Moore College of Art and Design logo

Moore College of Art and Design

Accept Rate
60.51%
Grad Rate
62.6%
Enrollment
390
Avg SAT
1303
Tuition
$50,279
Median Salary
$37,839
Overall Grade
C
B-
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
A-
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Moore College of Art & Design offers a tight-knit, women-centered creative community in the heart of Philadelphia. The campus vibe is intensely collaborative, with studio culture driving daily interaction and mentorship. Students describe it as a supportive, hands-on environment focused on professional readiness.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

60.51%
Moderately Selective

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 130375th Pctl
12331411
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctl75th Pctl
2531
1122436

Admissions Tips

Build a strong portfolio that shows process and concept, not just finished pieces. Take art classes in high school and request recommendations from art teachers who can speak to your studio habits. Apply early, visit campus or attend a virtual portfolio review, and write a thoughtful statement of purpose about your creative goals.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

🎯

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1303
40080012001600
School range: 12331411

⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Moore specializes in BFA programs with strengths in illustration, animation, graphic design, fine arts, fashion, and interior design. The curriculum emphasizes studio practice, critique, and portfolio development through the Art & Design Core. Graduate programs like the MFA in Studio Art and MA in Art Education with a focus on social justice provide advanced pathways.

Popular Majors

Visual & Performing Arts
97.3%
Education
2.7%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

62.6%
Graduation Rate
81.4%
Retention Rate
390
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$50,279
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$43,369
After financial aid
Total Cost
$68,583
Cost of attendance/year
40.8%
Receive Pell Grants
84.2%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Philadelphia

Philadelphia offers abundant museums, galleries, and creative agencies that complement Moore’s studio focus. Students tap internships across the city, from design firms to cultural institutions, and enjoy a walkable, transit-connected environment. The campus location provides easy access to the Schuylkill River Trail, events, and a vibrant food scene.

Local Rent Check

$1,451 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Philadelphia
Explore Philadelphia

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$201,116
$0Est. 4 Years: $201,116

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($37,839):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is in Philadelphia’s Museum District near the Parkway museums, with campus security and well-lit corridors. Philadelphia has urban crime variability, so students should use campus safety resources, travel in groups at night, and stay aware of surroundings.

Notable Alumni

Megan Mitchell
Executive Director of the Barnes Foundation and a leader in arts administration.
Marianne Mitchell
Illustrator and educator known for children’s books and community arts engagement.
LaToya M. Rhone
Artist and curator whose work explores identity, community, and contemporary craft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Moore has an acceptance rate around 60.51%. Many admitted students present art coursework and a portfolio, and test scores like SAT are optional; a typical reported composite is around 1303 when submitted.

Yes, Moore offers merit-based scholarships tied to portfolio and academic achievement, plus need-based aid. Students should complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile and review external art/design scholarships.

Career services include portfolio reviews, resume and interview prep, and connections to Philadelphia-area internships. Alumni mentors and employer events help students build networks in design, illustration, and museum sectors.

Moore offers on-campus residence options; availability and cost vary by year. Many students also live in nearby Philadelphia neighborhoods with roommates to manage costs.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Urban Outfitters Tastykake Philadelphia Museum of Art Barnes Foundation Comcast
Smart Start Score
51

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 367
  • In-State Tuition $50,279
  • Zip Code 19103

Gender Ratio

♂ 0% ♀ 100%

The Money Talk

Tuition is high at a private art college, so students should maximize scholarships, grants, and work-studio opportunities. The average early-career earnings are modest relative to cost, so budgeting and professional networking are key. Moore’s career services, portfolio development, and Philadelphia’s creative ecosystem can improve ROI over time.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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📍 Campus Location

📅 Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1–15
Regular Decision Jan 1–15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines →

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

🧮 Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $50,279
Housing (12 mo) $17,412
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $74,891
With avg financial aid:
$43,369/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.