Academics

close up of student painting against a studio wall

Founded in 1877, RISD stands out among the world’s preeminent colleges of art and design. We are a community of critical thinkers and makers who share a belief in the value of hands-on learning, experimentation and an ever-evolving approach to studio education reinforced by liberal arts studies.

Academic departments and programs

Exceptional resources for creative practice

From the expansive collections of the RISD Museum and Fleet Library to interdisciplinary labs and student galleries, here you’ll find many ways to inspire, refine and share your best work.

Discover our academic resources

Get to know RISD

RISD undergraduate students observe a piece of student artwork in a classroom setting
Undergraduate study

Gain creative expertise toward your bachelor’s degree in one of our globally recognized art and design programs.

graduate student gives a presentation of their project to a panel
Graduate study

Research, experiment and push the possibilities of practice with RISD’s community of advanced degree students.

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Liberal Arts

Explore the humanities, social sciences and more liberal arts fields as you earn a world-class art and design education.