Columbus College of Art & Design

Embedded in downtown Columbus, CCAD students tap into the city's arts districts (Franklinton, Scioto Mile) and surreal spaces like Otherworld. The tight-knit campus fosters collaboration, with Instagram showcases highlighting student work. Housing and wellness services are standard, but the real draw is the school's symbiotic relationship with Columbus' creative economy—evident in organized excursions to local galleries and design firms.

CCAD's 61% graduation rate lags behind national averages, though it climbs to 68% when extended to six years. Early-career earnings hover around $30,000—$5,000 below expectations for art schools—suggesting graduates may need time to establish themselves. The upside? Columbus' low cost of living lets alumni build portfolios without crushing debt burdens.

At $54,595 annually, CCAD's tuition rivals elite art schools—but 100% of students receive aid, bringing the average net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. down to $30,900. Merit scholarships (averaging $14,394) help offset costs, though the school's own data shows many students still graduate with debt. The Net Price Calculator is essential here: outcomes vary wildly based on portfolio strength and financial need.

CCAD thrives as a pragmatic alternative to coastal art schools, leveraging its Columbus location to connect students with Midwestern clients and affordable studios. Its Fashion Design program feeds into nearby retail giants like Abercrombie & Fitch, while Animation grays benefit from the city's growing tech scene. The trade-off? You'll need grit to overcome the school's academic attrition rates—but those who persist join a scrappy creative network.