Pratt Institute: Programs, Rankings, Admissions & Campus Life in New York

Pratt Institute, based in Brooklyn, New York, is one of the country's most prominent institutions of art, design, and architecture. With its challenging programs and lively campus environment, Pratt gives students an education that focuses on creativity, critical thinking, and real-world preparation. With its location near the center of New York City's arts community, Pratt offers a unique chance for students to engage in an atmosphere that encourages innovation and artistic development.

Established in 1887, Pratt Institute has earned a reputation for excellence across a broad spectrum of fields, from architecture and industrial design to fine arts and creative writing. With a long history of defining the future of art and design, Pratt continues to maintain its tradition of graduating talented students who become leaders in their chosen professions. This book will provide you with all that you need to know about Pratt Institute, including admissions, campus life, tuition, and scholarships.

Why Choose Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute is not only offering a degree, but it is also offering a chance to hone your skills in one of the most innovative settings in the world. These are some of the reasons why students prefer to attend Pratt for their higher studies:

Prime Location in Brooklyn, New York

Pratt Institute's campus lies in the vibrant Brooklyn borough, a region replete with its own rich culture of art and proximity to the world's greatest art museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. This position allows students to avail themselves of boundless creative pursuits and contacts within one of the world's great art and design centers. Whether you are interning at a top design agency or showing your work in a gallery, the opportunities to meet the wider creative community are unparalleled.

A Focus on Creative Innovation

Pratt Institute leads the way in art and design education. Students are invited to challenge conventional thinking and creativity with hands-on assignments, collaborative projects, and interaction with industry professionals. The university's distinctive combination of theory and practice enables students to gain a strong foundation in their art while honing the skills required to thrive in highly competitive art and design industries.

Diverse and Collaborative Campus Culture

Pratt Institute is a vibrant and inclusive campus community where talented students from diverse backgrounds gather to study, develop, and create. The small campus size provides opportunities for close and personal connections among students, faculty, and staff for effective collaboration and mentorship. The inclusivity of the campus allows students to feel like they are at home when following their artistic and educational aspirations.

Pratt Institute Campus: A Space for Creativity

Pratt Institute's campus is not only a location to learn; it's an environment that is meant to stimulate creativity and promote innovative thinking. The campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, such as design studios, art galleries, fabrication labs, and classrooms that promote experimentation and hands-on learning.

Situated in Brooklyn, the campus of the Pratt Institute is also surrounded by beautiful views and open spaces, ideal for recreation and social interaction. Students are also privy to some of the finest facilities in the world of art and design, with collaborations with galleries, museums, and cultural happenings in New York.

For design, architecture, and related majors, the campus is a studio for creativity that sets the stage well for professional careers.

Pratt Institute Admissions

Pratt Institute is selective in its admissions, so it's best to know the process involved in applying to this elite school.

Application Process

• Application Deadline: Pratt Institute has a standard application deadline of January 5th, with early decision deadlines in November.
• Requirements: Candidates are required to provide their high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and portfolio (for art and design major applications). Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) are not required, but providing them can be beneficial in making your application stronger.
• Interview: Certain programs at Pratt necessitate an interview, particularly for graduate programs or particular undergraduate majors. Interviews provide candidates with an opportunity to share their interest in their intended profession and prove their potential.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at Pratt Institute is about 60%, and thus, it is moderately selective. The institute aims to accept students who have exhibited creativity, excellent academic achievement, and dedication to their artistic endeavors.

Pratt Institute Rankings

Pratt Institute is perennially among the top art and design colleges in the nation. Here's a brief summary of its rankings in different fields:

• National Universities: Ranked in the top 10 of art and design schools in the U.S.
• Best Architecture Programs: Always ranked in the top 20 for architecture programs.
• Best Design Programs: Identified as one of the top design schools in the world. These rankings indicate Pratt's solid reputation in the arts and its focus on delivering a superior education

Best Pratt Institute Programs & Majors 

Pratt Institute graduate programs and undergraduate programs are both formatted to equip students with the necessary tools for success in their field. A few of the notable programs at Pratt include:

Architecture

Pratt's architecture program is among the strongest in the country, with students taught a strong foundation in design, urban planning, and building. Students receive a practice-oriented education that enables them to acquire practical skills while applying them to New York City's buildings and spaces.

