2022 Best colleges for design in America

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  3,872 reviews

Sophomore: For context- current sophomore who started at USC online, majoring in Communications but has taken classes from across disciplines -Academics: overall good but definitely some terrible professors who either have favoritism, are unclear with expectations, or bad w grading. But the majority of professors are really good -Environment: if you're intimidated by rich, judgmental people, this is not the place for you. A lot of the culture is exclusionary towards ppl who work or who don't partake in certain activities (ex: Greek life) But when you get through the superficial aspect you can meet some really awesome, interesting friends! -facilities: very very nice- great gyms, dining halls, dorms Overall: a great school with a lot of resources, so be sure to look into your major specific resources bc they offer so much! Just be warned that it's not the easiest place to go to if you don't fit a certain mold.... Read 3,872 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 16%

• Net price $39,759

• SAT range 1340-1530

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,430 reviews

Alum: Going to school at Carnegie Mellon University was one of the hardest experiences of my life thus far. During most of the journey I resented the challenges and felt weighed down by the work and expectations of those around me. However, looking back on it all I wouldn't change a thing. Carnegie Mellon was flexible with me as I changed majors and took time off to reevaluate my priorities. They were generous with financial aid and scholarships. They are obviously still a work in progress but so many individuals that work at CMU care so deeply about their students and their learning and living experiences. I was supported in so many ways at CMU that made the challenging experiences manageable. Everyone will say it will be hard work at Carnegie Mellon and that is absolutely true but it challenges you to grow and be a better, stronger, smarter person!... Read 1,430 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 17%

• Net price $36,983

• SAT range 1460-1560

• Saint Louis, MO•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  1,507 reviews

Sophomore: As a parent of a sophmore in Visual Arts and Writing programs, I feel so grateful she got in. First of all she got a full ride, they removed a massive strain off of our family and did it completely and thoroughly. She had met and spoken with several faculty members before applying (Early Decision) and visited the campus, and they were so helpful and supportive it really allowed us to make a confident Early Decision. My daughter is gifted, but shy shy shy, and her mother is Brazilian, so VERY attached and we worried about sending her away. It was tough, but the support of programs like Deneb Stars and the many other programs (including late night escorts for safety) allowed her to make the leap and find her feet. Once the pandemic hit, WashU was amongst the first half dozen schools to move online (they are now hybrid, my daughter is working from home). The faculty and admin prioritized their health first, while the coursework has remained rigorous. She is thriving. A+ response Washu!... Read 1,507 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 16%

• Net price $27,233

• SAT range 1480-1560

• Providence, RI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  333 reviews

Sophomore: RISD’s best attribute is its students and faculty; everyone there thinks about the world in a different way and shows that in their art and design projects. The students have a collaborative and creative spirit, to the point where you can say the most crazy or random idea for a project and they’ll probably take you seriously! They’re night owls too, regularly staying up late to perfect whatever they’re working on. Professors come from all over and are devoted to making you the best artist and student you can be. The campus is small but easy to get around, and all the resources are at your fingertips. Combining a Victorian and Edwardian architecture with a modern, streamlined one, even the campus itself reflects RISD’s initiative of utilizing both old and new to create new artistic dynamics (in any major). Another little side note: the food’s incredible, like Michelin star-worthy. If you come here and don’t like it, you can at least give credit to our great chefs!... Read 333 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 27%

• Net price $40,048

• SAT range 1250-1470

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.02 out of 5  62 reviews

Junior: Great professors and students! The professors are very knowledgeable and really want yup to succeed. The students are very nice and friendly and all help each other and cheer you on. The classes are small which allows for individual attention. They also have online classes for some lecture classes which is great!... Read 62 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $40,271

• SAT range 1050-1300

• Detroit, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  573 reviews

Freshman: Excitement. If I had to describe College for Creative Studies using only one word, "excitement" is the appropriate description. If you have creative skills and have not discovered your artistic niche, professors and community of students will help you get there. The Professors and students you work alongside re-envision and redefine what it means to be an artist in the 21st century. Their purpose is to help educate, mentor, and expand teamwork. What I enjoy most about CCS is seeing people interact with your work by sharing experiences and lessons they have learned while pursuing their program. CCS functions like a family. Before you know it, you will have the privilege of guiding new students along their creative path. With all the positive collaboration, students will realize their creative niche and potential. When you graduate from CCS, you will leave with more than a degree diploma. You will have life-long friendships and a support network who works directly in a creative field.... Read 573 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 55%

