Otis College of Art and Design: Top Creative Hub in Los Angeles

Otis College of Art and Design, founded in 1918 in Los Angeles, is a leading hub for nurturing diverse creative talent, offering BFA and MFA programs across fields like animation, fine arts, fashion design, and digital media with a strong focus on multidisciplinary, community-engaged learning.

Known for its state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant, diverse student body (69% female, 25.5% international), Otis ensures personalized attention with a low student-faculty ratio and a commitment to accessibility, with 98% of students receiving financial aid.

Graduates achieve strong career outcomes, with 96% employed within a year, many in creative fields, reflecting Otis’s mission to dismantle the “starving artist” myth while contributing significantly to the global creative economy, supported by a legacy that includes notable alumni like Kerry James Marshall and Rick Owens, and affiliations with top industry leaders like Disney and Apple.

Otis College of Art and Design: A Hub of Creative Innovation in Los Angeles

Otis College of Art and Design, located in the heart of Los Angeles, stands as a prominent institution dedicated to shaping the next generation of artists and designers. Founded in 1918, Otis has a rich history of nurturing creative talent and preparing diverse students to make a significant impact on the world through their creativity, skill, and vision.

A Legacy of Artistic Excellence

General Harrison Gray Otis, publisher of the Los Angeles Times, bequeathed his home in 1916 for “the advancement of the arts,” leading to the establishment of Otis Art Institute in 1918. Initially offering courses in drawing, painting, illustration, and design, Otis quickly became the largest art school west of Chicago by 1922.

Over the decades, it evolved through various affiliations, including a period with Parsons School of Design, before becoming Otis College of Art and Design. Its history is marked by significant contributions to the art world, including hosting renowned artists like Norman Rockwell as artists-in-residence and being a central force in the California Ceramics Revolution with figures like Peter Voulkos.

Campus and Facilities: A Creative Playground

Otis College’s main five-acre campus is situated on Los Angeles’s Westside, conveniently located near the beach and LAX. The graduate studios are located in the vibrant Creative Corridor of Culver City. The campus boasts a comprehensive array of state-of-the-art facilities designed to support a wide range of artistic disciplines. These include:

Studios: Dedicated spaces for painting, sculpture, and ceramics, equipped with top-tier tools, kilns, and ample workspace.

Digital Labs: Audio+Video Lab with high-end cameras, lighting kits, and screening rooms; a Photography Lab embracing both traditional darkroom techniques and cutting-edge digital photography.

Fabrication Shops: A robust Wood and Metal Shop for various cutting, milling, and welding needs, and a Model Shop with 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines for rapid prototyping.

Printmaking: The Laboratory Press, a fully functioning letterpress studio, and a comprehensive Printmaking Lab offering lithography, intaglio, screen-printing, and Riso printing.

Specialized Spaces: A spacious Lighting Studio (2,400 sq ft) with green and white infinity coves for photo and video projects.

Academic Programs: Nurturing Diverse Creative Paths

Otis College offers a wide range of Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees, emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach and critical thinking. The curriculum features immersive first-year Foundation courses, an expansive Liberal Arts and Sciences curriculum, and a unique Creative Action Integrated Learning program that partners students with community organizations to address real-world challenges.

BFA Degree Programs:

• Animation (2D and 3D motion design)
• Fashion Design (embracing technology and innovation)
• Fine Arts (tailorable with access to various labs and studios)
• Graphic Design (research, critical thinking, image making in 2D, 3D, 4D)
• Illustration
• Product Design (creating physical and digital products and experiences)
• Toy Design
• Digital Media (encompassing Animation, Game & Entertainment Design, and Motion Design)
• Communication Arts (including Graphic Design and Illustration)
• Environmental Design (no longer accepting new applicants)

MFA Degree Programs:

• Fine Arts
• Graphic Design
• Public Practice
• Writing
• Lighting Design
• Art in Social Practice

Students can also choose from 13 minors, including Art History, Book Arts, Creative Writing, Digital Media, Interior Design, Painting, Photography, Sculpture/New Genres, and Sustainability, to further enrich their education. Otis also offers pre-college programs like the “Summer of Art” for aspiring young artists.

Student Body and Demographics: A Diverse and Vibrant Community

Otis College of Art and Design prides itself on its diverse student body. As of recent data (2022-2023), the college has an undergraduate student count of approximately 1,125 and a total student population of around 1,183. Key demographic statistics include:

• Gender: Approximately 69% female, 31% male.
• International Students: Around 25.5% of the total student enrollment, representing 37 different foreign countries.
• Students of Color: Nearly 62% of the student body.
• Race/Ethnicity Breakdown:
  • Non-Resident Alien: 25.5%
  • White: 22.8%
  • Asian: 20.5%
  • Hispanic/Latino: 16.2%
  • Two or More Races: 5.7%
  • Black or African American: 5%
  • Race/Ethnicity Unknown: 3.6%
  • Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.5%
  • American Indian or Alaskan Native: 0.2%
• First-Generation Students: Approximately 30% of Otis students are first-generation.
• Geographic Distribution (New Students Fall 2023): 63% in-state, 19% rest of U.S., 18% international.
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 7:1 or 9:1, depending on the source, ensuring personalized attention.

Admissions and Financial Aid: Making Education Accessible

Otis College has an acceptance rate of approximately 78-84%, making it somewhat selective. While high school GPA, rank, and transcripts are considered, they are not strictly required for admission. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are also considered but not required. A strong portfolio and a personal essay are crucial components of the application. English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 79, PTE 58) is required for international applicants.

