American Academy of Art College: $39,510 Tuition

$39,510Tuition

90Students

45%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$34,324Earnings

Private forprofit4-yearData: 2023-24

About American Academy of Art College

American Academy of Art College trains working artists in the heart of Chicago's Loop. This specialized institution focuses on illustration, fine arts, and commercial design with just 90 students enrolled. The 6:1 student-faculty ratio means you'll work closely with practicing professionals who understand the commercial art world. Founded in 1923, the school has built a reputation for hands-on training that prepares students for careers in advertising, publishing, and digital media.

The financial reality requires careful consideration. Students pay an average net price of $34,298 annually, regardless of family income level. Graduates earn a median of $34,324 ten years after graduation, barely matching their annual college costs. With 84% of students taking federal loans and a median debt of $27,000, the monthly loan payment averages $286. Only 40% of borrowers successfully repay their loans on schedule.

The student body skews heavily female at 69% and draws primarily from Illinois. Half of all students don't return for their second year, reflecting the intense, professionally-focused environment. However, 91% of graduates find employment in their field. The school's downtown location puts students in the center of Chicago's creative industry, providing internship and networking opportunities that larger institutions can't match.

Academics & Faculty

American Academy of Art College specializes in illustration, fine arts, and commercial design, offering focused training for creative careers. The 6:1 student-faculty ratio means students work closely with professional artists and instructors in small studio classes. With only 90 students total, everyone knows each other and receives personalized attention on their portfolio development. The school's downtown Chicago location puts students near advertising agencies, design firms, and galleries where they can find internships. However, the 53% four-year graduation rate reflects the challenging nature of art education and the school's rigorous studio requirements. Students graduate with practical skills in digital illustration, traditional drawing, and commercial design that employers in Chicago's creative industry actively seek.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Full-Time Faculty: 76.5%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 53.1%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 45.0%
Retention Rate: 50.0%
Median Earnings (10 years): $34,324

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Design and Applied Arts.	Bachelor	$23,719
Fine and Studio Arts.	Bachelor	$19,866

View all 6 programs →

Campus Life

American Academy of Art sits in the heart of downtown Chicago's South Loop, where students walk past the Willis Tower on their way to class. With just 90 students total, you'll recognize most faces in the hallways of the school's urban building. The 6:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name and artistic style by the second week.

Chicago winters demand heavy coats and boots for the walk between the 'L' stops and studio spaces. Students spend weekends exploring the Art Institute of Chicago, sketching in Millennium Park, or hunting for inspiration in neighborhoods like Pilsen and Wicker Park. The school doesn't offer dorms, so most students rent apartments in nearby areas or commute from home since 82% come from Illinois. Women make up 69% of the student body, creating a collaborative atmosphere in the illustration and design studios. Coffee shops and art supply stores within walking distance become second homes during late-night project sessions. The city's creative community provides internship opportunities, though graduates earn a median of $34,324 after six years.

Setting: City-Large
Calendar System: Semester
Founded: 1923

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 20°–31°F
July Avg: 67°–81°F
Annual Precipitation: 44.3"
Annual Snowfall: 38.8"

Student Demographics

Art students from across Illinois make up most of the tiny 90-person student body at this downtown Chicago institution. Women outnumber men by more than two to one, reflecting the gender patterns common in fine arts and illustration programs. The school draws heavily from working-class backgrounds, with nearly two-thirds of students qualifying for federal Pell Grants. This small community creates an intimate studio environment where aspiring illustrators and commercial artists work closely together. The local draw suggests strong connections to Chicago's design industry and art scene.

Men: 31.1%
Women: 68.9%
White: 56.7%
Black: 13.3%
Hispanic: 20.0%
Asian: 4.4%
In-State Students: 82.4%
Pell Grant Recipients: 63.1%

Location

The American Academy of Art College sits in downtown Chicago, Illinois. Students attend classes in one of America's largest cities, with 2.7 million residents. The school operates in Chicago's bustling urban core, surrounded by skyscrapers, museums, and commercial districts. The city's massive art scene includes the Art Institute of Chicago, numerous galleries, and design studios that provide internship opportunities. About 82% of students come from within Illinois, keeping most enrollment local to the Chicago metropolitan area. The urban setting means students access public transportation, cultural events, and professional networking opportunities throughout the city. Students considering colleges in Illinois may also compare American Academy of Art College with similar schools in the region.

Address: Chicago, Illinois 60604-4302

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $34,324
Median Earnings (5 years): $35,506
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $27,700
Loan Repayment Rate: 40.1%
Monthly Loan Payment: $286/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $27,000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the student experience like at American Academy of Art College?

With only 90 students enrolled, American Academy of Art College offers an intimate learning environment where everyone knows each other. The 6:1 student-faculty ratio means you'll get direct mentorship from working artists and designers. Women make up 69% of the student body, creating a collaborative atmosphere focused on illustration, fine arts, and commercial design.

How much does American Academy of Art College cost after financial aid?

Students pay an average net price of $34,298 annually, with 63% receiving some form of financial aid. Monthly loan payments average $286 for graduates, though only 40% successfully repay their loans on time. The school offers institutional grants averaging $10,487 to just 14% of students.

What are the graduation rates at American Academy of Art College?

About 53% of students graduate within four years, while 45% complete their degree within six years. The school has a 50% retention rate, meaning half of first-year students return for their sophomore year. These numbers reflect the challenges many art students face balancing creative pursuits with academic demands.

How much do American Academy of Art College graduates earn?

Recent graduates earn a median of $18,747 in their first year, which jumps to $35,506 after five years in the field. Ten years after graduation, the median salary reaches $34,324. The school boasts a 91% employment rate, reflecting strong connections to Chicago's active arts and design community.

Where is American Academy of Art College located and what is the setting like?

The college sits in downtown Chicago, putting students at the heart of one of America's major art scenes. About 82% of students come from Illinois, drawn by the urban setting and proximity to galleries, design firms, and cultural institutions. The large city environment provides endless internship and networking opportunities.

Does American Academy of Art College have a strong reputation in the art world?

Founded in 1923, the school has nearly a century of experience training commercial artists and illustrators. Its focus on practical, industry-ready skills has made it a respected name in Chicago's design community. The small size allows for specialized attention in illustration, fine arts, and commercial design programs.