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College for Creative Studies

United States Full Member Institution

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Mission Statement

The College for Creative Studies nurtures the creativity that is vital to the enrichment of modern culture. The College educates visual artists and designers, knowledgeable in varied fields, who will be leaders in creative professions that shape society and advance economic growth. The College fosters students’ resolve to pursue excellence, act ethically, embrace their responsibilities as citizens of diverse local and global communities, and learn throughout their lives. The College engages in community service by offering opportunities for artistic enrichment and opening career pathways to talented individuals of all ages.

International Role

Nestled in the dynamic city of Detroit, the College for Creative Studies is situated in the United States' only UNESCO City of Design. In the Fall of 2022, we proudly hosted the Cumulus Detroit conference, a testament to our dedication to innovation and collaboration. As part of our commitment to fostering a rich academic environment, we open our doors to visiting international researchers and professors.

Our commitment to global perspectives is reflected in our expanding footprint. Through exchange programs and articulation agreements, we've established connections with the following esteemed institutions across Europe and Asia: Chiba University, Chiba, Japan-Central Academy of Fine Arts, Beijing, China- Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy – FH|Joanneum, Graz, Austria – Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design, Jerusalem – MIT Institute of Design, Pune, India – World University of Design, Delhi – National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan – Pforzheim University, Germany – Strate Ecole de Design. Paris, France –  University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany – UMEA UID (Sweden) – ESAIL (France)- GLASGOW School of Art, Scotland – Eugeniusz Academy of Art and Design, Poland –  ESDIR, Spain.

National Role

The College for Creative Studies is a nonprofit, private college authorized by the Michigan Education Department to grant Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. CCS is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Founded in 1906, the College for Creative Studies has been a leading institution in art and design education with a strong reputation for student success in undergraduate and graduate programs. 

Through Design Core, the College is closely involved with the Detroit Month of Design, which has both a national and global reach.

Main Focus

The College for Creative Studies is known for its exceptional links with industry and the city, providing an excellent education that prepares students for their professional growth in all degree programs – BFA, MFA, MA, and Certification (Art Education). The college prides itself on its artistic and cultural role in the city, and its contribution to design-led transformation through inclusivity and collaboration. The college values professional practice and industry engagement in all areas, and many of our faculty and staff are leaders in their field.

Faculties and Departments

Undergraduate Studies (offering BFA and Certification)

Graduate Studies (offering MFA and MA)

Bachelor Level Programs

Advertising Design
Art Education
Art Practice (Fine Arts)
Communication Design

Craft & Material Studies

  • Ceramics
  • Furniture
  • Fiber & Textiles
  • Glass
  • Metalsmithing & Jewelry

Entertainment Arts

  • Animation
  • Concept Design
  • Game Design

Fashion Design

Film 

Illustration

Interdisciplinary Art and Design
Interior Design
Photography
Product Design
Transportation Design

Master Level Programs

Art Education MA [low residency] 
Color & Materials Design MA/MFA
Transportation Design MA/MFA
User Experience Design MA/MFA

 

Research Activity and Main Areas

In partnership with Design Core, the College for Creative Studies is home to the Detroit City of Design Research Lab, a cohort-based learning model that brings people together to improve lives through inclusive design practices. 
The College is growing the academic research culture. Faculty members and students conduct various applied design research activities through numerous industry- and community-collaboration projects as well as institution-initiated projects.

Doctorate Level Programs

At this time, CCS does not offer doctorate degrees.

Subject Areas for Exchange Students

All art and design majors.

Teaching Languages

English

Semester Dates

Fall Semester 2024: September 3 – December 14

Winter Semester 2025:  January 13 – May 10

Cost of Living Per Month (Studying and Living)

Housing Range 2023-2024:   $3,960 – $4,565 per semester

Meal Plan Range 2023-2024:   $1,450 to $2,900 per academic year

Students

Bachelor: 1285 [2023]
Master: 56 [2024]

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