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What colleges should I aim for if I want to be an art director?
I'm not so sure what major or what university would be best for me! Currently I have average grades but I think I have below average extra curriculars. I really want to go to UCLA for their design media arts BA, but UCLA is such a reach school, I want to open up my horizons.
currently im a sophomore:
- asb for 2 years, will be 3 next year, historian for 3rd year
- prom com traditional advertising head
- tv production for two years
- in advanced TV for one
- city organization thing historian
- next year will be in year book for advertising
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7 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Ellie !
Becoming an Art Director for Television and Film (and in other genres) is a most exciting and rewarding career !
I would highly recommend the California Institute for the Arts in Valencia, which is approximately 33 miles from where you live. UCLA is a dream school, for sure, but they have a very low acceptance rate (8%) which one should be aware of. Cal Arts acceptance rate is better at 25 - 29%. It will still be competitive, and you can apply to both schools, and visit them both, too. A friend of mine went to Cal Arts and worked on many projects, eventually working an entire run on a long-running network television sit-com doing just what you plan to do.
Your extracurriculars are wonderful ! Do not underestimate them. Continue with them all and start a portfolio so that when you apply to whichever school, you can show your work. Design now. Take photographs of your work and start a resume, too.
Well, one thing is for sure, you're in the best city for getting some experience. Maybe this summer you can see if you can volunteer doing sets and props at a theatre like the Geffen Playhouse, Archway Studio Theatre, The Hudson Theatre, or the Mc Adden Place Theatre just to name a few. The friend I mentioned worked as property master in a theatre in downtown L.A. before he obtained work in television and film, so theatre helps with getting experience at first.
California Institute for the Arts has majors in Graphic Design, Integrated Media, and Scene Design (which may be the best major for you).
Already being in Los Angeles gives you a special edge. You can also consider going to a community college to keep costs down and then transfer to a Cal State University. The type of major you will pursue can effectively be learned in whichever school you choose as the resources are very abundant in L.A. There will always be opportunities for you. It's just a matter of seeing which college will be best doable for you. They're all good. Also remember to apply for lots of scholarships that will help you with college expenses. I've left some links for you below to read about the scholarships you can consider applying for.
I hope that this has helped and I wish you all the best ! Do not give up - you can do it !
CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE FOR THE ARTS https://calarts.edu/
UCLA WEBSITE https://www.ucla.edu/
ART AND DESIGN SCHOLARSHIPS https://www.collegeconsensus.com/scholarships/art-design-scholarships/
ART SCHOLARSHIPS https://bold.org/scholarships/by-major/art-scholarships/ SCHOLARSHIPS FOR CALIFORNIA STUDENTS https://www.scholarships.com/financial-aid/college-scholarships/scholarships-by-state/california-scholarships/
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR LOS ANGELES STUDENTS https://studentscholarships.org/scholarships/city/8504/los_angeles.php
Becoming an Art Director for Television and Film (and in other genres) is a most exciting and rewarding career !
I would highly recommend the California Institute for the Arts in Valencia, which is approximately 33 miles from where you live. UCLA is a dream school, for sure, but they have a very low acceptance rate (8%) which one should be aware of. Cal Arts acceptance rate is better at 25 - 29%. It will still be competitive, and you can apply to both schools, and visit them both, too. A friend of mine went to Cal Arts and worked on many projects, eventually working an entire run on a long-running network television sit-com doing just what you plan to do.
Your extracurriculars are wonderful ! Do not underestimate them. Continue with them all and start a portfolio so that when you apply to whichever school, you can show your work. Design now. Take photographs of your work and start a resume, too.
Well, one thing is for sure, you're in the best city for getting some experience. Maybe this summer you can see if you can volunteer doing sets and props at a theatre like the Geffen Playhouse, Archway Studio Theatre, The Hudson Theatre, or the Mc Adden Place Theatre just to name a few. The friend I mentioned worked as property master in a theatre in downtown L.A. before he obtained work in television and film, so theatre helps with getting experience at first.
California Institute for the Arts has majors in Graphic Design, Integrated Media, and Scene Design (which may be the best major for you).
Already being in Los Angeles gives you a special edge. You can also consider going to a community college to keep costs down and then transfer to a Cal State University. The type of major you will pursue can effectively be learned in whichever school you choose as the resources are very abundant in L.A. There will always be opportunities for you. It's just a matter of seeing which college will be best doable for you. They're all good. Also remember to apply for lots of scholarships that will help you with college expenses. I've left some links for you below to read about the scholarships you can consider applying for.
I hope that this has helped and I wish you all the best ! Do not give up - you can do it !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Kim’s Answer
When considering colleges to pursue a career as an art director, it's essential to explore a variety of institutions that offer strong programs in visual arts, design, and creative communication.
1. New York University (NYU) - Tisch School of the Arts (New York, NY): Offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Design for Stage & Film, providing a comprehensive education in production design and visual storytelling.
2. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) (Providence, RI): Known for its rigorous programs in graphic design, illustration, and industrial design, focusing on hands-on learning and artistic innovation.
3. Art Center College of Design (Pasadena, CA): Recognized for its specialized programs in advertising, graphic design, and visual communication, emphasizing creativity and industry relevance.
4. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) (Savannah, GA): Offers a range of design programs, including advertising, motion media design, and graphic design, with a focus on collaboration and professional development.
5. School of Visual Arts (SVA) (New York, NY): Provides a diverse range of programs in advertising, graphic design, and visual communication, fostering creativity and innovation in the arts.
6. California College of the Arts (CCA) (San Francisco, CA): Offers programs in graphic design, interaction design, and advertising, focusing on social impact and creative entrepreneurship.
7. Pratt Institute (Brooklyn, NY): Known for its strong programs in communication design, advertising, and art direction, emphasizing critical thinking and visual storytelling.
8. University of the Arts (Philadelphia, PA): Offers a variety of design programs, including graphic design, advertising, and illustration, with a focus on artistic expression and cultural impact.
9. Carnegie Mellon University - School of Design (Pittsburgh, PA): Provides interdisciplinary design programs that combine art, technology, and social innovation, preparing students for careers in various design fields.
10. Otis College of Art and Design (Los Angeles, CA): Known for its programs in communication arts, graphic design, and advertising design, emphasizing experimentation and creative problem-solving.
Exploring these diverse institutions can help you find a program that aligns with your academic interests, creative aspirations, and career goals.
1. New York University (NYU) - Tisch School of the Arts (New York, NY): Offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Design for Stage & Film, providing a comprehensive education in production design and visual storytelling.
2. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) (Providence, RI): Known for its rigorous programs in graphic design, illustration, and industrial design, focusing on hands-on learning and artistic innovation.
3. Art Center College of Design (Pasadena, CA): Recognized for its specialized programs in advertising, graphic design, and visual communication, emphasizing creativity and industry relevance.
4. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) (Savannah, GA): Offers a range of design programs, including advertising, motion media design, and graphic design, with a focus on collaboration and professional development.
5. School of Visual Arts (SVA) (New York, NY): Provides a diverse range of programs in advertising, graphic design, and visual communication, fostering creativity and innovation in the arts.
6. California College of the Arts (CCA) (San Francisco, CA): Offers programs in graphic design, interaction design, and advertising, focusing on social impact and creative entrepreneurship.
7. Pratt Institute (Brooklyn, NY): Known for its strong programs in communication design, advertising, and art direction, emphasizing critical thinking and visual storytelling.
8. University of the Arts (Philadelphia, PA): Offers a variety of design programs, including graphic design, advertising, and illustration, with a focus on artistic expression and cultural impact.
9. Carnegie Mellon University - School of Design (Pittsburgh, PA): Provides interdisciplinary design programs that combine art, technology, and social innovation, preparing students for careers in various design fields.
