Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Creative Future Starts Here
Founded in 1929 by Richard S. Stephens, Academy Of Art University is one of the nation's largest institutions dedicated to creative education, offering 22 schools of art, design, film, communications, and technology. Located in San Francisco, we integrate STEM programming with art to empower students' careers through hands-on, project-based learning. Our curriculum emphasizes 21st-century technology alongside foundational art principles, preparing students for seamless workforce entry with professional portfolios.With over 25 years of pioneering online education, we provide immersive experiences taught by industry professionals. Our faculty's real-world expertise and industry connections ensure students gain competitive advantages through collaborative projects and corporate partnerships. We maintain a No Barriers admission policy, welcoming all with artistic potential, and offer military-friendly programs with dedicated support infrastructure.
Services
Acting Programs
Advertising Degrees
Architecture Education
Art History Courses
Fashion Design
Game Development
Graphic Design
Photography Training
STEM Programs
Online Learning
Details
- Year established: 1929
Highlights and features
- We offer hands-on, project-based curriculum developed with industry professionals.
- Our faculty includes working artists and designers with insider industry connections.
- We pioneered online art education with immersive experiences since 1999.
- Our No Barriers admission policy welcomes all artistic talent without portfolio requirements.
- We maintain partnerships with top creative companies for real-world collaboration opportunities.
Associations and certifications
- Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education
Services
Acting Programs
Our Acting programs prepare students for professional performance careers through intensive training in stage and screen techniques. Students work with industry professionals and gain practical experience through productions and portfolio development. The curriculum covers classical and contemporary performance methods to build versatile acting skills.
Architecture Education
Architecture programs combine technical training with creative design principles for building and spatial development. Students learn industry-standard software and construction methodologies through studio-based projects. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable design practices and urban planning concepts for modern architectural practice.
Game Development
Game Development programs teach students to create digital games through programming, animation, and design coursework. Students collaborate on multidisciplinary teams to develop playable prototypes and portfolio-quality projects. The curriculum covers emerging technologies like virtual reality and augmented reality applications in game design.
Photography Training
Photography programs develop technical expertise in digital and traditional imaging techniques for commercial and fine art applications. Students master lighting, composition, and post-production workflows using professional studio equipment. The curriculum emphasizes visual narrative development across documentary, fashion, and portrait photography specializations.
Online Learning
Our online programs deliver the same rigorous curriculum as on-campus courses with flexible scheduling options. Students access live and on-demand instruction from industry professionals using virtual collaboration tools. The platform supports real-time feedback and portfolio development through interactive digital workspaces.
Questions
What art and design programs does the Academy offer?
We offer 129 degree programs across 22 schools including acting, architecture, fashion, game development, and photography, with options from associate to master's degrees.
Do you need a portfolio for admission?
No portfolio is required for admission due to our No Barriers policy, though portfolio reviews are part of our academic assessment process.
Are online courses available?
Yes, we offer fully accredited online programs with live instruction and on-demand access to the same curriculum as on-campus students.
What financial aid options exist?
We provide federal financial aid, scholarships like the Achievement Scholarship up to $5,000, and military education benefits through our veteran support programs.
How does the Academy support career development?
Our Career Services connect students with industry partners, offer portfolio reviews with professionals, and provide job placement assistance through our extensive alumni network.
