Overview of Corcoran College of Art and Design
Corcoran College of Art and Design, which was an integral part of the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., became a part of George Washington University (GWU) in 2014. Please note that institutional changes may have occurred since then. This description is based on information available up to my last update.
The Corcoran College of Art and Design, now part of the George Washington University, was historically renowned as an influential institution dedicated to the visual arts. Established in 1890 by philanthropist William Wilson Corcoran, the college played a crucial role in shaping the cultural landscape of Washington, D.C., and fostering the creative talents of countless artists.
Historical Significance: The Corcoran College of Art and Design, along with the Corcoran Gallery of Art, was initially established as an institution devoted to the promotion and education of the arts. The Corcoran Gallery, founded in 1869, housed an impressive collection of American and European art, and the College was created as an extension to provide formal education in the arts.
Academic Programs: The college offered a diverse range of academic programs in the visual arts, including fine arts, graphic design, photography, digital media design, and art history. Students at the Corcoran College were immersed in a creative and collaborative environment, guided by experienced faculty who were often practicing artists themselves. The curriculum emphasized both traditional artistic techniques and contemporary digital media, reflecting the evolving nature of the art world.
Integration with George Washington University: In 2014, the Corcoran College of Art and Design faced financial challenges, leading to its integration into George Washington University. This integration allowed for the preservation of the Corcoran’s legacy while providing students with expanded resources and opportunities within the larger university setting.
Faculty and Alumni: The Corcoran College boasted a faculty of accomplished artists and scholars who played a significant role in the Washington, D.C., arts community. The institution’s alumni included prominent artists, designers, photographers, and art historians who contributed to the national and international art scene. Many Corcoran graduates went on to exhibit their work in galleries and museums, participate in prestigious residencies, and impact the visual arts through their creative endeavors.
Exhibition Spaces: The Corcoran Gallery of Art served as both an educational institution and a public museum. It provided students with the opportunity to engage with original works of art, learn curatorial practices, and showcase their own creations. The gallery spaces hosted a variety of exhibitions, ranging from student showcases to presentations of works by established artists, contributing to the vibrant cultural atmosphere of Washington, D.C.
Community Engagement: The Corcoran College actively engaged with the local and national community through its educational programs, exhibitions, and outreach initiatives. Events, workshops, and lectures hosted by the college encouraged dialogue and collaboration among students, faculty, and the broader public. The institution played a crucial role in fostering a sense of artistic community in the nation’s capital.
Legacy of William Wilson Corcoran: The legacy of William Wilson Corcoran, the founder of the Corcoran Gallery of Art, was a guiding force for the college. His vision of creating an institution that would inspire and educate through the visual arts continued to shape the ethos of the Corcoran College even as it became part of George Washington University.
Challenges and Transformations: The integration into George Washington University marked a significant transformation for the Corcoran College of Art and Design. While it faced challenges related to financial sustainability, the merger aimed to ensure the preservation of the Corcoran’s historic mission and provide students with a continued commitment to artistic education within the larger university framework.
Current Status: Given the evolving nature of educational institutions, it is essential to check the most recent information to understand the current status and offerings of the Corcoran College of Art and Design within George Washington University.
The Corcoran College of Art and Design was a historic institution that left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Washington, D.C. Its integration into George Washington University marked a new chapter, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing educational landscapes while preserving the rich artistic legacy of the Corcoran.
500 17th Street NW Washington, DC 20006-4804
Phone: (202) 639-1814
Email: admissions@corcoran.org
Web site: http://www.corcoran.edu
Rankings: Corcoran College of Art and Design
Located in Washington, DC, Corcoran College of Art and Design is one of the best universities in the Washington DC. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for Corcoran College of Art and Design in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is Corcoran College of Art and Design.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | N/A |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | N/A |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 68.7% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 57.3% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | N/A |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | N/A |
| Faculty resources ranking: | N/A |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): 1 | 98.0% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 0.0% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | N/A |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 31.0% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | N/A |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 19-25 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 11% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 50% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 63.6% |
| Financial resources rank: | N/A |
| Alumni giving rank: | N/A |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | N/A |
Essential Facts: Corcoran College of Art and Design
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | N/A |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | N/A |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | N/A |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 76% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | Yes |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | N/A |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | Yes |
| Additional policies and regulations: | class attendance mandatory, honor code, smoking prohibited |
| Collegiate athletic association: | N/A |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | N/A |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | N/A |
| Student activities: | student government |