Otis is committed to making its education accessible, with approximately 98% of all undergraduate students receiving scholarships and financial aid. The average tuition after scholarships/grants is around $28,000. Financial aid comes from federal, state, and institutional sources, with an average institutional grant of around $13,809 and an average total grant award of $18,443. The total annual cost (tuition, fees, room & board, other expenses) is estimated around $69,532.

Career Outcomes: Preparing Graduates for Success

Otis College actively works to dismantle the “starving artist” myth, demonstrating the profound economic impact of art and design. Its career services are available to students and alumni for life, providing support and resources for career exploration, professional growth, and employment. Key career statistics highlight the success of Otis graduates:

• Employment Rate: 96% of Otis alumni are employed within one year of graduation.
• Creative Field Employment: 88% of graduates are employed within a creative field.
• Job Offers: 88% of recent graduates received employment offers within six months of graduation.

Alumni of Otis College go on to shape the world in various creative industries, from museum and exhibition design to Hollywood and toy design. Notable alumni include:

• Artists: Kerry James Marshall, Judithe Hernández, Carlos Almaraz, Robert Irwin, John Baldessari, Masami Teraoka, Alison Saar, Gajin Fujita, David Hammons, Ken Price, Billy Al Bengston.
• Fashion Designers: Rick Owens.
• Musicians: Kim Gordon (Sonic Youth).
• Others: Tyrus Wong (Disney animator), Evan Spiegel (Snapchat co-founder), Maurice Harris (floral artist).

Otis College graduates are found at leading companies such as Apple, Abercrombie & Fitch, Pixar, DreamWorks, Mattel, Nike, and Disney, among others. The college is recognized for its commitment to LGBTQIA+-inclusive policy, program, and practice, earning a 4/5 on the Campus Pride Index.

Accreditation

Otis College of Art and Design is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), ensuring the highest standards of academic quality in its art and design programs.

Otis College of Art and Design remains a vital institution, continually adapting to the evolving landscape of art and design while upholding its legacy of fostering creativity, critical thinking, and impactful contributions to the global creative economy.

FAQs about Otis College of Art and Design

What is Otis College of Art and Design known for?
It is known for nurturing diverse creative talent in art and design, strong career outcomes, and its innovative, industry-connected programs in Los Angeles.

When was Otis College founded?
Otis College was founded in 1918 in Los Angeles, California.

Who founded Otis College of Art and Design?
It was founded through a bequest by General Harrison Gray Otis, publisher of the Los Angeles Times, for the advancement of the arts.

What degrees does Otis College offer?
Otis offers Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in various creative disciplines.

What BFA programs are available at Otis College?
Programs include Animation, Fashion Design, Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Illustration, Product Design, Toy Design, Digital Media, and Communication Arts.

What MFA programs does Otis College offer?
MFA programs include Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Public Practice, Writing, Lighting Design, and Art in Social Practice.

Does Otis College offer minors?
Yes, Otis offers 13 minors including Art History, Book Arts, Creative Writing, Digital Media, Interior Design, Painting, Photography, Sculpture/New Genres, and Sustainability.

Where is Otis College located?
Otis College’s main campus is on the Westside of Los Angeles, near LAX and the beach, with graduate studios in Culver City.

What facilities are available at Otis College?
Facilities include advanced studios, digital labs, fabrication shops, a printmaking lab, a letterpress studio, and a large lighting studio for photo and video projects.

What is the student population at Otis College?
Approximately 1,183 students, including around 1,125 undergraduates.

What is the student-faculty ratio at Otis College?
The student-faculty ratio is around 7:1 or 9:1, ensuring personalized learning.

How diverse is the student body at Otis College?
About 69% are female, 25.5% are international students from 37 countries, and 62% are students of color.

What is the acceptance rate of Otis College?
Otis College has an acceptance rate of about 78-84%, making it moderately selective.

Is a portfolio required for admission to Otis College?
Yes, a strong portfolio and personal essay are crucial for admission.

Are SAT/ACT scores required at Otis College?
They are considered but not required for admission.

Does Otis College require English proficiency tests for international students?
Yes, IELTS (6.5), TOEFL iBT (79), or PTE (58) scores are required.

Does Otis College offer financial aid?
Yes, 98% of undergraduate students receive scholarships and financial aid.

What is the average tuition after aid at Otis College?
The average tuition after scholarships and grants is around $28,000 annually.

What is the estimated total annual cost at Otis College?
The estimated total annual cost, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, is around $69,532.

What is the employment rate for Otis College graduates?
96% of Otis graduates are employed within one year, with 88% working in creative fields.

Does Otis College provide career support for students?
Yes, career services are available to students and alumni for life, providing guidance and resources.

Who are some notable alumni from Otis College?
Notable alumni include Kerry James Marshall, Rick Owens, John Baldessari, Kim Gordon, and Evan Spiegel.

Which companies hire Otis College graduates?
Graduates work at companies like Apple, Pixar, Disney, DreamWorks, Mattel, Nike, and Abercrombie & Fitch.

Is Otis College LGBTQIA+ inclusive?
Yes, Otis College is recognized for its LGBTQIA+-inclusive policies, earning a 4/5 on the Campus Pride Index.

Is Otis College accredited?
Yes, Otis College is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Does Otis College offer pre-college programs?
Yes, Otis offers programs like “Summer of Art” for aspiring young artists.

What unique programs does Otis College offer?
The Creative Action Integrated Learning program partners students with community organizations to address real-world challenges.

Can first-generation students apply to Otis College?
Yes, around 30% of Otis students are first-generation college students.