Art Center College of Design
Acceptance rate
74.5%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$54,170
$73,802 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,038
Student-faculty ratio 9:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
30.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 75.5%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Art Center College of Design, located in Pasadena, California, is renowned for its commitment to preparing students for careers in art and design. Established in 1930, the college has a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world experience, which is reflected in its rigorous curriculum. The school offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines such as industrial design, graphic design, and transportation design, making it a leader in the field of design education. The college is known for its unique project-based approach, where students engage in collaborative projects that simulate professional environments, enhancing their skills and creativity.
The college's vibrant campus culture is enriched by its diverse student body and faculty, comprising industry professionals and accomplished artists. The motto of Art Center, "Design is the hope of the future," encapsulates its philosophy that design can inspire change and innovation. The campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced studios, workshops, and digital labs, which provide students with the tools they need to push the boundaries of their creativity. Furthermore, Art Center's strategic location in the heart of the creative industry hub of Los Angeles offers students numerous opportunities for internships and networking, contributing to high employment rates among graduates. The college has produced many notable alumni, including successful designers and artists who have made significant contributions to various fields, further solidifying its reputation as a premier institution for design education.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
Over the years, the tuition for both undergraduate and graduate programs has shown a consistent upward trend. In 2014, the tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students stood at $36,480, but by 2024, it is projected to reach $51,640. This increase of over 41% raises concerns about the affordability of higher education, particularly in private institutions. The rising costs of tuition, coupled with additional expenses like room and board, significantly impact students' financial situations and can influence their decision to pursue higher education.
In contrast to tuition trends, the graduation rates have been somewhat inconsistent. The percentage of undergraduate students graduating on time (within 100% of the standard time) has varied, peaking at 34.3% in 2017 and dropping to 19.8% in 2018. In 2023, this rate improved to 33.3%. The fluctuations in graduation rates might indicate varying student support systems or changing student demographics that affect retention and completion rates.
Speaking of retention, this metric has shown positive growth, with a notable increase from 82.5% in 2013 to 85.9% in 2023. This upward trend suggests that more students are choosing to continue their education at this institution, which could be attributed to improved student services, campus engagement, and community building.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has also shifted, with a gradual increase in the percentage of female students, reaching approximately 58% in 2023. This trend reflects broader societal changes, where more women are pursuing higher education and entering fields traditionally dominated by men.
Overall, while tuition continues to rise, the institution's efforts in enhancing student support and fostering an inclusive environment appear to positively influence retention and graduation rates.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Los Angeles, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 20 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Karen Hofmann (President)
- Phone
- 6263962200
- City
- Pasadena, California
- Address
- 1700 Lida St, Pasadena, CA 91103
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 61.7%, women 75.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Art Center College of Design
The admission data for Art Center College of Design reveals significant trends and fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. Notably, the overall acceptance rates for males and females show considerable variation, highlighting the evolving dynamics of gender representation in the applicant pool. For instance, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 74.86% in 2013, while the female rate reached a high of about 88.74% in 2014. This disparity indicates a potential shift towards a more inclusive environment, although it also raises questions about the criteria and processes shaping these rates.
Furthermore, the number of students enrolled has generally increased, reaching a peak of 290 in 2023, despite the rise in the number of applicants being denied admission. This could suggest that while the institution is becoming more selective, it is also managing to maintain or even grow its student body, possibly by enhancing its recruitment strategies or expanding its program offerings.
However, the data also points to the challenges the college faces. The number of students deferred admission has been consistently high, especially in recent years, indicating that many applicants are still considered for future enrollment, adding complexity to the admissions landscape. This can be reflective of a highly competitive environment where many qualified candidates may not secure immediate admission.
In conclusion, the admission trends at Art Center College of Design underscore a complex interplay of acceptance rates, gender representation, and enrollment strategies that may shape the college's future and its position in the competitive landscape of design education.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Data from Art Center College of Design
The admission data from Art Center College of Design over the years reveals a pattern of incomplete information, particularly regarding standardized test scores and the number of applicants submitting those scores. Notably, throughout the years presented, there is a consistent absence of specific score ranges for SAT and ACT tests, which are critical indicators of academic preparedness and competitiveness among applicants. This lack of data prevents a comprehensive analysis of the applicant pool's qualifications.
Furthermore, the absence of the percentage of admitted students submitting their scores raises questions about the influence of test-optional policies in recent years. Many institutions have moved towards more holistic admissions processes, which may lead to fewer students feeling the need to submit standardized test scores. This trend aligns with broader changes in higher education, where schools are increasingly considering factors beyond test scores, such as portfolio reviews and personal statements, especially in creative fields like design.
The data also does not reflect any significant changes or trends over the years, as there are no figures to analyze. This stagnancy could suggest that the college has not systematically tracked or reported changes in admission criteria or applicant performance, which are vital for prospective students and educational stakeholders.
