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Private nonprofit, 4-year

College for Creative Studies

Detroit, Michigan · www.ccsdetroit.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

91.9%

2025

Peer median 61.3%

Tuition per year

$53,350

$68,622 with room and board

Peer median $40,478

Undergraduates

1,376

Student-faculty ratio 10:1

Peer median 9 : 1

Graduation rate

46.5%

4-year; 6-year rate 64.1%

Peer median 52.9%

“Peers” are all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

The College for Creative Studies (CCS), located in Detroit, Michigan, is renowned for its commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in the fields of art and design. Established in 1906, CCS has cultivated a rich heritage and is recognized as one of the leading art and design schools in the United States. The college's mission, as embodied in its motto, "Explore, Create, Transform," encourages students to engage in critical thinking, push boundaries, and embrace new ideas. The campus atmosphere is vibrant and collaborative, providing an ideal environment for budding artists and designers to thrive.

CCS boasts state-of-the-art facilities that include modern studios, workshops, and galleries, enabling students to gain hands-on experience in their chosen disciplines. The college offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including degrees in Fine Arts, Transportation Design, Industrial Design, and Graphic Design, among others. The faculty comprises accomplished professionals and industry veterans who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom, further enhancing the educational experience. Additionally, CCS’s location in Detroit, a city rich in cultural history and artistic inspiration, provides students with numerous opportunities for internships and networking, leading to strong career prospects upon graduation. The college's emphasis on experiential learning, combined with its strong alumni network, ensures that graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in the creative industries.

Trends in Tuition and Graduation Rates

Over the years, tuition costs have steadily increased at the College for Creative Studies. For undergraduate students, the in-state tuition rose from approximately $35,710 in 2014 to $51,355 in 2024, marking an increase of about 44%. This trend reflects a broader national phenomenon where many private institutions are raising tuition fees, often outpacing inflation. Alongside tuition, the cost of room and board has also seen significant growth, emphasizing the financial burden placed on students and their families.

In terms of academic performance, the graduation rates, particularly the on-time graduation rate, exhibit variability over the years. The rate fluctuated from around 26% in 2014 to a high of approximately 44% in 2022, before dropping to 34% in 2023. This inconsistency may indicate challenges in student retention or support systems that require improvement. The graduation rate of 150% of the normal time shows a more stable upward trend, hitting 70% in 2022, suggesting that while immediate graduation is challenging, students are ultimately completing their degrees.

Retention rates also provide insight into student satisfaction and engagement. The retention rate saw a peak of about 84% in 2020, but it has gradually decreased to around 76% in 2023. This decline may correlate with the increasing tuition costs, which can impact students' ability to continue their education without significant financial stress.

These factors combined highlight the importance of balancing tuition increases with effective student support and retention strategies to ensure academic success and financial viability for the students at the College for Creative Studies.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
In Detroit
Nearest international airport
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), about 20 mi
Detroit, Michigan
Also known as
CCS
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Donald Tuski (President)
Phone
3136647400
City
Detroit, Michigan
Address
201 E Kirby, Detroit, MI 48202

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 61.3% · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
85.4%
Women
94.0%

In 2020: men 37.4%, women 47.1%.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions at College for Creative Studies

The admissions data from the College for Creative Studies reveals significant trends over the years, indicative of both the institution's growing appeal and the competitive landscape of higher education. The male acceptance rate, which began at approximately 27% in 2009, has fluctuated, peaking at nearly 50% in 2021 before settling at around 47% in 2023. Similarly, the female acceptance rate has shown a gradual increase, starting at around 26% and reaching approximately 50% in recent years.
The total enrollment numbers have also varied, with a noticeable peak in 2021 when 334 students were admitted. This surge could be attributed to a combination of factors, including the institution's reputation for fostering creativity and the increasing number of applications received. The total number of denied applicants has generally decreased over the years, indicating a potential rise in the quality of applications or a strategic shift in the institution's admissions policies.
Moreover, the number of applicants deferring their admission has consistently remained significant, highlighting the challenges faced by students in the current economic climate and the impact of global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend suggests that prospective students are considering their options carefully before committing to their education.
Overall, the data presents a picture of an institution that is increasingly selective yet still accessible, reflecting broader trends in higher education where both competition and demand continue to evolve. The balance of male and female acceptance rates also showcases a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, aligning with contemporary educational values.