10. Otis College of Art and Design (Los Angeles, CA): Known for its programs in communication arts, graphic design, and advertising design, emphasizing experimentation and creative problem-solving.
Exploring these diverse institutions can help you find a program that aligns with your academic interests, creative aspirations, and career goals.
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hello Ellie,
If you're aspiring to become an art director, consider targeting colleges renowned for their robust design programs. Here's a list of some premier institutions and a few pointers to help you along:
### Premier Institutions:
1. **UCLA** - Offers a Bachelor of Arts in Design Media Arts
2. **CalArts** - Specializes in Graphic Design and Art
3. **RISD** - Provides courses in Graphic Design and Illustration
4. **SCAD** - Known for Graphic Design and Advertising
5. **SVA** - Offers Graphic Design and Advertising
6. **Parsons** - Renowned for Communication Design
### Secondary and Target Institutions:
- **San Jose State University** - Offers Animation/Illustration and Graphic Design
- **CSULB** - Specializes in Graphic Design and Studio Art
- **USC** - Provides courses in Design, Media Arts, and Animation
### Strategies to Bolster Your Application:
1. **Boost Your Grades**: Strive to elevate your GPA.
2. **Curate a Portfolio**: Display your work from TV production, advertising, and personal projects.
3. **Expand Extracurriculars**: Assume leadership positions or initiate a creative project.
4. **Acquire Experience**: Seek internships, freelance, or volunteer opportunities in design and media.
5. **Enroll in Art Courses**: Sign up for art, design, or computer graphics classes.
### Suggestions:
- Conduct thorough research on programs, plan campus visits, and start working on applications early, with a focus on your portfolio and personal statement.
If you're aspiring to become an art director, consider targeting colleges renowned for their robust design programs. Here's a list of some premier institutions and a few pointers to help you along:
### Premier Institutions:
1. **UCLA** - Offers a Bachelor of Arts in Design Media Arts
2. **CalArts** - Specializes in Graphic Design and Art
3. **RISD** - Provides courses in Graphic Design and Illustration
4. **SCAD** - Known for Graphic Design and Advertising
5. **SVA** - Offers Graphic Design and Advertising
6. **Parsons** - Renowned for Communication Design
### Secondary and Target Institutions:
- **San Jose State University** - Offers Animation/Illustration and Graphic Design
- **CSULB** - Specializes in Graphic Design and Studio Art
- **USC** - Provides courses in Design, Media Arts, and Animation
### Strategies to Bolster Your Application:
1. **Boost Your Grades**: Strive to elevate your GPA.
2. **Curate a Portfolio**: Display your work from TV production, advertising, and personal projects.
3. **Expand Extracurriculars**: Assume leadership positions or initiate a creative project.
4. **Acquire Experience**: Seek internships, freelance, or volunteer opportunities in design and media.
5. **Enroll in Art Courses**: Sign up for art, design, or computer graphics classes.
### Suggestions:
- Conduct thorough research on programs, plan campus visits, and start working on applications early, with a focus on your portfolio and personal statement.
Your advice was so helpful!
Ellie
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
Here is a list of the best schools:
Best colleges for Art Directors
#1. Pratt Institute-Main. Brooklyn, NY.
#2. The University of Texas at Dallas. Richardson, TX.
#3. Otis College of Art and Design. Los Angeles, CA.
#4. Art Center College of Design. Pasadena, CA.
#5. Maryland Institute College of Art. Baltimore, MD.
You may consider pursuing a degree in art, graphic design, or even marketing. Think about a master's degree. As an art director, you'll likely be managing people and projects
Best colleges for Art Directors
#1. Pratt Institute-Main. Brooklyn, NY.
#2. The University of Texas at Dallas. Richardson, TX.
#3. Otis College of Art and Design. Los Angeles, CA.
#4. Art Center College of Design. Pasadena, CA.
#5. Maryland Institute College of Art. Baltimore, MD.
