Overview
Pacific Northwest College of Art is an open admission private four-year institution in Portland, Oregon. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
Pacific Northwest College of Art uses a rolling admissions process, so you can apply throughout the year rather than waiting for specific deadlines. Submit your application through the Common Application or directly through PNCA's website, along with your high school transcripts, a personal statement, and a portfolio of 10-20 pieces of your artwork.
Your portfolio carries the most weight in admissions decisions. Include work that shows your range and technical skills across different media, even if you plan to focus on one area. Digital submissions work fine for most pieces, but if you create large-scale or sculptural work, photograph it carefully with good lighting and multiple angles.
PNCA requires you to declare a specific major when applying, unlike many art schools that offer a foundation year. The college offers undergraduate programs in areas like graphic design, illustration, painting, photography, and sculpture. Graduate programs include a Master of Fine Arts and a Master of Arts in Critical Studies.
The campus sits in Portland's Pearl District, which means you'll be surrounded by galleries, studios, and creative businesses. Most students live off-campus since PNCA doesn't operate traditional residence halls. The college helps connect incoming students with housing resources and roommate matching services for Portland apartments.
Expect small class sizes with direct access to faculty who are working artists themselves. The college operates on a semester system and requires you to complete a senior thesis or capstone project. Financial aid packages often include work-study opportunities at local arts organizations throughout Portland.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $40,846/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $47,126
- Students Receiving Aid
- 44%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 45.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $34,883/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 62.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pacific Northwest College of Art require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Pacific Northwest College of Art has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Pacific Northwest College of Art?
Pacific Northwest College of Art has rolling admissions with priority deadlines of February 1 for fall semester and November 1 for spring semester. Applications are accepted after these dates on a space-available basis.
Does Pacific Northwest College of Art accept transfer students?
Yes, Pacific Northwest College of Art accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants must submit college transcripts and a portfolio along with their application.
What portfolio requirements does Pacific Northwest College of Art have for admission?
Pacific Northwest College of Art requires a portfolio of 10-20 pieces of original artwork that demonstrates technical skill and creative thinking. The portfolio should include work from direct observation and can be submitted digitally through SlideRoom.