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

Fine Arts#34

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 Test Scores at College for Creative Studies

The data from the College for Creative Studies over several years indicates notable trends in the submission and performance of SAT and ACT scores among applicants. In the early years, from 2007 to 2015, there was a significant decline in the proportion of applicants submitting their SAT scores, dropping from 23% to a low of 9%. This trend could reflect a growing sentiment among students that standardized tests may not fully represent their capabilities or potential, a sentiment echoed in broader educational discussions.

However, starting from 2018, there is a marked increase in both the number of applicants submitting SAT scores and the proportion of those scores being submitted. By 2019, a robust 81% of applicants submitted SAT scores, indicating a shift in the applicant pool's attitude towards standardized testing. This resurgence could be attributed to colleges increasingly emphasizing test scores in their admissions processes, potentially impacting students' decisions to submit their scores.

Moreover, the scores themselves show a consistent range, particularly in reading and math, with the 25th percentile to 75th percentile scores for both SAT sections remaining relatively stable over the last few years. This stability in performance suggests that while the number of test-takers fluctuates, the overall preparedness of students remains consistent.

In conclusion, the data reflects a significant transformation in the admissions landscape at the College for Creative Studies, highlighting the evolving perspectives on standardized testing and its role in assessing student potential. As these trends continue to develop, they will likely influence not only admissions strategies but also the broader educational discourse concerning the efficacy of standardized assessments.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

1,079 applicants in 2025, 91.9% admitted

992 admitted 87 not admitted Yield 24.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's27336 international (13.2%)
Master's3024 international (80.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects
72
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General
58
Illustration
42
Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design
21
Cinematography and Film/Video Production
13
Interior Design
10
Photography
10
Fine Arts and Art Studies, Other
10
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
9
Commercial and Advertising Art
9

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General · Master's16 (94% international)
  • Human Computer Interaction · Master's7 (57% international)
  • Design and Applied Arts, Other · Master's6 (67% international)
  • Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General · Master's1 (100% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from College for Creative Studies

The graduation data from the College for Creative Studies in 2023 reveals significant trends in various creative disciplines. The most noteworthy observation is the dominance of bachelor's degrees in the fields of Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects, where 53 students graduated, including 2 international students. This indicates a strong interest and demand for skills in digital media and animation, which aligns well with the current job market trends emphasizing digital content creation.

Interestingly, the performing arts category shows a high number of graduates across various specializations, with a total of 44 students in Illustration and additional graduates in other areas such as Fashion/Apparel Design and Cinematography. This reflects an ongoing enthusiasm for traditional and contemporary art forms, which have seen a resurgence in popularity due to platforms like social media, where visual storytelling is paramount.

Moreover, the data highlights the limited number of master's degrees conferred, especially in technical fields such as Drafting and Design Technology, where only 7 students graduated. This low figure may suggest either a lack of advanced programs or a trend towards entering the workforce sooner rather than pursuing further education.

International students represent a small fraction of the overall graduation numbers, particularly in bachelor's programs, which could point to potential challenges in recruitment or the appeal of local educational institutions over international options. The presence of master's degrees among international students in various disciplines suggests that these programs might be more attractive to those seeking advanced training.

Overall, the data illustrates a vibrant and diverse educational landscape at the College for Creative Studies, driven by contemporary trends in creativity and technology, while also indicating areas for potential growth, especially in attracting international talent and expanding advanced degree offerings.

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

Visual and Performing artshas 119 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Crafts/Craft Design, Folk Art and Artisanry.-
Commercial and Advertising Art.$41,406
Fashion/Apparel Design.$41,406
Interior Design.$41,406
Illustration.$41,406
Design and Applied Arts, Other.$41,406
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.$30,289
Photography.$30,289
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Fine Arts and Art Studies, Other.-
Engineering technologieshas 74 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.$70,417
Communications technologies has 72 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.$27,977
Computer and information sciencehas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design.$55,969
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
Human Computer Interaction.-

Students

1,433 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 32:68 · Freshman retention 82.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,376)

White
662 · 48.1%
Black
189 · 13.7%
Unknown
175 · 12.7%
Hispanic
94 · 6.8%
International
92 · 6.7%
Asian
81 · 5.9%
Two or more races
70 · 5.1%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
9.8%
18–19
31.0%
20–21
33.4%
22–24
15.7%
25 and over
10.2%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.8%
22–24
35.1%
25–29
35.1%
30–34
14.0%
35 and over
14.0%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at College for Creative Studies in 2023

The student demographic data from the College for Creative Studies provides an interesting insight into the composition of its undergraduate and graduate populations in 2023. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there were 260 students, with a notable gender disparity—only 28.5% identified as male, while a significant 71.5% were female. This trend continues with the undergraduate juniors, where 36.6% of the 972 students were male, compared to 63.4% female.

