Art Degrees Online

All new and transferring applicants for admission to Northwest College of Art (NCA) must comply with the following:
Submit a completed application accompanied by a $50 nonrefundable application fee made payable to NCA.
Students must:
Be a public or accredited private high school graduate and must have at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA.
Or:
Be an accredited home school graduate and must have at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA. Students who have completed a home school program must show proof of school accreditation or program accreditation or GED.
Or:
Have earned a GED and will be required to submit SAT or ACT scores or submit college transcripts that show a minimum of 30 college credits and a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above.
Students with below a 2.5 cumulative high school or college GPA will be required to submit an additional 1-page typed essay explaining why their GPA is below the required minimum and how they would overcome a similar situation in the future.
Submit official high school transcript or GED certificate and scores.
Submit official transcripts for all colleges attended.
Submit transfer credit information (if applicable) as outlined under “transfer credit” in this catalog. The transfer credit deadline is July 15. Credit will not be transferred after this date.
Submit a minimum 1 page typed personal essay addressing the following:
Why are you applying to Northwest College of Art? Prioritize four expectations that you have of this program.
How did you come to focus on the area of concentration that you wish to pursue at Northwest College of Art?
Describe in detail two personal challenges that you have faced and how you met those challenges.
Describe one of the most important people in your life and how they have contributed to your success.
Describe two pieces of work you wish to create, and why.
What are your artistic career goals for the future, which begin with earning this degree? What employment positions do you wish to seek?
Arrange for an informational interview with an admissions representative. This can be conducted on the phone, at the students home town during an admissions representative’s visit, or at the NCA campus. You will be asked to complete a questionnaire and interview form at this time.
Arrange for an interview to be completed on-campus with the Review Committee and take a campus tour if you haven’t previously visited the campus. All application materials must be submitted prior to this interview.
Portfolio requirements for
Visual Communications Program

A portfolio of recent work is to be submitted with your application packet. All pieces need not be in your chosen medium of concentration, but they should enable the Review Committee to assess your current skills and potential for success in the program.

Portfolios containing original artwork, or presented in a format other than slides or computer disk, can be picked up during the interview with the Review Committee. Portfolio’s not picked up will be returned C.O.D. NCA is not responsible for any loss or damage to portfolios.
A portfolio of 8–15 works to include:
A minimum of 4 observational drawings—these should be drawn from real life observations such as objects, still life’s, landscapes, etc. Observational drawings may not be drawn from photographs.
Any of the following: design, illustration, painting, computer graphics, sculpture or photography. Creative work should include creative and compositional thinking.
Sketchbook: In addition to the 8–15 pieces of recent work, applicants will be required to submit their sketchbook. You may pick this up during the Review Committee meeting or it can be mailed back to you C.O.D.
Preferred portfolio format: original artwork, color prints or Computer Disk (CD) with pdf images are the preferred format for portfolios. NCA does not accept portfolio submissions on floppy disks. Let us know if you have a website so that we may view it as an addition to your portfolio. In the case of computer disk or web portfolio, submit at least 5 printouts with your application. In the case of slides, please note NCA will need to keep at least 5 of your slide submittals in your application file. The Review Committee may determine additional information is necessary from the applicant (i.e. additional essay, artwork, etc.) in order to make a determination for enrollment.
Portfolio requirements for Photography Program

A portfolio of recent work is to be submitted with your application packet. All pieces need not be in your chosen medium of concentration, but they should enable the Review Committee to assess your current skills and potential for success in the program.

