Massachusetts College of Art and Design
The Vibe Check
MassArt buzzes with a raw, creative energy, feeling more like a bustling professional studio than a traditional academic hall. Students are deeply immersed in hands-on making, with the constant hum of presses, kilns, and critiques filling the air. It's a community where individuality is celebrated, and the line between classroom and professional art world often blurs.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
As a public institution of art and design, MassArt's academics are intensely focused on studio practice, providing a rigorous, hands-on education. The faculty are working artists and designers who offer direct, professional mentorship. While research is often practice-based, students have ample opportunities for collaborative projects and exhibition in the college's extensive gallery spaces.
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 Boston
Student life at MassArt is deeply integrated with Boston's vibrant cultural scene. You can spend weekends exploring world-class museums like the MFA and the ICA, catching indie shows in nearby clubs, or getting lost in the unique shops and eateries of the Fenway and Back Bay. The city itself serves as a living lab, offering endless inspiration and internship opportunities.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($43,582):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
MassArt is located in the Fenway neighborhood, which is generally safe but requires the same urban awareness as any major city campus. The college has its own campus police and is well-lit, but students should be cautious when walking alone, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Excellent hands-on studio facilities and specialized equipment
- ✓ Prime location in Boston provides access to internships and a rich arts scene
- ✓ Dedicated and experienced faculty who are working professionals
- ✓ Strong focus on professional practice prepares students for careers
Cons
- ✗ Limited on-campus housing can be a challenge for students
- ✗ The focused curriculum offers fewer options for exploring outside majors
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is very expensive compared to public alternatives
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
MassArt is known for being one of the few publicly-funded independent art colleges in the nation. It is renowned for its rigorous studio-based programs across a wide range of disciplines, including fine arts, design, and media arts. The college's state-of-the-art facilities and its location in Boston's vibrant arts district are also major draws.
With an acceptance rate of 77.47%, MassArt is considered to be moderately selective. While the acceptance rate is not as low as some elite private art schools, admission is not guaranteed. The portfolio and overall application are the most important factors, and the admissions committee looks for strong artistic potential and a clear commitment to a creative discipline.
Campus life at MassArt is centered around creativity. The environment is collaborative yet competitive, with students spending long hours in their studios. While it's a smaller community of 1,812 students, its urban setting means there are no traditional college town boundaries, and students engage with the wider city for social activities and inspiration.
The value depends heavily on residency. For in-state students, the cost is comparable to other public universities, making it a strong investment for a specialized arts education. For out-of-state students, the cost is high, but the nationally recognized degree, prime location, and excellent facilities can provide a valuable launchpad into a creative career. Prospective students should maximize scholarships and aid to make it more affordable.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 2,069
- In-State Tuition $14,960
- Out-of-State $42,180
- Zip Code 02115
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, the value proposition is strong, with tuition significantly lower than the national average for art schools. However, the high sticker price for out-of-state students means that financial aid and scholarships are crucial for affordability. The 10-year median earnings of $43,582 is a solid starting point for a creative career, but prospective students should carefully weigh the net price against their expected post-graduation income.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.