Otis College of Art and Design
Acceptance rate
81.8%
2025
Peer median 61.3%
Tuition per year
$56,488
$77,272 with room and board
Peer median $40,478
Undergraduates
1,224
Student-faculty ratio 9:1
Peer median 9 : 1
Graduation rate
57.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 61.6%
Peer median 52.9%
“Peers” are all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Otis College of Art and Design, located in Los Angeles, California, is a prestigious institution renowned for its commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in the fields of art and design. Established in 1918, Otis has a rich history and has evolved into a vibrant community that nurtures the talents of aspiring artists and designers. The college's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Creativity + Community," reflecting its dedication to not only individual artistic expression but also collaboration and engagement within the larger society.
Otis offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including fine arts, graphic design, fashion design, and industrial design, among others. The college is known for its distinguished faculty, comprising accomplished artists, designers, and scholars who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the classroom. This strong emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world application equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in their respective fields. The campus itself is an inspiring environment, featuring state-of-the-art facilities, including studios, labs, and galleries that encourage experimentation and exploration. Additionally, Otis fosters a vibrant campus culture with various student organizations, exhibitions, and events that celebrate creativity and promote a sense of community among students. With its strong focus on preparing students for the evolving landscape of the creative industries, Otis College of Art and Design continues to be a leading institution for those passionate about art and design.
Tuition Trends and Implications
Over the years, the tuition fees at Otis College of Art and Design have shown a consistent upward trend, reflecting a growing financial burden on students. In 2014, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students was approximately $39,430. By 2023, this figure rose to about $52,460, marking an increase of over 33% in just a decade. This escalation in tuition can significantly affect students' decisions to pursue higher education, potentially leading to increased student debt. Furthermore, with the cost of living adjustments, the additional room and board expenses have also escalated, reaching $16,929 in 2023.
Accompanying the rising costs, the student population has fluctuated. In 2013, the number of undergraduate students was 1,105, but it saw a decline to 1,030 by 2021, before increasing again to 1,268 in 2023. This indicates a fluctuating interest in the college, which may correlate with the tuition increases. The college has managed to maintain a relatively stable number of graduate students, although a dip to 43 was noted in 2021.
Additionally, the graduation rates have shown improvement, particularly the on-time graduation rate, which increased from 43.1% in 2013 to 64.7% in 2023. This positive trend suggests that despite financial challenges, students are finding more success in completing their degrees.
Retention rates, however, revealed a concerning dip in 2021, dropping to 62.8%, which may reflect the pressures of rising costs and overall student satisfaction. The retention rate rebounded slightly to 76.2% in 2023, indicating that students are beginning to feel more content with their educational experience.
Overall, while Otis College of Art and Design has made strides in graduation and retention, the increasing tuition presents a significant challenge that must be addressed to ensure accessibility and student satisfaction in the coming years.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Los Angeles
- Nearest international airport
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 1 mi
- Also known as
- Otis Art Institute, Otis Parsons, Otis/Parsons
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Charles Hirschhorn (President)
- Phone
- 8005276847
- City
- Los Angeles, California
- Address
- 9045 Lincoln Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045-3505
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 61.3% · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 71.2%, women 80.6%.
Data insights
Admission Trends at Otis College of Art and Design
The admission statistics for Otis College of Art and Design reveal intriguing patterns over the years. Notably, the acceptance rates for male and female applicants have shown significant fluctuations, particularly in the years leading up to 2023. For example, in 2015, the acceptance rate for male applicants peaked at 60.3%, while female applicants saw a striking 69.0% acceptance rate, indicating a more favorable trend for female applicants during that period.
The data also highlights a concerning trend in 2016, where the acceptance rates soared to an astonishing 91.8% for males and 90.4% for females. This dramatic increase in acceptance could suggest a shift in the college's admission strategy, possibly in response to lower enrollments in previous years or a strategic initiative to boost diversity and inclusion.
As we look at the most recent data from 2023, the acceptance rates are still relatively high, with male applicants at 78.4% and female applicants at 84.8%. This reflects an ongoing trend towards more inclusive admission practices, which is essential in today’s competitive educational landscape.
However, the number of applicants denied admission remains substantial, with 348 rejections in 2023 alone. This raises questions about the college's capacity and the rigorousness of their selection process. Overall, the data from Otis College presents a complex picture of an institution adapting to changing demographics and educational demands while striving to maintain its artistic integrity and academic standards.
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
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 4% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in SAT and ACT Scores at Otis College of Art and Design
The data from Otis College of Art and Design reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years from 2007 to 2023. Notably, the proportion of applicants submitting SAT scores has varied dramatically, peaking at 90% in 2011 and dropping to just 13% by 2022 and 2023. This decline coincides with a broader national trend of colleges adopting test-optional policies, reflecting a shift in admissions strategies that prioritize holistic review processes over standardized testing metrics.