Portfolios containing original photography, or presented in a format other than slides or computer disk, can be picked up during the interview with the Review Committee. Portfolio’s not picked up will be returned C.O.D. NCA is not responsible for any loss or damage to portfolios.
A portfolio of 8–15 works to include:
Submit up to 15 images (a minimum of 12) of art that you have created within the past two years that show your promise in Photography. Present your strongest work and demonstrate your potential to develop a diverse set of skills and ideas should you be accepted into Photography program. We prefer to see examples of traditional black and white film-based photography, but if your work is concentrated in a single medium your portfolio can be weighted in that area.
A minimum of 4 observational drawings are recommended and may be included in your portfolio to to demonstrate basic compositional thinking—these may be drawn from real life observations such as objects, still life’s, landscapes, etc. Observational drawings may not be drawn from photographs.
Preferred portfolio format: original photography, artwork, color prints or Computer Disk (CD) with pdf images are the preferred format for portfolios. NCA does not accept portfolio submissions on floppy disks. Let us know if you have a website so that we may view it as an addition to your portfolio. In the case of computer disk or web portfolio, submit at least 5 printouts with your application. In the case of slides, please note NCA will need to keep at least 5 of your slide submittals in your application file. The Review Committee may determine additional information is necessary from the applicant (i.e. additional essay, artwork, etc.) in order to make a determination for enrollment.
Admissions Checklist
Submit application and application fee
Submit official high school transcript or GED
Home-schooled students: proof of school accreditation or program accreditation or GED
Transfer credit information (if applicable) by July 15
1 page typed essay addressing 6 questions
Set up informational interview with Admissions Representative
Submit portfolio and include sketchbook
Set up on-campus interview with Admissions Review Committee through the Admissions Representative
International Students

There is a $100 application fee for International students.

In addition to completing all of the admissions requirements listed previously, international students must submit a translated copy of a high-school transcript and TOEFL test score of at least 500 (paper) or 173 (computer). TOEFL test scores are not required for students from English speaking countries or for students who have graduated from a US high school. NCA reserves the right to require ESL classes if deemed necessary.

If the international student is accepted, the college will begin the required paperwork for the I-20 Visa. At this time, the international student must submit documentation that demonstrates his or her ability to pay for all tuition, fees, and living expenses for the duration of the program. The appropriate I-20 form will be processed after all documentation is satisfied. For more information on obtaining a student visa visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
Early Action Program

Northwest College of Art recommends high school juniors who demonstrate strong academic and artistic potential consider the early action program. The benefits include early communication of admissions decisions, the ability to focus on obtaining scholarships, and early information about housing and employment opportunities. To discuss this option further, contact an admissions representative at (360) 779-9993.

Bachelor of Fine Arts Program (B.F.A.)
Students wanting to apply for the B.F.A. degree may do so after completing a minimum of 27 credit hours in Visual Arts and New Media courses. In order to apply for B.F.A. degree status, applicants must have attained at least a 3.0 average in all Visual Art and New Media courses, including Art History, with a 2.0 required for courses taken outside the department to qualify for review. Students native to Fredonia must apply for B.F.A. status before completing six semesters of Fredonia course work; transfer students must apply before completing four semesters of Fredonia course work. In areas heavily impacted by enrollment, only a limited number of students may be admitted to the B.F.A. program. Students with a 3.25 or higher GPA in all Visual Art and New Media courses and 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA and a score of 3.5 or greater during the 24-Hour Review may gain advanced acceptance to B.F.A. without committee review. Students waived out of the review requirement must still receive major area approval and complete a Change of Major form for admittance to the B.F.A. program. All B.F.A. students are required to participate in Senior Exhibition.

