Reviews

MCAD is really great in its curriculum - freshmen have to take mostly foundation classes, but they all pertain to your major . . . meaning, there are no science or math courses you are required to take. Classes are small - usually less than 20 people, meaning you get a lot of one-on-one with the teacher. I found this especially helpful in my drawing classes, where pretty much every day I got a lot of advice on how to improve my technique and mindset toward drawing. Critiques can be especially helpful in developing.

I definitely enjoy MCAD - if I didn't, I wouldn't be going back for my second year. The classes are awesome, most of the teachers are great, Minneapolis is full of things to do, and the students are all friendly people.

MCAD is arts-accredited, which I hear is important; they also keep up with technology (for you film/graphic design/whatever major that works with computers out there). Some people feel that MCAD tries to instill a certain idea about art into its students; but in my opinion, the teachers all have different views they share with the students, which is interesting and important to developing your own ideas.

If you really love art, you should have no problem getting in to MCAD. There are also a lot of scholarships for good grades and talent, so the price tag of tuition can be reduced significantly.

In my opinion, MCAD is the perfect art school. It's small(ish) but concentrated on the arts; so if you know you would like a career in the arts, this school is the living end. Even if you don't know which specific field you want to be in, MCAD is good for developing talent and learning which type of art you would be most successful in.

Also, many of my friends are not from the Midwest - people from all over the country come to MCAD. I know people from Texas, Oregon, California, all over the country. MCAD could stand for more diversity in race and ethnicity; but other than that, there are a lot of different personalities on campus.

As for the student body itself, it's really hard to pinpoint one type of student to define the whole body. People are so different from each other - not everyone is a serious artist, and a lot of fun people come to MCAD. There are comic geeks, sculptors, illustrators, filmmakers, lazy people (me), crazy people, pretty much any kind of person could find a place for themself here.

The atmosphere is just really huge. People are going out and making art even outside of class, and you're being pushed harder than ever before, and it's just this amazing environment that pushes you to do your best. It's transformed me already.

Get your homework done as soon as you get it. Don't wait around and do it later, because your other classes will also assign huge projects and you won't be able to get them all done Sunday night. Just do them at the first opportunity, otherwise you'll be swamped.

It won't kill you, but you do need to manage your time extremely well, especially if you're working. You're going to have big assignments from every class, often that will take five hours or more each. You have to work really hard.

The people are all really awesome, and the dorms are basically apartments. There's a kitchen, living room, dining room, bathroom, and bedrooms, just in your dorm (laundry facilities are downstairs). Weekly they take students to the store. You're set up with everything you need.

The food isn't bad. There is no food. Well, there's a cafe kinda place, but it's just like a normal cafe, with normal prices. You can't eat there every day any more than you could go out to the pizza parlor every day. But you do have your own kitchen, and there are stores, and if you really need it a couple blocks down is Eat Street.

There are a million clubs, and if it doesn't exist (unlikely) you can start one. Housing organizes all sorts of fun parties, and there's a TV with cable in the workout room. Everyone has a personal computer. There's no shortage of fun things you can do. You just have to be careful and get the work done first.

I've been here less than a week and I've already learned how to make a movie in photoshop and a still life, not to mention learning stuff in my general classes as well. It is really expensive, but you learn a lot, and there are extensive scholarships. It's totally worth it.

There's a free shelf on campus where you can leave things you don't want and take things you need. Every weekend, the school takes kids in vans to the store. The Comic Art majors have one big studio where they all work together (yes, they have a comics major). Oh, and every new student gets a laptop. Just saying.

Hardworking, organized, creative. Normal people will thrive too. Shy people will have a hard time because they're going to critique your stuff in front of everyone, and participation is important. But really, tough. This is too cool a school to let your shyness stop you.

Like I said, there's a million clubs, and you can start your own. I plan to join the Musical Club (which puts them on, twice a year, doesn't just watch them) and Comic Heads (holy crap they have booths at conventions, how cool is that) at the very least.

Doesn't exist. There's no sports or anything either, but I'm actually glad about that -- more focus is put on the arts and school that way, and if you really need it there are sports gigs out in town.

The Campus Safety people patrol all the time, and if you ask they'll walk you back to a safe place like your dorm or your car or whatever. There are phones on campus for calling them, too. It's just really awesome and safe.

