Art Center College of Design

ArtCenter College of Design stands as a beacon for creative minds, renowned globally for nurturing innovative talent in visual arts and design. Since its inception, ArtCenter has been at the forefront of shaping industries, preparing students to lead with groundbreaking ideas and exceptional skill across various creative disciplines. It's a place where ambitious students transform their passion into professional prowess, ready to make a significant impact on the world through design and art.

The college boasts a rich and influential history, starting as the ArtCenter School in downtown Los Angeles in 1930. Its early years were marked by significant collaborations, including a photography department founded in 1935 that even saw Ansel Adams as a guest instructor. During the World War II era, ArtCenter innovated with a technical illustration program in conjunction with the California Institute of Technology. The institution evolved rapidly, beginning to grant Bachelor's and Master's degrees by 1949 and achieving full accreditation by 1955, firmly establishing its academic credibility.

Over the decades, ArtCenter expanded its offerings and physical footprint, changing its name to Art Center College of Design in 1965 and introducing programs like film in 1973. The move to its iconic Hillside Campus in Pasadena in 1976, followed by the opening of the South Campus in 2004, solidified its presence as a major creative hub. Demonstrating a global vision, ArtCenter operated a European campus in Switzerland and gained Non-governmental organization status from the UN, highlighting its commitment to broader societal impact. This dedication extends to its students, evidenced by a highly successful $124 million fundraising campaign for scholarships and campus enhancements.

For prospective students and their families, ArtCenter offers an immersive and rigorous educational experience where creativity is paramount and hands-on learning is deeply embedded. With 1,737 students thriving in a private, focused environment, the college is a launching pad for careers that redefine industries, fostering a vibrant community of future-forward artists and designers who are equipped to innovate and inspire.