You may consider pursuing a degree in art, graphic design, or even marketing. Think about a master's degree. As an art director, you'll likely be managing people and projects
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Ellie,
To become an art director, it is essential to pursue a relevant education that provides a strong foundation in design, art, and media. While UCLA’s Design Media Arts program is indeed prestigious and highly regarded, it is always beneficial to explore other options to increase your chances of admission. Here are some top colleges you should consider aiming for if you want to become an art director:
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) - RISD is renowned for its fine arts programs and offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design, which can be a great fit for aspiring art directors. The school has a strong reputation in the art and design world and could provide you with the skills and network needed to succeed in this field.
School of Visual Arts (SVA) - Located in New York City, SVA offers various programs related to design, advertising, and media arts. Their BFA programs in Advertising and Graphic Design could be particularly relevant for someone aspiring to become an art director.
California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) - CalArts is another excellent choice for students interested in pursuing a career in art direction. The school offers programs in Graphic Design and Character Animation that could help you develop the necessary skills for this role.
When considering which college to aim for, it’s important to look at factors such as program curriculum, faculty expertise, industry connections, and opportunities for internships or practical experience. Additionally, building a strong portfolio showcasing your creative work can significantly enhance your application regardless of your extracurricular activities.
As for your current situation as a sophomore with average grades and below-average extracurriculars, there are still ways to strengthen your profile before applying to college. Consider taking on leadership roles in relevant clubs or organizations, participating in art-related projects outside of school, or seeking mentorship from professionals in the field.
Ultimately, while UCLA’s Design Media Arts program is undoubtedly appealing, expanding your horizons by exploring other reputable institutions like RISD, SVA, or CalArts can provide you with additional options and increase your chances of pursuing a successful career as an art director.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. News & World Report - U.S. News & World Report provides comprehensive rankings and information on colleges and universities across various disciplines, helping students make informed decisions about their higher education choices.
College Board - College Board offers valuable resources on college planning, including information on majors, programs, admissions requirements, and scholarships that can assist students in their academic journey.
National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) - NASAD sets standards for undergraduate and graduate art and design programs across the United States, ensuring quality education and accreditation for institutions offering degrees in these fields.
Related Videos
God Bless You, Richly!
JC.
To become an art director, it is essential to pursue a relevant education that provides a strong foundation in design, art, and media. While UCLA’s Design Media Arts program is indeed prestigious and highly regarded, it is always beneficial to explore other options to increase your chances of admission. Here are some top colleges you should consider aiming for if you want to become an art director:
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) - RISD is renowned for its fine arts programs and offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design, which can be a great fit for aspiring art directors. The school has a strong reputation in the art and design world and could provide you with the skills and network needed to succeed in this field.
School of Visual Arts (SVA) - Located in New York City, SVA offers various programs related to design, advertising, and media arts. Their BFA programs in Advertising and Graphic Design could be particularly relevant for someone aspiring to become an art director.
California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) - CalArts is another excellent choice for students interested in pursuing a career in art direction. The school offers programs in Graphic Design and Character Animation that could help you develop the necessary skills for this role.
When considering which college to aim for, it’s important to look at factors such as program curriculum, faculty expertise, industry connections, and opportunities for internships or practical experience. Additionally, building a strong portfolio showcasing your creative work can significantly enhance your application regardless of your extracurricular activities.
As for your current situation as a sophomore with average grades and below-average extracurriculars, there are still ways to strengthen your profile before applying to college. Consider taking on leadership roles in relevant clubs or organizations, participating in art-related projects outside of school, or seeking mentorship from professionals in the field.
Ultimately, while UCLA’s Design Media Arts program is undoubtedly appealing, expanding your horizons by exploring other reputable institutions like RISD, SVA, or CalArts can provide you with additional options and increase your chances of pursuing a successful career as an art director.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. News & World Report - U.S. News & World Report provides comprehensive rankings and information on colleges and universities across various disciplines, helping students make informed decisions about their higher education choices.
