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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

Milwaukee, Wisconsin · www.miad.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

60.5%

2025

Peer median 61.3%

Tuition per year

$43,743

$54,698 with room and board

Peer median $40,478

Undergraduates

838

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 9 : 1

Graduation rate

49.7%

4-year; 6-year rate 56.6%

Peer median 52.9%

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

About

The Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) is a distinguished institution located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, known for its commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in the fields of art and design. Established in 1974, MIAD offers a unique educational experience that combines rigorous academic standards with hands-on, practical training. The college is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers in various creative industries, including graphic design, industrial design, interior architecture, and illustration. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, MIAD encourages students to explore the intersections of different media and disciplines, fostering a culture of experimentation and artistic expression.

One of MIAD's defining characteristics is its vibrant campus culture, which is enriched by a diverse student body and a faculty comprised of accomplished professionals in their respective fields. The college emphasizes a strong sense of community, providing students with numerous opportunities for collaboration and networking. MIAD's facilities are designed to support a comprehensive learning experience, featuring state-of-the-art studios, workshops, and galleries that showcase student work. The institution's commitment to student success is reflected in its robust career services and internship programs, which help graduates transition smoothly into the workforce. MIAD alumni have gone on to achieve remarkable success, contributing significantly to the art and design sectors both locally and nationally.

Tuition Trends and Student Dynamics at Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

Over the past decade, the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design has witnessed a notable increase in tuition costs, which has significant implications for prospective students and their families. In 2014, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students was $30,989, but by 2024, this figure is projected to rise to $42,040, marking an increase of approximately 36.2%. This upward trend in tuition reflects a broader national pattern in higher education, where rising costs can create barriers for many students seeking access to quality education.

In parallel with rising tuition, the enrollment figures have shown a steady increase, particularly in the undergraduate program. The number of undergraduate students rose from 667 in 2014 to 896 in 2023, demonstrating a growing interest in the programs offered by the institute. This increase in enrollment, despite rising costs, suggests that the institution is successfully attracting students who value the unique offerings and potential career pathways in art and design.

Another important aspect to consider is the gender ratio among undergraduate students. Over the years, the proportion of female students has consistently been higher than that of male students, reaching approximately 78.5% in 2023. This trend highlights the increasing appeal of art and design disciplines among women, reflecting broader societal shifts toward gender equity in education.

Retention rates have also shown improvement, with the rate rising from about 73.1% in 2013 to 85.1% in 2023. This increase indicates better student satisfaction and engagement, which is critical for fostering a supportive academic environment. Higher retention rates are often correlated with improved graduation outcomes, which, while fluctuating, have averaged around 44.4% for timely graduation in 2023.

In summary, the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design is experiencing a complex interplay of rising costs, growing enrollment, shifting gender dynamics, and improving retention rates, all of which are critical factors for stakeholders to consider in the evolving landscape of higher education.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
In Milwaukee
Nearest international airport
General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), about 6 mi
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Also known as
MIAD
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Jeffrey Morin (President)
Phone
4148473200
City
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Address
273 E Erie St, Milwaukee, WI 53202-6003

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
59.5%
Women
58.3%

In 2020: men 69.1%, women 67.6%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

The admission data from the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design over the years reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from a relatively high male acceptance rate of about 76% in 2009, there has been a noticeable decline, culminating in a low of approximately 51% in 2023. Female acceptance rates have exhibited similar trends, peaking at around 74.8% in 2010, then declining to about 66% in 2023.
The total enrollment numbers have varied, with a peak of 292 students enrolled in 2021, despite the significant drop in acceptance rates. This suggests that while the institution faced increasing competition and possibly a growing applicant pool, it managed to maintain a steady number of enrollments in certain years, particularly during the pandemic when college applications surged.
Furthermore, the number of applicants denied admission has increased dramatically, particularly noticeable in 2018 and 2021, where the number of denied applicants reached 382 and 551, respectively. This aligns with a broader trend in many colleges and universities across the U.S., where acceptance rates have generally declined in recent years due to increased applicant numbers and heightened competition.
In conclusion, the data reflects a challenging environment for prospective students at Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, with declining acceptance rates and rising competition. This trend is indicative of broader shifts in higher education, necessitating that applicants enhance their portfolios and credentials to secure a place in this esteemed institution.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Data for Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

The data available for Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design over the years lacks specific values for both submission rates of standardized test scores and the corresponding score ranges. This absence of information raises concerns regarding the institution's transparency and the potential implications for prospective students.

Standardized test scores like the SAT and ACT have historically played a significant role in college admissions. They are often considered indicators of a student's preparedness for college-level work. However, the lack of submitted data may suggest a shift in admissions strategies. Many institutions are moving towards a more holistic approach that evaluates applicants based on factors beyond standardized tests, such as portfolios, interviews, and personal statements.