Fine Arts

For visual arts students, Pratt Institute's Fine Arts program offers a challenging, yet adaptable curriculum. Students work in painting, sculpture, photography, and new media to find their own creative voice within a nurturing environment.

Industrial Design

The Pratt's Industrial Design program trains students for product design, transportation design, and related careers. The students learn through collaborative projects and practical applications to develop skills to create functional and innovative products.

Pratt Institute Tuition & Fees

The Pratt Institute fees vary depending on the program of study. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the following breakdown reflects the tuition and fees for undergraduate students:

While the cost of attending Pratt Institute may seem high, it is important to remember that financial aid options are available to help offset the cost.

Pratt Institute Scholarships

Pratt Institute offers a variety of scholarships to help students finance their education. Some of the available scholarships include:

These scholarships are designed to make education at Pratt Institute more accessible for all students, regardless of their financial background.

Accommodation at Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute provides students with a range of housing opportunities on campus that are tailored to students' needs. These include:

• Traditional Dormitories: Rooms shared with community bathrooms, good for freshmen and students who want to get to know others.
• Apartments: Upperclassman apartment-style living, including private bedrooms and kitchenettes.
• Suites: A balance of privacy and community, these semi-private rooms have a bathroom shared by a small group of students.

First-year students have the option of on-campus housing, which allows them to live in a welcoming, comfortable setting as they acclimate to college life.

Off-Campus Housing Near Pratt Institute

Brooklyn's diverse neighborhoods provide students with off-campus housing near Pratt Institute that balances comfort, creativity, and convenience. From a snug shared space to a private retreat, these student properties are carefully crafted and conveniently situated close to campus. 

Here are the three best options for off-campus housing near Pratt Institute:

1. Bernard Brooklyn Home

A place in the center of Brooklyn, Bernard Brooklyn Home is a serene and convenient home for students who need peace and ease. Its spacious rooms and updated amenities make it an ideal place for intense study and relaxation.

Distance from Pratt Institute: 1.5 miles (15-minute commute)

Room Types Provided: Private rooms in shared units

Amenities: Fully equipped rooms, high-speed internet, in-house laundry, shared kitchen

Vibe: Tidy, intimate, and student-oriented

2. New York Friends Home

This lively co-living community provides a wonderful balance of social interaction and alone time. Perfect for students who desire to live in a communal environment, New York Friends Home features an artsy atmosphere that captures the creative spirit of Brooklyn.

Distance from Pratt Institute: 2 miles (20-minute commute)

Room Types Provided: Private rooms in shared apartments

Amenities: Complete kitchen, shared spaces, Wi-Fi, laundry room

Vibe: Social, artistic, and relaxed

3. Agate Brooklyn Home

Agate Brooklyn Home is a combination of style and simplicity in a peaceful residential area. With well-planned rooms and necessary facilities, this property is a safe choice for students seeking a peaceful yet integrated living experience.

Distance from Pratt Institute: 1 mile (10-minute commute)

Room Types Provided: Private rooms

Amenities: Equipped rooms, Wi-Fi, kitchen facilities, laundry facilities

Vibe: Simple, peaceful, and handy

All of these properties provide a distinctive student living experience within walking distance of Pratt Institute. If you're attracted to communal co-living spaces or a peaceful, independent arrangement, you'll discover a great off-campus equivalent in Brooklyn's lively neighborhoods.

Notable Alumni

Pratt Institute has had many successful alumni who have contributed to the art world, design, architecture, and beyond. Some of these Pratt alumni are:

• Peter Jackson – Acclaimed director (Oscar-winning, The Lord of the Rings)
• Robert Redford – Actor, director, and producer
• Betsey Johnson – Fashion designer

All of these people, and many more, identify Pratt Institute as a catalyst for the creative industries.