• Net price $36,203

• SAT range 960-1190

• Valencia, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  272 reviews

Sophomore: As an art school there is no athletics, we don't have sports or even a mascot. There's also no Greek life, but that's preferred. There are a lot of other student events, a pool, and every Thursday night is Gallery night to enjoy student's work as well as performances. Everyone is very open and accepting and I would say there is a good amount of diversity with the international students. Teachers are very exceptional in their fields and are kind, open to giving us opportunities most of the time. You put in what you get out. The more work you volunteer or audition for the more recognition you get and can build your connections. For theater, there are so many shows to participate in, it's great to learn on the job. Work study is very helpful. The campus is very small with only one main building for classes, however being on a big hill I would say that it isn't fully navigable for those with disabilities.... Read 272 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 27%

• Net price $59,367

• SAT range —

• Boston, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  3,575 reviews

Freshman: So glad I came here! The professors are so caring and really want to see their students succeed. The campus is absolutely beautiful and unlike other city schools it's very cohesive (not just random buildings scattered around a neighborhood.) There are activities for students to participate in all the time. Greek life is prevalent but not overwhelming - I rushed this year and it was one of the best decisions I've made. Being in the city gives you lots of options for food and activities; there's always something new to explore or some new cafe to discover. Students all really want to help each other out and there's a really good sense of community and school spirit (always kids repping merch.) Also, co-ops here alone are a fantastic reason to attend and you should definitely look into that. No matter what your major is, Northeastern works to make the co-ops worthwhile for students and truly help them explore different careers. I'm so glad I made the choice to come here - I love it.... Read 3,575 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $37,738

• SAT range 1410-1540

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  5,321 reviews

Senior: If you can attend in-person classes, UCLA is a great school! The student dorms are on the expensive side, but well worth the price. There are several dining halls right next to the dorms that each cater to a different style (ie dine-in, to-go, vegan specialties), as well as a few restaurants on campus and the nearby Westwood Village. The campus itself is gorgeous (I love taking evening walks around sunset), and you can learn about the history of it from guided tours if you want. If you're looking for a rad party scene, just cross the street into frat row, and you'll find parties every week. In terms of academics, I will simply say that UCLA is a top school. You will have to work your butt off, sometimes in less-than-ideal circumstances, but the returns will be more than worth it. Most professors are great, but some are only there to do research and are forced to grudgingly teach a class or two, so look them up on Bruinwalk before enrolling in their classes. All-in-all, a great school!... Read 5,321 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $16,474

• SAT range 1300-1530

• Brooklyn, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  828 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 828 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $47,516

• SAT range 1120-1340

• Boston, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,480 reviews

Senior: Boston University is one of the best universities in the nation! The students welcome you with open arms and are eager to meet new people from different year levels, so it is very easy for people to get involved in the BU community. As for the faculty, specifically the CS and Mathematics professors, they are the absolute best! They are so helpful inside and outside of the classroom, trying their best to make sure that their lectures are engaging, and putting aside a lot of time outside of their class for office hours. And if a student can't meet during office hours, they always try to find a way to help you out by setting up a different time to meet to thoroughly explain concepts discussed in class, answer questions that a student had, talk about possible research projects, or just have a good one-on-one conversation to talk about anything. I absolutely love Boston University and its community, and I'm so proud to call myself a Terrier!... Read 3,480 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $29,154

• SAT range 1310-1500

• Notre Dame, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  1,375 reviews

Freshman: Notre Dame has a great school spirit and campus life. In addition to a top-tier, rigorous education you can also enjoy your time at college. Everyone is super collaborative, friendly, and extremely accepting regardless of differences. The faculty is super acceptable and want to speak to you or help you with coursework when needed. People have close-knit friendships with their dorms and all partake in signature traditions. Plus the campus is awesome!... Read 1,375 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $29,981

• SAT range 1400-1550

• Atlanta, GA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  2,111 reviews

Sophomore: I love the challenging and abundant academic community here at Georgia Tech! I can't say enough good things about the student body and my peers, everyone is extremely collaborative, willing to help, and bright. I've met the most amazing students and faculty with a high ambition and drive to solve problems, all while maintaining a sense of down to earth-ness that I haven't felt anywhere else in this caliber. The student body as a whole is quite accepting, kind and egalitarian- you can definitely find your people here- which is one of the most important things in shaping your college experience. The only factors that make this a 4-star review are the on-campus dining and housing facilities. They leave much to be desired. Nothing too unlivable, though. Lots of options for fun both on and off campus, Atlanta is an amazing city with lots of heart to be explored throughout your 4 (maybe 5) years here.... Read 2,111 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $17,410

