Why MCAD

Offering a transformative education open to all backgrounds, MCAD gets you ready to confidently lead and practice in an ever-evolving world. It’s where students find their personal and professional purpose as creative leaders.

MCAD's Morrison building on a summer day

Founded in 1886, Minneapolis College of Art and Design is located in the rich art-and-design community of the Twin Cities. Recognized nationally and internationally for its innovative approaches to art and design education, MCAD is home to approximately 800 students from 45 states and 15 countries.

The college offers bachelor’s degrees in several disciplines including creative entrepreneurship, design, fine arts, and media arts, one MFA, three online master’s degrees, and continuing education classes for all ages. Through the core curriculum, students focus on their careers and craft by learning technical and professional skills and developing their creative leadership capabilities.

Including Emmy-winning directors, Whitney Biennial artists, and Guggenheim fellows, MCAD alumni make an impact. They set new standards across a broad range of creative careers, from independent artist to corporate designer to entrepreneur.

World-class art and design education begins with world-class educators. Working artists and designers who are respected in their fields, MCAD’s faculty are renowned for their ingenuity, expertise, and commitment as instructors. Each year they inspire new generations of creative thinkers to make the successful transition from students to professional artists and designers.

MCAD is a close, supportive, and transformative community that impacts graduates their entire lives.