In conclusion, while the Art Center College of Design presents a unique opportunity for aspiring designers, the lack of detailed admission data limits insights into applicant success and the evolving nature of college admissions in a competitive landscape. This highlights the importance of transparency in educational data for future applicants and researchers alike.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
1,461 applicants in 2025, 74.5% admitted
1,089 admitted 372 not admitted Yield 31.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Computer Software and Media Applications, Other · Master's30 (73% international)
- Graphic Design · Master's25 (76% international)
- Cinematography and Film/Video Production · Master's23 (83% international)
- Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology · Master's16 (94% international)
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other · Master's13 (8% international)
- Fine/Studio Arts, General · Master's11 (45% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Art Center College of Design
The graduation data from the Art Center College of Design reveals intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees across various disciplines. Notably, the major with the highest number of bachelor's degree graduates is Illustration, with 187 graduates, of which 27.8% are international students. This suggests a strong global appeal for this program, potentially due to the growing demand for skilled illustrators in various media forms, including digital platforms.
In contrast, the Animation program exhibits a robust international presence, with 44.3% of its 79 bachelor's degree graduates coming from abroad. This aligns with the increasing globalization of the animation industry, where diverse cultural perspectives enrich creative outputs. Interestingly, there are no master's or doctoral graduates in Animation, indicating that most students might be seeking entry-level positions directly after their bachelor's degree.
On the other hand, the Engineering-related fields show limited graduation numbers, particularly at the master's level, with only nine total graduates, of which 66.7% are international. This may reflect a broader trend in engineering education, where many students opt for more traditional or established engineering schools rather than design-focused institutions.
Lastly, the lack of graduates in business-related programs highlights a potential gap in the curriculum offerings at the Art Center College of Design. As industries increasingly seek professionals who blend creative skills with business acumen, this might be an area for the institution to consider expanding in future academic years. Overall, the data underscores the importance of specialized programs that cater to international students, particularly in creative fields that are witnessing rapid evolution and demand.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial and Advertising Art. | $45,205 | ||
| Graphic Design. | $45,205 | ||
| Illustration. | $45,205 | ||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | ||
| Photography. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. | $48,298 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive Engineering Technology/Technician. | $88,147 | ||
| Engineering-Related Fields, Other. | $81,020 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Software and Media Applications, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | - |
Students
2,308 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 85.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,568
- First-year undergraduates 343
- Graduate students 270
- Transfers and others 127
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,038)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Art Center College of Design 2023
The student composition at Art Center College of Design in 2023 reveals a diverse and balanced academic environment. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 275 students, with a notable female representation of 60.4%, indicating a strong inclination towards female enrollment in the first year. This trend continues through the undergraduate upperclassmen, where the total number of students rises significantly to 1,705, maintaining a similar gender ratio with 57.6% female students.
The transfer students also show a predominance of female students at 58.6%, albeit in a smaller group of 133 individuals. Graduate students present a slightly different dynamic, as the gender ratio becomes more balanced with 52.6% female and 47.4% male representation among 285 students.
Interestingly, the inclusion of students from various ethnic backgrounds emphasizes the college's commitment to diversity. The data indicates that the institution is not only attracting a considerable number of females but is also creating an inclusive environment for students from different races and ethnicities.
These statistics reflect broader trends in higher education, where many art and design schools are increasingly attracting more female students. This shift may be influenced by changing societal norms and increased encouragement for women to pursue careers in fields traditionally dominated by males. Overall, Art Center College of Design's student demographic offers a promising glimpse into the future of creative professions, emphasizing diversity, gender balance, and inclusivity.
Analysis of Age Demographics at Art Center College of Design
The age demographics data from Art Center College of Design reveal significant insights into the student population, particularly in the context of gender representation and age distribution. The largest age group is between 18-21 years old, where undergraduate males represent 158 and undergraduate females comprise 282. This suggests a strong female presence in the younger demographic, emphasizing the institution's appeal to female students in design disciplines.
Interestingly, the data shows that as age increases, the number of students declines. For instance, in the 22-24 age group, there are 267 total students, but this number drops significantly as we move into the 25-29 age range, where we see 212 total students. This trend may reflect the competitive nature of design education, where many students enter the field at a younger age, while older students may be pursuing further education after gaining some professional experience.
Moreover, the gender balance shifts slightly in the graduate categories, with a notable presence of female students in the 22-24 age group. The data indicates a growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees in design, which aligns with broader societal shifts toward gender equality in higher education.
Overall, the Art Center College of Design has a youthful and diverse student body, with a commendable representation of women in both undergraduate and graduate programs. This aligns with the increasing recognition of design as a vital field, appealing to a wide range of ages and backgrounds. The statistics underline the importance of fostering an inclusive educational environment that supports and develops talent regardless of gender or age.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
906 in 2025 · 27.3% in 2016
183 in 2025 · 51.8% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Trends at Art Center College of Design
The data from Art Center College of Design reveals a significant upward trend in the enrollment of international students over nearly two decades. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates rose from approximately 15% to an impressive 44.36%, demonstrating the institution's growing appeal to students from around the world. This increase reflects a broader trend in higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognized for their diverse environments and global perspectives.