• SAT range 1370-1530

• Gainesville, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  7,744 reviews

Sophomore: There's a reason the University of Florida is the top public university in the state. The academics are unbeatable, athletics are well-rounded, the campus is beautiful, and community and experience of attending UF is amazing. People will say there is nothing to do in Gainesville, but because it is predominantly college town, there's a lot to do catered specifically to college students, you just need to know where to look for it! There's a lot of beautiful trails and springs in the area if you like exploring nature as well. Lots of local restaurants and businesses located within close proximity to campus, and many walkable from campus. The student body is highly ambitious and involved, so you'll have no trouble finding people to study with or with similar interests. Overall, the University of Florida is one of the best public universities in the state and nation, and all the hard work put into getting in is worth it!... Read 7,744 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $10,075

• SAT range 1290-1460

• Coral Gables, FL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  2,947 reviews

Senior: Miami has been a great place the past few years for me. As a transfer student, coming in not knowing anyone, I have met many types of different students from hard working backgrounds. The professors are very much committed to getting to know everyone in their class, and not just going through the motions as a mundane robot you see at some larger schools. In my experience the average class size outside of your one or two 100 level class is between 5-30 students. The campus is beautiful. Everywhere you look is palm trees and clear skies (with the exception of your occasional rain shower) the university does a nice job maintaining the buildings and surrounding vegetation. Food wise the options aren’t the greatest. In the past few years there has been an attempt to bring in healthier options, but for the most part the dinning hall and food court include your average Starbucks, subway, panda, so on and forth. Safety campus is very safe Never had any issues. Overall a great school!... Read 2,947 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 33%

• Net price $31,726

• SAT range 1250-1420

• Austin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  6,412 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Texas at Austin was a great place for me to begin my college career! I really found that my professors genuinely cared about my and other students' academic and professional journeys. I also appreciated the diversity in the student body and faculty members. Outside of academics, there was a variety of organizations to meet new people. Personally, I did struggle to meet people with similar interests, but joining an organization that shared some of my values allowed me to build friendships that I'm thankful for. I also was able to adjust to campus life through the various resources that are offered, from housing and dining to mental health and mentor services.... Read 6,412 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 32%

• Net price $16,892

• SAT range 1210-1470

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  221 reviews

Sophomore: I'm finishing up my sophomore year at MCAD right now. It has been a VERY rigorous 2 years- the illustration program is super intense as far as workload goes, but I chose this school because I wanted my art to improve dramatically in a short time period, and I can definitely say it's working! It's really gratifying to see my progress from when I was accepted to now. It's also really easy to get involved in the student community because it's pretty small and tight knit. Within the first month of being here freshman year, I already had a steady friend group, 2 campus jobs, and was in the Visionary Honors program. It's one of those places where if you're meant to be here, you get that feeling in your gut that tells you you're in the right place. Obviously, MCAD isn't perfect, but what college is? The issues I've run into have all been fixable or just minor inconveniences.... Read 221 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 50%

• Net price $40,141

• SAT range 1050-1300

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  509 reviews

Freshman: As a first year animation student, my experience at SVA is overall great! Location-wise, NYC is a fun place to be in. While SVA doesn't have a set campus, rather several buildings in manhattan, transportation between buildings isn't that big a deal. The professors I had were all industry professionals which gave helpful insight as well as thorough critique on works. And they were overall nice people! With any college, I find the curriculum can be drastically different between professors. However, I was surprised a school like SVA can have these very different curriculums within the same program. Not getting the professor you wanted because the class filled up can be a real pain for a semester, but most professors do make themselves accessible if you just make the effort to email or talk to them.... Read 509 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $53,227

• SAT range 1070-1330

• New York, NY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,593 reviews

Sophomore: I got accepted to FIT after I was waitlisted. I knew my desire to attend the best fashion school in the world could help advisors reconsider my acceptance. After multiple emails, lots of dead ends, I was accepted! I was unfortunately accepted after housing has ended, and I was stuck in online classes for my first year of college. It was easy to feel discouraged, but once I had started learning about my AMC major and being taught by educated and understanding professors, I knew it was worth it. FIT’s academics are not only interesting, but encouraging. My online professors have gone above and beyond in my journey to success and I can proudly say I passed my semester with all A’s. Knowing I can finally attend campus in Fall 2022, I am truly excited to experience all that FIT has to offer. I feel welcomed to a community that has helped me along the way and has given me opportunities that I would have never thought was possible taking online school. FIT is 100% worth a bit of hard work!... Read 1,593 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $9,165

