Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design (RMCAD) is a private, non-profit art and design college located in Lakewood, Colorado, United States. Founded in 1963, it offers Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degrees in a variety of art and design disciplines. In this article, we will take a closer look at the pros and cons of studying at RMCAD.
Pros:
- Specialization: RMCAD specializes in art and design, which means that students have access to a wide range of programs and courses specifically tailored to their interests. The faculty is made up of experienced artists and designers, who are able to provide personalized instruction and guidance.
- Small class sizes: RMCAD has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, which means that students receive individualized attention from their professors. This allows for more interaction and engagement in class, and students are able to build strong relationships with their instructors.
- Hands-on experience: RMCAD emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience in the classroom. This means that students are encouraged to experiment with different techniques and mediums, and to develop their own unique style. Additionally, RMCAD offers a number of internship opportunities for students, allowing them to gain real-world experience in their chosen field.
- Location: RMCAD is located in the Denver metropolitan area, which offers a vibrant art and culture scene. Students have access to a variety of museums, galleries, and cultural events, which provide opportunities for inspiration and networking.
- Community: RMCAD has a close-knit community of artists and designers, which provides a supportive environment for students to grow and learn. Additionally, RMCAD has a number of student organizations and clubs, which allow students to connect with like-minded individuals and explore their interests outside of the classroom.
Cons:
- Cost: Like many private colleges, RMCAD is expensive. Tuition and fees for the 2022-2023 academic year are $26,100, which does not include the cost of housing, books, or supplies. This can make it difficult for some students to afford a RMCAD education.
- Limited degree options: While RMCAD offers a variety of programs and courses in art and design, it does not offer as many degree options as some larger universities. For example, RMCAD does not offer degrees in fields such as engineering or business.
- Limited extracurricular activities: While RMCAD does have a number of student organizations and clubs, it does not offer the same variety of extracurricular activities as some larger universities. This may be a drawback for students who are looking for a more robust campus life experience.
- Limited diversity: RMCAD has a relatively small student body, which means that there is limited diversity in terms of race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. This can make it difficult for some students to feel fully included in the RMCAD community.
- Limited resources: While RMCAD has a number of resources available to students, such as a library and a career center, these resources may be more limited than those at larger universities. This may make it more difficult for students to access the support they need to succeed academically and professionally.
In conclusion, RMCAD is a great option for students who are passionate about art and design and are looking for a personalized, hands-on education. While the cost and limited degree options may be a drawback for some students, the small class sizes, location, and close-knit community make RMCAD a great choice for those who are looking for a more intimate college experience.