Are you in the search for a professional art school in the Bay Area? Maybe one that is private? Then, this is the place for you!

The Academy of Art University is a private for-profit art school located in San Francisco. It was founded by Richard S. Stephens in 1929 under the original name the Academy of Advertising Art.

The Academy offers associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in different disciplines such as acting, architecture, fashion, industrial design, motion pictures & television, just to name a few. For more information, visit: www.academyart.edu/.

One particular school at the Academy of Art University that isn’t very common is the School of Jewelry & Metal Arts. According to their website, “At the School of Jewelry & Metal Arts, you will develop the expertise, craftsmanship, and aesthetic skills that will shape you as an artist and designer. Begin by learning the basics of fabrication and casting techniques before moving on to more challenging jewelry making projects. Take a creative and intelligent approach to innovation through an in-depth exploration of metals combined with a variety of materials, including plastic, wood, ceramic, stone, textiles, paper, rubber, cement, resin, and found objects.”

Some of the degrees offered within this discipline are Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Master of Arts, and Master of Fine Arts. An education within this school can lead to numerous career opportunities, such as being a jewelry designer, metalsmith, bench jeweler, a gallery/museum curator, a technical designer, casting specialist, and more. The possibilities are endless!

According to US News, the acceptance rate for the Academy of Art University is 100%, which is not at all selective. If you are an artist and have completed the requirements and can afford the tuition, the door is open to this school.

Standardized testing such as the SAT or ACT is not required for admission. A student’s GPA is not considered an important factor in the admissions process, nor is high school class rank and letters of recommendation, however an admission interview is recommended. The application deadline is rolling, but there is an application fee of $50.

In-state-tuition at the Academy of Art University is around $32,500. This cost includes both tuition and fees, also known as the sticker price, however it is critical that you keep in mind the additional cost of room and board, books and supplies, technology resources, student centers, transportation and personal expenses. But don’t feel overwhelmed! Financial aid is available for students, which can come in the form of student grants, loans, and scholarships. You can fill out the FAFSA form, which opens every October 1, which is recommended by many experts, as every year, thousands of dollars are being unclaimed by students. But make sure to fill it out as soon as possible, as it is first come, first serve!

Some of the most notable alumni from the Academy of Art University include American actress Raven-Symoné, American television personality Lauren Conrad, Chinese painter Zhaoming Wu, and American retired special make-up effects creator and actor Rick Baker.