Hi, I’m deciding between Washington University in St. Louis as a communication design major vs Carnegie Mellon as an art major. I was originally set on Wash U when they accepted me weeks ago, but started to reconsider when CMU accepted me yesterday. Can anyone offer any insights about both the schools and their art programs? I’m still leaning toward Wash U, but CMU has a higher art ranking. Wash U seems to have CMU beat in most other categories, though. Thanks!
CMU is a perplexing school. I visited (albeit as a Finance major) and was absolutely taken aback by the beauty of the buildings associated with the art school. As you stated, the art program is highly rated and it’s easy to see that anyone who goes there will receive a top of the line education in the discipline. That being said, the overall vibe of the campus is very CS oriented, in my opinion. Not sure how well art majors assimilate into this culture, but it would be a great question to ask current students. As for WashU, I don’t know much about the art program but I do know they are strong in practically everything. Bottom line: at both institutions you will receive a world-class education so go with the one that fits you better.
Be Careful about Wash. U. I taught there for years. Their policy - happy students. CMU’s policy: educated students.