Undergraduate transfer students also exhibited a similar pattern with 29.4% males and 70.6% females among 85 students. In stark contrast, the graduate student population of 66 showed a majority of males at 62.1%, with females making up just 37.9%. This shift in gender representation from undergraduates to graduates raises questions about the enrollment strategies and supports in place for female students at various educational levels.

The data also highlights the racial and ethnic diversity within the student body, particularly among the freshmen, where 143 identified as White, contributing to 55% of the total freshman class. In contrast, other ethnic groups such as Asian, Latinx, and international students form a smaller percentage of the overall demographic, indicating potential areas for growth in diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Overall, while the College for Creative Studies boasts a robust enrollment of students, addressing gender imbalances and enhancing racial diversity will be essential for fostering an inclusive educational environment. As institutions navigate these dynamics, they must continue to engage with the evolving landscape of higher education and student needs.

Analysis of Age Distribution Among Students at College for Creative Studies

The age composition of students at the College for Creative Studies in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of its undergraduate and graduate population. A significant portion of the student body falls within the younger age brackets, with students under 18 accounting for 35.5% of the total female enrollment and 27.5% of total male enrollment. This trend continues with students aged 18-19 and 20-21, who together represent a substantial 63.4% of all students.

Interestingly, the age group of 22-24 shows a shift as it includes both undergraduates and graduates, indicating a blend of students transitioning into advanced studies. The male graduate students in this age category are limited, with only 17 individuals, compared to 136 female students across both undergraduate and graduate levels.

As students progress to the older age groups, the numbers dwindle significantly. For instance, only 10 females and 16 males fall into the 25-29 age range, and the numbers continue to decline for ages 30-34 and above. This decline in enrollment among older age groups may reflect broader trends in higher education where younger individuals are more likely to pursue creative studies directly after high school.

Overall, the data suggests a vibrant and youthful community at the College for Creative Studies, which may foster a dynamic learning environment. However, the underrepresentation of older students could pose questions about accessibility and inclusivity in creative education, highlighting the need for programs that attract mature students seeking to further their artistic careers.

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.

Undergraduates6.7%

92 in 2025 · 7.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 7.3%2017: 7.0%2018: 8.1%2019: 7.8%2020: 6.0%2021: 6.5%2022: 8.0%2023: 7.0%2024: 8.1%2025: 6.7%
2016Peer median 5.0%2025
Graduate students68.4%

39 in 2025 · 71.6% in 2016

0% 45% 90% 2016: 71.6%2017: 77.6%2018: 77.4%2019: 64.7%2020: 64.2%2021: 50.0%2022: 54.8%2023: 69.7%2024: 76.7%2025: 68.4%
2016Peer median 29.8%2025

Data insights

International Student Trends at College for Creative Studies

The data from the College for Creative Studies reveals notable trends in the enrollment of international students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international undergraduate students has experienced fluctuations, with a significant increase in recent years. Starting from a mere 4.27% in 2004, the percentage rose to nearly 8% by 2018, demonstrating a growing attraction for international students in creative studies.

The graduate program has shown a more pronounced increase in international representation. In 2010, 38.89% of graduate students were international, rising to an impressive 80% in 2014. This increase suggests that the college has successfully positioned itself as a desirable destination for graduate studies in the arts and design fields. However, the percentage dipped slightly in the following years, stabilizing at around 54.84% in 2022 and 69.70% in 2023, indicating a slight fluctuation in interest but overall strong appeal.

Factors contributing to this growth may include the global demand for creative professionals, the college's reputation, and the overall attractiveness of the United States as a study destination. The COVID-19 pandemic initially caused a setback in enrollment, as seen in the data from 2020 and 2021. However, the recovery in 2022 and 2023 highlights resilience and the college's ongoing appeal.

