Collins College was founded in the late seventies by Florence and Al Collins, the latter of which had been the art director for the major national magazine, Esquire. Back then, the school was called Al Collins Graphic Design School, and, as one might infer from its name, it focused on education for aspiring graphic designers. Today, graphic design remains one of the core program offerings at Collins College, but there are also several other fields of study.

Collins College has received accreditation from a national agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.

Points of Distinction

• Two campus locations in the Phoenix area

• Campus-wide WiFi

• Nationally accredited

Course Topics

The school's focus is on career education in design-related fields. The college partitions its programs into three schools:

• The School of Film, