Academy of Art University

Established in 1929 by Sunset Magazine's creative director, Richard S. Stephens, Academy of Art University transforms aspiring students into professional artists & designers. He believed that aspiring artists, with proper instruction, hard work & dedication, could learn the skills needed to become professionals. He also believed students should be accepted into an art institution regardless of an art portfolio, and most importantly, an art education should be provided by professional artists. Academy of Art University fosters innovation through a faculty of current industry professionals, state-of-the-art facilities & curriculum in several areas of study. Graduates have been hired by companies like: Apple, EA, Nike, Pixar, Zynga & more.

Through the dedication of current President Dr. Elisa Stephens & Chairman Emeritus Richard A. Stephens, Academy of Art University is keeping pace with emerging technologies & industry trends. The Academy has grown to over 18,000 students & is the largest accredited private art & design university in the nation. Academy of Art University continues its commitment to art & design while maintaining a strong connection to the passion of its founder.