<p>Hi --
Can anyone tell me HONESTLY about the quality and reputation of UMich's (Ann Arbor campus) Art & Design School. I am an art major (photography) and have been accepted to both Michigan and The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). RISD is widely known in the art world as one of the finest art schools in the country, but I am not sure I want to be around only artsy types whose only passion in life is their art. But...I don't want to waste four years in Michigan, if the truth is, their art department really isn't so good. I need honest reliable information as soon as possible. Time is running out. Thanks!</p>
<p>I can't speak specifically to the photography department, and I don't know how to gauge good vs. not-so-good. But I do know that Art & Design has gone through some big changes in recent years. The Dean has revised the curriculum. There are some pluses, such as a strong emphasis on understanding the business of being an artist, and a drive to stay on top of the latest technologies and how they impact and influence art and artists. Other aspects have had more mixed reviews. As I understand it, the new curriculum forces artists to be more well-rounded with a common structured core. Some of them love that, and some don't.</p>
<p>One exciting change is that they created a new gallery on State Street so student work would be seen near central campus by passersby.</p>
<p>I know big things are in the school's future--the dean is a good fundraiser and it sounds as though something interesting/ambitious may be in the works.</p>
<p>If you were going for quality alone, RISD would likely trump Michigan, as you seem to already know. But if you want a more typical college experience with a variety of people, then Michigan would be appealing.</p>
<p>I know someone who recently graduated from art school (textiles) at U Mich, loved it, had an internship in NYC through them, and now works where she had interned and lives in NYC. Very happy. Lives with her boyfriend from Mich. who is in a whole other field.</p>
<p>Michigan's Art program is good but not great. It is certainly not as good or as respected as RISD in Art and Design. However, as a university, Michigan is obviously much more versatile. You have to decide what kind of atmosphere you want...and if you are sure you want to focus purely on art. But Michigan's art program is certainly more than adequate, so it will not be a waste of yout time.</p>