<p>My son is looking to major in Graphic Design. He does not want to go to an Art School. He is looking for a smaller university with a good graphic design program. Has anyone had any experience with the smaller colleges? When we do searches on College Board, the schools Marywood in Scranton, PA and the College of St. Rose in Albany, NY always come up. Both are NASAD accredited. </p>
<p>I know he says he wants small, however, we are not limiting ourselves. We are going to RIT, UC and CM in a few weeks. I know these schools are tops in their programs. But, for now, we would like some feedback on the smaller schools. Thanks.</p>
<p>Also, although RIT and UC are relatively big schools, due to the work load that exists in design, he will primarily be interfacting with the design school. Most design schools, even at UC and RIT, aren't that big. UC, for example, takes 45 students per major each year.</p>
<p>some of the larger universities that have graphic design programs at least <em>feel</em> like part of a smaller school because of the fact that the departments are very insular. Carnegie Mellon's school of design feels like a tight knit community, RIT maybe a little bit less so, but they do have some kind of a "common interest" theme in dorm selections. Besides those two and Cincinnati, take a closer look at Syracuse and Washington U. (my alma mater, and DEFINITELY it didn't feel like you were getting swallowed up by a huge impersonal university).</p>
<p>since the list of small liberal arts colleges with strong graphic design majors is very limited, maybe try to broaden your horizons a little bit. you might also think about programs in stand alone art schools that have a rep for quality academics (RISD and MICA).</p>
<p>Well...I know of some people there, but after reviewing the online student portfolio...maybe I would advise to check back in a couple of years. The work is below average.</p>
<p>Thanks everyone for your replies. Will check RISD and MICA. Spoke with a family friend last night who graduated UC. She gave me the same information about even though it's a large school, the design program gives it a smaller feel. She couldn't help but rave about the place. The search continues...</p>