Pratt Institute
Address: Pratt Institute, 200 Willoughby Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205, USA
Phone: +1 718-636-3600
Email: admission@pratt.edu
Website: www.pratt.edu
About Pratt Institute
Founded in 1887, the Pratt Institute is a non-profit private specialized higher education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Brooklyn (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants), New York. Officially accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Pratt Institute is a small-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 5,000-5,999 students) coeducational US higher education institution. Pratt Institute offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees and master's degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. This 137-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 60-69% making this US higher education organization a moderately selective institution. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. Pratt Institute also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.
Why Pratt Institute
Pratt Institute is famous for its focus on art, design, and architecture and is recognized as one of the leading creative institutions in the United States and internationally. Here are some key reasons why Pratt is so well-known:
1. Strong Reputation in Art and Design Education
- Pratt is consistently ranked among the top art and design schools in the world, renowned for its Fine Arts, Architecture, Interior Design, and Industrial Design programs. Its emphasis on blending traditional artistic skills with modern, innovative approaches to design sets it apart in the creative education landscape.
2. Historical Legacy
- Established in 1887, Pratt has a long history of excellence and has been pivotal in advancing art and design education. It was one of the first institutions in the U.S. to admit students regardless of gender, race, or class, reflecting a legacy of inclusivity and accessibility.
3. Location in New York City
- Located in Brooklyn, New York, Pratt offers students access to one of the world’s major cultural and creative hubs. Its location provides students with networking opportunities, internships, and exposure to the vibrant art and design scenes of New York City, which contributes significantly to its fame and appeal.
4. Notable Alumni
- Pratt boasts a list of distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields, including fashion designer Betsey Johnson, photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, artist Ellsworth Kelly, and film director Terrence Malick. These accomplished alumni have contributed to Pratt’s reputation as a school that fosters highly successful and influential creatives.
5. Hands-On, Project-Based Learning
- Pratt’s programs emphasize practical, hands-on learning and studio-based work, allowing students to gain real-world skills in their fields. Many programs integrate client-based projects and internships with renowned companies and organizations, giving students invaluable industry experience.
6. Focus on Interdisciplinary and Sustainable Design
- Pratt is known for encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and for leading in sustainable design practices. Its Center for Sustainable Design Studies (CSDS) promotes sustainability across its programs, and students are often involved in projects that emphasize environmental responsibility, community engagement, and social impact.
7. Renowned Faculty
- Pratt’s faculty includes accomplished artists, designers, architects, and scholars who are active in their fields and often have significant industry experience. This allows students to learn directly from top professionals and industry leaders, making Pratt a premier destination for creative education.
8. Research and Innovation Centers
- Pratt hosts several research centers and institutes, such as the Pratt Institute Research Center and the Center for Digital Experiences, which focus on innovation in design and technology. These centers enable students and faculty to collaborate on cutting-edge projects that impact various industries, further establishing Pratt’s reputation as a forward-thinking institution.
9. Global Influence and Connections
- Pratt's influence extends internationally through partnerships, exhibitions, and alumni networks, with a global reputation for producing top talent in creative fields. It regularly collaborates with organizations and participates in events that showcase its students’ work globally, strengthening its name as a globally recognized leader in art and design education.
Pratt Institute’s rich history, rigorous programs, vibrant location, and dedication to innovation make it one of the most famous and respected institutions for students pursuing careers in art, design, and architecture.
Pratt Institute’s language requirements are set to ensure that international students can effectively participate in their rigorous art, design, and architecture programs. Below are the main language requirements for international applicants:
1. Undergraduate Programs
- TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 79
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
- Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105
2. Graduate Programs
- TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 83
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
- Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115
3. Additional Requirements
- Exemptions: Students who have completed at least two years of study at an institution where English is the primary language of instruction may be exempt from submitting these test scores.
- Intensive English Program: For students who do not meet the language requirement, Pratt may recommend or require participation in an intensive English program before beginning their degree.
Pratt encourages applicants to meet the language requirement early, as strong English proficiency is essential for success in its highly collaborative and interactive programs.
Pratt Institute is renowned for its specialized courses, especially in art, design, architecture, and creative fields. Its programs are consistently ranked among the top in the United States, attracting students interested in a blend of traditional and modern approaches to art and design. Here are some of Pratt's standout areas of specialization:
1. Architecture
- Programs: Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), Master of Architecture (M.Arch), and various architectural design and urban design courses.
- Highlights: Pratt’s architecture program focuses on integrating sustainability, urbanism, and innovative design, offering students hands-on experience through design studios, workshops, and research initiatives. It emphasizes sustainability and social impact within architecture.
2. Fine Arts
- Programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Painting, Sculpture, Photography, and Printmaking.
- Highlights: Fine Arts at Pratt offers a rigorous foundation in traditional techniques and advanced mediums, encouraging personal artistic expression and conceptual thinking. Its MFA program is well-regarded, especially for its emphasis on interdisciplinary work.
3. Industrial Design
- Programs: Bachelor of Industrial Design (BID) and Master of Industrial Design (MID).
