The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Pre-College Program: An Immersive Experience for Aspiring Artists and Designers

For many young, aspiring artists and designers, the transition from high school to college can be both exciting and daunting. One way to bridge this gap and gain invaluable experience is through a pre-college program. The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), one of the world’s leading art and design schools, offers a renowned pre-college program that provides high school students with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a rigorous, college-level art curriculum. Pre-college programs are a terrific way to spend the summers in your final years of high school. Usually hosted on college campuses, they can give you a taste of what it is like to be a student at a particular school, as well as a feel for what college might be like in general. Attending a program at a college to which you plan on applying also shows that admissions committee that you are very interested in the school, as well as committed to learning.

What is RISD Pre-College?

RISD Pre-College is a six-week summer program designed for high school students who are serious about pursuing a career in art and design. The program is intensive and mirrors the demands and expectations of a first-year undergraduate experience at RISD. Students are challenged to develop their technical skills, conceptual understanding, and artistic voice through a structured curriculum of core courses, elective classes, and studio work. RISD Pre-College offers rising high school juniors and seniors the chance to experience life as a RISD undergrad. For five weeks, you will follow an immersive, college-level curriculum that includes day-long studio classes, critiques, and projects. Work alongside hundreds of other creative, highly motivated students from around the world who will challenge, inspire, and encourage you to push your limits and produce your best work.

Offered in the summer both on campus and online, RISD Pre-College introduces high school students to the RISD approach to making and problem-solving. Throughout the experience, you will shape your own art and design practice, gain a foundational understanding of drawing and design principles, and dive deep into a particular field via your chosen major. Whether you join us in person or virtually, you’ll take courses led by our accomplished teaching artists and be part of a community of talented and likeminded students from around the world who will challenge you to push beyond the expected.

The Benefits of Attending RISD Pre-College

Attending the RISD Pre-College program offers numerous benefits for aspiring artists and designers. These advantages range from skill development and portfolio building to networking opportunities and personal growth.

1. College-Level Experience

One of the primary benefits of RISD Pre-College is the opportunity to experience what it’s like to study at a top-tier art and design school. The program’s structure, workload, and expectations are designed to closely resemble those of an undergraduate program. This provides students with a realistic preview of college life and helps them make informed decisions about their future academic and career paths.

2. Skill Development

The rigorous curriculum at RISD Pre-College focuses on developing both technical skills and conceptual thinking. Students receive hands-on training in various media and techniques, enhancing their abilities and expanding their artistic repertoire. The program also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and creative problem-solving, skills that are essential for any artist or designer.

3. Portfolio Building

A strong portfolio is crucial for college applications, especially for art and design programs. RISD Pre-College provides students with numerous opportunities to create high-quality work that can be included in their portfolios. The feedback and guidance from experienced instructors help students refine their pieces and present their best work.

4. Networking Opportunities

RISD Pre-College attracts talented young artists from around the world, creating a vibrant and diverse community. Students have the chance to connect with peers who share their passion for art and design, forming friendships and professional relationships that can last a lifetime. Additionally, they have access to RISD’s extensive network of alumni and industry professionals.

5. Personal Growth

Living away from home and managing a demanding schedule can be challenging, but it also fosters personal growth and independence. RISD Pre-College helps students develop time management skills, self-discipline, and a strong work ethic. These qualities are not only important for success in college but are also valuable in any professional setting.

6. Exposure to Diverse Art Forms

At RISD Pre-College, students are exposed to a variety of artistic disciplines. This exposure allows them to experiment with different mediums and techniques, helping them discover new interests and potentially influencing their future career paths. The program encourages students to step out of their comfort zones and explore new forms of artistic expression.

7. Access to Professional-Grade Facilities

Students at RISD Pre-College have access to the same facilities and resources as RISD’s undergraduate and graduate students. This includes state-of-the-art studios, workshops, and libraries. Working in a professional environment with high-quality tools and materials enhances the learning experience and prepares students for the standards of the professional art world.

8. Faculty and Mentorship

The faculty at RISD Pre-College consists of experienced artists and educators who are dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential. These instructors provide personalized feedback, mentorship, and support, guiding students through their artistic journeys. The relationships formed with faculty members can be incredibly influential and inspiring.

Program Structure and Courses

The RISD Pre-College program is structured to provide a comprehensive and immersive art education experience. The curriculum includes core courses, elective courses, studio time, critiques, and a final exhibition.