College Board - College Board offers valuable resources on college planning, including information on majors, programs, admissions requirements, and scholarships that can assist students in their academic journey.
National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) - NASAD sets standards for undergraduate and graduate art and design programs across the United States, ensuring quality education and accreditation for institutions offering degrees in these fields.
Related Videos
God Bless You, Richly!
JC.
Updated
wisdom’s Answer
Choose any Art College that fuels your passion and creativity!
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Ellie,
Given your interest in pursuing a career as an art director and your desire to explore different college options, consider the following schools and majors that could align with your aspirations:
1. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD): SCAD is renowned for its strong programs in design and art-related fields. Consider majoring in Advertising, Graphic Design, or Visual Communications, which can provide a solid foundation for a career in art direction.
2. School of Visual Arts (SVA): SVA in New York offers diverse programs in design, advertising, and visual arts. Exploring majors such as Advertising, Graphic Design, or Design and Technology could be beneficial.
3. New York University (NYU): NYU's Tisch School of the Arts provides various programs in film, design, and media arts that could align with your interests, offering opportunities to pursue a major such as Film and Television or Integrated Digital Media.
4. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts): CalArts offers strong programs in art and design. Consider majors in Graphic Design, Advertising, or Digital Arts, which could lay a strong foundation for a career in art direction.
As for major selection, pursuing a degree in Design Media Arts at UCLA is an excellent choice if you are able to gain admission. However, considering your desire to open up your options, exploring other programs in Advertising, Graphic Design, Digital Arts, or related fields at different universities could be beneficial.
Additionally, given your involvement in ASB, TV production, and traditional advertising, these experiences could demonstrate your interest and potential in the field of art direction, even if you consider them to be "below average" extracurriculars. Highlighting your passion for the arts and your hands-on experiences in advertising and media production can be valuable in the admissions process.
It's important to note that while targeting specific schools is beneficial, there are many paths to a successful career in art direction. When considering potential colleges and majors, look for programs that offer strong opportunities for hands-on experience, networking, and skill-building. These factors can play a significant role in preparing you for a successful career as an art director.
Best of luck!
Jennifer
Given your interest in pursuing a career as an art director and your desire to explore different college options, consider the following schools and majors that could align with your aspirations:
1. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD): SCAD is renowned for its strong programs in design and art-related fields. Consider majoring in Advertising, Graphic Design, or Visual Communications, which can provide a solid foundation for a career in art direction.
2. School of Visual Arts (SVA): SVA in New York offers diverse programs in design, advertising, and visual arts. Exploring majors such as Advertising, Graphic Design, or Design and Technology could be beneficial.
3. New York University (NYU): NYU's Tisch School of the Arts provides various programs in film, design, and media arts that could align with your interests, offering opportunities to pursue a major such as Film and Television or Integrated Digital Media.
4. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts): CalArts offers strong programs in art and design. Consider majors in Graphic Design, Advertising, or Digital Arts, which could lay a strong foundation for a career in art direction.
As for major selection, pursuing a degree in Design Media Arts at UCLA is an excellent choice if you are able to gain admission. However, considering your desire to open up your options, exploring other programs in Advertising, Graphic Design, Digital Arts, or related fields at different universities could be beneficial.
Additionally, given your involvement in ASB, TV production, and traditional advertising, these experiences could demonstrate your interest and potential in the field of art direction, even if you consider them to be "below average" extracurriculars. Highlighting your passion for the arts and your hands-on experiences in advertising and media production can be valuable in the admissions process.
It's important to note that while targeting specific schools is beneficial, there are many paths to a successful career in art direction. When considering potential colleges and majors, look for programs that offer strong opportunities for hands-on experience, networking, and skill-building. These factors can play a significant role in preparing you for a successful career as an art director.
Best of luck!
Jennifer
Thank you so much!
Ellie
Also check out www.fastweb.com this site can help you find scholarships in your field.
Jennifer Jackson