About Otis College of Art and Design
The total cost reaches $73,713 annually, but most students pay considerably less after aid. The average net price drops to $45,864, though families earning under $48,000 typically pay around $40,000. Graduates earn a median of $58,152 ten years after graduation with typical debt of $27,000. Monthly loan payments average $286, making the investment manageable for most art careers. The 82.3% employment rate reflects strong industry connections in LA's creative economy.
Women comprise 69% of the student body, reflecting art school demographics nationwide. The 61% four-year graduation rate is typical for intensive creative programs where students often extend studies for portfolio development. Only 407 students live on campus, so most experience LA's diverse neighborhoods. The Owls compete in club sports rather than NCAA athletics, keeping focus on creative pursuits.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 8:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 15.5%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 61.1%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 60.6%
- Retention Rate
- 72.9%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $58,152
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Applied Arts. | Bachelor | $42,123 |
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | Bachelor | $38,289 |
| Fine and Studio Arts. | Master | $22,667 |
| Fine and Studio Arts. | Bachelor | $18,315 |
Campus Life
Expect year-round shorts and t-shirts weather, though marine layer fog rolls in from the Pacific most mornings. The 69% female student body creates a collaborative rather than competitive atmosphere in the studios. Weekends often mean gallery openings in Venice or West Hollywood, hitting up vintage shops on Melrose, or beach trips to Malibu. The toy design program attracts students who still collect action figures, while fashion majors network at industry events downtown. With 82% employment rates after graduation, students spend considerable time building portfolios and landing internships at nearby entertainment studios, fashion houses, and design firms that define LA's creative economy.
- Setting
- City-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 407 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1918
Campus Safety (2023)
No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 49°–66°F
- July Avg
- 64°–75°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 12.2"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 30.9%
- Women
- 69.1%
- White
- 22.4%
- Black
- 5.6%
- Hispanic
- 21.7%
- Asian
- 17.3%
- In-State Students
- 59.1%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 30.7%
Location
- Address
- Los Angeles, California 90045-3505
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $58,152
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $62,485
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $35,100
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 69.4%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $286/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $27,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Otis College of Art and Design?
Otis College of Art and Design accepts 83.29% of applicants, making it relatively accessible for a specialized art school. The college focuses heavily on portfolio review and artistic potential rather than just test scores. With 1,242 students enrolled, the intimate size allows for personalized attention in creative programs.
How much does Otis College of Art and Design cost after financial aid?
The average net price at Otis is $45,864 per year, though this varies by family income. Students from families earning under $30,000 pay around $40,358 after aid. With total costs reaching $73,713 annually, the school's specialized art education comes at a premium price point typical of private art colleges.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Otis College of Art and Design?
Otis maintains an 8:1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring small class sizes essential for hands-on art instruction. The college is well-known for its fashion design, digital media, and unique toy design programs. Students work closely with practicing artists and industry professionals who bring real-world experience to the studio environment.
What are the job prospects after graduating from Otis College of Art and Design?
Graduates earn a median salary of $58,152 ten years after graduation, with an employment rate of 82.3%. The college has produced notable alumni including Pixar director John Lasseter and filmmaker Tim Burton. Students typically start with lower earnings of $25,700 one year after graduation but see growth as they establish their creative careers.
Where is Otis College of Art and Design located and what is campus life like?
The college sits in Los Angeles, placing students at the heart of the entertainment and fashion industries. With housing capacity for only 407 students out of 1,242 enrolled, most students live off-campus in the active LA area. The retention rate of 72.93% reflects the challenges some students face balancing the demanding creative curriculum with big city living.
Does Otis College of Art and Design have a diverse student body?
Women make up 69.08% of the student body, reflecting trends in art and design education. The college serves a diverse population with 21.74% Hispanic students, 22.38% white students, and 17.31% Asian students. About 30.68% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating the school attracts students from various economic backgrounds despite its high tuition.
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