Core Courses

The RISD Pre-College program includes three core courses that all students are required to take:

1. Drawing Foundations

This course focuses on fundamental drawing skills, including observation, composition, and the use of various drawing media. It is designed to strengthen students’ technical abilities and enhance their understanding of visual language. Students learn to observe the world around them with a critical eye and translate those observations into compelling visual narratives.

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2. Design Foundations

In this course, students explore the principles of design through projects that emphasize creativity and conceptual development. They learn to think critically about form, function, and aesthetics, and how to apply these principles to their work. The course encourages innovative thinking and problem-solving, essential skills for any aspiring designer.

3. Critical Studies in Art

The ability to analyze and respond to creative ideas verbally and in writing is a crucial part of a RISD education. Learn how to apply critical analysis to study artwork in relation to its historical and contemporary context. In turn students will discover connections between their work and the broader world of art. Coursework includes a written paper, a group presentation and a visit to the RISD Museum.

Elective Courses

In addition to the core courses, students choose one elective course based on their interests. Elective options vary each year but typically include subjects such as painting, sculpture, graphic design, photography, and digital media. These courses allow students to delve deeper into specific areas of interest and experiment with new techniques and materials. These major courses meet two full days per week. These classes include critiques (or “crits”) in which your teacher and peers evaluate your work, something you will experience if you attend art school and is considered an essential part of learning about and discussing art.

Studio Time

Studio time is a crucial component of the RISD Pre-College program. Students spend a significant amount of time working on projects in the studio, both during scheduled class times and independently. This immersive experience helps students develop a disciplined studio practice and fosters a deeper engagement with their work. The intensity and focus required during studio time prepare students for the rigorous demands of college-level art and design programs.

Critiques and Feedback

Regular critiques are an integral part of the learning process at RISD. Students present their work to instructors and peers, receiving constructive feedback that helps them improve and refine their projects. Learning to give and receive critiques is an important skill that prepares students for the collaborative and evaluative nature of college and professional environments. Through critiques, students learn to articulate their creative choices, defend their ideas, and incorporate feedback into their work.

Final Exhibition

At the end of the program, students have the opportunity to showcase their work in a final exhibition. This event allows students to present their projects to the RISD community, family, and friends. The exhibition is a culmination of their hard work and serves as a celebration of their artistic achievements. It also provides students with valuable experience in preparing and presenting their work in a professional setting.

Life on Campus

The RISD Pre-College program extends beyond the classroom, offering a rich and immersive campus experience. From residential life to extracurricular activities and college preparation, students are provided with a supportive and enriching environment.

Residential Experience

RISD Pre-College students live on campus in residence halls, providing them with a taste of college life. Living in a supportive and creative community allows students to form strong bonds with their peers and encourages collaboration and mutual inspiration. Residence hall advisors are available to provide guidance and support, ensuring a safe and enriching living environment. The residential experience helps students develop independence and learn to balance their academic and personal responsibilities. Providence’s College Hill is home to numerous cultural and historic landmarks. The RISD dorms are near Brown’s campus, so you may see Brown pre-college students during the program. However, your dorm will only include RISD pre-college students, and your RA will be a regular RISD student.

Extracurricular Activities

While the program is academically rigorous, RISD Pre-College also offers a variety of extracurricular activities and events. These activities provide students with opportunities to relax, socialize, and explore their interests outside of the classroom. Past activities have included museum visits, gallery tours, outdoor adventures, and community service projects. Participating in extracurricular activities allows students to experience the vibrant cultural scene of Providence, Rhode Island, and broaden their horizons. You won’t just be attending classes. The program also includes optional trips around Rhode Island and other parts of New England, including the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. In your down time, you can also explore Providence.

College Preparation

In addition to the artistic and academic aspects of the program, RISD Pre-College includes workshops and seminars focused on college preparation. These sessions cover topics such as portfolio development, the college application process, and career pathways in art and design. Students gain valuable insights and practical advice that can help them navigate their future educational and professional journeys. College preparation sessions often include portfolio reviews, where students receive individualized feedback on their work and guidance on how to present their portfolios effectively.

Health and Wellness

The health and well-being of students are a priority at RISD Pre-College. The program provides access to health services, counseling, and wellness resources to support students' physical and mental health. Workshops on stress management, time management, and self-care are also offered to help students maintain a healthy balance during the intense program.

