<p>Hello! I am a top student with a passion for art. Here's my problem: I desire an academically rigorous/selective university that also is strong in art. I'm having trouble finding one. Many of the "southern Ivys" and similar schools have one vague art program that has few, if any, specializations. Specifically I want to go into graphic design. But anyway, we can keep the discussion general as opposed to just about me, since I'm sure there are other smart artists out there. So, do you know of any schools with good academic AND art reputations??</p>
<p>Brandeis University, Washington University, Tufs/School of the Museum of Fine Arts program, Risd/Brown, University of Pennsylvania</p>
<p>There are many academically strong small liberal arts colleges that also have strong studio art (and art history). The focus, for the most part, is on traditional fine art – drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography – and less on graphic art or new media.</p>
<p>Williams, Wesleyan, Hamilton, Conn College, Vassar, Skidmore, Kenyon, Oberlin. If you are female, Smith. </p>
<p>In addition to book mama’s list of medium privates I’d add Yale and CMU. I’d also note that Brown has a good art department of its own, independent of RISD.</p>
<p>Colleges, even the most selective, need artists, just as they need football players and musicians, so be sure to submit an art portfolio with your application.</p>
<p>Take a look here too: [Visual</a> Arts and Film Majors - College Confidential](<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/visual-arts-film-majors/]Visual”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/visual-arts-film-majors/)</p>
<p>Bump - any other suggestions, particularly in the south?</p>