College for Creative Studies
The Vibe Check
The College for Creative Studies feels like a professional design studio embedded within the creative resurgence of Detroit. It's a hands-on, intensely collaborative environment where students are treated less like undergraduates and more like junior artists and designers. The energy is gritty, innovative, and deeply connected to the city's industrial and artistic soul.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
CCS is a powerhouse for visual and performing arts, with world-class facilities like the Alfred A. Ford Design Center and a renowned transportation design program. The curriculum is built around project-based learning with direct mentorship from faculty who are active industry professionals. Students have ample opportunities for real-world experience through internships with major automotive and design firms.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Detroit
Students immerse themselves in Detroit's vibrant arts and culture scene, exploring institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Museum of Contemporary Art. The city offers a rich tapestry of music, from legendary jazz clubs to the electronic music scene, alongside a growing network of cafes, galleries, and creative spaces. Outdoor activities along the riverwalk and participation in city-wide festivals are popular weekend pastimes.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($44,860):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The college's main campus is located in Detroit's Cultural Center, a well-patrolled and generally safe area with a strong security presence. CCS provides 24/7 campus security and shuttle services, though students should practice urban awareness when venturing off-campus.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Renowned transportation design program with direct industry ties to Detroit's automakers.
- ✓ Extensive hands-on learning with state-of-the-art facilities and professional-grade equipment.
- ✓ Prime location in Detroit's Cultural Center provides access to museums, galleries, and internships.
- ✓ High acceptance rate makes it an accessible option for serious art and design students.
Cons
- ✗ The high tuition cost can lead to significant student debt.
- ✗ The urban setting of Detroit may not be suitable for all students.
- ✗ Graduation rate is below the national average for private institutions.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
CCS is nationally renowned for its Transportation Design program, which is consistently ranked among the best in the world. It is also highly regarded for its programs in Illustration, Entertainment Arts, and User Experience (UX) Design. The college's identity is deeply tied to its focus on preparing artists and designers for professional careers through a rigorous, studio-based curriculum.
No, College for Creative Studies is not considered a highly selective school, with an acceptance rate of 92.76%. This indicates that the primary criterion for admission is a strong portfolio that demonstrates artistic talent and potential, rather than high school grades or test scores alone. Applicants should focus on creating a compelling portfolio to secure admission.
Campus life at CCS is centered around the studio, with a culture of late-night work sessions and collaborative projects. The campus is a singular downtown building, fostering a tight-knit community of artists and designers. Students have access to Detroit's broader cultural scene, and the college organizes events, guest lectures, and exhibitions to enrich the student experience.
The value of a CCS degree depends heavily on the student's major, portfolio quality, and ability to leverage Detroit's industry connections. For fields like transportation design, the return on investment can be high due to strong starting salaries and industry demand. However, for other creative fields, the high tuition requires students to be proactive in securing internships and building a professional network to justify the cost.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,497
- In-State Tuition $51,355
- Zip Code 48202
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a sticker price over $51,000, the degree is a significant investment, but the average net price of $33,342 is more manageable after grants and scholarships. The 10-year median earnings of $44,860 for graduates are solid, especially in creative fields, but require careful consideration against the total debt incurred. The value is maximized by leveraging Detroit's industry connections for internships and early-career opportunities.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.