Rankings and Quick Facts
We’re kind of a big deal, thanks to bold talent and big ideas
From nationally ranked programs to groundbreaking research and creative work, the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design is turning heads for all the right reasons. Our students and faculty don’t just follow trends; they spark and shape them. That’s why our rankings aren’t just numbers — they’re what happens when new faculty and first-years come through our doors.
Top-ranked, nationally respected academic programs
#5
Industrial design school in america
College factual, 2026
#10
Best College for
architecture in america
Niche, 2027
#12
best landscape architecture school in america
college factual, 2026
#18
best graphic design school in america
edurank, 2026
#2
best drama and theatre arts school in virginia
college factual, 2026
#3
best music school in virginia
college factual, 2026
Big support, small classes, real results
1,725
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS
10:1
STUDENT-TO-FACULTY RATIO
180
INSTRUCTIONAL FACULTY
94%
FIRST-YEAR RETENTION RATE
57%
STUDENTS ON THE DEAN'S LIST
25
U.S. STATES OF AAD STUDENTS
So much more than just numbers—meet our student communities
Undergrad student snapshot 2024-25
- 1,683 undergraduate students
- 57% Virginia residents
- 7% international students
- 310 undergraduate degrees earned at spring 2025 commencement
Graduate student snapshot 2024-25
- 194 graduate students
- 42% Virginia residents
- 35% international students
- 75 graduate degrees earned at spring 2025 commencement
Meet the fall 2025 first-year class
- Number of students: 386
- Average HS GPA: 4.03
- Virginia residents: 62%
- Other state residents: 32% from 23 states and Washington, D.C.
- International students: 6% from 17 countries