Merit Scholarship (Transfer Student) Minimum of 16 college credits 3.50 cumulative GPA or higher From 20% – 40% Off Tuition Maintain minimum 3.50 cumulative GPA
continuous fall and spring term enrollment
Merit Scholarship (High School Graduate, Incoming Freshman) Minimum SAT1 1050 or ACT 22 3.65 cumulative GPA or higher From 20% – 40% Off Tuition Maintain minimum 3.50 cumulative GPA continuous fall and spring term enrollment
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship Membership in Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society 3.50 cumulative GPA 25% Off tuition Maintain 3.50 cumulative GPA continuous fall and spring term enrollment
Virginia Community College Grant A.A. or A.S. degree from an accredited community college in Virginia 2.50 cumulative GPA $75 per credit discount Maintain 2.50 cumulative GPA continuous fall and spring term enrollment
Military Service Award Active-duty military, reservists, and Guardsmen 2.50 cumulative GPA $250 per credit hour Maintain 2.50 cumulative GPA and continued military employment throughout enrollment continuous fall and spring term enrollment
Public Service Award Uniformed police, fire and emergency services personnel 2.50 cumulative GPA 25% off tuition Maintain 2.50 cumulative GPA and continued public service employment throughout enrollment
continuous fall and spring term enrollment
Military & Public Service Spouse and Dependent Children Award Spouses and dependent children of active-duty military, reservists, Guardsmen, uniformed police, fire and emergency services personnel 2.50 cumulative GPA 15% off tuition Maintain 2.50 cumulative GPA and provide documentation of the parent or spouse’s continued military/public service employment throughout student’s enrollment
continuous fall and spring term enrollment
Regent Undergraduate Investment Grant (Need based) Demonstrated financial need. Submitted FAFSA (Free Application for Student Aid) 2.50 cumulative GPA From 10% to 40% Tuition 2.50 cumulative GPA
continuous fall and spring term enrollment
Church Match Program Matching donation from church/ministry organization along with proof of affiliation with church/ministry organization 2.50 cumulative GPA Matching donation, up to $500 per semester Maintain 2.50 cumulative GPA. Must be enrolled in a minimum of six hours per semester continuous fall and spring term enrollment
Project Bridges Award Certified membership in Project Bridges 2.50 cumulative GPA 25% off tuition Maintain 2.50 cumulative GPA continuous fall and spring term enrollment

Scholarship Search

1SAT score only includes critical reading and math.
Regent University-based scholarships, discounts and awards can not be combined. If eligible for more than one award, Regent will award the highest scholarship amount.
Application for Regent University-based scholarships, discounts and awards must be received no later than two weeks prior to the start of a term.
Applications for Regent University-based scholarships, discounts and awards will only be accepted from prospective students who have completed an application for admissions and paid the non-refundable $50 application fee.
Regent School of Undergraduate Studies reserves the right to change or alter any scholarship requirements, deadlines or award amounts.
Scholarships are competitively awarded and are not guaranteed.
All Regent University-based scholarships, discounts and awards are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and are based upon funds available.

Bachelor of Fine Arts Program (B.F.A.)
Students wanting to apply for the B.F.A. degree may do so after completing a minimum of 27 credit hours in Visual Arts and New Media courses. In order to apply for B.F.A. degree status, applicants must have attained at least a 3.0 average in all Visual Art and New Media courses, including Art History, with a 2.0 required for courses taken outside the department to qualify for review. Students native to Fredonia must apply for B.F.A. status before completing six semesters of Fredonia course work; transfer students must apply before completing four semesters of Fredonia course work. In areas heavily impacted by enrollment, only a limited number of students may be admitted to the B.F.A. program. Students with a 3.25 or higher GPA in all Visual Art and New Media courses and 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA and a score of 3.5 or greater during the 24-Hour Review may gain advanced acceptance to B.F.A. without committee review. Students waived out of the review requirement must still receive major area approval and complete a Change of Major form for admittance to the B.F.A. program. All B.F.A. students are required to participate in Senior Exhibition.

Acceleration to Excellence Program (AEP)
The Acceleration to Excellence Program (AEP) Scholarships are merit awards covering up to the full cost of tuition for outstanding students who apply during the 10th or 11th grade. Home school students with well-documented academic histories and students who have skipped grades are welcome to apply; students fitting these descriptions must be the age of the typical 10th or 11th grader. Our faculty selects recipients based on academic excellence, extracurricular distinction, personal motivation, and character. The AEP application deadline is February 1. By the conclusion of 10th grade, most AEP applicants have completed at least two years each of English, mathematics (including geometry and algebra II), science, social studies, and a foreign language; applicants entering the College after the 11th grade typically have completed three or more years of each subject. The most highly qualified AEP applicants will be invited to attend AEP Day in early April and will have the opportunity to receive one of the College’s most substantial merit awards. Applicants who miss the AEP application deadline can still apply for regular admission.