Applying to RISD Pre-College

The application process for RISD Pre-College is competitive, and applicants should be prepared to showcase their artistic abilities and commitment to the program.

Eligibility and Requirements

RISD Pre-College is open to high school students who have completed their sophomore, junior, or senior year. Applicants should have a strong interest in art and design and a willingness to commit to the program’s demanding schedule. The application process typically requires the submission of an application form, a portfolio of recent work, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. The pre-college program at RISD is a six-week summer program for high school students who have finished 10th or 11th grade in the school year before the program date. The application for the pre-college program is available here.

Application Materials

In addition to the application form, you must also submit a 250-word statement expressing your personal reasons for wanting to participate in the program, one letter of recommendation from a high school art teacher or guidance counselor, and a non-refundable program deposit of $500 for boarding students or $350 for commuter students. Unless you are applying for a scholarship, you are not required to submit an art portfolio, transcript, or any test scores (unless English is not your first language, in which case you must provide TOEFL or IELTS scores).

Portfolio Submission

The portfolio is a critical component of the application process. It should showcase the applicant's technical skills, creativity, and unique artistic voice. Students are encouraged to include a variety of works that demonstrate their abilities in different media and techniques. The portfolio should reflect the applicant's dedication to their craft and their potential for growth.

Personal Statement

The personal statement provides an opportunity for applicants to express their passion for art and design and explain why they want to attend RISD Pre-College. It should highlight their artistic goals, influences, and aspirations. The personal statement helps the admissions committee understand the applicant's motivation and commitment to the program.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or art instructors provide insight into the applicant's character, work ethic, and artistic abilities. These letters should speak to the applicant's potential for success in the program and their readiness for the challenges of a college-level art curriculum.

Financial Aid

RISD is committed to making its Pre-College program accessible to talented students from diverse backgrounds. Financial aid is available to help offset the cost of tuition, room, and board. Applicants seeking financial assistance must submit additional documentation, including financial statements and tax returns. The financial aid process is designed to ensure that all students, regardless of their financial situation, have the opportunity to attend RISD Pre-College. If you would like to apply for a scholarship to attend the program, fill out this application instead of the standard application above. This application requires you to provide your custodial parent’s or guardian’s financial information, and you must also submit additional materials, including a copy of your most recent high school transcript, your custodial parent’s or guardian’s income tax return and recent pay vouchers or other documents substantiating current income, and a non-returnable computer disc (CD or DVD) or USB flash drive containing artwork samples that best represent your artistic abilities.

If you are planning on boarding at RISD during the program, the full fee is $8,175. The program costs $5,475 for commuter students. As mentioned above, scholarships are available, and you should fill out a different application if you are applying for a scholarship. Supply costs and lists vary by the class and major and are not available until the first day. You can bring your own supplies or by them from the RISD art supply store when you arrive on campus. You may want to get a RISD card (call RISDbucks) that may be redeemed anywhere on campus, including the art store, library printers, RISD cafes, and so on. Be sure to budget for supplies you will need for classes and those you might need for specific projects. You should also keep in mind that you will need to pay for travel to attend the program, as well as shipping your artwork home (which can be very expensive).

Application Deadlines

The application process for RISD Pre-College typically begins in the winter, with deadlines in the spring. Early application is recommended, as spaces in the program are limited and highly competitive.

RISD Pre-College Online

RISD Pre-College Online offers intensive, collegiate-level courses for students in grades 10 to 12 (or the equivalent). For five weeks, you’ll join students from around the world in online studio classes and critiques led by accomplished professional artists. You will also have access to events and workshops through our Campus Link.

RISD Continuing Education

During the summer, RISD Continuing Education (RISD CE) runs a selection of art, design, and liberal arts courses taught by RISD faculty. Our full-day summer camps let young artists ages 6-12 create a wide range of work that brings their ideas to life. Summer camps happen at Tillinghast Place, our beachside grounds in nearby Barrington, RI. For teens ages 13-17, RISD CE offers courses for you to explore your interests and make work in many mediums. RISD Global’s summer offerings provide opportunities to expand your point of view as an artist, designer and engaged global citizen. They are open to current students (undergraduate and graduate) enrolled at RISD or in other art and design programs, recent grads, and art and design professionals.

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