Overall, the increasing diversity of the student body enriches the academic environment and prepares students for a globalized workforce, reflecting broader trends in international education.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$68,622

Undergraduate tuition
$53,350
Room and board
$15,272
Graduate tuition
$55,670
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $58,844 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

Tuition rose 37% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 81%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$58.8M

Tuition and fees
$33.6M57.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.8M13.3%
Investment return
$7.7M13.1%
Gifts and private grants
$5.7M9.6%
Government grants and contracts
$737K1.3%
Other
$3.3M5.7%

Expenses$60.5M

Instruction
$19.5M32.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$13.7M22.6%
Institutional support
$12.6M20.9%
Student services
$8.8M14.5%
Academic support
$4.6M7.5%
Scholarships
$206K0.3%
Other
$1.1M1.9%

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.

All faculty
$98,750peers $68,014
Professor
$126,734peers $81,680
Associate professor
$97,115peers $73,404
Assistant professor
$89,612peers $62,138
Instructor
$73,130peers $55,481
Lecturer
$64,573

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

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near the College for Creative Studies:

  1. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Ranked 21 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is renowned for its strong engineering, business, and liberal arts programs.

  2. Wayne State University - With a rank of 201, Wayne State offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs in a vibrant urban setting.

  3. Michigan State University - This comprehensive university ranks 60 and is recognized for its research initiatives and a strong emphasis on community engagement.

  4. University of Detroit Mercy - Ranked 185, this comprehensive institution focuses on a liberal arts education while integrating values of service and social justice.

  5. Case Western Reserve University - With a rank of 53, Case Western is known for its strong programs in engineering, law, and medicine, offering a robust research environment.

  6. Kalamazoo College - This liberal arts college ranks 70 and is recognized for its commitment to experiential learning and a global perspective.

  7. Oberlin College - Ranked 51, Oberlin is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on music and arts education.

  8. Ohio State University-Main Campus - With a rank of 43, Ohio State is a large public university known for its research programs and vibrant campus life.

These institutions provide a rich array of academic opportunities and contribute significantly to the educational landscape surrounding the College for Creative Studies.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 1.3 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
4
Robbery
2
Residence hall fires
2
Weapons referrals
1
Drug referrals
1
Stalking
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at College for Creative Studies

Examining the crime data from the College for Creative Studies over the years reveals significant fluctuations in the average crime rates per 1000 students. In 2013, the average crime rate was at 4.11, showing a relatively higher concern for campus safety. However, this rate saw a steady decline, hitting its lowest point in 2020 with just 0.78 incidents per 1000 students. This reduction may reflect effective safety measures implemented by the campus administration, as well as a general decline in criminal activities nationwide during the pandemic.

Interestingly, 2021 saw a slight increase to 1.98, followed by another rise in 2023 to 3.69. This resurgence may indicate a rebound in social activities post-pandemic, leading to more opportunities for crime. Notably, the year 2017 marked the highest reported rate at 6.52, emphasizing the necessity for continuous monitoring and proactive measures in fostering a secure environment.

The breakdown of crime types provides further insight. Arrests related to gun possession and drug-related offenses appear to be the most frequent incidents, underscoring common challenges faced by many educational institutions. With the ongoing discourse around campus safety, colleges must remain vigilant and responsive to trends in crime, ensuring that students feel secure while pursuing their education.

For a deeper understanding of crime rates and their implications, you can refer to the following resource: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of College for Creative Studies include Mary Lynn Rajskub (Actress known for playing Chloe O'Brian in 24), Doug Chiang (Executive creative director at Lucasfilm, film designer) and Harry Bertoia (Italian-born artist and furniture designer).

More alumni (7, by field)

Business

  • David Lyon 1968–

    Car designer formerly at General Motors

  • Jelani Aliyu 1968–

    Nigerian automotive designer, formerly at General Motors

Arts and media

  • Carol Wald 1935–2000

    Artist and illustrator

  • Peter Bradley 1940–

    Painter, sculptor and former art dealer

    Child: Garrett Bradley (University of California-Los Angeles, Smith College)

  • Tyree Guyton 1955–

    Artist from Detroit, Michigan

    Also attended: Wayne State University, Marygrove College

  • Robert Bishop 1945–1991

    Bondage photographer, artist and author

  • LaKela Brown 1982–

    Visual artist working in sculpture and plaster relief

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

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.