Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD)
The Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) is a private, for-profit art school based in Lakewood, Colorado. It was established in 1963 by artist and educator Philip J. Steele.
History
RMCAD began its journey in January 1963 when Philip J. Steele acquired the Art for All Studios school from Dorothea Seeley Shulenburg and renamed it the “Rocky Mountain School of Art.” Initially a proprietorship, the school was incorporated on September 11, 1972.
As enrollment grew, the college moved several times, eventually settling in Lakewood in 2003. In 2010, a group of investors, including the owners of Full Sail University, acquired a controlling interest in Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design from the Steele family. This acquisition brought significant changes, including a restructuring of the curriculum. By 2014, many liberal arts courses were shifted online to align campus schedules with online offerings. RMCAD is currently owned by Bill Heavener, Ed Haddock, and Jon Phelps, who also own Full Sail University and other institutions.
Academics
RMCAD is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Its Interior Design program holds accreditation from the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).
Students
The college has approximately 1,400 undergraduate students, with a student demographic comprising 66% female, 34% male, and 41% minority and international students. Notably, 79% of the students come from out-of-state.
The student-to-faculty ratio is nine-to-one, with an average class size of eight students, though liberal arts courses may have larger groups. On-campus students average 23 years of age, while online students typically average 30.
Campus
The RMCAD campus spans 23 acres and is recognized as a National Historic District. The campus features 17 buildings, with 11 dedicated to classrooms, galleries, and studio spaces. Its historical significance stems from its former use as the Jewish Consumptives’ Relief Society (JCRS) and later the American Medical Center at Denver, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Located in Lakewood, Colorado, the campus sits within the 40 West Arts District, near the renowned Casa Bonita. Although historical elements of the campus have been altered, it remains a cultural hub for art and design education.
Galleries
The campus boasts four main galleries:
- Philip J. Steele Gallery: The largest gallery, named after the college’s founder.
- Rude Gallery: A smaller, more intimate space located in the Rude Building.
- Alumni Gallery: Situated in the main foyer of the Texas Building.
- Student Gallery: Located in the EPiC building, showcasing student works.