Thinking of building a creative career in design, animation, or visual arts? The Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) is one of the top private art and design colleges in the United States, offering hands-on learning, a strong industry network, and nationally recognized degree programs.

Whether you’re an aspiring illustrator, filmmaker, or product designer, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. This guide includes programs, admissions, tuition, placements, and student life at MCAD. Let’s dive in and explore why MCAD could be the perfect place to shape your creative future.

About Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD)

MCAD has been around since 1886. It’s this little private, nonprofit art and design school smack in the middle of Minneapolis. Not some random institution; we’re talking real accreditation from the HLC and NASAD, so your degree holds importance in the outside market.

MCAD keeps its community close-knit, with about 800 students on campus. The student-to-faculty ratio is 11:1, ensuring plenty of personal attention and mentorship. Classes emphasize studio time and hands-on learning, so students work closely with faculty instead of getting lost in large lecture halls.

Quick stats if you’re into that:

• Urban vibes, tons to do, and a stone’s throw from the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Like, you could trip and fall into some world-class paintings.
• Private, nonprofit, so it’s got that “we care about art, not just your tuition check” energy.
• Programs? Both undergrad and grad, so you can stick around if you’re loving the vibe.

MCAD consistently appears on those “best of Minnesota” lists for design, media, and fine arts. Plus, the alumni network is solid; you’re not just graduating and not getting placed anywhere. People help each other out. It’s the kind of place where you’ll meet folks from all over the globe, and maybe, figure out your own thing along the way. 

Minneapolis College of Art and Design Degrees and Programs

MCAD is among the best universities in the US and offers a mix of undergraduate, graduate, post-baccalaureate, and continuing education programs designed to prepare students for the real-world creative industry.

Degree Programs at MCAD

All programs at MCAD emphasize studio-based learning, critical thinking, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Popular Courses at Minneapolis College of Art and Design

MCAD’s got some heavy-hitter courses that people care about—none of that random filler junk. 

1. Graphic Design: Students study typography, UX/UI design, branding, and visual communication. The program emphasizes both traditional design principles and emerging digital tools, preparing graduates for careers in branding, advertising, and interactive media.

2. Animation: Courses cover 2D and 3D animation, character design, storyboarding, and motion graphics. Students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software and techniques, with alumni working in film, gaming, and digital media.

3. Comic Art: MCAD is one of the few U.S. colleges offering a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Comic Art. The curriculum includes narrative structure, page composition, and digital publishing. Students build professional portfolios and publish original works, with opportunities to showcase at events such as conventions and gallery exhibitions.

4. Illustration: Training spans traditional drawing and painting methods, digital illustration, and applied projects for publishing, advertising, and packaging. Students learn to adapt their visual style to professional contexts ranging from editorial work to commercial branding.

5. Product Design: The program focuses on user-centered design, sustainable practices, and prototyping. Students work on projects involving consumer products, technology, and eco-friendly solutions. Coursework integrates research, design thinking, and collaboration with industry partners to prepare graduates for careers in industrial and product design.

Minneapolis College of Art and Design Admissions 2025: How to Apply

Honestly, MCAD, which is amongst the best colleges in Minnesota, isn’t exactly handing out golden tickets, but if you’re on your game and start early, it’s not rocket science. Here’s the deal:

• First off, hit up their admissions portal and fire off your online application. Don’t forget the $50 fee, it’s non-refundable, so kiss that goodbye either way.

• You’ll need to round up your academic transcripts from every school you’ve attended. Yes, even that weird community college semester.

• The portfolio? Non-negotiable for most programs. Show them your best stuff—don’t hold back or get shy here.

• You’ll also need to write a statement of purpose. Why MCAD? What do you want outta this? Be real, but also maybe don’t mention your obsession with drawing memes unless you can make it sound artsy.

• If you’re applying for grad school, dig up a couple of people who’ll say nice things about you. Two letters of recommendation, minimum.

International student? Time to show you can speak English. They want at least:

• TOEFL iBT: 80 or above
• IELTS: 6.5+
• Duolingo: 105+ (not the game, the test—sorry)

That’s the gist. Not impossible, just don’t sleep on it.

Important Deadlines:

Acceptance Rate:

• Approximate Acceptance Rate: 66%
  MCAD has a moderately selective admissions policy, with emphasis on the portfolio and creative potential.

Minneapolis College of Art and Design Eligibility Criteria

Undergraduate (BFA / BS):

• Completed high school diploma or equivalent.
• Strong academic record (no minimum GPA required, but 2.5+ recommended).
• Required: Portfolio of 10–15 pieces.
• Optional: SAT/ACT scores.

Graduate (MFA / MA):

• Completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Required: Portfolio, Artist’s Statement, and Letters of Recommendation.
• For MA in Graphic & Web Design: professional experience or background in design is preferred, but not mandatory.

International Students:

• Valid passport and visa eligibility.
• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo).
• Financial documentation (for I-20 issuance).

