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $16,640

• SAT range 1160-1400

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  3,136 reviews

Sophomore: I would say the only downside is that you have to be pretty headstrong about your college career decisions. Especially with the Cooperative Education at Drexel, you are expected to stay ahead of the curve and be ready for the workforce, simultaneously keeping advisors and professors in the loop about exactly how you need to organise your classes. The great thing about it applies to students who know how to go out and get what they’re looking for and are self-reliant. I recommend making friends with your professors and being willing to work outside of the bounds of Drexel, because the system is pretty good at following your lead!... Read 3,136 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $26,076

• SAT range 1210-1410

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  531 reviews

Sophomore: It's been a blast being at this school! New York can be overwhelming but you adjust pretty quickly. Everyone is very kind and supports you through tough times. It's a little scary at first but it's easy to make friends! However, it is only my second year attending this school but I'm still having a blast. It's gonna be stressful your first year but hold out! The school provides plenty of activities special for freshmen a week before classes start and there are plenty of dorm events to help you make more friends. There is a tight community despite how bit it is but you will find your people!... Read 531 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $51,634

• SAT range 1140-1380

• Laguna Beach, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  212 reviews

Freshman: I have really enjoyed my time so far with LCAD! The professors are awesome and very knowledgeable about the topics they teach, as well as being very understanding during this turbulent time in regards to due dates and being mindful of class workloads while still providing students with a challenge. I feel as though I have learned quite a bit even over just one semester, and the opportunities for clubs and connections to job markets are vast. While I do receive a decent scholarship to attend, I find that the administration is not super helpful in working out payment options for students who receive no parental financial assistance with tuition and are not very understanding of such circumstances, though I am used to falling through the cracks in this way, unfortunately. Still, I hope to continue to be able to attend this school, as I have so far very much enjoyed my classmates, work, and professors.... Read 212 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $40,669

• SAT range —

• Blacksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,097 reviews

Junior: Virginia Tech is a wonderful academic institution. Where most schools excel in either academics or the college experience, VT is strong in both areas. The surrounding area is also very involved with Virginia Tech. While I have been at multiple colleges, I have returned to VT to finish my bachelor's and complete my master's degree! Take one visit and you will understand why everyone is so proud to be a Hokie. Be sure to also check out the dining halls. Virginia Techs' dining halls are incredible with the friendliest staff you could imagine! The culture at Virginia Tech is Work hard play hard! Students are self-motivated and are always willing to lend a helping hand. Come Friday night, the campus turns into the ultimate social hub. Most classmates of mine only left campus during the holiday breaks, as VT has everything you could want or need while on campus!... Read 4,097 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $20,109

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  230 reviews

Sophomore: I’ve enjoyed how professors have encouraged me to explore outside of my comfort zone. Critiquing my work in a serious manner but at the same time, their feedback includes manners to improve the work and reasons why such changes need to be made. Setting up projects to make us think quickly, while taking our time to perfect the final product. Preparing students for how the world will expect us to work with similar projects. I would like to see the communication between the people in leadership roles of the school and students be improved. Although this is my second year, I’ve heard from fellow classmates of instances where important events or information was not given to them. Or asking for accommodations to the school going unheard, such as not having enough space for returning students. Concerned students attempting to make claims to future plans for the school not involving or addressing the issue of not having enough space for both returning and new incoming students.... Read 230 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $38,354

• SAT range 1050-1300

• Orlando, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  22,197 reviews

Freshman: I am an early admittance student slated to begin my journey as a college freshman during my senior year of high school at UCF starting in August of 2023. My experience has been incredibly positive so far beginning with my initial tour of the campus, through the application and acceptance process and lastly checking off my "to do" checklist in order to be ready for orientation. Every campus employee that I have encountered has been welcoming, encouraging and informative which has alleviated much of the pressure of being a first time college student! I highly recommend this institution of higher education!... Read 22,197 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 36%

• Net price $11,575

• SAT range 1170-1350