Kendall College of Art and Design is a private art and design college focused on creative problem solving and professional practice. Founded in 1931 and now part of Ferris State University, the school emphasizes studio intensive learning in illustration, fine arts, graphic design, and user experience.
Located in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kendall integrates hands on making, critical thinking, and community engagement within a diverse and collaborative campus environment. Students build portfolios, professional networks, and real world skills through project based coursework and partnerships with regional creative industries.
Overview at a Glance
| Category | Detail | Notes | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Private college, part of Ferris State University | Studio focused arts and design education | admissions@kendall.edu |
| Location | Grand Rapids, Michigan | Urban campus in the heart of downtown | 616 233 8384 |
| Degrees | Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Master of Fine Arts | Programs in illustration, fine arts, graphic design, UX design | kendall.edu |
| Size | Approximately 400 students | Small class sizes and close faculty mentorship | Portfolio review required |
Academic Programs and Curriculum
Undergraduate Majors
Kendall offers intensive pathways in fine arts, graphic design, illustration, and user experience design. Each major balances technical skills, critical theory, and professional practice.
Graduate Study
The Master of Fine Arts program supports advanced studio research and thesis driven projects. Students refine their artistic voice while preparing for teaching, curation, or advanced professional practice.
Integrated Liberal Arts
A general education program complements studio study, emphasizing writing, history, and interdisciplinary thinking. This combination strengthens concept development and contextualizes creative work within broader cultural frameworks.
Student Life and Campus Experience
Located in the vibrant downtown corridor of Grand Rapids, Kendall students have access to local galleries, museums, festivals, and a thriving design community. The city’s creative economy provides internships, studio visits, and collaborative opportunities.
On campus, small cohorts encourage peer dialogue and group critiques. Resources such as open studios, computer labs, and workshops support experimentation across media and help students develop technical proficiency.
Admissions and Portfolio Requirements
Applicants submit an online application, official transcripts, and a portfolio showcasing their creative practice. The review process evaluates curiosity, technical foundation, and potential for growth.
Deadlines vary by program term, and early application is encouraged. Kendall welcomes transfer students and non traditional applicants, considering diverse backgrounds and alternative pathways into artistic study.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Success
Graduates pursue roles in illustration, graphic design, user experience, art education, and creative leadership. Many work in regional studios, start independent practices, or continue study at the graduate level.
Career services provide support with resume development, portfolio refinement, and networking. Alumni connections and internship partnerships strengthen pathways into competitive creative industries.
Why Choose Kendall College of Art and Design
- Studio intensive curriculum with close faculty mentorship
- Location in Grand Rapids’ active downtown creative district
- Programs in fine arts, graphic design, illustration, and UX design
- Strong alumni network and career services support
- Opportunities for internships, community projects, and exhibitions
FAQ
Reader questions
What programs does Kendall College of Art and Design offer and at which degree levels?
Kendall offers Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts, and Master of Fine Arts degrees at the graduate level. Majors include fine arts, graphic design, illustration, and user experience design.
Where is Kendall College of Art and Design located and what is the campus environment like?
The campus is located in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, providing access to galleries, festivals, and a collaborative creative community. The studio focused environment emphasizes small cohorts and hands on learning.
What should I include in my portfolio for admission to Kendall College of Art and Design?
Submit a portfolio that demonstrates curiosity, foundational skills, and potential for growth. Include a range of work that shows process, experimentation, and your ability to develop ideas visually.
How does Kendall College of Art and Design support career development and alumni success?
Career services assist with resume building, portfolio refinement, and networking. Internship partnerships, alumni connections, and studio based projects help graduates enter competitive creative fields.