Since 1929, artists and designers have called Academy of Art University their home. Founded in San Francisco and family owned, it is one of the largest private, accredited art and design schools in the nation.
We are first and foremost a professional school — a specialized place that helps our students master their craft as they prepare for professional roles as artists and designers. Our hands-on, practical curriculum is taught by some of the finest professionals working in today’s creative and innovative industries. They help students develop the talent and skills sought by the creative marketplace.
All are welcome here. Our inclusive admissions policy is rare among art schools. We have found that our students’ potential does not depend on their past elsewhere but on their future with us. Students find their place and their purpose at Academy of Art University as they prepare for rewarding professional careers.
While a lot has changed since 1929, the foundational values of inclusion and a disciplined approach to art and design taught by a faculty of industry professionals (“by artists, for artists”) have not and will not change at the Academy. Those values remain the foundation of who we are today and underpin the development of the strategic plan.
Academy of Art College founded by Richard S. Stephens, a fine art painter and Creative Director for Sunset Magazine
Dr. Richard A. Stephens becomes President and oversees expansion from 50 to 5,000 students
Dr. Elisa Stephens, granddaughter of founder Richard S. Stephens, appointed President
Academy of Art University starts offering online courses
Western Association of Schools & Colleges (WASC) accreditation
Chris Visslailli appointed President. Dr. Elisa Stephens becomes Chief Executive Officer.
School of Architecture launched
M.Arch (63 units) granted Initial Accreditation by NAAB. Online graduate architecture courses first offered.
M.Arch Track 2 (87 units) launched
M.Arch granted 8-year term of re-accreditation by NAAB
M.Arch granted 8-year term of re-accreditation by NAAB
Undergraduate architecture BFA program launched
Online undergraduate architecture courses first offered
B.Arch granted Initial Accreditation by NAAB.
B.Arch granted 8-year term of re-accreditation by NAAB. First year fully online students graduate with B.Arch degrees.
Associate of Applied Sciences in Design of Built Environments launched
B.Arch re-accreditation NAAB site visit
Referenced from History of the School in the Course Catalog