Art & Design For All

Art and Design for All Academy of Art University

At Academy of Art University, we believe creativity isn’t reserved for the few. It belongs to anyone bold enough to claim it. Our “No Barriers” admission policy welcomes those ready to take their talent seriously and turn ambition into action, with no portfolio or prior experience required.

Here, you’ll train in design, communication, technology, and the arts, work on real-world projects guided by industry pros, and focus on results—your portfolio.

Our open-door policy welcomes every voice and every vision. And the result? A portfolio that speaks loudly and clearly to employers, clients, and the world.

Your future in the creative industries is here.

Location isn’t a Barrier

Wherever you are, you belong here.

At Academy of Art University, home isn’t just a place—it’s a creative community. With students from over 100 countries, all 50 states, and active military stations around the world, we celebrate every perspective and every voice that dares to make something new.

Join us in San Francisco. Connect online from anywhere. Or zoom into select on-campus classes and collaborate in real time with students in the studio.

However you show up, you’ll be part of a community that helps you build a portfolio that turns heads and opens doors.

Your Schedule is Not a Barrier

At Academy of Art University, you can experience our accredited classes on campus, online, or virtually. All classes are taught by the same expert faculty using the same industry-driven curriculum. Whether you’re in San Francisco or halfway around the world, you’ll get hands-on, real-world training on your terms.

Our virtual courses bring the studio to you: motion picture soundstages, labs, and creative workshops delivered straight to your screen. That means you can access a high-quality education at a time and place that fits your lifestyle.

And with rLAB, you can tap into the same high-powered computers and software used in top animation and gaming studios—anytime, anywhere.

Ready to create from wherever you are?

Explore Online Classes

Your Choice to Upskill is Not a Barrier

If you’re not seeking a traditional college degree but want to spark your creativity, brush up on your skills, or pick up new ones (including the AI tools shaping today’s art and design careers), our UpSkill program is for you.

With our “No Barriers” philosophy, we welcome non-degree seekers to learn, grow, and create on their own terms. Take courses for personal enrichment, professional development, or pure curiosity. No gatekeeping. No red tape. Just hands-on, real-world training that meets you where you are.

You’ll learn alongside Academy students, with the same expert faculty and access to our creative community. And if you decide to pursue a full degree later, you can apply UpSkill credits you’ve already earned.

Upskill

Requirements will not Stand in the Way of Your Creative Future

100%

Undergraduate students admitted without a portfolio

89%

Graduate students have no undergraduate art degree

300

Professional members across 22 Industry Advisory Boards

Raquel Calvo Mendez – International Student

“If you want real on set experience, this is the place to get it. The Academy gives you the tools and confidence to step into the industry prepared. If you’re willing to work hard, you’ll learn to adapt, think fast, and make your vision happen. I came here knowing nothing, and now I’ve created work at a professional level.”

BFA Motion Picture & Television, Producer at One Seven Cinema, from Madrid, Spain

Michael Canty – Military/Veteran

“Academy of Art was a great school. I loved the car museum, and being able to build my own clay models and get hands – on experience was incredibly valuable. As a veteran, only part of my schooling was covered. Still, thanks to the Academy’s Yellow Ribbon Program, I was able to receive additional funding to continue my education. I had the privilege of learning from the legendary Tom Matano, and every one of my instructors pushed me to think deeper and become a better designer.”

BFA Industrial Design Alumni, Design Manager at Lincoln Motor Company, United Sates Marine

Jacqueline Rabot – Transfer Student

“Transferring to Academy of Art University completely transformed me as a designer. Within just a year, I grew immensely. The instructors challenged and inspired me to reach a new level. I learned everything from sketching and sewing to creating a full collection that walked the runway. It was truly a high level of education tha t prepared me for the industry.”

BFA Fashion Design, Senior Designer at MATE the Label, Previous designer for SKIMS

Jackson Thomas – Pre College

“This was my first architecture class, and I really appreciated how much creative freedom the teacher gave us. I’d definitely recommend the Pre-College program. It gave us plenty of time to develop our projects and explore our ideas. My high school doesn’t offer many architecture opportunities, so being part of this program was an amazing way to gain hands – on experience before deciding to pursue it further.”

Pre-College Architecture Student, Junior in High School

Embark on an AI-Infused Creative Journey

Your artistic journey begins with the fundamentals—sharpening your eye, technique, and voice—then expands into the world of art and AI.

You’ll learn to use AI as a creative partner, from generating ideas and imagery to iterating and refining final concepts. We’ll teach you how to thrive in a world where technology and artistry go hand in hand.

You’ll graduate with a portfolio that proves you’re fluent in the tools today’s employers want.

Curious what that looks like? Explore our AI courses.

Generative AI: Reimagine Your Creative Process

Screenshot of Adobe Firefly screen with a prompt about A Hazy IPA

Access Industry Connections

At the Academy, we don’t just break down barriers to education, we open doors to industry. Our students don’t just build skills, they build portfolios through collaborations with real-world partners like NASA, General Motors, Nike, and CamelBak.

In collaboratives, you’ll work in environments that reflect how creative teams operate—solving problems, sharing ideas, creating through production pipelines, and delivering real work for real clients. These experiences don’t just add polish to your portfolio, they give you a competitive edge and meaningful connections to the people hiring the next generation of artists and designers.

You’ll get one-on-one time with industry leaders and walk away with more than just projects. You’ll leave with proof you’re ready to work.

Want to see what collaboration looks like in action? Check out our Collaboratives page.

Collaborations

image of a truck mockup from an Industrial Design student

You Can Build Your Career Here

From your first day at the Academy, our Career Services team is here to help you make art work. Whether you’re looking for your first internship, polishing your portfolio, or prepping for your next big move, we’ve got your back.

We offer one-on-one support tailored to your goals—from cover letter construction and interview prep to résumé reviews and portfolio consultations. You’ll also get exclusive access to our proprietary job board filled with opportunities from industry partners who know the value of an Academy portfolio.

And it doesn’t end at graduation. Our alumni enjoy the same services as our current students; artists are lifelong learners. Because careers evolve, we’re with you every step of the way.

Career Preparation Opportunities