Otis College of Art and Design

Otis College of Art and Design's tuition is approximately $55,513 per year, but 99% of students receive financial aid, with the average total aid awarded being $22,699. The Georgetown University Center on Education and Workforce has ranked Otis in the top quartile of 4,500 institutions nationwide based on return-on-investment. While the net price is $49,440, this figure is reduced by financial aid, and the student loan default rate is a low 2.1%.

Otis College of Art and Design has an acceptance rate of 84%, making it somewhat selective. The application fee is $50, and SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required. The college accepts the Common App and looks for students who demonstrate a strong portfolio and a passion for art and design.

Otis College of Art and Design offers a curriculum that balances rigor with creative freedom, allowing students to develop their artistic skills while exploring their own unique styles. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world application, preparing students for jobs after graduation. Students appreciate smaller class sizes that encourage discussion and close interaction with faculty, especially in hands-on courses like life drawing and studio work.

Otis College of Art and Design boasts a 96% employment rate for recent graduates within one year of graduation. Graduates are well-prepared for the professional world, finding rewarding careers in creative industries. Alumni have found success at top companies like Blizzard Entertainment, DreamWorks, Mattel, and Tiffany & Co., making significant impacts in their respective fields.

Otis College of Art and Design offers a welcoming and supportive community, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration among diverse peers. The campus culture is low-key and centered around art and creative pursuits, with no Greek life or sports teams. Social events often take the form of small gatherings or art-related activities, creating an inclusive environment for different identities and interests.

Otis College of Art and Design prioritizes campus safety and security, with Campus Safety and Security personnel responsible for enforcing parking regulations and ensuring a secure environment. The college has a Campus Access Policy and may issue Stay Away Notices to individuals posing a risk. Visitors to Otis College may be asked by Campus Safety personnel to identify themselves and state the purpose of their visit.

Otis College of Art and Design integrates Creative Action Integrated Learning (CAIL) throughout its curriculum, emphasizing collaboration, community engagement, and social responsibility. Students engage in context-driven research, develop collaborative skills, and create hypothetical art and design projects in groups. Junior-level CAIL classes require students to actively engage with their site partner, independently research and assess needs within the community served, and utilize their art and design skills collaboratively.

Otis College of Art and Design is one of the most culturally diverse private schools of art and design in the country, with over 70% of the student body being students of color. The college attracts a diverse international student body, contributing to a rich multicultural educational experience. The top countries of origin for international students include South Korea, China, and Taiwan.