About

KCAD offers an outstanding education in a broad range of professional pursuits in design, art, and art history.

Our faculty members are regionally and nationally known designers, artists, and scholars in their own right who share their experience freely in the studio and beyond. Professors know their students by name and are invested in their success. KCAD's facilities provide well-resourced studios, classrooms, labs, workshops, and exhibition spaces. And our technology is directly aligned with the systems and software used in the professional world.

Want to learn more? Schedule a visit to KCAD!

A sign reading, "Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University Grand Rapids"

Ferris's Mission:

Ferris State University prepares students for successful careers, responsible citizenship, and lifelong learning. Through its many partnerships and its career-oriented, broad-based education, Ferris serves our rapidly changing global economy and society.

KCAD's Mission:

As a college within Ferris State University, Kendall College of Art and Design prepares students for leadership in design, the visual arts, and art history; provides innovative, collaborative education that fosters intellectual growth and individual creativity; and promotes the ethical and civic responsibilities of artists and designers, locally and globally.


Ferris's Vision

Building on the vision of our founders, Ferris State University will be an agile and transformational university. By integrating theory and practice, we will foster opportunity, discovery, and professional preparation for a dynamic global society. 

KCAD's Vision

As an innovator in art and design education, KCAD will cultivate a student-centered learning community that fuels the regional economy with creative leaders and critical thinkers with global perspectives.


KCAD's Values

Student-Centered Learning
KCAD will focus on supporting the whole student through life-long learning, removing barriers to education, and increasing professional preparedness.

Diversity and Inclusion
KCAD values a diversity of people and beliefs, promoting an inclusive, welcoming, supportive, and open campus for all. Learn more about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at KCAD.

Academic Excellence
Through the combination of intensive classroom learning, faculty and staff development, real-world experience, and internal resources, KCAD strives to educate students who solve problems, think critically, and achieve their aspirations.

Collaboration
KCAD fosters strong connections both within the institution and in the external community to create a depth and breadth of opportunities for students.

Ethical and Sustainable Community
KCAD understands the critical need for financial, social, and environmental sustainability. We also uphold the values of integrity, civility and respect for the KCAD community.


 

Our History

KCAD has a long-standing history as a reputable art and design school.

Strategic Plan

As a part of Ferris State University, KCAD is participating in the university 2019-2024 "Ferris Forward" Strategic Plan. 

Fast Facts

Programs, faculty, enrollment statistics, tuition and more.


 

Accreditation

As part of Ferris State University, Kendall College of Art and Design is accredited by:

The Higher Learning Commission of the North
Central Association of Colleges and Schools
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, IL 60604-1413
800.621.7440

Accredited Higher Learning Commission Verify Status Here 19 Jul 2018

Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University is an accredited institutional member of:

The National Association of
Schools of Art and Design
11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21
Reston, VA 22090
703.437.0700

Verify Status Here

KCAD's Interior Design program, leading to the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, is accredited* by:

The Council for Interior Design Accreditation
206 Grandville Avenue, Suite 350
Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2822
616.458.0400

Verify Status Here

*The CIDA-accredited program prepares students for entry-level interior design practice, for advanced study, and to apply for membership in professional interior design organizations. The BFA granted by KCAD meets the educational requirement for eligibility to sit for the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination (NCIDQ Exam). More information about NCIDQ Exam eligibility

Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University's Master of Architecture Program is accredited by:

The National Architectural Accrediting Board
1101 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 410
Washington, DC 20036
202.783.2007

Verify Status Here

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