Photograph courtesy Art Academy of Cincinnati
1212 Jackson St. • Cincinnati, OH 45202
(513) 562-6262 • https://artacademy.edu
Founded in 1869, Art Academy of Cincinnati is one of the nation’s oldest private, nonprofit independent colleges of art and design, and Ohio’s oldest college of art and design. For 157 years, AAC has cultivated a living network of artists, designers, and writers who contribute to culture through creative practice and innovation. AAC alumni influence the world—creating artwork exhibited internationally, held in museum collections, leading creative organizations, and advancing contemporary art, design, and visual culture.
Located in Cincinnati’s historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood—one of the Midwest’s most vibrant creative hubs—students are immersed in a community where art, design, and culture extend far beyond the classroom. With a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, students are seen, challenged, and mentored by practicing artists and designers while engaging in rigorous artistic development and professional studio practice.
AAC’s curriculum combines intensive studio learning, contemporary liberal arts theory, and experiential learning opportunities that connect creative practice to life beyond the studio. Through exhibitions, internships, community partnerships, and professional practice experiences, students are challenged to think critically, question deeply, and create work that reflects, critiques, and influences contemporary culture. Whether pursuing careers in the creative industries, building an independent studio practice, or advancing social impact through the arts, students develop the experience, perspective, and professional practice to shape culture and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Become part of a living network of artists, designers, and writers—and carry forward a legacy of creativity, innovation, and cultural impact.
THE STATS
YEAR FOUNDED: 1869 // CURRENT ENROLLMENT: 213 // STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 9:1 // UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED: 9 // MASTER’S DEGREES OFFERED: 1 // SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTISE: Creative Writing, Design, Digital Arts Animation, Illustration, Graphic Design, Painting & Drawing, Photography, Print Media, Sculpture, Master of Arts in Art Education // IN-STATE TUITION: $38,625 // OUT-OF-STATE TUITION: $38,625 // PERCENTAGE OF STUDENTS ON FINANCIAL AID: 100% // TOP AWARDS/RECOGNITIONS: 2026 Best Colleges of Art & Design • 2026 #2 City for street art in the country – USA Today’s 10BEST • 2025 ArtsWave Catalyzing Impact Grant with support from National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)
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