MCAD has an excellent selection of degrees and programs to choose from.

It is a great way of making connections for internships and careers.

It is one of the best art schools in the region.

Apply as early as possible to get merit scholarships.

The staff are really helpful so if you have questions don't be afraid to ask.

Definitely attend one of their campus visits. They're free and extremely informative. This is the best way to decide if this is the right school for you.

At MCAD they encouraged students put their all into their work, work with others in different degrees, and challenge yourself.

There are apartment buildings on campus that are seconds away from class. You can literary spend an entire break in your dorm and not be late to class because it's just a short walk away.
Apartments have kitchens too so you can cook your whole meals and save money by not going out to eat!

They have a sizable cafeteria. MCAD is a few blocks away from Nicolette Ave. (Aka Eat Street) with a wealth of food options from all around the world.

There are multiple student lead clubs on campus. Everything from Anime Club to Movie Night Club, there's something for everyone. And if not you can start your own club!

And it's on the same campus as the MIA.

MCAD is a bit pricey but they're tons of merit based scholarships and financial aid when you apply, as well as while your attending.

The annual Black and White Ball

Art lovers/Artists.

Prospective film makers.

Entrepreneurs.

Really any student who is interested in creativity.

Numerous clubs for every signal type of person. There are events like the MCAD Art Sale and many others popping up.

The security center is on the ground floor and overlooks the gallery area.

mcad has a nice environment and friendly staff and students. it encourages students to work hard and pushes them to their best to produce great work. it's certainly for people who are serious about their work.

be ready to work hard, and maybe not sleep as much as you're used to. not every class is going to be something that you love, but every class will teach you something that you'll use down the road! for instance, not doing your work at the last minute.

mcad isn't easy; you have to be devoted to your art, and really try. it's not like high school where you could just scoot on by. but the staff and students are very helpful, and do their best to make sure you succeed.

personally, i've loved the dorm life at mcad. the dorms themselves are nice, come furnished and unfurnished, and are a comfortable size. they're basically small apartments. the ras have been friendly and helpful if any problems arise, and generally your neighbors are quiet when it becomes later in the night.

the cafe in the school has good food, that isn't super expensive. sometimes, the food is a little off, or really greasy, but they have a good selection of food for both for vegetarians and vegans, too. the food is cooked there on location, and specialized per what you order.

there are a lot of student run activities, clubs, plays, as well as school run dances and trips. it's not difficult to make a club, or find an already existing club that shares your interests. there are also lots of places close by to go to for fun.

mcad is an expensive school, but what you learn, the experiences you have, and the connections you make are worth it.

there are a lot of clubs at mcad, all student run. clubs are easily made, and clubs are allowed so-much money to do activities and have prizes, too.

the security officers are normally patrolling around the campus at night, and the main building is locked past certain hours where you have to be let in, and you have to sign in. there are also call stations around the outside of the school, in case anything does happen. the campus itself is well lit and night, and the dorms are locked so only someone with a key can open the door from the outside.

MCAD is home to a wonderful, tight-knit community of passionate artistic-minded individuals. Every day at MCAD, I feel accepted-- a part of a larger group-- and pushed to my fullest potential as an artist. MCAD will help you become the greatest artist, learner, and person that you can possibly be.

This is a school for artists who are serious about pursuing their craft in the workspace and in the world. MCAD will help you appreciate all kinds of people, places, thoughts, processes, techniques and styles of work. Student life at MCAD is always fun and they do everything they can to keep you from stressing out too badly!

MCAD's classes are long and challenging. Homework is difficult but always helps you grow. Critiques from your teachers and peers are always enlightening, and your teachers will never hesitate to help you with anything you may need.

The dorms are converted apartments, meaning you and your roommates get a lot of space to yourselves. Each dorm-apartment has a full kitchen and bathroom. The buildings have community laundry rooms. Your RA will always help you feel safe and comfortable in your dorm.

If cooking in your dorm isn't for you, there is a nice cafeteria on-campus. It can get a little pricey, but you can buy a meal card ahead of time to help you out (plus, you always get a ticket that eventually gives you a free meal). The meal options aren't bad! There are also lots of local restaurants that are amazing. I recommend going to pho noodle soup restaurants in the winter.

