Art Institute of Pittsburgh
Founded in 1921, The Art Institute of Pittsburgh is a career-oriented creative university with on-campus, online, and hybrid delivery options. To meet the growing demand for flexible, affordable, and individualized education for creatives, the university started its online division in 2000. All course work is designed for maximum flexibility and available 24/7; many students are full- or part-time professionals, adult learners, or just generally keep busy schedules. Among the wide variety of online degrees offered – including in fashion, interior design, marketing, and the culinary arts — graphic and web design tracks are the most prominent and tailored to entry-level professional opportunities.
In addition to more traditional bachelor tracks, The Art Institute offers a wide variety of associate, diploma, and certificate programs. Associates are typically appropriate for students interested in vocational or technical fields and blend major-specific and general education courses. (The major of these are 90 quarter credits, which can transferred into a bachelor degree later.) AI’s diploma and certificate programs are designed for students interested in a creative path, but perhaps not yet willing to invest the time and money to earn a full degree; instead, students develop basic skills and a knowledge base, without theory or general education groundwork. Applicants should have earned a high school diploma or GED, and will submit a short essay in addition to an in-person or phone interview. Transfer credits are dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
The institute offers a wide range of resources before, during, and after enrollment. All students have extensive access to career opportunities, including access to freelancing and internship gigs. Career services also help students build resumes, hone cover letters, and prepare for interviews. After graduation, alumni continue to working alongside advisors to develop a career strategy and refine the job search. Additional student services include a library with access to over 350 databases, tech support, online tutoring, and more. The Art Institute of Pittsburgh is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
- Tuition Per Credit Hour: $470