Moreover, the trend in recent years has shown a growing number of colleges adopting test-optional policies, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has prompted discussions about the fairness and relevance of standardized testing, particularly for art and design programs, where creative abilities might not be accurately reflected through traditional assessments.

In conclusion, while the absence of concrete data for Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design presents challenges in fully understanding the admissions landscape, it may also indicate a broader shift in how art and design schools evaluate prospective students. Future trends will likely continue to evolve, emphasizing creativity and individual expression over standardized metrics.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

1,039 applicants in 2025, 60.5% admitted

629 admitted 410 not admitted Yield 33.2%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's1660 international (0.0%)
Top 5 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Illustration
94
Fine/Studio Arts, General
28
Graphic Design
25
Interior Architecture
11
Industrial and Product Design
8

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

The graduation data from the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various disciplines. Notably, the Illustration program leads with 72 bachelor's degree graduates, emphasizing the program's popularity and robust enrollment. This aligns with the increasing demand for visual storytelling in various industries, particularly in media and advertising.

In the realm of Fine/Studio Arts, 52 students earned their bachelor's degrees, indicating a strong interest in traditional art forms. This trend reflects a broader cultural resurgence in appreciation for fine arts, potentially fueled by the rise of social media platforms showcasing artistic talent.

Graphic Design produced 44 bachelor's graduates, highlighting a consistent interest in this field, essential for branding and communication in today's digital landscape. Meanwhile, Interior Architecture, while having only 13 graduates, signifies a niche but vital area of study that contributes to enhancing living and working spaces, demonstrating a growing awareness of environmental and aesthetic considerations in architecture.

Interestingly, the other programs, such as Industrial and Product Design and Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects, show significantly lower graduation numbers—9 and 1 respectively. This could suggest either a saturation in these fields or perhaps challenges in attracting students, pointing to the need for enhanced recruitment strategies or curriculum revisions.

Lastly, the absence of international students in these programs suggests potential barriers for global engagement, which could be addressed to diversify the student body and enrich the academic environment. Overall, these insights underline the importance of adapting educational offerings to meet emerging industry trends and student interests.

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 155 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Industrial and Product Design.$36,219
Graphic Design.$36,219
Illustration.$36,219
Fine/Studio Arts, General.$24,612
Architecture has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Interior Architecture.-

Students

838 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 19:81 · Freshman retention 79.5%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (838)

White
535 · 63.8%
Hispanic
153 · 18.3%
Two or more races
51 · 6.1%
Black
50 · 6.0%
Asian
39 · 4.7%
Unknown
4 · 0.5%
International
2 · 0.2%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.0%
18–19
29.2%
20–21
46.2%
22–24
21.4%
25 and over
3.2%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design in 2023

The student body composition at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design reveals significant insights into gender and ethnic diversity among its undergraduate and graduate populations. In 2023, the institution welcomed 221 first-year students, with a remarkable 85.1% being female, indicating a strong representation of women in the incoming class. This trend continues among upperclassmen, where 641 students are enrolled, and 76% of them are also female, although there is a slight increase in male representation compared to the freshmen.

Transfer students are fewer in number, with only 33 enrolled, and they show a gender distribution that is still predominantly female at 81.8%. This consistent trend of higher female enrollment across different student categories suggests that the institution may be particularly appealing to women pursuing art and design education.

In terms of ethnic diversity, the data indicates that the majority of the first-year students belong to the white demographic, with 141 out of 221. This raises questions about the inclusivity of the institution, as there appears to be a lack of representation from other ethnic groups, particularly in the incoming class. Although the data for upperclassmen and transfer students regarding ethnic breakdown is not fully provided, the existing information highlights the need for initiatives aimed at enhancing diversity and attracting a broader range of students.

Overall, while the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design showcases strong female enrollment, attention must be given to improving racial and ethnic diversity within its student body, aligning with broader educational goals of inclusivity and representation in higher education.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

The age distribution of students at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design provides valuable insights into the demographic characteristics of the institution. The majority of students fall within the younger age brackets, particularly between 18-21 years old, which is indicative of traditional college demographics. Specifically, 55 male undergraduates and 320 female undergraduates are in the 18-19 age range, while 89 male undergraduates and 300 female undergraduates are in the 20-21 age range. This suggests a strong enrollment of younger students, predominantly female, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where more women are enrolling compared to men.

Interestingly, as we move through the age categories, the numbers of students drop significantly, particularly for males. For instance, in the 22-24 age group, there are only 36 male undergraduates and 58 female undergraduates. This decline continues into older age brackets, where participation drops sharply, with only a handful of students in their late twenties to early thirties, and none in the graduate male category.

