.jpg)
For students who have a passion for creativity and design, Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) is worth putting on your list of colleges to consider. The school offers a choice of learning options in art and design with 11 undergraduate programs in interior design, photography, fashion design, interior design illustration, graphic design, animation, and game art.
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) q, RMCAD is located in Denver, Colorado. The college was founded 60 years ago by Phillip J. Steele, whose mission was to make RMCAD a “community of creatives” that would instill in students a passion for creativity, innovation, and a desire for lifelong learning. He sought to nurture the individual talent of each student and to integrate critical thinking skills and analysis into their education. He also inspired them to contribute to the local, global, and professional communities in socially responsible ways.
Making Creative Careers a Reality
Steele’s mission continues today - allowing the college to stay focused and inspired, no matter what challenges it may face. RMCAD strives to make creative careers a reality for its students. Whether through its supportive community, expert faculty, or flexible learning options, the college works to remove barriers so that students can focus on doing what they love.
The college is committed to fostering a dynamic, community-oriented environment that values diversity, inclusivity, and professional growth. Its mission is to inspire a passion for critical thinking, preparing students to be influential forces in their industries and communities. RMCAD aims to meet students where they are by offering art and design degrees on campus and online.
Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design has a diverse student body and was recently recognized by niche.com as the 6th most diverse college in Colorado. In keeping with the mission of its founder, Philip J. Steele, RMCAD believes that everyone should have the opportunity to study art. Because of this, the Student Learning Center offers free tutoring services to students who need academic support. Many RMCAD students have responsibilities outside of school. They may be parents caring for their own aging parents, or find it necessary to work while in school. RMCAD’s online classes allow students to study when it’s convenient for them. For students who need financial support, the financial aid department helps them with scholarships, grants, loans, and payment plans to make their degrees achievable.
Creativity Thrives Online and on Campus
RMCAD has seen great growth in its online programs over the last few years, and it expects to see the trend continue. At the same time, the college is investing in its campus experience with the goal of maintaining a vibrant and lively environment for students.
While there have been stories in the media about declining college enrollment, RMCAD has seen an increase in enrollment. Staying true to its roots in art and design, supporting students whether they choose to study in person or online, and always putting students first in the decision-making process.
The college believes in close collaboration and communication, staying in touch with students, alumni, and industry partners via newsletters, social media, event invitations, and personal outreach. The Career and Alumni Services office connects students and alumni with career opportunities with industry partners. They also offer faculty and alumni workshops that students are invited to attend.
Lifelong Learning for Graduates
As part of its commitment to lifelong learning, the college created RMCAD Renew, which offers graduates of RMCAD’s BFA degree programs, the opportunity to audit (attend without grade or credit) the most current course offerings within their original degree program.
The college is keenly interested in what students have to say. Involving students is key to evolving and expanding in the areas that interest students most and that enhance their educational experience. RMCAD collects feedback via public reviews, student and staff/faculty engagement surveys, and from RMCAD student advisors. Feedback is then used during strategic planning sessions to ultimately improve the student experience and that of the faculty and staff who work at RMCAD.
RMCAD’s values underscore the importance of student-centered education, professional and creative development, and an inclusive community that celebrates varying perspectives. The college strives to create an equitable and transparent environment, using data-driven decision-making to guide its growth and evolution. Through a strong commitment to innovation and excellence, RMCAD prepares its students to succeed in multidisciplinary careers and contribute meaningfully to the art and design industries and society at large.
A Vision for the Future
Looking toward the future, the college plans to launch new art and design programs to expand its reach and serve a broader student market. While still in the discovery phase of this process, RMCAD is excited to expand its offerings to help more students find their path to a creative career. Some of the options the college is exploring range from additional BFA degrees, and BA degrees, to new certificate programs – all with the intention of meeting students where they are, whether it’s on campus or online.
RMCAD’s vision is to become a major university known for attracting a diverse student body that makes a global impact. The college’s strategic plan, RMCAD RISE (Reflect, Innovate, Serve, and Evolve), outlines a five-year roadmap to advance educational excellence, student success, and community engagement. This plan includes priorities such as educational innovation, student services, career readiness, and fostering a supportive employee culture.
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design offers some good news for current and prospective students - they are holding the line on tuition - there will not be a tuition increase for the 2025-2026 academic year. A decision that makes the choice for creative education at RMCAD even more compelling.
