Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) started with a simple mission in 1963 which was to teach art to aspiring creators in Denver, Colorado. Today, that mission has expanded far beyond its Mile High City origins, reaching students worldwide through innovative online programs while maintaining the personal touch of a boutique art school.
“What we regularly hear from students is that RMCAD stands out because of our community,” says President Brent Fitch. “Whether on campus or online, our students all have at least one thing in common, their passion for art and design.”
Over the years, the college has adapted to the constantly changing creative world, providing students with a well-rounded education in the fields of art, design, and digital media.
At RMCAD, students don’t just earn a degree—they graduate with a portfolio that showcases their creativity, a network of valuable industry connections, and the skills to think outside the box. The college now offers 11 undergraduate programs, blending traditional arts with digital innovation. From interior design to animation and game art, RMCAD is leading the way in preparing the next generation of creative professionals.
As art and design changed over the years, so did RMCAD. As traditional mediums blend with digital technology, RMCAD has positioned itself at the forefront of this shift, preparing students for careers that didn’t even exist when the school first opened its doors.
“We take feedback from students and make positive changes that impact their daily lives,” says Provost Dr. Amy Smith, highlighting the institution’s commitment to growth and adaptation. This approach has led to the launch of degree concentrations in UX/UI and Advertising, with more expansions planned for the coming years.
Digital Education at the Forefront
For those who prefer learning remotely, Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design has been offering online programs for over a decade. Long before the pandemic changed how education works, the college had already embraced the flexibility of online learning. This early adoption has placed them in a strong position to meet the growing demand for distance education, especially in the art and design fields.
The college’s creative approach requires all students to experience online learning, utilizing a custom learning management system that serves as a central hub for class access, work submission, and communication with professors.
“We wanted to make sure that our online learning environment creates an experience that keeps students connected to their peers and instructors, no matter where they are,” says Provost Dr. Amy Smith.
The college’s instructional design team works closely with faculty to create engaging, interactive online classes in an asynchronous learning format. This flexible approach allows students to fit their education into their busy lives, making it especially helpful for working professionals and those with other commitments.
RMCAD Reviews
RMCAD reviews from students, both current and alumni, paints a clear picture of the RMCAD experience, one filled with support, creativity, and a genuine sense of community. Many students appreciate the intimate, smaller class sizes, which allow for more direct interaction with professors. Whether studying on campus or in an online program, students report that faculty members are approachable, engaging, and deeply invested in their success.
“RMCAD’s focus on hands-on experience and practical skills is exactly what I needed to prepare for the real world,” one student shares. “The professors have industry experience, and they’re always there to help, whether it’s with assignments or career advice.”
One student shared their appreciation for the flexibility of RMCAD’s online programs, noting how it allows them to balance coursework with personal time. “Even as a fully online student, I feel completely immersed in the learning process,” the student says. “The professors are responsive, and the work is challenging without being overwhelming.”
Another freshman added to this sentiment in a recent RMCAD review, highlighting the college’s resources and how they contribute to an immersive learning experience, even from a distance. “Despite being a student in an online program,” the freshman says. “RMCAD offers an abundance of resources that make it easy to feel fully engaged in the learning process. The professors are also very receptive and easy to communicate with, creating an ideal environment for any student with questions or concerns.”
Adapting to Student Needs
One of the standout features of RMCAD is its innovative academic structure. Courses are eight weeks in length and students typically take just two classes at a time. This format allows for deeper engagement with the course material, making it easier for both traditional and online learners to dive into their studies without feeling overwhelmed.
RMCAD’s dedication to improvement is clear in its ongoing evaluation of performance and feedback. The college regularly reviews data from various sources, including end-of-course surveys, annual student satisfaction surveys, and faculty and employee engagement surveys. This data-driven approach helps ensure that RMCAD stays responsive to the needs of its community while upholding strong academic standards.
Through its innovative Sidequest program, students engage in extracurricular events that focus on cultural awareness, art and design practice, professional development, and relationship building. These activities create connections that often last long after graduation.
This sense of community extends to the online learning environment as well. The college has developed robust digital platforms for student interaction and collaboration, ensuring that distance learners have opportunities to feel as connected as their on-campus counterparts. Regular virtual events, online exhibitions, and digital networking opportunities help maintain the strong sense of community that RMCAD is known for.
RMCAD Fosters Career Success Through Industry Connections
RMCAD’s impact on students’ professional development is particularly noteworthy. The college maintains strong connections with industry partners and regularly showcases student and faculty work through its digital platforms. These efforts create a vital bridge between academic achievement and professional success, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for careers in their chosen fields.
“We believe that featuring stories about students, alumni, and faculty is the best way to attract prospective students and foster alumni engagement,” explains Leila Ertel, Vice President of Marketing. The college’s blog and social media channels regularly highlight success stories, providing inspiration and practical insights for current and prospective students.
Creating an Inclusive Future for Art Education
For first-generation college students, RMCAD offers more than just an education, it provides a supportive community where creativity thrives.
“I love Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design,” a student shares. “Everyone knows everyone. And everyone is like me. I don’t feel that I have to fit in or feel the pressure of trying to be someone that I am not. All the professors are super nice. They take the time to help you learn in class or on your project that you’re working on.”
RMCAD’s leadership aims to position the college as a major institution with global reach. The college’s strategic plan, RMCAD RISE (Reflect, Innovate, Serve, and Evolve), outlines a comprehensive approach to advancing educational excellence, student success, and community engagement. This plan emphasizes the importance of educational innovation, enhanced student services, career readiness, and fostering a supportive employee culture.
“We are committed to improving the student experience,” said the Executive Team. “That’s why we continually evaluate feedback and use data to drive changes that positively impact our students’ academic journeys.”
The Future for RMCAD
Looking toward the future, RMCAD remains committed to evolving while staying true to its core mission of fostering creative talent. The college’s mix of traditional artistic values and modern educational methods ensures that its graduates are equipped to thrive in the ever-changing world of art and design.
With its innovative curriculum, a strong sense of community, and dedication to professional development, RMCAD demonstrates how art education can adapt to the times while retaining its core essence. As the digital age continues to reshape the creative industries, RMCAD is prepared to help the next generation of artists and designers navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
