Quick Facts |
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Public college of art and design |
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Location |
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Boston, MA (Fenway cultural district) |
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Degrees |
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Certificates, Bachelor's, Master's |
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Popular Majors |
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Illustration, Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Animation, Fashion Design, Painting, Photography, Film/Video |
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Total Students |
Undergrad Students |
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2,000 |
1,800 |
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Tuition (2025-2026) |
Room and Board |
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$15,500 (In-State) |
$16,000 |
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Selectivity |
Average Net Price * |
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Moderately Selective (~78% acceptance rate) |
$23,000 |
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Distance from Boston |
School Website |
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In Boston |
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* Average Net Price is the actual average cost to students for attending the college. This is calculated by adding the cost of attendance (tuition, fees and room and board where applicable) and subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid. |
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Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt), founded in 1873 as America's first independent public art college, is a premier institution for visual and applied arts. Located in Boston's Fenway cultural district, MassArt serves approximately 2,000 students with rigorous studio-based programs that blend professional training with liberal arts foundation. The college's historic role in art education continues through innovative curriculum and industry connections.
MassArt offers over 20 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, with excellence in illustration, graphic design, industrial design, animation, fashion design, painting, photography, and film/video.
The college emphasizes studio practice with access to professional facilities and exhibitions.
Graduate programs focus on advanced training in fine arts, design, and art education.
MassArt fields NCAA Division III teams in basketball, soccer, and other sports.
The urban Boston campus integrates historic and modern buildings near major museums.
Contents
Academics
Massachusetts College of Art and Design offers intensive studio-based education in visual and applied arts. Undergraduates choose from over 20 majors, with popular fields including Illustration, Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Animation, Fashion Design, Painting, Photography, and Film/Video. Classes emphasize hands-on practice in professional-grade studios and labs. Small class sizes and faculty mentorship foster creativity and technical mastery. Foundation year builds core skills across disciplines. MassArt's innovative curriculum prepares graduates for creative careers in design, media, and fine arts.
Admission
Admission to MassArt is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate around 78%, welcoming talented artists and designers. Applications require portfolio submission alongside academic records. Holistic review considers artistic potential, GPA, essays, and recommendations. Test-optional policy applies.
Career Outcomes
MassArt graduates achieve strong outcomes in design, illustration, animation, film, and fine arts, benefiting from portfolio development and industry connections in Boston. Career services support internships, exhibitions, and job placement with leading studios and agencies. Many students secure freelance or staff positions during studies. Alumni network provides ongoing opportunities. Graduates often advance to creative leadership or pursue MFAs, empowered by MassArt's professional training and urban location.
Campus
MassArt's urban Boston campus features historic and modern buildings with professional studios, galleries, fabrication labs, and digital media centers in the Fenway cultural district. Facilities include printmaking shops, photography darkrooms, animation suites, and the Design and Media Center. The campus offers residence halls, dining, library, and fitness resources. Easy transit connects to downtown for exhibitions and internships. Proximity to Museum of Fine Arts and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum enriches studies. The creative environment immerses students in art and design.
Student Life
MassArt fosters a vibrant creative community with studio culture, exhibitions, and events celebrating artistic expression. Over 50 clubs cover professional, cultural, and recreational interests. Popular activities include gallery openings, film screenings, and design challenges. Wellness resources and counseling support balance amid intensive studies. Residential life builds connections through themed housing. The diverse student body and urban location offer rich cultural experiences while the campus provides focused creative space.
Graduate Schools
MassArt's graduate programs prepare advanced artists and designers for professional leadership through intensive studio practice and critical inquiry. With low-residency and on-campus options, programs serve emerging professionals in fine arts, design, and art education. Students benefit from dedicated studios, faculty mentorship, exhibitions, and Boston's cultural resources, gaining expertise for innovative careers in contemporary art and design fields.
MassArt Graduate Schools Overview
| Program Area | Key Programs | Focus & Strengths |
| Fine Arts | MFA 2D/3D, Low-Residency | Studio practice. |
| Design | MDes | Innovation. |
| Art Education | MAT | Teaching. |
International Students
Massachusetts College of Art and Design hosts international students from many countries, contributing diverse perspectives to its creative studio environment. International students enrich classes, exhibitions, and collaborations while pursuing professional art and design education. The college provides comprehensive support to help global artists succeed in Boston's cultural hub. For more information about studying at Boston colleges click here.
Admissions
International applicants submit portfolios with English proficiency and transcript evaluations.
Support Services
International office assists with visas, orientation, and cultural integration.
Scholarships and Aid
Merit scholarships available; limited need-based.
Student Life and Opportunities
International students engage in exhibitions and Boston's art scene.
Visiting MassArt
Massachusetts College of Art and Design welcomes prospective students and families to explore its Boston campus through guided tours, information sessions, and open studios that highlight facilities and creative atmosphere. Visitors experience galleries, studios, and student work while learning about programs. Virtual tours and online events available. Register via Admissions website for personalized visits. For more information about visiting Boston colleges click here.
Recommended Hotels Near MassArt
| Hotel | Description | Price Range | Link |
| The Verb Hotel | Boutique in Fenway. | $220–$400 | theverbhotel.com |
| Sheraton Boston | Connected to Prudential. | $280–$500 | marriott.com |