• SAT range —

• Pasadena, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  330 reviews

Junior: The faculties at ArtCenter are great! Each professor has great success in their field and they are willing to help students to succeed! Professors teach the technical stuff and also how is design work in the real field. Our school provides us many opportunities for some great internships and jobs. Our school always focuses on teaching us the concept behind each design. Good esigns is not only satisfied to look at but also contained a well thought out concept. The most important thing we learn about design is communication! Communicates our concept through our design. The design process we follow in class is very similar to the design process in the field based on our professors' experience. Our professors teach and work at the same time, this helps us, students receive the newest update for the design field. The learning atmosphere is very positive in our school. Students encourage each other and help each other enthusiastically. The only fly in the ointment could be the tuitions.... Read 330 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $47,878

• SAT range —

• Fort Worth, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  1,652 reviews

Junior: Texas Christian University has the perfect medium sized campus and it is gorgeous! There are only about 15-40 students in the majority of the classes and the professors are great. However, it is very expensive (of course). The only thing is that I wish the people I have tried to become friends with were more inclusive. Cliques are very much a thing at TCU! I would say you just have to get lucky to find the perfect friend group. Other than that, TCU is a wonderful college.... Read 1,652 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $40,220

• SAT range 1110-1320

• Raleigh, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  3,288 reviews

Sophomore: When I decided to go to NC State after finishing my last two years of high school during covid, I was hesitant to say the least. As an out-of-state resident going in without being sure of what major I would go into, the atmosphere on campus calmed my nerves. When you join the Wolfpack there is no going back! In coming to State, I have grown as a person and have met the people who will be my life-long friends. Now I am a rising sophomore who intends to go into civil engineering. The staff is helpful if you contact the right people and there are a lot of resources on campus to support you. You have more freedom in what classes you take and you have control on how you want to live your life. There is a good balance between academics and social life here. Raleigh is also a great location to be in the Research Triangle. The only critique I would have is if you are interested in the Design School, transferring in is very difficult. Overall I know I can achieve what I want to accomplish.... Read 3,288 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $14,600

• SAT range 1230-1410

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  402 reviews

Alum: I did my undergraduate at the Columbus College of Art & Design in Industrial Design, along with minors in design research and business. My experience at CCAD not only helped me grow professionally but as an individual. The smaller class sizes make the learning personalized, and the professors are nothing short of amazing. Their teaching style and drive to expose their students to the industry while at school instills in you a work ethic, drive, and professional sense that outlasts your time at CCAD. The diversity in classmates broadens your world to different perspectives turning you into a well-rounded designer and provides life-long connections.... Read 402 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $27,847

• SAT range 970-1220

• Lancaster, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  132 reviews

Sophomore: I’m a current sophomore, majoring in illustration. I’m not as seasoned as an upperclassman, however so far, PCAD has been excellent! It may lack dorms and a dining area, however there are other options! I commute, however my pals have had a ton of support and help with finding places to rent! There’s a public parking garage behind the school that students can get discounted parking passes for! With a new president as of Fall 2018 and the recent addition of a provost, PCAD has been rapidly growing, evolving, and improving! They have been extremely receptive to student concerns. The school atmosphere is extremely close knit. The faculty truly care for the students and take the time to get to know everyone and they always offer support. One professor and his wife opened an art shop across the street (both PCAD grads, too!) and they always stock it with supplies needed for projects, which saves tons of stress and time! I highly recommend checking the school out and asking questions!... Read 132 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $28,321

• SAT range —

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,039 reviews

Graduate Student: I am currently 1 year into a two MS program for UX Design. Moving across the country to attend school is not a new thing, but doing it with a family was daunting to say the least. Jefferson has been an incredible school and my program has been worth every penny. I am currently a full-time employee, student, and dad. My professors and cohort members have been amazing to work with. Their knowledge and backgrounds are diverse which has helped me learn and grow in my current career as a Product Manager, as well as prepare for my future career as a UX Designer. My professors come from incredible backgrounds and are able to provide daily examples/experiences that apply to the courses I am taking. It has made me better in my current job and helped me hone in on skills that I know I can improve on for the future. I would highly recommend TJU to any student looking to further their education!... Read 1,039 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $29,255

• SAT range 1090-1270