THE ART INSTITUTE OF PHOENIX
Phoenix, Arizona
The Institute
At the Art Institute of Phoenix, students are trained to utilize program-specific technology to bring their creative goals to life. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions using the specialized skills and competencies employers seek. The Art Institute of Phoenix was recognized by the Arizona Private School Association as the 20012002 Outstanding School of the Year.
Nearly 1,220 students seeking associate or bachelors degrees attend the Art Institute of Phoenix. There are 747 men and 469 women enrolled at the Institute, and 1,045 are full-time students. The average class size is 20 students, and the faculty-student ratio is 1:20. Assistance is available to help students with resume writing, networking, and keeping abreast of what employers are looking for in job candidates. Of all 2003 Art Institute of Phoenix graduates available for employment, 88.9 percent were working in a field related to their program of study within six months of graduation and earning an average salary of $27,599.
The Art Institute of Phoenix provides Internet access for students throughout the school. Students may also utilize multiple computer labs, a Learning Resource Center, a student supply store, Career Services Center, and student lounge. Many student organizations and clubs exist to build friendships with like-minded classmates who are also refining their creative talents.
Through a special arrangement with select apartment complexes close to the school, the Art Institute of Phoenix offers students the opportunity to live in furnished apartments just 1 mile away. Utilities are included in the cost of rent. Students share apartments with others studying at the Art Institute of Phoenix.
The Art Institute of Phoenix is accredited by Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) as a branch of the Art Institute of Colorado. The school holds a regular degree granting license and authorization to operate from the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education. The Art Institute of Phoenix has approval to train veterans from the State of Arizona Department of Veterans Services.
Location
Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country. Located in the heart of the beautiful Sonoran Desert, Phoenix is the gateway to cool pine forests, the red rock towers of Sedona, and the Grand Canyon. The city offers sun-filled days and a nightlife that ranges from top comedy and music clubs to the Phoenix Art Museum and Phoenix Symphony Orchestra. Professional sports teams include the Diamondbacks, Suns, Cardinals, and Coyotes.
Majors and Degrees
The Art Institute of Phoenix offers Bachelor of Arts degree programs (thirty-six months) in advertising, culinary arts, digital media production, fashion marketing, game art and design, graphic design, interactive media design, interior design, media arts and animation, simulation and virtual environments, visual effects and motion graphics, and visual and game programming. Associate of Applied Science degree programs (sixteen to twenty-one months) are offered in animation arts and design, culinary arts, graphic design, and video production. Diploma programs (nine months) are available in the art of cooking and baking and pastry.
Academic Programs
The Art Institute of Phoenix is in session year-round, and depending on the program, students graduate in nine to thirty-six months with a diploma, an Associate of Applied Science degree, or a Bachelor of Arts degree in their chosen field.
Academic Facilities
The Art Institute of Phoenix is located in a four-story building in the northwest corner of Phoenix. Students enjoy scenic mountain views from many of the buildings large picture windows. With sun streaming into classrooms and computer laboratories, student creativity flows easily. Classroom and computer laboratory facilities are well-maintained, with a full-time technology manager located on-site. The culinary arts kitchens are spacious and filled with commercial equipment similar to that with which students will work in entry-level positions. Digital media production students have access to a full television studio and control room, along with editing suites to complete their work.
Costs
As of November 2004, tuition was $358 per credit hour. The cost of school-sponsored housing is additional.
Financial Aid
Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. The Art Institute of Phoenix participates in federal, state, and other financial aid programs. Financial aid is divided into three general categories: gift aid, loans, and work study. Gift aid includes grants, scholarships, and other benefits that do not have to be repaid. Loans need to be repaid, but repayment can usually be delayed until several months after the student leaves school. The Art Institute of Phoenix participates in the Federal Work-Study Program and also assists students in finding part-time jobs within the community.
Faculty
The Art Institute of Phoenix offers personal attention from knowledgeable, professional instructors. Many of the faculty members are working professionals who bring practical knowledge and professional experience to the classroom. The faculty members at the Art Institute of Phoenix are available for student appointments to discuss academic issues. Faculty members also offer tutoring to students in need of extra help.
Student Government
The Presidents Club is a school organization that promotes the philosophy of students helping students. Those students selected to join the club assist new students with adjusting to life in Phoenix, studies at the Art Institute of Phoenix, and school activities. Criteria for selection into this club are a minimum GPA of 3.0 at the Art Institute of Phoenix, good attendance, completion of at least one full quarter of study, a desire to assist other students, and responsible behavior.
AdmiOssion Requirements
Many prospective students meet with an assistant director of admissions to discuss future goals and plan the admissions process. For admission to the Art Institute of Phoenix, students are evaluated on the basis of previous education, background, and a demonstrated interest in the selected program. Portfolio submission is encouraged but not required.
As part of the application process, students must write an essay of approximately 150 words stating how an education at the Art Institute of Phoenix will help them to attain their creative goals. Successful admission into the Art Institute of Phoenix and a satisfactory program start is dependent upon the essay; grade point average, as evidenced in transcript evaluation; an evaluation of GED scores; a review of nationally based exams (preferred but not required), such as the SAT or ACT; and a personal interview with an assistant director of admissions.
Application and Information
To obtain an application, make arrangements for an interview, or tour the school, prospective students should contact:
