Pre-College | Minneapolis College of Art and Design

Pre-College

MCAD provides high school students the chance to learn from professional artists at one of the top art and design colleges in the Midwest. A variety of classes are available, with some having the possibility to earn college credit. Offering a transformative education open to all backgrounds, MCAD gets you ready to confidently lead and practice in an ever-evolving world.

Pre-College Classes 

Summer registration is now open.

Single- and multi-week classes include drawing, graphic design, painting, illustration, portfolio preparation, and more, giving young artists exposure to tools and skills necessary to succeed in high school and college.

Many adult classes are open to students ages 16 and above.

Student working on animation
Student working on comic

Pre-College Summer Session

The 2024 application will open November 1.

An inspiring and challenging 2-1/2 week, 3-credit, studio art and design program, open to high school students who have completed sophomore, junior, or senior year.

Post-Secondary Enrollment Option 

An honors program for high school seniors in Minnesota to take courses and earn college credit, free of charge.

Student in the library