This age distribution may also highlight the challenges faced by non-traditional students, who often juggle work, family, and education. As educational institutions look to create inclusive environments, understanding these demographics becomes crucial in developing programs that cater to diverse age groups. Additionally, the stark contrast in numbers between male and female students could prompt discussions on gender representation in art and design fields, which have historically seen a higher percentage of female students. The data ultimately underscores the need for ongoing support and resources tailored to the unique experiences of all students, regardless of age or gender.

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.

Undergraduates0.2%

2 in 2025 · 1.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.4%2017: 1.3%2018: 0.5%2019: 0.4%2020: 0.3%2021: 0.1%2022: 0.6%2023: 0.2%2024: 0.1%2025: 0.2%
2016Peer median 5.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

The data from the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design reveals a concerning trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. Starting from 2004, the number of international undergraduate students was relatively modest, peaking at 28 students in both 2005 and 2007, translating to around 4.4% and 4.3% of the total undergraduate population, respectively. However, this initial interest did not sustain, as the following years saw a steep decline in both numbers and percentages.

By 2023, the international undergraduate student count dwindled to just 2, which is a mere 0.22% of the total undergraduate population. This significant drop raises questions about the institution's appeal to international students, especially in an increasingly competitive global education market. The lack of data for graduate students over the years could suggest either a focus shift or a missed opportunity to attract this demographic.

Factors contributing to this trend may include the global pandemic, visa regulations, and competition from other institutions that better cater to international students. As universities worldwide strive to enhance their international standing, Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design may need to reevaluate its strategies to attract and retain international students, ensuring that it remains a viable option for prospective candidates seeking quality education in the arts and design fields.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$54,698

Undergraduate tuition
$43,743
Room and board
$10,955
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 30% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 22%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$21.6M

Tuition and fees
$18.5M85.7%
Gifts and private grants
$1.9M8.8%
Investment return
$884K4.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$154K0.7%
Other
$146K0.7%

Expenses$21.3M

Instruction
$8.0M37.6%
Institutional support
$3.9M18.3%
Academic support
$2.7M12.9%
Student services
$2.6M12.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$807K3.8%
Other
$3.3M15.4%

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
$58,740peers $68,014
Professor
$69,326peers $81,680
Associate professor
$57,701peers $73,404
Assistant professor
$49,926peers $62,138
Instructor
$49,705peers $55,481

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 schools around the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design:

  1. Northwestern University - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, Northwestern University is a prestigious research university located in Evanston, Illinois. It is renowned for its strong programs in various fields, including journalism, law, and business.

  2. University of Chicago - With a rank of 12, the University of Chicago is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to research. It has a strong emphasis on critical thinking and intellectual discourse, making it one of the top universities in the world.

  3. University of Wisconsin-Madison - Ranked 35th, this university is a major research institution known for its contributions to various fields, including education, engineering, and the sciences. It offers a vibrant campus life and numerous opportunities for student involvement.

  4. Loyola University Chicago - With a rank of 142, Loyola University Chicago is a Jesuit institution that emphasizes service and social justice. It provides a Catholic education while offering a diverse range of academic programs.

  5. Marquette University - Ranked 86th, Marquette University is a private Catholic university located in Milwaukee. It is known for its strong programs in business, law, and health sciences, along with a commitment to community service.

These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.

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

Motor vehicle theft
4
Robbery
1
Burglary
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 Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

The crime statistics from the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in the campus crime rates. In 2013 and 2014, the crime rate was relatively low, with about 3 incidents per 1000 students. However, there was a notable spike in 2016, reaching a rate of 6.38, which suggests a period of increased criminal activity that may warrant further investigation into its causes.

The year 2018 marked the highest recorded crime rate at 10.91 per 1000 students, indicating a concerning trend that could impact student safety and campus reputation. This rise in crime could be attributed to various factors such as changes in campus policies, the socio-economic environment, or increased reporting of incidents. It is crucial for the administration to address these issues, possibly by enhancing security measures or providing more support services to students.

Interestingly, the data shows a return to lower crime rates in 2019 and 2021, with zero reported incidents in those years. This could reflect effective crime prevention strategies or a real decline in criminal behavior on campus. However, the slight uptick in 2022 and 2023 suggests that vigilance is still necessary to maintain a safe campus environment.

In conclusion, while the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design has experienced both peaks and troughs in crime rates, ongoing efforts to ensure student safety and well-being are essential. Monitoring these trends and taking proactive measures can help create a safer educational atmosphere. For more information on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

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.