School of Visual Arts

The School of Visual Arts (SVA) is a private art and design college located in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. Founded in 1947 by Silas H. Rhodes and Burne Hogarth as the Cartoonists and Illustrators School, the institution has evolved into one of the leading centers for creative education in the United States. Renamed the School of Visual Arts in 1956, SVA has built a global reputation for nurturing artists, designers, filmmakers, photographers, illustrators, and creative professionals through a curriculum that combines artistic innovation with professional practice.

SVA offers a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs across disciplines including animation, advertising, graphic design, illustration, film, photography, fine arts, visual effects, interior design, and creative technologies. A defining characteristic of the institution is its faculty of accomplished working professionals who bring current industry expertise directly into the classroom. Through studio-based learning, collaborative projects, internships, and access to New York Citys vibrant creative industries, students gain practical experience and develop the skills needed to succeed in competitive creative fields.

With an urban campus integrated throughout Manhattan, SVA provides students with unparalleled access to museums, galleries, media organizations, design firms, and cultural institutions. The colleges extensive alumni network spans more than 100 countries and includes acclaimed artists, filmmakers, designers, and industry leaders whose work has received international recognition. Committed to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and professional growth, the School of Visual Arts continues to empower emerging creatives to make meaningful contributions to the arts, culture, and society.