Academy of Art University Reviews of Master's in Art & Design

"My highest priority had always been earning the degree. I earned it and it wasn't easy. Every semester each class is sixteen weeks. Every class has sixteen learning modules. Each class has similar requirements. For example, the painting class may require 200$ worth of oil paints, 200$ worth of brushes and 200$ worth of canvas. Some classes require a similar investment in books or software. There are usually a bunch of videos to watch every week. I posted at least four short essay style responses to several discussion topics in every class, every week. Each week each class has a multiple choice quiz. Normally, or on average, I also uploaded four studio assignments for peer critique and grading in every class every week. A full-time student willingly devotes 40 hours every week to satisfactorily complete the assignments, that's a minimum of 640 hours each semester. A full-time independent student living on the full federal financial aid stipend certainly needs to have access to more sources of money in order to complete this financially demanding program."

"Academy of Art was generally a good school to attend. I learned alot from the professors who worked or have worked in the industry. I was a little disappointed that there went many hard surface modeling classes, bit the classes they did offer were great, and i heard they are working on getting more classes started. Some of the organic modeling teachers were not that good at teaching, but i think they have also been replaced by better teachers. I did enjoy the classes that i took and the feedback you get from your teachers and class mates every week is excellent, it really helps you every step of the way towards your thesis project."

"The Academy will push you to become an artist for the artistic industry. It is an expensive school, but you get what you pay for with the fact that you receive amazing an education and experience. Especially being in the San Francisco area, the social life is always busy! There is always something to do the school hosts or even the city."

"It is a very tough school. There is much expected from you, but it is all to help you become a better artist. They really prepare you for what is to come, knowing that the art field is a tough industry to get involved in, they make sure you develop your own unique style to be that different artist. Unfortunately, you get what you pay for, and you are paying for top education from top artists n the industry. Therefore, affordability is an issue, especially for individuals like me who want a great education, but have to receive it through the climbing loan debt."

"Strong program. Class work load is a lot so summer semesters are required to graduate on time. Living is expensive but great area"

"You can find what you ask in my college statement: MFA Illustration Program Statement of Intent at Academy of Art University Since I graduated from art college, I’ve always wanted to study MFA in illustration field. I love anything has to do with graphic design, drawings using digital tablet or vectors and some pattern techniques and always Google to learn more and taught myself. I love to create new designs and feel happy by making people enjoy looking at my work, The purpose beyond studying MFA in illustration is to develop my talent in graphic design with illustration & make it more professional to use it in good deeds such as children stories and books that have a big role in raising them up. I Also want to create my own style that I’m waiting to explore with you. I like illustration designs and patterns for textiles using bright colors; I can work cooperatively in a group; as well, as I’m a trustworthy person & always treat others with respect. One of my dreams is to design & publish my own book about special illustration drawings, techniques and styles, and I am convinced that my study experience & certificate at the Academy of Arts University will make it easier to achieve. I wish my dreams would come true with your support."

"MFA Visual Development seeks to provide students with connection to the industry while we are in school. It is more open to gaining networking opportunities and internships than otherwise if I was on my own."