Is Academy of Arts in San Francisco good?

Hi Solidad

I agree with the previous answer to your question. Talk to your guidance counselor and look into other art schools and universities that are "non-profit". I'm pretty sure you will find that they offer the same experiences as the 'for-profit" one you are interested in. Student loans can be a real drag on your life once you graduate, and since art careers usually do not offer high salaries, those loans could take many years to pay off.

Remember, a "good"school is one that is a good fit for you--your interests, your skills, your talent, AND your finances. If you say the school is too expensive, and there are no scholarships available, it may not be a "good"school for you.

Best wishes!

The previous answers already addressed the main aspect of your question. So I’d like to give a more personal perspective.

I attended the Academy of Art in San Francisco for my Master of Fine Arts degree. It was expensive and I worked a full time job to pay for part time schooling. It ended up being a significant amount of debt. That being said I did learn a great deal and currently work as an illustrator in the video games industry.

As an alternative to the Academy, I’ve heard a lot of good things about the art program at San Jose State. Throughout my 13 years in the industry I’ve meet many talented graduates from that program who all speak very highly of it.

As a a state school they will definitely be more affordable than a private, for-profit school like the Academy.

In closing, I believe that it is possible to get a quality education at the Academy but there are certainly excellent options elsewhere in the bay area.

I hope that that this information helps. Good luck!

Hi Soledad: I must agree with your counselor on this question. If a school is for profit, it's primary purpose for existing is to gain money not necessarily to educate. Although education does take place, it may sometimes come at the expense of the students. I've witnessed colleges increase tuition each term without adding any ammenities (computers, furniture, activities, etc.) for the students. Students became angry and frustrated because they were required to take out more money in loans which means having to pay back more money later to the lender. If you can find a college that has a low cost, teaches art, and allows you to network with the instructors, build a portfolio and intern, I recommend saving on the money without compromising on the education. If you have your heart set on Academy of Arts in San Francisco, ask them about scholarships and financial assistance to help you minimize loans. They may offer help, most private schools do. Also ask about their graduation rates and employment rates compared to their public school competitors. These numbers will tell you how likely you are to graduate in a reasonable amout of time (saving you time and money) as well as how likely you are to get hired. You can also ask if they offer job placement assistance (do they have someone working there who can help you get a job when you graduate). I wish you the best of luck in your choice!

Soledad G,

I would not recommend this school. It is a for-profit, it is unaccredited and according to an article dated August, 31, 2018 in artnet news, https://news.artnet.com/art-world/academy-art-university-san-francisco-1341521, former recruters have accused the school of defrauding the federal government in student loans. Their graduation rate is about 6% over 4yrs and 27% over 6yrs. It is a four year school. 33% dropout rate in the first year. Their acceptance rate is 100%. If you apply you are accepted. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/academy-of-art-university-7531/rankings

That might explain how nice they were to you. Dropouts forfeit their tuition.

Listen to your counselor. I suggest checking out San Jose State of you want to be in the bay area or looking into schools within and outside of California.