Choosing between Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) and Cornell University for art depends on what you’re looking for in an art education, as both schools offer strong but distinct programs.
CMU’s School of Art is known for its interdisciplinary approach, blending fine arts with technology and conceptual innovation. It’s part of a top-tier research university with strengths in computer science, design, and engineering, so you’ll see a lot of crossover—like digital media, interactive art, and experimental practices. The BFA program emphasizes critical thinking and self-directed projects, and Pittsburgh’s gritty, creative vibe adds a unique edge. Graduates often end up in cutting-edge fields like game design or multimedia alongside traditional art careers. However, it’s intense and leans heavily on theory, which might not suit someone wanting a purely classical focus.
Cornell’s Department of Art, housed in the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (AAP), offers a more traditional foundation with flexibility. Its BFA program covers painting, sculpture, printmaking, and photography, while also dipping into digital arts. The rural Ithaca setting fosters a tight-knit community, and the campus’s resources—like the Herbert F. Johnson Museum—give you hands-on access to art history. Cornell’s strength lies in its balance of studio practice and liberal arts, plus its Ivy League network, which can open doors in galleries or academia. It’s less tech-driven than CMU, though, so if you’re into avant-garde or tech-heavy art, it might feel a bit conventional.
Rankings-wise, neither consistently tops the other for art specifically—CMU often edges out in design and tech-related fields (e.g., U.S. News ranks its graduate design programs highly), while Cornell’s AAP gets nods for architecture and broader prestige. For undergrad art, it’s more about fit. CMU’s acceptance rate hovers around 11-14%, Cornell’s around 8-10%, so both are selective. Tuition’s steep at both—CMU’s around $65,000/year, Cornell’s similar before aid—but financial aid can offset that if you qualify.
If you want innovation and tech-infused art, CMU’s your spot. If you prefer a classic art education with a prestigious, well-rounded backdrop, Cornell’s the move. What’s your focus—traditional media, digital stuff, or something else? That’ll tip the scales.
