Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

Welcome to the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

Where Passion Finds Purpose.

Advancing Goals, Together

MIAD is committed to the success of your student's college experience and the many new beginnings that come with it — the first day of classes, first internship, first job interview, first promotion and beyond. Here’s what your family can look forward to when you join the MIAD community:

Inspiring Academics

Our outstanding faculty and industry-aligned majors and programs ensure your student realizes their full potential and finds professional purpose.

Majors & Minors

Proven Impact

MIAD is on a roll: named the #1 Graphic Design School in Wisconsin and #11 in the Midwest in Animation Career Review’s 2025 rankings, with Animation and Illustration programs also earning top honors. From nationally recognized student work to internships at brands like Nike, MIAD’s Communication Design students are proving their impact—locally, regionally, and nationwide.

#1 Graphic Design School

Real-World Experiences

Our connections with local and national businesses mean we're able to help your student land that coveted internship or job after graduation. We believe in doing what you love for life.

Careers at MIAD

What's Happening at MIAD?

Explore resources and news for families of future and admitted students.

MIAD Events

Join us for an upcoming event on campus or in your hometown!

Explore Events

News & Awards

Our students, alums and faculty are shaping the world around us and making an impact in our MKE community and beyond.

Visit the Newsroom

Admitted Family Resources

We can't wait for your family to join the MIAD community. There are many resources available to you to help your family prepare for the upcoming semester.

Resources for New MIAD Families

Our MKE Community

Fresh. Flavor. Forward.

Milwaukee is a city of food, festivals, culture
and creativity.

Visit MKE

Gallery Exhibitions

See what's on view in MIAD's galleries spaces.

Gallery Schedule

Have a question for us? Use our directory to contact a MIAD team member.

Let's Connect

100%

students receiving scholarships

85%

first-year students who return for sophomore year
(They like it here.)

11:1

student to faculty ratio

97%

US employers who value creativity and the problem-solving skills MIAD graduates excel at

Discover Our Top Majors

At MIAD, we offer many regionally and nationally ranked programs. Whether your student's interest is in Communication Design, Fashion and Apparel Design, Illustration or Product Design, our programs are designed to prepare them for a successful career in creativity. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, your student will receive personalized attention and guidance from our experienced faculty.

During my time at MIAD I was able to explore how I wanted to use my passion for illustration in my future career. You can make a career out of doing what you love! It takes hard work and perseverance, but being able to work within your passion is amazing!

- Lauren Parra, Illustration ’17

Graphic Designer III, The Pokémon Company International, Bellevue, WA

Why Choose MIAD?

At MIAD, we nurture creativity and innovation, preparing students for successful careers in design and the arts. Our supportive community and experienced faculty are dedicated to helping your student achieve their goals.

Learn More