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  • Academics

Academic Experience

You won’t find traditional lecture halls here. At PNCA, learning happens everywhere, from our studio spaces to the streetscapes of Portland.

PNCA students sit at desks in a classroom with tablets in front of them, listening to a Language Arts lecture

We’re Reimaging Art & Design Education

No matter what you study at PNCA, you’ll get personalized attention, learn from working artists and designers, and develop in-demand career skills.

  • Undergraduate (BFA) Programs

    From Animated Arts to Graphic Design, our 10 majors prepare you for the creative career you’ve dreamed of. Round out your education with liberal arts and elective courses.
    Three smiling PNCA photography students work together in the school's darkroom
  • Graduate Programs

    Take your craft and career to the next level with an MA or MFA in a variety of creative disciplinesfrom visual studies to creative writing.
    PNCA Professor Seth Nehil teaches a sound design class, gesturing to a graphic projected on a screen
Post-Baccalaureate Program
Continue to hone your craft in an immersive, mentor-led residency program. During two rigorous semesters, you’ll expand your portfolio, engage with peers during weekly critique sessions, take upper-level electives and present your work. The post-bacc residency is also ideal preparation for those looking to pursue an MFA.
A PNCA painting bfa student painting in the studio.

Where You’ll Learn and Create

Our Portland campus is full of creative energy; you’ll notice it right away with our historic architecture and airy atrium. From hands-on studio classes to quiet spaces to create, PNCA is a vibrant place to find and grow your artistic voice.

  • Labs & Facilities

    Whatever your medium of choice, you’ll create, make and design in well-equipped learning spaces—from our printmaking studio to our digital production center.
    A PNCA student works at a table with papers, pencils and stencils
  • Show Your Work

    Throughout the main campus building and beyond, PNCA has many galleries and project spaces for student exhibitions and opportunities to show off your work.
    A PNCA BFA undergrad student wearing a colorful shirt in front of their work.
A Place to Create: Our Studio Culture
At PNCA, you’ll learn, create and engage with classmates and instructors in a variety of studio spaces. During your senior year, you’ll move into a studio of your own. In this place, you’ll plan and produce a major body of work—and prepare to transition from student to professional.
A PNCA student paints on a large canvas in the campus studio

RESOURCES

Academic Support & Career Design

From foundation year through the senior thesis, BFA students will find personalized support every step of the way. Likewise, MFA students receive extensive guidance and mentorship throughout their time at PNCA.

IN THEIR WORDS

"A lot of what I learned during my thesis is super relevant to my job now. I feel like I do my thesis every week."
Nathan G.
Digital Design Specialist, Portland Trail Blazers
Nathan Galvan photo

Willamette University

Connect With PNCA

  • Glass Building

    Address

    2139 N Kerby Ave
    Portland Oregon 97227 U.S.A.

    Contact

    503-226-4391

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