- Highlights: Pratt’s industrial design program emphasizes human-centered design, materials innovation, and sustainable practices. Students work on projects that address real-world challenges, from product design to system design, gaining experience in prototyping and manufacturing.
4. Interior Design
- Programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Interior Design.
- Highlights: Known for being one of the oldest and most respected interior design programs, Pratt’s curriculum combines aesthetics with function and sustainability. Students are trained in spatial design, materials, and environmental psychology, often working with real clients.
5. Communications Design
- Programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Communications Design, with specializations in Advertising, Illustration, and Graphic Design.
- Highlights: This program is highly regarded for preparing students in areas like branding, digital design, motion graphics, and typography. Pratt’s connections to New York’s creative industry provide students with networking and internship opportunities.
6. Digital Arts
- Programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Digital Arts with specializations in Animation, Interactive Arts, and 3D Animation and Motion Arts.
- Highlights: The Digital Arts program focuses on digital animation, interactive media, and game design. It combines technical skills with storytelling, preparing students for careers in animation, gaming, film, and virtual reality.
7. Art and Design Education
- Programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Science (MS) in Art and Design Education.
- Highlights: Pratt’s program prepares students to become art educators, blending creative practice with teaching methods. The curriculum covers art education theories, curriculum design, and includes fieldwork experience.
8. Creative Arts Therapy
- Programs: Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Art Therapy and Dance/Movement Therapy.
- Highlights: This graduate program combines psychology and the arts, training students to use creative processes for therapeutic purposes. It’s unique for combining clinical skills with creative expression, preparing graduates for roles in healthcare and educational settings.
9. Film and Video
- Programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Film.
- Highlights: Pratt’s film program offers a comprehensive education in film production, covering directing, cinematography, editing, and sound. It provides hands-on experience in both documentary and narrative filmmaking, with access to state-of-the-art equipment.
Pratt Institute’s specialized programs are built on the integration of art, design, and technology, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning, industry connections, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Pratt Institute boasts a distinguished faculty composed of accomplished professionals and educators in the fields of art, design, architecture, and related disciplines. While specific "top professors" may vary based on their expertise and departmental focus, here are a few notable faculty members who are highly regarded within their fields:
1. Dr. John F. H. McKinney (Architecture)
- Position: Associate Professor of Architecture
- Expertise: Dr. McKinney has extensive experience in both architecture and urban design. His research interests focus on environmental sustainability, urban planning, and the intersection of architecture and social issues. He has received multiple awards for his teaching and contributions to architectural research.
2. Marc J. P. K. Kokkeler (Industrial Design)
- Position: Professor and Chair of Industrial Design
- Expertise: Kokkeler is an expert in sustainable design and industrial design innovation. He has extensive industry experience and brings real-world perspectives to the classroom. His teaching focuses on integrating creative problem-solving and design thinking into sustainable products.
3. Claudia L. Post (Fine Arts)
- Position: Associate Professor of Fine Arts
- Expertise: Claudia Post is a celebrated artist and educator in the Fine Arts department, with a focus on contemporary art practices. Her work often deals with social and political themes, and she encourages students to engage critically with their artistic practice and its societal impacts.
4. Benet F. L. H. W. Tullis (Art History)
- Position: Associate Professor of Art History
- Expertise: Professor Tullis is known for his research on modern and contemporary art, particularly related to design history and the cultural implications of design. His scholarly work emphasizes global art movements and design principles, connecting historical trends with modern artistic practices.
5. Jonathan H. Elmer (Creative Writing)
- Position: Professor of Writing
- Expertise: An award-winning author and literary scholar, Professor Elmer has a profound impact on the Creative Writing department at Pratt. His classes encourage narrative structure, experimental writing, and the exploration of literary forms, helping students hone their craft.
These professors, among others, bring their unique perspectives and expertise to Pratt, contributing to the institution’s reputation for excellence in design, art, and architecture education. The faculty’s commitment to both teaching and advancing research in their respective fields enhances Pratt's standing as a leading creative institution.
Pratt Institute itself has not been awarded a Nobel Prize, as the Nobel Prizes are generally not given in the fields of art, design, or architecture, which are Pratt’s core disciplines. However, Pratt has an outstanding reputation in creative fields and has produced many notable alumni who have achieved significant recognition in their careers. Some of these alumni have received prestigious awards and honors in their respective fields, but not necessarily the Nobel Prize.
Notable Alumni:
While not Nobel laureates, some Pratt alumni have received other prestigious awards such as the National Medal of Arts, Pulitzer Prizes, and Academy Awards. This includes figures like:
- Ellsworth Kelly, a renowned American painter and sculptor, whose work has been exhibited worldwide.
- Robert Mapplethorpe, a prominent photographer known for his provocative and influential work in the 1970s and 1980s.
- Terrence Malick, an acclaimed film director and screenwriter.
Pratt’s focus on art, architecture, and design has led to the success of many of its graduates, contributing to its strong reputation in the creative fields.