About Columbus College of Art & Design
Students pay an average of $30,139 after financial aid, while graduates earn a median of $40,664 ten years later. The typical debt load is $27,000, manageable for art school graduates. Monthly loan payments average $286. For families earning under $30,000, the net price drops to $22,182. The 93.2% employment rate shows most graduates find work in their field, though creative careers often start modestly with median first-year earnings of $26,716.
Women make up 72.5% of the student body, typical for art schools. The 9:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personal attention in studio classes. About 73% of students return for sophomore year, and 61% graduate within six years. Campus housing accommodates 456 students in downtown Columbus, giving art students access to galleries, design firms, and the city's growing creative scene.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 9:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 34.5%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 60.6%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 61.3%
- Retention Rate
- 73.3%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $40,664
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | Master | $33,281 |
| Fine and Studio Arts. | Bachelor | $26,353 |
| Design and Applied Arts. | Bachelor | $25,936 |
| Film/Video and Photographic Arts. | Bachelor | $25,525 |
| Graphic Communications. | Bachelor | $20,140 |
Campus Life
Columbus winters demand heavy coats and snow boots, while summers call for light layers during outdoor sketching sessions. Women make up 72.5% of the student body, creating a collaborative atmosphere in shared studio spaces. Students spend weekends at the Short North Arts District galleries, just blocks from campus, or working on projects in 24-hour studio access buildings. The semester calendar allows for intensive project development between fall and spring terms. CCAD's location in Ohio's capital means internships at advertising agencies and design firms are walking distance away. About 66% of students stay in-state after graduation, often launching freelance careers or joining Columbus's growing creative economy.
- Setting
- City-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 456 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
Campus Safety (2023)
7 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 2 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Rape | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 20°–36°F
- July Avg
- 64°–85°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 44.7"
- Annual Snowfall
- 28.2"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 27.5%
- Women
- 72.5%
- White
- 66.6%
- Black
- 10.9%
- Hispanic
- 8.5%
- Asian
- 3.9%
- In-State Students
- 66.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 39.8%
Location
- Address
- Columbus, Ohio 43215
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $40,664
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $40,201
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $30,300
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 58.8%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $286/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $27,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Columbus College of Art & Design?
Columbus College of Art & Design accepts 91% of applicants, making it accessible to most students with serious artistic interests. The school focuses more on portfolio quality and creative potential than traditional academic metrics. This specialized art institution draws students specifically committed to visual arts and design careers.
How much does Columbus College of Art & Design cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $30,139 after aid, though costs vary by family income. Low-income families earning under $30,000 pay around $22,182 annually. The median debt at graduation is $27,000, which translates to monthly loan payments of $286.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Columbus College of Art & Design?
The college maintains a 9:1 student-faculty ratio with just 891 total students enrolled. This intimate setting allows for intensive mentorship in studio-based learning. Students work closely with practicing artists and designers who provide individualized guidance on creative projects.
Does Columbus College of Art & Design have good career outcomes?
Graduates earn a median salary of $40,664 ten years after graduation, with a 93.2% employment rate. The school's focus on practical design skills and industry connections helps students transition into creative careers. However, the 61% six-year graduation rate reflects the demanding nature of art school programs.
Where do students live at Columbus College of Art & Design?
The college houses 456 students in campus dormitories, representing about half of the total enrollment. Room and board costs $11,450 annually for on-campus living. The urban Columbus location provides access to galleries, design firms, and cultural institutions that enhance the educational experience.
What is the gender breakdown at Columbus College of Art & Design?
Women make up 73% of the student body while men represent 28% of enrollment. This gender distribution reflects broader trends in art and design education where female students predominate. The student population is 67% white with growing diversity among Black, Hispanic, and international students.
