Overview

The Visual Development programme at Academy of Art University provides students with a rigorous creative education designed to meet the demands of the modern entertainment industry. This bachelor level course focuses on the intersection of storytelling and artistic design, ensuring that graduates possess the technical proficiency required for professional success. By engaging with a curriculum powered by real-world technology, learners develop a unique creative voice while building a robust body of work.

Why Visual Development at Academy of Art University?

Academy of Art University offers a distinctive "No Barriers" approach to education, meaning that no portfolio or specific test scores are required for admission. The institution is renowned for its industry-active faculty who bring current professional standards directly into the classroom. Students benefit from extensive facilities, including specialised painting studios, equipment labs, and a dedicated bronze foundry. The university’s strong links with global industry clients provide students with unique opportunities for collaboration and professional networking.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 40368 per year
National fee: USD 31224 per year
Local fee: USD 31224 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in artistic principles while allowing for advanced specialisation. Modules may include:

Undergraduate Foundations
Liberal Arts Education
Visual Development
Anatomy
Multimedia
Generative AI
Social Media Management
Art History

Careers with Visual Development

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse roles within the global creative economy. Alumni have successfully secured positions at prestigious organisations such as Disney Theatrical Group, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Lincoln Motor Company. The focus on career-ready portfolios ensures that students can transition into roles such as:

Visual Designer
Technical Designer
Art Director
Concept Artist
Design Manager

The university’s dedicated career services and alumni association provide ongoing support to help graduates navigate the competitive landscape of art and design industries.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Analysis of Form

Digital Media: Digital Manipulation

Freshman Symposium: Artistic Resilience

History of Visual Development

Color and Design

Figure Drawing

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-24 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-19 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Art History View 1636 other Bachelors in Visual Arts in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Official, sealed copy of your high school transcript or GED
High school diploma with graduation date
Official, sealed copy of a completed Bachelor’s degree transcript
Signed Home School Program Certification form and transcripts
California High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE) letter

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

40368 USD / year

≈ 40368 USD / year
Out-of-State

31224 USD / year

≈ 31224 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

31224 USD / year

≈ 31224 USD / year

Additional Details

Undergraduate Tuition (Domestic Students): $1,239/unit – 3 units per class

Undergraduate Tuition (International Students): $1,463/unit – 3 units per class

Living costs

San Francisco

United States

2206 - 4119 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Visual Development.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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