<p>I was accepted as an undergrad into SAIC [gave me 60k] , Pratt [60k], Parsons [56 k], NYU [6 k], USC [ waiting to hear back about financial aid], and RISD [ if they give me the same amount of financial aid plus scholarship money then 150 k] . Right now I am having a tough decision choosing between RISD, USC, NYU, and Parsons. I am looking to major in graphic design or something along those lines... Location is another big component as well as the strength of the program; that being said, I think that my best options are RISD and USC. RISD is well... RISD! And I've heard that USC is pretty strong when it comes to design. RISD and USC are completely different schools and experiences! </p>
<p>Am I making a mistake in even considering anything other than RISD?</p>
<p>Can anyone elaborate in the strength of these art programs. I've done tons of research but I still feel like I don't know much about what I would gain from all of these different schools!</p>
<p>Yeah, I have a similar decision to make but between RISD and NYU. Like you said RISD is RISD. If someone could post with info about the art programs at these schools, it would be very helpful.</p>
<p>Well considering you are majoring in graphic design, I’d say RISD without a doubt is better than USC. It has a stronger program but if that was your financial aid at RISD, then USC will probably give you better aid. If money is a problem, it’s a harder decision. If not, its an easy one. I’m not saying that USC has a bad graphic design program, but graphic design is not what its known for.</p>
<p>I visited all of these schools this week except USC and I made my decision. I’m going to RISD! I’m still not sure if I’m going love Providence as much as I have come to love RISD because I always hoped to end up in a big city like NYC but I’m still very excited about my choice. By visiting the school I finally realized that the facilities and opportunities offered at RISD do not even come close to those offered at the other schools!</p>
<p>TokioKawaii, if you applied to the studio art program at NYU then you should know that they are EXTREMELY traditional. What I mean is that they do not offer any graphic design and none or very little “media and design” courses. Also, you never declare a real major or have a concentration. So pretty much you just take painting, sculpture, drawing, etc classes all four years. Personally that is not what I was looking for at all.</p>
<p>thx macfer. I visited RISD and NYU last weekend and I am now leaning more towards RISD. Just hoping now that I get outside scholarships because NYU is currently the most affordable.</p>