In Search of Best Arts Colleges in the US?

Art's been my thing since forever and I really want to pursue it after high school. What are some of the best colleges known for their arts programs here in the US? What makes them stand out from others?

Absolutely, there are several top-notch colleges for the arts in the US, each offering unique experiences and opportunities to their students. Here are a few:

1. Yale University: Known for its Yale School of Art, this university provides students a broad range of artistic disciplines. Its program emphasizes critical dialogue, meaning students are encouraged to critically discuss their work.

2. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD): Arguably one of the top art schools, RISD is known for its rigorous programs and internship opportunities with premier design firms and museums. Its proximity to the Brown University campus is a nice bonus, meaning you can easily cross-register for courses.

3. School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC): SAIC's interdisciplinary curriculum allows students to explore a multitude of artistic disciplines. It's also home to one of the most significant accredited museums in the country, providing valuable access to original works of art.

4. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts): Known for its programs in visual and performing arts, CalArts encourages students to cross traditional boundaries between disciplines. This school is renowned for its animation programs, since it was founded by Walt Disney.

5. Pratt Institute: Located in New York, Pratt offers a rich array of programs in art, design, and architecture. The faculty is full of working professionals, and the urban campus is a fantastic springboard to the city's art scene.

6. Carnegie Mellon University: Famous for its programs in drama and visual arts, CMU offers a great opportunity to work across disciplines, especially with science and technology. The school's "Buggy" race—a sweeping design, engineering, and racing competition—is iconic of this interdisciplinary ethos.

Each of these schools has a unique way of conducting their art programs. Some emphasize theory more, while others focus on creating and critiquing art. Be sure to look into which aligns most with your own goals and aspirations. Additionally, don't just look at the academics–consider the culture, network, facilities, location, and internship opportunities as well. Every one of these factors could contribute to your education and experience in an art program.