Elizabeth Blodgett Hall and Livingston Hall Scholarships
Full tuition scholarships awarded through the Acceleration to Excellence Program are named in honor of the College’s founder and her husband. Awards cover the full cost of tuition and fees for two years of attendance at Simon’s Rock. Continuation of the scholarship during the sophomore year is dependent upon maintaining good social standing, a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better, and satisfactory academic progress. See above for eligibility criteria.

Nadiri AliKhan Memorial Scholarship
Following the graduation of their daughter, Loren ’99, this endowed scholarship was established by Dr. Mahmood AliKhan and his wife, Linda, in memory of his mother. The scholarship is given annually to a first-year student selected through the Acceleration to Excellence Program. Students who continue to meet the requirements of the AEP by maintaining good academic and social standing and making positive contributions to the campus community will automatically retain their scholarships for their sophomore year. Continuation of the scholarship during the sophomore year is dependent upon maintaining good social standing, a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better, and satisfactory academic progress.
Other Scholarships for New Students

W.E.B. Du Bois Scholarships
The W.E.B. Du Bois Scholarships meet a significant portion of the financial need of eligible students of color who apply during the 10th or 11th grade and have a record of academic achievement and motivation. Du Bois Scholarships are renewable for four years of study at Simon’s Rock. To remain eligible for renewal of the W.E.B. Du Bois Scholarship, a student must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.7 as of the end of each year at Simon’s Rock.

Berkshire Regional Scholarships
The Berkshire Regional Scholarships provide merit-based awards equal to 40 percent of tuition to students from 14 surrounding counties. In Massachusetts, eligible counties are: Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire; in Connecticut: Hartford, and Litchfield; in New York: Albany, Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Rensselaer, and Ulster; and in Vermont: Bennington and Windham.

At the time of application, applicants must be in at least the 10th grade or its equivalent, have a strong academic record, and be under age 19. Students whose families reside within commuting distance may choose to live at home. Students are also eligible for federal and state grants and loans that can cover up to the full cost of attendance. To remain eligible for the Berkshire Regional Scholarship, a student must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.7 as of the end of each year at Simon’s Rock.

Alumni Referral Scholarships
The Alumni Referral Scholarships are awarded to entering first-year students who were referred to the College by a current student or an alumna/us of Simon’s Rock. These scholarships of $1,000 each are renewable for up to four years of study. A student may receive a maximum of one Alumni Referral Scholarship award, regardless of the number of current students or alumni who referred the incoming student to the College.

Mullaney Scholarship
The Mullaney Corporation Scholarship was established in 2000 by David Mullaney, the general contractor for the Fisher Science and Academic Center, the Alumni Library, and the Kilpatrick Athletic Center. It is awarded annually to a first-year student from Massachusetts on the basis of need and merit.

The Vince Finisdore Family Scholarship Fund
Established in 2006 by Marcia Finisdore, mother of alumna Susan Finisdore Higgins ’81, this endowed scholarship fund provides scholarship assistance to students who qualify under normal College procedures for financial aid and who have a hearing loss as measured by professional audiological testing. The award, which is not intended to pay for legally required services, may be continued from year to year as long as the recipient maintains satisfactory progress toward a Simon’s Rock AA or BA degree.

Reed Scholarship
Reed Scholars are entering students for whom Simon’s Rock represents a particularly life-changing opportunity and who would otherwise be unable to assume the financial burden of paying for college.

Riversville Scholarship
The Riversville Foundation, which partners with select institutions to provide financial support for African American U.S. citizens with solid academic potential and financial need, identified Simon’s Rock in 2007 as the thirteenth institution of higher education with which they will work. The Foundation provides Simon’s Rock with funds to award a small number of scholarships each year.

Simon’s Rock Grants
Simon’s Rock grants are awarded annually to new and returning students on the basis of need. They may be renewed each year provided a student maintains good academic and social standing.