Northwest College of Art & Design (NCAD) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
About Northwest College of Art & Design
Northwest College of Art & Design in Tacoma is known for a studio-first approach where critique, process, and portfolio polish carry real weight. Students build skills across visual communication, digital media, illustration, and design while learning to think like makers and problem-solvers. The campus centers on light-filled studios, digital labs with current creative tools, and gallery spaces that invite feedback. Support tends to be personal, with advising, tech help, and portfolio guidance close at hand.
Campus life leans collaborative. You'll find pop-up shows, visiting talks, student clubs that spark ideas, and plenty of late-night making. And when you step outside, Tacoma's murals, museums, waterfront paths, and coffee-fueled blocks give you fresh material. Career prep focuses on strong portfolios, critiques with industry guests, and internship options in the Tacoma-Seattle creative corridor. The college has a reputation for end-of-term exhibitions that pull the community in, a tradition that feels equal parts celebration and launchpad.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Academic & Institutional
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at Northwest College of Art & Design (NCAD) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Washington. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
Arts (1)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0401
Design and Visual Communications, General.
(Cert2y+)
Graduate Career Earnings in Washington
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Washington Avg | WA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15-1255 | Web and Digital Interface Designers | $111,450 | $105,080 | -$6,370 (-5.7%) |
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $73,710 | -$28,530 (-27.9%) |
| 27-1021 | Commercial and Industrial Designers | $88,000 | $109,800 | +$21,800 (+24.8%) |
| 27-1024 | Graphic Designers | $68,610 | $63,710 | -$4,900 (-7.1%) |
| 27-1027 | Set and Exhibit Designers | $78,450 | $96,480 | +$18,030 (+23%) |
| 27-1029 | Designers, All Other | $78,000 | $62,040 | -$15,960 (-20.5%) |
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students
Student Success Metrics
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Northwest College of Art & Design (NCAD)
How much does it cost to attend Northwest College of Art & Design (NCAD)?
The annual tuition at Northwest College of Art & Design (NCAD) is $18,100 for in-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $18,780 for in-state students. Additional costs include room and board $15,888 (off-campus) and books and supplies $680.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does Northwest College of Art & Design offer?
Northwest College of Art & Design (NCAD) offers 2 academic programs across 1 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Bachelor's.
Most popular program areas include:
- Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance (1 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What is the acceptance rate for Northwest College of Art & Design?
Northwest College of Art & Design (NCAD) has an 76.5% acceptance rate and a 47% yield rate, making it selective.
Admission statistics breakdown:
- Total applicants: 153
- Students admitted: 117
- Students enrolled: 55
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Admission statistics may vary by program and application cycle.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at Northwest College of Art & Design?
Northwest College of Art & Design (NCAD) provides financial aid to 39% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $10,032 and average loans of $7,532.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $4,959
- State/Local grants: $8,152
- Institutional grants: $1,067
- Federal loans: $5,080
The university supports 39 students with grants and 25 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for Northwest College of Art & Design graduates?
Northwest College of Art & Design (NCAD) graduates earn a median salary of $27,505 after 6 years and $31,167 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $10,385 (25th percentile) to $46,798 (75th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.
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