Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)

Rhode Island School of Design is widely known as one of the finest art and design schools in the country. For over 130 years, the school has trained a variety of successful and pioneering artists, from Kara Walker to Josiah McElheny.

Additionally, any of its graduates have made significant achievements in other creative fields: Gus Van Sant, Seth McFarlane and the members of Talking Heads all attended.

The reason for this varied and continuing success is RISD’s commitment to academics as well as creativity. The school supports innovation and research, emphasizing critical thinking as well as artistic growth. RISD also has a partnership with Brown University that allows students from both institutions to cross-enroll in classes, or pursue a five-year BFA/AB program.

There are over 30 specialized programs of study available, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Some are in more traditional subjects like Painting and Sculpture, while others explore more recent developments in art, such as Industrial Design and Interior Architecture. The Graduate School offers the following additional programs:

• Digital and Media
• Landscape Architecture
• Teaching and Learning in Art and Design

Financial aid is available at RISD. Some of the options include government programs, which are primarily based on need, and institutional scholarships, which are primarily based on merit. The Student Financial Services Office can help you find out what you might be eligible for.

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