MCAD holds weekly events and student-run clubs that are fun and more often than not have free snacks. In fact, I don't remember a week passing that didn't have at least four events going on! There are lots of parties, of course, and so much to do in the cities. It's difficult to get bored.

MCAD tuition is certainly very expensive, but I can personally assure you that you are getting quality education from people who are passionate about their art (and who currently work in their chosen field). The facilities are high-quality, and the studios are spacious and make excellent workspaces.

Art students, of course! Open-minded thinkers and people from any and all backgrounds.

There's clubs for anything, and if you don't find a club that's right for you, talk to a teacher and start one yourself!

MCAD doesn't have any fraternities or sororities.

MCAD is a well known private art college.
People that attend MCAD love art and love what they do.
If you're not one of these people then MCAD isn't for you.

Don't be too nervous. Sure it's basically a new school and you don't know anyone. But just be yourself and you'll find friends who you can get along with and who share your interests. Believe me, once you pick your major you'll have plenty of people to talk to and interact with. As long as you're not a jerk.

It's best for you and your teachers if you show up to class, put in an effort and prove that you want to be going to school at MCAD. The teachers at MCAD are obviously there to teach you and unlike high school that's all they're there for. They aren't meant to babysit you and send you and email asking why weren't you in class today?. If you can't show up to class and you don't take your personal time to either send an email or visit their offices in person then they are going to assume you don't care about their class and if you don't care why should they.

I can't say I personally know much about dorm life being that I am a commuter student. However from hanging out with friends who live on campus I can say that the dorms are well kept up with and if any maintenance issues arise they are taken care of relatively quickly, as long as you notify the janitorial staff. Also, students who live on campus most often have an easier time than those who commute because they don't have to worry about traveling very far to get home. On the other hand when they need supplies which they need to buy off campus, then things get a little more difficult for them.

Within less than two blocks from campus you can come across a range of restaurants. From The Bad Waitress Coffee Shop to Pho Hoe Vietnamese Restaurant and Christos Greek Restaurant to A Slice Of New York. And along with food there's coffee at the Spyhouse Coffee Shop.

There are plenty of things to do for fun, depending on what you want to do. I would generally suggest searching for places within Minneapolis that interest you and go to or go do them. However MCAD does have an extensive list of clubs and activities you can participate in, either on or off campus.

MCAD is a private college, a private ART college so yes it is quite spend-y. But I do believe it is worth the price to go to a school like MCAD with it's staff and faculty who have worked in their respective fields who have hands on experience and can use that knowledge to teach their students, thus preparing them a little better. On top of the wonderful faculty the dorms for MCAD are all located on campus, there is a Bistro which has a wide range of delicious and nutritious food, there are several restaurants within walking distance of campus, the school provides weekly trips to nearby grocery stores for students living on campus. Also on several occasions the school provides free food during events held at MCAD.

I myself am unaware if there are any unusual traditions or locations on campus.

MCAD, being an art college, is obviously great for students who are artistically talented or artistically inclined. And it doesn't matter your background, religion, ethnicity, orientation, etc because you are guaranteed to find people you can relate to here and who relate to you.

MCAD has a full range of clubs and activities for students to do. From sports clubs to Pokemon fan clubs. Also you can pretty much make up your own club, you just need members and approval.

Campus safety is wonderful. Between the security personnel of the school and of the Minneapolis Institute of Arts next door the school security sweeps a several block range around the school. Students can also request to be driven home, if they live within a determined range, if they have needed to stay late and have no other safe way home.

It's a great school to get exposure in the real world while in school. There are a lot of opportunities. You also make a lot of friends and get a lot of networking as well.

Work hard. Always try and you will get good grades. Take risks but make sure you follow the guidelines.

Classes are tough, but you learn a lot. You also get real experience because most of the teachers are in your chosen field. Don't waste your time or your classmates' time if you don't have anything done, make sure you get something done. You also get rewarded for good grades so try hard!

I don't live on campus. What I have heard though is that it's a good way to meet people. It's also right next to MCAD, so it's very convenient!

The cafeteria is a good place to get food when you are hungry, and the prices are reasonable. If you don't like the cafeteria food there are plenty of restaurants around. Also, downtown Minneapolis is pretty close as well.

There are many events and guest speakers that come to MCAD. There are many clubs and other fun activities as well. If nothing is going on at MCAD, downtown Minneapolis is a few blocks away with many venues and clubs to go to.

