Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University (KCAD) is a premier institution offering specialized undergraduate and graduate programs in fine arts, design, art history, architecture, and digital media, combining rigorous academic training with hands-on experiential learning in state-of-the-art facilities to prepare students for dynamic careers in creative industries.

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Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University: A Hub for Creative Innovation

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Academic Excellence and Interdisciplinary Programs

KCAD provides over 15 distinct degree programs, including Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Master of Architecture (M.Arch), Master of Arts (MA), and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees. Programs span disciplines such as:

• Digital Art & Design: Focused on animation, game design, and interactive media.
• Fashion Studies: Integrating sustainable practices and textile innovation.
• Industrial Design: Emphasizing user-centered product development and prototyping.
• Art History: Blending critical theory with curatorial practice.
• Graphic Design: Merging traditional print media with digital storytelling.

Interdisciplinary collaboration is central to KCAD’s pedagogy, with cross-departmental projects and partnerships with industry leaders like Steelcase, Herman Miller, and local arts organizations. Students engage in client-driven projects, internships, and global study opportunities in cities like Berlin and Florence.

Cutting-Edge Facilities and Creative Spaces

KCAD’s urban campus in Grand Rapids, Michigan, features purpose-built studios, labs, and galleries designed to foster innovation:

• Dow Center FlexLab: A makerspace with 3D printers, CNC machines, and laser cutters for rapid prototyping.
• Material ConneXion Library: A global materials database with 10,000+ samples for sustainable design research.
• Rapid Prototyping Lab: Advanced 3D scanning and modeling tools for industrial design students.
• Metalsmithing & Jewelry Studio: Equipped with enameling kilns, casting equipment, and CAD/CAM technology.
• The Fed Galleries: On-campus exhibition spaces hosting national artists and student showcases.

The college also partners with the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA), providing students exclusive access to exhibitions, public art installations, and professional networking events in a downtown cultural hub.

Community Engagement and Career Readiness

KCAD integrates community-driven initiatives into its curriculum, such as the Design Lab Consulting Studio, where students collaborate with local businesses and nonprofits on real-world design challenges. Annual events like the ArtPrize competition and West Michigan Design Week connect students with regional creatives, while career services offer portfolio reviews, mentorship, and job placement support.

Sustainability and Social Impact

The college prioritizes sustainable practices across disciplines, from eco-conscious material research in the Product Design program to community-focused urban revitalization projects. Graduate students in the Master of Architecture program engage in affordable housing initiatives, while fine arts majors explore social justice themes through public installations.

Alumni Success and Industry Recognition

KCAD graduates lead in diverse fields, including Emmy-winning animators, Nike product designers, and Guggenheim Fellows. The college’s industry reputation is bolstered by accolades such as National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) accreditation and partnerships with global design firms.

Admissions and Financial Support

Prospective students undergo a portfolio review process emphasizing creativity and technical skill. KCAD offers merit scholarships, need-based aid, and graduate assistantships. The First-Year Foundations program ensures a smooth transition into studio-intensive coursework, while transfer students benefit from articulation agreements with regional community colleges.

Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University stands as a catalyst for artistic and professional growth, blending tradition with technological innovation to empower the next generation of creative leaders.

Academic Programs Offered at Kendall College of Art and Design

Undergraduate Programs

Digital Media (BFA)

Explore animation, game design, interactive media, and digital storytelling through courses in 3D modeling, motion graphics, and virtual reality. Students use industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite, Maya, and Unity.

• Details: Combines technical skill development with conceptual storytelling and user experience (UX) design.
• Outcomes: Careers in animation studios, game development, multimedia production, and UX/UI design.
• Duration: 4 years (full-time).
• Structure: Studio-intensive curriculum with a senior thesis project and internship opportunities.

Graphic Design (BFA)

Focuses on typography, branding, print design, and digital platforms. Emphasizes visual communication strategies for print, web, and social media.

• Details: Includes courses in packaging design, editorial layout, and motion graphics.
• Outcomes: Roles in advertising agencies, in-house design teams, and freelance design.
• Duration: 4 years (full-time).
• Structure: Portfolio-driven coursework with client-based projects and collaborative workshops.

Industrial Design (BFA)

Trains students in user-centered product design, prototyping, and sustainable manufacturing. Utilizes tools like CNC machines and 3D printers in the Rapid Prototyping Lab.

• Details: Covers ergonomics, material science, and CAD software (Rhino, SolidWorks).
• Outcomes: Careers in product design, automotive design, and furniture innovation.
• Duration: 4 years (full-time).
• Structure: Hands-on projects with industry partners like Steelcase and Herman Miller.

Fashion Studies (BFA)

Integrates sustainable fashion practices, textile design, and garment construction. Explores ethical sourcing and circular design principles.

• Details: Includes courses in pattern-making, fashion illustration, and wearable technology.
• Outcomes: Roles in fashion design, retail merchandising, and sustainable apparel startups.
• Duration: 4 years (full-time).
• Structure: Capstone collections showcased at annual student-run fashion events.

Interior Design (BFA)

Prepares students for residential, commercial, and hospitality design with a focus on spatial planning and sustainable materials.

• Details: Covers AutoCAD, Revit, and lighting design.
• Outcomes: Careers in architectural firms, corporate design, and set design.
• Duration: 4 years (full-time).
• Structure: Includes NCIDQ certification preparation and real-world client projects.

Art History (BA)

Examines global art movements, critical theory, and museum studies. Combines research with curatorial practice.

• Details: Opportunities for internships at The Fed Galleries and UICA.
• Outcomes: Careers in museums, galleries, arts education, and cultural advocacy.
• Duration: 4 years (full-time).
• Structure: Thesis-driven research with interdisciplinary electives.

Graduate Programs

Master of Architecture (M.Arch)

NAAB-accredited program emphasizing sustainable design, urban planning, and community-driven projects. Includes coursework in building systems and digital fabrication.

• Details: Focus on affordable housing and adaptive reuse of urban spaces.
• Outcomes: Licensure preparation for architectural practice or academia.
• Duration: 3 years (full-time).
• Structure: Integrates studio work, internships, and a final thesis project.

Master of Arts in Design (MA)

Advanced study in design research, strategy, and innovation. Ideal for professionals seeking leadership roles in creative industries.

• Details: Topics include service design, human-centered design, and design ethics.
• Outcomes: Roles in design management, consulting, and entrepreneurial ventures.
• Duration: 2 years (full-time or part-time).
• Structure: Combines coursework with a practicum or collaborative project.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Interdisciplinary program for artists and designers to refine their practice. Specializations include painting, photography, and digital media.

• Details: Access to private studios and exhibition opportunities at The Fed Galleries.
• Outcomes: Professional studio practice, gallery representation, or teaching.
• Duration: 2–3 years (full-time).
• Structure: Thesis exhibition and written component required.

Master of Arts in Visual and Critical Studies (MA)

Explores the intersection of art, culture, and critical theory. Prepares students for careers in writing, curation, and arts administration.

• Details: Research-focused with emphasis on contemporary art discourse.
• Outcomes: Roles in arts publishing, cultural nonprofits, and public programming.
• Duration: 2 years (full-time).
• Structure: Culminates in a publishable thesis or curated exhibition.

Contact Information for KCAD:

Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University 

Address:

17 Fountain Street NW

Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3002

Toll-free: 800.676.2787

Phone: 616.451.2787

Fax: 616.831.9689

Admissions

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