Minneapolis College of Art and Design Scholarships and Financial Aid 2025

MCAD offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships to domestic and international students.

Scholarships Offered:

Students are automatically considered for most scholarships upon admission. Need-based aid is available by filing the FAFSA (for U.S. citizens) or submitting MCAD’s financial aid forms (for international applicants).

Minneapolis College of Art and Design Tuition & Fees

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated annual cost for the 2025 academic year:

Note: Off-campus housing can often reduce living expenses. See the next section for nearby housing options through Amberstudent.

Minneapolis College of Art and Design Student Reviews

Minneapolis College of Art and Design reviews from students at MCAD praise the college for its individualized attention, creative freedom, and industry-experienced faculty. With small class sizes and hands-on studio learning, many students feel well-prepared for creative careers.

Common Highlights from Student Reviews:

• Faculty are working professionals with real-world design and media experience.
  
• Access to high-end labs, equipment, and personal studio space.
  
• A collaborative, not competitive, atmosphere among students.
  
• Strong emphasis on building a professional portfolio.
  

Points to Consider:

• Tuition is high, but many students receive partial scholarships.
  
• Rigorous workload, especially in studio courses.
  
• Minneapolis winters can be challenging for some students.

According to Niche.com, MCAD has a student satisfaction score of B+, with high ratings in diversity, academics, and safety.

Career Opportunities and Placements at Minneapolis College of Art and Design

MCAD is focused on preparing students for professional success in the creative industries. Its Career Development Office helps students with internships, job placements, networking, and freelancing opportunities.

Career Support Includes:

• One-on-one career advising
• Resume and portfolio workshops
• Industry critiques and reviews
• Annual job & internship fairs
  

Sample Career Outcomes:

Internships are strongly encouraged and are often built into coursework during junior or senior years.

Minneapolis College of Art and Design Ranking 2025

Honestly, MCAD's kind of a big deal if you care about art school bragging rights. It’s usually chilling somewhere in the top 25 art and design schools across the country, no small feat, especially when you’re talking about private colleges in Minnesota. 

MCAD’s Rankings? 

• They ranked #18 for Best Graphic Design Programs (shoutout to College Factual, 2025)
• #23 on Animation Career Review’s list for U.S. animation schools.
• In the Midwest? MCAD breaks into the Top 10 for art schools, according to Art & Object. 

Notable Alumni from Minneapolis College of Art and Design

MCAD’s alumni have made significant contributions in film, publishing, design, and digital media. Many work for top companies or have launched successful independent careers.

Notable MCAD Alumni:

MCAD graduates are known for their distinct style, entrepreneurial mindset, and industry adaptability.

Campus Life at Minneapolis College of Art and Design

Tucked right by the Minneapolis Institute of Art, MCAD’s campus is a playground for creative heads. The vibe? Super close-knit, always buzzing with ideas and weird projects. You’ll find inspiration oozing out of every corner, random pop-up events, collabs happening in the hallways, you name it, and it would be happening.

Campus life? It is very exciting and full of opportunities here. Students get their own studios—open 24/7, so if you’re struck by a 2 am creative epiphany, you’re set. Art galleries aren’t just for pros; students show off their stuff, too. There’s always something going on: clubs, DIY exhibitions, zine fairs where everyone’s swapping wild little booklets.

MCAD’s got some seriously cool neighbors, too. They share facilities with other local colleges, so you get more exposure and opportunities to network. The area’s safe, urban, and full of creative hotspots—museums, indie coffee joints, and little design studios tucked into old buildings.

Oh, and no getting lost in a sea of strangers. Classes are small. Like, you’ll know your professors, and they’ll know if you’re slacking off. Expect a lot of real talk and honest feedback from faculty and your fellow artsy weirdos.

Minneapolis College of Art and Design vs Other Top Art Colleges

If you're comparing art schools in the U.S., here’s how MCAD stacks up:

Off-campus Student Housing near Minneapolis College of Art and Design

While there are on-campus student housing options available, students usually opt for off-campus student apartments as they offer flexibility, comfort, and modern amenities, all while being located close to their university, promoting hassle-free travel. With amber, you can book student housing in Minnesota at the best price with utmost ease. A few of the best apartments in Minneapolis, Minnesota, near the Minneapolis College of Art and Design are mentioned below:

1. The Bridges Dinkytown, Minneapolis - Convenient student apartments near UMN with spacious layouts and scenic city views.

2. Uncommon Dinkytown, Minneapolis - Well-equipped student housing offering modern units and study-friendly amenities close to campus.

3. HERE Minneapolis, Minneapolis - Premium student living with top-tier amenities and easy access to classes and local spots.

4. The 700 On Washington, Minneapolis - Comfortable apartments designed for students, located minutes from the University of Minnesota.

5. The Link Minneapolis, Minneapolis - Contemporary student housing with ample study areas, fitness options, and secure access.