Moreover, the SAT reading and math scores have shown fluctuations, with the 25th percentile starting scores increasing over time, from 440 in 2007 to 590 in 2023 for reading, and from 550 to 720 for math in the same period. This upward trend indicates that the admitted students are becoming increasingly academically competitive, suggesting that the college is maintaining high standards despite the declining number of test submissions.
The average ACT scores have similarly demonstrated an upward trajectory, which may signal a continued emphasis on academic achievement among applicants. As colleges face increasing pressure to diversify their admissions processes, Otis College's data illustrates the delicate balance between maintaining rigorous academic standards and adapting to evolving societal expectations regarding standardized testing.
Overall, these trends reflect broader shifts in higher education admissions, with implications for both potential applicants and the institution's future strategies in evaluating candidate suitability.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,549 applicants in 2025, 81.8% admitted
2,084 admitted 465 not admitted Yield 10.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Fine/Studio Arts, General · Master's17 (24% international)
- Graphic Design · Master's14 (71% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Otis College of Art and Design
The graduation data from Otis College of Art and Design for 2023 highlights significant trends in the fields of digital arts and design. Notably, the Digital Arts program stands out with a total of 101 graduates, including 17 international students. This indicates a strong global interest in digital media careers, likely fueled by the increasing demand for digital content creation and innovation in various industries.
In contrast, the Fine/Studio Arts program recorded no bachelor graduates, suggesting a potential decline in traditional art education's appeal. This could reflect broader trends in the art world, where practical skills in digital and applied arts are becoming more valued than classical techniques. Additionally, the Graphic Design program also reported zero bachelor graduates, which raises questions about the program's enrollment and its alignment with industry needs.
Interestingly, Fashion/Apparel Design produced 28 graduates, with 23 being international students, highlighting the global nature of the fashion industry and its appeal to students from diverse backgrounds. This may indicate the program's effectiveness in attracting international talent and preparing students for a competitive, globalized market.
Overall, the data suggests a shift in educational focus towards digital and applied arts, potentially signaling changing career aspirations among students. As the art and design landscapes evolve, institutions may need to adapt their curricula to meet the demands of both students and the industries they aim to enter.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | $31,484 | ||
| Design and Visual Communications, General. | $38,585 | ||
| Industrial and Product Design. | $38,585 | ||
| Fashion/Apparel Design. | $38,585 | ||
| Graphic Design. | $38,585 | ||
| Illustration. | $38,585 | ||
| Design and Applied Arts, Other. | $38,585 | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $20,425 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Design/Architecture. | - |
Students
1,267 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 29:71 · Freshman retention 74.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 861
- First-year undergraduates 218
- Graduate students 43
- Transfers and others 145
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,224)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Otis College of Art and Design in 2023
The student composition at Otis College of Art and Design for the year 2023 reveals interesting insights into gender and racial diversity among its undergraduate and graduate populations. Among the new undergraduate students, there is a notable majority of female students, comprising 72% of this group, while males account for 28%. This trend continues among returning undergraduates, where 69.6% are female and 30.4% are male.
The demographic breakdown further shows that transfer students also have a significant female representation at 66.9%, compared to 33.1% male. In stark contrast, the graduate student demographic exhibits a much higher percentage of female students at 79.5%, with males only making up 20.5%. This suggests a growing trend of female predominance in creative fields, possibly reflecting wider societal shifts towards gender equality in education and career prospects.
Racial diversity within the student body is another crucial aspect. While specific numbers for the overall student population are not fully disclosed, the available data indicates a mix of White, Asian, Latinx, and other racial groups among the new undergraduates. Such diversity is essential in art and design education, fostering a rich environment for creativity and collaboration.
Overall, Otis College's student demographics highlight a strong representation of women in higher education, particularly within the arts, and underscore the importance of diversity in shaping the future of creative industries. As institutions continue to evolve, it will be crucial to monitor these trends and promote inclusive practices that support all students.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Otis College of Art and Design
The age distribution of students at Otis College of Art and Design reveals significant trends regarding the demographics of both undergraduate and graduate populations. A notable observation is that the majority of undergraduate students fall within the 18-21 age range, with 112 male undergraduates aged 18-19 and 127 aged 20-21, while female undergraduates in the same age brackets number 326 and 300 respectively. This indicates a strong influx of younger students, which aligns with national educational trends where more high school graduates are opting for immediate college enrollment.
Furthermore, while the traditional age groups dominate, there is a noticeable drop-off in enrollment for students aged 25 and older. The data shows that only 38 males and 68 females fall into the 25-29 age category, and even fewer in the older age brackets. This suggests that Otis College may not be a preferred choice for non-traditional students, which could impact the diversity of perspectives within the student body.
Interestingly, the presence of graduate students in the 22-24 age range is low, with only a handful of males and females pursuing advanced degrees at this stage. This may reflect a broader trend in the arts where individuals often gain industry experience before considering graduate education.
