Art and Design Programs in the USA for International Students
- Advantages of Studying Art and Design Programs in the USA
- Formats and Levels of Art and Design Programs in the USA
- Top Art and Design Universities and Schools in the USA
- How to Apply for Art and Design Programs in the USA
- Documents for Admission to Art and Design Programs in the USA
- Tuition Costs for Art and Design Programs in the USA
- Scholarships and Grants for Art and Design Programs in the USA
- Career Prospects After Studying Art and Design in the USA
- FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Dance (Ballet)
Webster UniversityThe Leigh Gerdine College of Fine Arts at Webster University's Department of Dance prepares students for careers as performers, choreographers, educators, and researchers in the 21st century by cultivating their technical, creative, and compassionate minds.
Perform a wide range of genres…
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Dance (Modern)
Webster UniversityThe Leigh Gerdine College of Fine Arts at Webster University's Department of Dance prepares students for careers as performers, choreographers, educators, and researchers in the 21st century by cultivating their technical, creative, and compassionate minds.
Identify, develop, and implement…
Bachelor of Arts - Directing
Webster UniversityTraining our future colleagues as innovators, creators and leaders in American professional theater is our primary goal.
Webster University's directing program educates future stage directors in play interpretation, visual storytelling, group collaboration, and creative thinking through…
Bachelor of Arts - Film Studies
Webster UniversityThe goal of the film studies major is to give students with a thorough grounding in cinema theory.
Students learn about the history and aesthetics of film as well as critical approaches to the study of the moving image in this course.
Film genres, directors, and international cinema…
Bachelor of Arts - Film, Television and Video Production
Webster UniversityFilm, TV, and video production workers build the telescopes that reveal the world.
Webster University film, TV, and video production students learn to visually tell stories, develop ideas, and entertain. Being in the film/video business involves the theory, practice, and passion of a technical…
Bachelor of Arts - Games and Game Design
Webster UniversityStudents in the BA in Games & Game Design learn how to work in a team to create games.
Students learn the fundamentals of game design, as well as the tools and processes that are essential to producing games, through this course.
As a result, students learn about the social responsibility…
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Graphic Design
Webster UniversityTo earn a BFA in graphic design, students must complete both studio practice and extensive coursework in visual studies, including the history of visual thought.
Students gain the ability to connect content with design in order to communicate a meaningful message both on their own and in…
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Lighting Design
Webster UniversityOur goal is to develop the next generation of American professional actors into innovators, creators, and leaders.
To demonstrate a successful design process at the end of their study, students will be able to:
- Develop a design idea for the production in collaboration with…
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Scene Design
Webster UniversityOur goal is to prepare our future colleagues to be innovators, creators, and leaders in the American professional theater.
Students will be able to do the following at the completion of their scene design training:
- In order to create an effective visual design for a theatrical…
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Scene Painting
Webster UniversityTraining our future colleagues as innovators, creators and leaders in American professional theater is our primary goal.
Upon completion of their course, students will be able to exhibit a successful scenic art technique that incorporates their skills in:
- Perform well in…
Advantages of Studying Art and Design Programs in the USA
Education in the field of art and design in the USA offers students unique opportunities to develop creative skills, academic knowledge, and professional competencies. Here are the main advantages:
- Modern teaching methods — emphasis on practice, interdisciplinary approach, and the use of new technologies.
- Direct access to the industry — students often work on real projects with partners from film, advertising, fashion, and game development.
- Wide choice of specializations — from industrial design to digital art and animation.
- International environment — universities in the USA attract students from all over the world, fostering cultural and professional flexibility.
- Infrastructure and resources — campuses are equipped with modern studios, laboratories, galleries, and technical facilities.
Formats and Levels of Art and Design Programs in the USA
Art and design programs in the USA are offered at various levels and in different formats:
| Program Level | Duration | Availability for Internationals |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Yes |
| Bachelor's Degree (BFA) | 4 years | Yes |
| Master's Degree (MFA) | 1.5–3 years | Yes |
| Certificate Programs | 6–12 months | Yes |
Formats:
- Full-time — the most popular among students, involves daily class attendance.
- Online format — available for some programs and allows remote study.
- Part-time — often chosen by professionals already working.
Top Art and Design Universities and Schools in the USA
Here is a list of the most recognized institutions in the USA in the field of art and design:
- Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) — one of the most prestigious art schools in the world.
- Parsons School of Design — known for its focus on fashion and design.
- School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) — extensive program in visual arts and interdisciplinary approach.
- California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) — ideal for those aiming to work in film and animation.
- Pratt Institute — strong in architecture, industrial design, and fine arts.
- Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) — more accessible in terms of competition but offers quality education.
How to Apply for Art and Design Programs in the USA
Application requires thorough preparation and includes:
- Choosing a university and program — researching requirements and course specifics.
- Preparing a portfolio — a key component for art applicants.
- Taking a language test (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo) — proof of English proficiency.
- Taking academic tests if required (SAT, ACT, GRE).
- Writing a motivation letter and resume.
- Recommendation letters from teachers or employers.
- Submitting an application through the university's website or a common platform (e.g., CommonApp).
Documents for Admission to Art and Design Programs in the USA
Full list of required documents includes:
- Certificate or diploma with grades
- Translation of documents into English
- Test certificates (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
- Portfolio (10–20 works, depending on the university)
- Motivation letter
- Resume (CV)
- Recommendations (2–3 letters)
- Passport and photo
Tuition Costs for Art and Design Programs in the USA
The cost depends on the university level and status:
| University Level | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|
| Prestigious Private Universities | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| State Universities | $25,000 – $40,000 |
| Community Colleges | $8,000 – $15,000 |
Additional expenses:
- Housing: $10,000 – $15,000 per year
- Food: $3,000 – $6,000 per year
- Transport and textbooks: $1,500 – $3,000 per year
Scholarships and Grants for Art and Design Programs in the USA
Many universities offer financial support to talented students:
Types of scholarships:
- Merit-based — for academic or artistic achievements
- Need-based — depending on financial situation
- Faculty scholarships
- International grants
Career Prospects after Studying Art and Design in the USA
The USA provides unique opportunities for launching an international career:
Post-graduation opportunities:
- Obtaining an OPT visa (12 months) to work in the USA
- Extension under STEM fields (up to 36 months — for digital design, UX/UI, etc.)
- Employment at leading companies: Disney, Pixar, Nike, Google
- Possibility of immigration through an employer (H-1B visa)
Popular careers:
- Graphic designer
- Illustrator
- UX/UI designer
- Animator
- Concept artist
- Fashion designer
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I apply without an art background? Yes, the key is a strong portfolio and motivation. Some universities accept beginners.
- What are the application deadlines? The main application period is from October to January, but some universities offer rolling admission (until places are filled).
- What is important for a portfolio? Quality of work, variety of techniques, originality, presence of concept and sequence.
- Are there age restrictions? No, there are no age limits, but most students are aged 18 to 30.
- Where can I work after graduation? In creative agencies, animation studios, IT companies, fashion houses, etc.
- Is it possible to get a visa after graduation? Yes, the OPT program allows you to work in the USA, followed by H-1B application.
- Is it mandatory to take the SAT or GRE? Not always. It depends on the university and program level.
- Which universities are easier to get into? SCAD, Academy of Art University, University of the Arts — good options with accessible competition.
- What are the prospects for returning home with a US degree? High: a US diploma is valued by employers, especially in international companies.
- Where to look for scholarships? On the universities' websites, as well as on platforms owned by various organizations and foundations.