Academy of Art University

Academy of Art University (AAU) is a private, for-profit institution located in San Francisco, California. Established in 1929 as the Academy of Advertising Art, it has grown to become one of the largest privately owned art and design schools in the United States.

Programs Offered

AAU offers a comprehensive range of programs across 22 schools, including:

• Acting, Advertising, Animation & Visual Effects
• Architecture, Art Education, Art History
• Communications & Media Technologies, Fashion, Fine Art
• Game Development, Graphic Design, Illustration, Industrial Design
• Interaction & UI/UX Design, Interior Architecture & Design
• Jewelry & Metal Arts, Landscape Architecture
• Motion Pictures & Television, Music Production & Sound Design for Visual Media
• Photography, Visual Development, Writing for Film, Television & Digital Media

These programs are available at associate, bachelor's, and master's levels, with options for both on-campus and online study.

Campus and Facilities

The university's urban campus is situated in San Francisco's South of Market district. It includes housing, dining options, academic buildings, and recreational areas designed to enhance the student experience.

Notable facilities include an eSports lounge, exercise and workout facilities, student-run clubs and organizations, and multiple galleries showcasing student and faculty work.

Automobile Museum

AAU operates the Academy of Art University Automobile Museum, which houses a collection of over 200 vintage cars. This museum serves as both a conservator of automotive history and a resource for students in the industrial design department, especially those in the Automotive Restoration program.

Athletics

The university's athletic teams, known as the Urban Knights, compete in 14 sports within NCAA Division II as members of the Pacific West Conference.

In April 2024, AAU announced the discontinuation of its athletics program following the 2024–2025 academic year.

Location

• San Francisco, CA, USA
• San Francisco, CA, US

With a diverse student body and a wide array of programs, the Academy of Art University continues to foster creativity and innovation in the fields of art and design.