The Art Institute of Raleigh - Durham

So far so good. I will take another review after I finish every quarter. This was my 1st quarter. I enjoyed it b/c I got my money's worth. The instructors were caring, and thorough. My advise is to only enroll if you know you can make it to school on time daily.
5 7 years ago (23-03-2018)

I had a great first two years or so (2012-2014) when the school was doing great and had professors who cared. The last two years (2014-2016) we're an absolute joke. Subpar professors, issues with the school being sued by the government, students who we're admitted without any design experience or will to learn. During the last two years, I have several emails sent to the Dean, my academic advisor, etc. that don't get a response. I understand times can get busy, but to ignore an email entirely until I either call repeatedly or physically drive to the location is not acceptable. They have also been running into issues finding professors and students, so my graduation date was pushed back nearly a YEAR, forcing me to decline full-time positions. To top it off, I was called recently by the Art Institute to pay a final bill of around $1,250 for my last classes. I am Veteran and my classes are paid for by the VA. I told the woman on the phone this and she said she understood and would be taking care of the matter with the VA. Instead, they sent my bill to a collection agency which has now been ringing me and effected my credit in the middle of securing a mortgage. I had a fantastic experience for the first two years and thank the staff and professors for that, but the remaining tenure has been a nightmare of unorganized staff and professors who check a box to secure accreditation. I would not recommend this school in its current status to anyone serious about design.
2 9 years ago (20-05-2016)

I did not learn much when I attended this school. Like everyone else has said, it is truly a waste of money. I left there almost 3 years ago and tried to transfer to another school, an actual university and The Art Institute would and STILL will not give me my transcripts until I pay off a 9 thousand dollar loan. This is stopping me from getting my education. I was suppose to graduate college next year 2017. But I will not worry, for God has it all under control. Philippians 4:6-7 says: 6: Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7: And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Which means to NEVER worry how a situation is going to work out. Have faith in God and believe that he will work it out. Worry about NOTHING but PRAY about EVERYTHING. God is the ruler and he has the final say!
1 9 years ago (16-05-2016)

I'm a game design student and am actually really enjoying my time at this school. Ever since I first made contact with the staff, they have done nothing but try to accommodate me here. I'm in my mid 20's and have gone to other colleges before. I'm old enough to know what I want and am willing to spend money to get it. The people who seem to drop out are those who are 18, or 19, fresh out of high school, and aren't taking this seriously. For them, it is indeed a waste of money. The teachers are some of the best I've had and there are no unnecessary classes. The housing is the only thing to avoid as it is overpriced, and not at all close to the school. Yes, the tuition is daunting, but it's going to cost wherever you go. If you're sure of yourself and sure of your goals, the price tag really doesn't matter. There are cheaper schools, but if your forging a weapon to go into battle with, why settle for a weaker blade? If that weapon is to carry me through war, I'd want it to be as sharp and strong as possible, whatever the cost. An extreme analogy, but true nonetheless. The Art Institute will arm you with the best, rest is up to you.
4 10 years ago (15-01-2015)

I also "Hoped" the reviews didn't match the realization of this school. Wow was I disappointed. It is over priced. The classes are not good. TRANSFER? most likely won't get those credits back. The only thing nice is the actual building looks nice.
1 9 years ago (21-07-2016)