The growth in graduate international enrollment is equally noteworthy, with the percentage climbing from about 9.84% in 2004 to 62.11% in 2023. Such figures indicate that the college not only attracts international talent but also fosters an environment conducive to advanced studies in design. The increasing international representation in both undergraduate and graduate programs can enhance the educational experience, bringing diverse viewpoints and creative approaches to design challenges.
The years leading up to 2020 saw particularly rapid growth, with international student enrollment peaking during the pandemic period. This spike may be attributed to the shift towards online learning, which allowed students to engage with global programs more easily. However, the slight decrease in total graduate enrollment in 2023 suggests a potential need for the college to adapt its recruitment strategies to maintain its international draw.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of global engagement in education and the need for institutions to embrace diversity in their student bodies. As the world continues to evolve, schools like the Art Center College of Design will play a crucial role in preparing students for an interconnected future.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$73,802
- Undergraduate tuition
- $54,170
- Room and board
- $19,632
- Graduate tuition
- $57,188
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 45%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$143M
Expenses$130M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 3.2 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 4.0 mi
U.S. News #5
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 11.7 mi
U.S. News #27
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 16.2 mi
U.S. News #20
-
Pomona CollegeClaremont · 27.3 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Scripps CollegeClaremont · 27.5 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Claremont McKenna CollegeClaremont · 27.5 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont · 27.5 mi
Liberal Arts #8
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 41.0 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around the Art Center College of Design:
-
California Institute of Technology (Rank: 7) - Known for its rigorous science and engineering programs, Caltech is one of the leading institutions in the world, fostering innovation and research.
-
University of Southern California (Rank: 28) - USC is a prestigious private research university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly renowned for its film and business schools.
-
University of California-Los Angeles (Rank: 15) - UCLA is a top-ranked public research university, celebrated for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Pomona College (Rank: 4) - As one of the premier liberal arts colleges, Pomona offers a comprehensive education with a focus on undergraduate research and individual student attention.
-
Claremont McKenna College (Rank: 11) - Known for its strong emphasis on economics and government, Claremont McKenna provides a liberal arts education with a focus on leadership and societal impact.
-
Harvey Mudd College (Rank: 16) - This college is recognized for its rigorous STEM curriculum and commitment to interdisciplinary education, preparing students for a range of careers in science and engineering.
-
Scripps College (Rank: 35) - Scripps is a women’s liberal arts college that emphasizes a holistic education in the arts and sciences and is known for its beautiful campus.
These institutions not only offer a variety of academic programs but also provide rich campus experiences and opportunities for personal growth.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Art Center College of Design
The crime statistics at Art Center College of Design reveal a notable trend over the years. In 2013, the average crime rate was 1.18 incidents per 1,000 students. This figure fluctuated in subsequent years, peaking at 3.27 in 2017. However, it is significant to note that from 2020 onwards, the college recorded a dramatic decline in crime rates, with zero incidents reported in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
This downward trend can be attributed to various factors, including enhanced campus security measures, increased awareness about safety protocols, and possibly the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited on-campus activities. Furthermore, the absence of reported incidents in the last three years indicates a potentially safer environment for students, which could positively influence prospective students' decisions to enroll.
Particularly concerning the types of crimes, while there were arrests related to gun possession and drug offenses in earlier years, the complete absence of these reports in recent years suggests effective interventions have been put in place. The reduction in crime could also reflect a broader trend seen across many educational institutions, as they increasingly prioritize safety and well-being.
As we assess these statistics, it's essential to maintain a proactive approach to campus safety, ensuring that even with low crime rates, the community remains vigilant and prepared. Continuous efforts in awareness and prevention will be vital in sustaining this positive trend. For more information on calculating crime rates, please visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
All 60Notable alumni of Art Center College of Design include Mike Shinoda (Co-lead vocalist and co-founder of Linkin Park), Michael Bay (Film director and producer of big-budget action films) and Zack Snyder (Film director, directed Dawn of the Dead remake).
-
Mike Shinoda 1977–
Co-lead vocalist and co-founder of Linkin Park
-
Michael Bay 1965–
Film director and producer of big-budget action films
-
Zack Snyder 1966–
Film director, directed Dawn of the Dead remake
-
Joe Hahn 1977–
DJ and creative director of Linkin Park
-
Bruce Sterling 1954–
Science fiction author linked to cyberpunk
-
Evan Spiegel 1990–
Co-founder and CEO of Snap Inc
-
Aldis Hodge 1986–
Actor in Leverage and Straight Outta Compton
-
Ariana Richards 1979–
Actress in Jurassic Park, and painter
-
Syd Mead 1933–2019
Neo-futurist concept artist and industrial designer
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.