MCAD is worth every penny!

MCAD is for anyone who might think a little differently or want to learn how to think differently.

mcad has absolutely amazing facilities for students to use for their benefit and great connections to clients. their instructors have knowledge about the courses they are teaching and are always available to talk with outside of class.

students should always be on top of your work and projects, do not slack. as well you should always take advantage of what mcad has to offer; guest speakers, career services and in general your instructors are great to talk to.

mcad expects the best out of it's students and in return does it's best to help students in any way they can and challenge their knowledge as well as present relevant course content.

the dorms at mcad are secured buildings in the form of 1,2,3, or 4 bedroom apartments. they are older buildings but they are quite nice and students do not have to worry about maintenance or a monthly rent payment. laundry facilities are on site in each building as well.

mcad has a fantastic cafeteria that offers many options at reasonable prices for students. there are many healthy options including vegetarian menu items. all apartments are equipped with range ovens and students are also encouraged to cook on their own.

there are numerous activities weekly at mcad ranging from movie and game nights, yoga, sports groups, crafts and many others. students are also encouraged to develop their own groups and get involved in as many as they can.

the tuition is a little pricy at mcad, but the education that you are receiving along with the connections you make, make it worth the money spent.

the campus safety at mcad is very good. all buildings are secured and they patrol the campus regularly, including at night. they also offer a emergency number in case of any disturbances and offer to walk students to and from the campus if asked.

I have only been at MCAD for one semester but I have learned so much already! You have to work very hard to keep up with all the projects but it's worth it. You will improve in your artwork!

If you are undecided in what you want to major in, don't stress about it too much. MCAD doesn't have you declare your major until you have completed three semesters there. There are plenty of classes to take for you to explore what you're interested in!

I have never been more challenged and I love it! MCAD is very rigorous-you definitely need to manage your time wisely to keep ahead of things. There are weekly projects in almost every class. Papers, tests, projects, etc. All classes have a way of critiquing your work-whether it's a class critique or a test.

There are very nice apartments on campus and off campus. The on-campus apartments are close to the two main buildings-you do not have to walk far which is nice when you're carrying big drawing portfolios. The apartments are spacious-you can either get them unfurnished or furnished. You can actually have privacy compared to the average dorm by having your own personal bathroom, shared with your roommates. (Instead of twenty-some girls living on a dorm floor.)

There is a little bistro in the Main Building, a lot of people go there between classes. If you live on campus you pretty much provide your own food-the apartments have a small kitchen with a stove, oven, fridge, sink, etc. So factoring expenses for food is very important if you're considering this school. If you don't want to cook Eat Street is walking distance from campus, giving one a variety of foods to choose from. There is a really nice local coffee shop, The Nicollet, which has great sandwiches and coffee.

There a number of clubs to join on campus-from Zombie Appreciation Club, Gay + Club, Animation Club, to Recess Club, Heckle the Movie Club...the list goes on and on! The school puts on a variety of events as well. They've had movie nights, a petting zoo, trips to an apple orchard, art exhibit openings, etc. There is plenty to do! If you want to walk downtown, that is also possible...there's plenty of places to go eat! Also, you can take the bus to the Light Rail to go the MOA.

MCAD is a private art school so it is spendy! But there are scholarships you can apply for and there is work study at this school too. Work study is very nice to have if you are eligible. I think the money is definitely worth going here-you learn so much, improve your skills and work, and you can meet some very inspiring artists!

MCAD has a lovely Thanksgiving feast right before Thanksgiving break. It feels like Hogwarts and it is simply lovely! The school hosts some great events!

There a number of clubs to join on campus-from Zombie Appreciation Club, Gay+ Club, Animation Club, to Recess Club, Heckle the Movie Club...the list goes on and on. The school puts on a variety of events as well. They've had movie nights, a petting zoo, trips to an apple orchard, art exhibit openings, etc. Student Affairs keeps you updated weekly with events that are going on on and off campus.

There unfortunately is no Greek Life at MCAD.

The Campus Safety is very trustworthy and I feel very safe on campus. There is always at least two people on duty at the front desk everyday, where they keep the Main Building open 24 hours. Students have to check in to get in the building after 8 PM, which makes it seem very safe. If you need a ride anywhere late at night Campus Safety will take you if you need it. They are friendly-they smile and say hi to you.