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University of the Arts

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania · Private (nonprofit)

FindU Grade

BValue
N/ACampus
A-Academics
CAdmissions
A-Student Life
B+Overall

About

University of the Arts is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 1,064 students.

uarts.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$54,290
Out-of-state tuition$54,290
Room & board$19,028
Avg aid package$25,460
Students receiving aid33%
Pell grant recipients33%

Full-time tuition was approximately $50,950, with on-campus housing averaging $11,590 per year. The university awarded over $32,000,000 in scholarships and grants annually, benefiting nearly 80% of students eligible for financial aid. Grant aid was also available for study abroad and graduate studies, with about a quarter of students participating in the federal work-study program.

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Admissions

Application info

Acceptance rate78%
Average GPA3.15
Student–faculty ratio7:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$60

The University of the Arts had a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records. The acceptance rate ranged from 80-89%, making it a less selective institution. Applicants were required to submit essays and portfolios, and interviews were recommended.

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Academics

Graduation rate68%
Retention rate81%
Student–faculty ratio7:1
Full-time faculty25%

The University of the Arts offered a dynamic, collaborative community where students from diverse disciplines interacted. The curriculum emphasized hands-on learning, critical thinking, and creative insight, with a focus on developing innovative and creative leaders. Students could explore interests across traditional boundaries, with 20 minors open to all undergraduates.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$38,252
Avg starting salary$23,700
Job placement rate93%
Earn more than HS grad45%
Economic mobility65%
Loan default (3 yr)4%
Loan repayment (3 yr)63%

UArts aimed to prepare students for successful careers in the arts, design, and related fields, with opportunities for internships in various creative industries. Graduates pursued careers in advertising, web development, TV and radio, theater, dance, galleries, and private artist studios. However, median earnings six years after graduation were around $32,600, and the graduation rate was 66%.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
1,064Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 66%Male 34%
52% WhiteRacial diversity
White 52%Black 19%Hispanic 15%Asian 4%Other 9%
Campus housingYes

UArts provided a welcoming community for artists, designers, performers, and writers in the heart of Philadelphia's cultural district. With over 25 active student clubs and organizations, students had opportunities to engage in identity-based, recreational, and arts-specific activities. The campus offered a vibrant urban experience with access to cultural events and city amenities.

Student reviews

Professors

Student

Classes are challenging & very beneficial, and I improved a lot. My professors were engaging and very informative. They help all their students and deserve a raise!

Current Student

be prepared for a lot of homework depending on your major... if your a CAD or a Music Student expect a lot of homework, if your a dancer expect a lot of practice sessions.

Current Student

Expect a challenge as well as a unique learning and performing environment.

Campus and vibes

Current Student

Come with an open mind and a great attitude. Prepare to learn how little you actually know and to be inspired by everyone from the drum majors to the photography majors.

Current Student

Get involved, get out and meet everyone. Connections are important. Go to class, that's where you learn and grow. And most importantly, be yourself! Your art is unique so don't give up.

Current Student

Apply and audition early.

Current Student

Great school for becoming a better person and Musician.

Cost and value

Student

Art school is a scam. If you haven’t been preparing for a career in the arts since you were 5, or have connections within the industry, please do not go to art school, unless you’d like to be unemployed and in debt. Just look at the graduates on LinkedIn.

Current Student

Don't be afraid of the price tag, apply and go for financial aid. It is a great school to attend. The programs are amazing and challenging.

Current Student

My advice would be to really be dedicated to whatever you choose. There are those few students who show no care at all towards their education which they are paying money for. Uarts is such a great learning opportunity that should not be wasted. Also talk with your financial aid councilor if you need financial help. Mine helped me with getting through first semester, and they are all really helpful.

About University of the Arts

The University of the Arts area was reported to be relatively unsafe, with a rather poor rating for campus crime. However, the university provided 24-hour security patrols, campus emergency phones, and a mobile campus emergency alert system.

UArts offered an honors program that provided opportunities for talented students to pursue their academic interests in greater depth. The program included interdisciplinary courses, honors seminars, and independent projects, fostering a community of committed scholars.

International applicants were eligible to apply for enrollment at UArts. The university provided support for international students, including visa assistance and cultural resources. The diverse student community included individuals from 18 foreign countries.

Endowment$62,435,404
Avg faculty salary$86,256

University of the Arts FAQ

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University of the Arts admits about 78% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

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