Q: If I am entering the undergraduate program as a transfer student, how long will it take me to graduate?
A: It will take you four years to graduate once you start at UIC. As a transfer student, your course load each semester will be lighter because of the general education classes that were taken at your previous school. However, it will still take you four years to complete the degree because the courses offered in all of the programs are incredibly sequenced and must be taken in order.

Q: What type of computer is required for students entering the undergraduate program?
A: All incoming students are required to purchase a mac laptop computer. The UIC bookstore has the current specs and offers a laptop purchase program at a discounted rate. Accepted students should watch the bookstore website, MicroStation, for changes as new computers and software become available. Art + Design recommends the 15 inch MacBook Pro model with 2.53 GHz, 4 gb memory, 500 gb hd, 256 MB graphics card. Recommended upgrade: 2.66 GHz i7 model with 4gb memory, 500 gb hd, 512 MB card

Q: What software is required for students entering the undergraduate program?
A: Adobe CS5 Master Collection* - $506 *MASTER COLLECTION includes: - Photoshop CS5 Extended - Illustrator CS5 - InDesign CS5 - Acrobat 9 Pro - Flash Catalyst CS5 - Flash Professional CS5 - Flash Builder 4 - Dreamweaver CS5 - Fireworks CS5 - Contribute CS5 - Adobe Premiere Pro CS5 - After Effects CS5 - Soundbooth CS5 - Adobe OnLocation CS5 - Encore CS5 Bridge CS5 - Device Central CS5 - Dynamic Link, Office for Mac - $139, Final Cut. All software can be purchased at the UIC bookstore at a discounted price.

Q: Is a portfolio required for undergraduate admissions?
A: No. Undergraduate admission is based on a combination of High School GPA, ACT/SAT scores and High School rank. For transfer students the transfer GPA is used. A portfolio review will take place upon completion of the First Year Program.

Q: How do I get a tour of the facilities in the School of Art and Design?
A: Undergraduate students should plan to attend a preview day, which is sponsored by the UIC Office of Admissions. You may reach them by phone: 312-996-4350 or online: www.uic.edu/depts/oar/undergrad. Graduate students are encouraged to attend one of our MFA Studio Tour and Information Sessions held several times a month during the fall semester. Specific information can be found in the events section of this website.

Q: When is the deadline for Graduate admissions?
A: February 1 of each year.

Q: Do any of the MFA degree programs accept Spring admits?
A: No. Our MFA programs accept new students only in the Fall semester.

Q: Can I take just one class without being admitted as a degree student at UIC?
A: No. To take a course in the UIC School of Art and Design you must be admitted either as a degree-seeking student in one of our BFA programs or as a non-degree graduate student through the UIC Graduate College. Please note: degree students have priority for course enrollment.