In summary, the age composition at Otis College of Art and Design is heavily skewed towards younger students, particularly those in their late teens and early twenties, reflecting a national trend in higher education while also posing questions about the representation of older, non-traditional students within the institution.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
229 in 2025 · 23.7% in 2016
9 in 2025 · 19.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment Trends at Otis College of Art and Design
The data on international student enrollment at Otis College of Art and Design reveals significant trends in both undergraduate and graduate programs over the years. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduate students has seen a steady increase from 11.63% in 2004 to a peak of 29.82% in 2022, before slightly declining to 26.10% in 2023. This upward trajectory highlights the growing appeal of the college to global talent, likely influenced by the institution's reputation, academic programs, and the vibrant art and design environment in Los Angeles.
In contrast, the graduate program has exhibited a more volatile pattern. The proportion of international graduate students surged dramatically from 2.33% in 2004 to an impressive 45.45% in 2023. This sharp increase suggests that Otis College has become increasingly attractive to international graduate students, possibly due to specific programs or partnerships that cater to a global audience.
The fluctuations in these percentages can also be linked to broader trends in international education, where geopolitical factors, changes in visa regulations, and global events like the COVID-19 pandemic can impact student mobility. The recent spike in international graduate enrollment may reflect a resurgence in global interest in higher education post-pandemic, as students seek to enhance their skills in a competitive job market.
Overall, the data indicates that Otis College of Art and Design is effectively attracting a diverse international student body, contributing to a rich multicultural educational experience. As institutions continue to adapt to changing global dynamics, the college's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment will be crucial for maintaining and enhancing its appeal to international students in the future.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$77,272
- Undergraduate tuition
- $56,488
- Room and board
- $20,784
- Graduate tuition
- $56,488
Peer median tuition + room and board $58,844 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Tuition rose 33% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 76%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$64.8M
Expenses$60.6M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 51 private art, music and design schools 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
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 8.1 mi
U.S. News #20
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 8.8 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 16.7 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 20.8 mi
U.S. News #5
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 39.3 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Pomona CollegeClaremont · 41.4 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Claremont McKenna CollegeClaremont · 41.6 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Scripps CollegeClaremont · 41.7 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont · 41.8 mi
Liberal Arts #8
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Otis College of Art and Design:
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University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) - Ranked 15th in the 2024 US News rankings, UCLA is a prestigious public research university known for its strong programs in the arts, sciences, and humanities. More about UCLA can be found here.
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University of Southern California (USC) - With a rank of 28, USC is a private research university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including a renowned film school. Learn more about USC here.
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California Institute of Technology (Caltech) - Ranked 7th, Caltech is a world-class science and engineering institute known for its rigorous academic programs and cutting-edge research. More information can be found here.
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Loyola Marymount University - This private university is ranked 93rd and offers a strong liberal arts education along with a commitment to community service and social justice. Find out more about Loyola Marymount University here.
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Occidental College - Ranked 35th among liberal arts colleges, Occidental is recognized for its commitment to undergraduate education and its vibrant campus life. More details can be found here.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in the Los Angeles area, making it a vibrant educational hub.
Peer median 1.3 · all 51 private art, music and design schools 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 Otis College of Art and Design
The crime data from Otis College of Art and Design reveals significant fluctuations in criminal activity over the years. The average crime rate per 1,000 students peaked in 2018 at approximately 13.63, which could raise concerns about campus safety during that period. It is noteworthy that the years following 2018 showed a decline in the crime rate, with a particularly low figure of 2.59 in 2016. However, the numbers surged again in 2023, reaching a rate of 13.41, indicating a resurgence in criminal incidents.
The types of arrests recorded include serious offenses such as armed arrests, drug-related offenses, and alcohol-related incidents. The increase in drug-related arrests in recent years could reflect broader societal issues surrounding substance abuse that have been prevalent in many urban settings.
The variation in crime rates may also correlate with external factors such as changes in campus policies, student population dynamics, and even external societal influences, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected many institutions differently. It is critical for the administration to address these challenges proactively, focusing on prevention strategies that involve community engagement and support for at-risk students.
To better understand the implications of these statistics, stakeholders should consider implementing comprehensive safety programs and educational initiatives. These efforts can foster a safer campus environment while also addressing the underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior.
For more information on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Otis College of Art and Design include Edith Head (Costume designer, most Oscar-decorated woman), Kim Gordon (Bassist and vocalist of Sonic Youth) and Evan Spiegel (Co-founder and CEO of Snap Inc).
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Edith Head 1897–1981
Costume designer, most Oscar-decorated woman
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Kim Gordon 1953–
Bassist and vocalist of Sonic Youth
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Evan Spiegel 1990–
Co-founder and CEO of Snap Inc
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Damon Wayans Jr. 1982–
Actor and comedian
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Philip Guston 1913–1980
Painter and printmaker
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Marisol Escobar 1930–2016
Venezuelan-American sculptor
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Hana Mae Lee 1988–
Actress in the Pitch Perfect films
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Tyrus Wong 1910–2016
Chinese-born American painter, animator and designer
-
Marc Davis 1913–2000
Disney animator, one of the Nine Old Men
See all 24 notable alumni of Otis College of Art and Design →
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.