Academy of Art University: 2025 Rankings, Admissions Process & Campus Life

The Academy of Art University, formerly the Academy of Art College and Richard Stephens Academy of Art, is located in San Francisco, California. It is one of the largest universities in the United States that helps students build professional-level, career-ready portfolios.

Faculty members at the institution make sure that you begin to build a professional portfolio of work from day one!

If you are looking for a place where real-world experience shapes your artistic journey, the Academy of Art University is the perfect destination.

About the Academy of Art University

Established in 1929, the Academy of Art University is one of the best universities in San Francisco. It is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The Academy of Art university ranking is excellent and it has also received specialized accreditations from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) and the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). 

As per the Academy of Art graduation rate for 2025, out of 338 freshmen who enrolled in fall 2018, 116 (34%) completed their program.

Currently, the academy offers 900 art and design classes, 22 different schools, and 14 STEM programs.

The Academy of Art University campus provides a unique experience for students with excellent housing, dining, and academic facilities.

The overall campus life and leadership opportunities available at the university are:

• Student Activities
• Recreation and Wellness Classes
• Student Organizations
• Career and Entrepreneurial Development

Academy of Art University Courses

The Academy of Art University reviews have been excellent over the years given the success of their courses. Currently, the institution offers over 129 art degree programs, such as associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, certificates, and master’s degrees. Students can pursue these programs across disciplines like acting, advertising, studio production, fashion merchandising, and more.

Let’s check out the detailed list of the Academy of Art University programs below.

Undergraduate Programs

The undergraduate programs at the Academy of Art University offer students a holistic education covering the arts, humanities, and sciences. Some of the top courses are:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Acting
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Advertising
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fashion Journalism
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Costume Design
• Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)
• Bachelor of Science (BS) in Game Programming
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communication and Media Technology

Graduate Programs

The graduate programs at the Academy of Art University help students unlock their creative potential for the future. Among the 20 AI-infused courses and 14 STEM degrees, the top programs are:

• Master of Arts (MA) in Acting
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Advertising
• Master of Arts (MA) in Illustration
• Master of Arts (MA) in Industrial Design
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Visual Development
• Master of Arts (MA) in Communication and Media Technology

Academy of Art University Admissions

The Academy of Art University follows a rolling admissions process. So, interested international students may apply year-round to enroll in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. However, it is recommended to apply as early as possible to ensure enrollment in your first choice of classes.

Here’s an overview of the requirements for the Academy of Art University admissions:

Undergraduate Programs

The Academy of Art University has the following requirements for admissions to undergraduate degree programs: 

• Official or unofficial completed high school transcript or GED
• Official or unofficial completed bachelor’s degree transcript
• Signed Home School Program Certification form and transcripts
• Copy of complete high school diploma for first-degree undergraduate students
• Official transcripts or proof of high school graduation (before the start of the first semester)
• Official bank letter
• Affidavit of support
• English proficiency scores 
• Passport and visa documents

Graduate Programs

The Academy of Art University requires graduate applicants to demonstrate their ability by fulfilling the following requirements: 

• One-page essay explaining your graduate school goals and final project
• Resume detailing your education and professional experience
• Official or unofficial college transcripts showing a completed bachelor’s degree
• Transcripts mailed or emailed to transcripts@academyart.edu. 
• Electronic transcripts are accepted via the National Student Clearinghouse
• Portfolio or reel showcasing work in your chosen discipline
• A description list with title, size, medium, date, and your role in collaborative works
• Translate all written portfolio content into English

What is the Application Process at the Academy of Art University?

International students seeking admission to the Academy of Art University can follow five simple steps to apply for their desired courses. Check out the step-by-step procedure below:

1. Visit The Academy’s official website at https://www.academyart.edu/apply-for-admission/  to apply and submit your application fee online
2. Fill out the form
3. Select your highest level of education and choose an onsite or online course.
4. Choose the program you want to pursue, including the semester type (fall, spring, or summer).
5. Submit the $50 non-refundable application fee through the secure payment portal.
6. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email along with your student ID.
7. Wait for further communication from the Admissions Office regarding your enrollment status.

Academy of Art University Deadlines

International students are encouraged to apply early to the Academy of Art University so that they do not miss any deadlines. Here’s a detailed table showcasing the Academy of Art University application deadline:

Tuition Fee at the Academy of Art University

The Academy of Art University tuition fee is different for international students as compared to domestic students. Moreover, the cost of living in San Francisco can be a little higher, which requires students to know everything about their expenses.

The following tables show the tuition fee estimates for undergraduate and graduate students:

Undergraduate Programs

*Tuition Fees are subject to change- might vary each year/intake

Graduate Programs

‍