Want to study art in the USA – where should I look?

Art school is my dream, but I'm unsure where to start. Which universities in the USA are known for their art programs, and what creative opportunities do they offer?

Here are a few universities in the United States that are renowned for their strong art programs:

1. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD): Located in Providence, RISD is consistently ranked among the best art schools in the U.S. It offers a wide range of majors from graphic design to painting to industrial design and more. RISD has a notable relationship with Brown University, allowing students to take classes and even dual-degrees at both institutions, perfect for anyone seeking a broad education alongside their art studies.

2. California Institute of the Arts: Known as CalArts, it's located in Valencia, California. Walt Disney himself helped found this institution. It offers programs in visual arts, dance, drama, music, animation, and more, and is particularly known for its programs in animation and graphic design.

3. School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC): Known for its interdisciplinary approach, SAIC offers a range of programs from painting and drawing to art history and architecture. The school is also associated with the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country, providing students with unique opportunities to study and work with a world-class collection.

4. Pratt Institute: Located in Brooklyn, New York, Pratt is famous for its programs in architecture and industrial design. However, it also offers strong programs in fine arts, including painting, drawing, printmaking, and sculpture.

5. Yale University: Yale's School of Art offers graduate programs in Graphic Design, Photography, Painting/Printmaking, and Sculpture. Even though Yale's art programs are at the graduate level, as an undergraduate you can major in Art through Yale College, where you can take courses from foundational drawing to advanced printmaking.

6. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): UCLA's School of the Arts and Architecture and its School of Theater, Film, and Television both provide stellar programs in the creative arts. It's located in Los Angeles, which is crucial for art students due to its vibrant art scene and connection to the entertainment industry.

Remember, the best school for you will not only have a great program in your area of interest, but it will also match your overall academic and personal needs. Research each school's specific programs and environments to find the best fit for you.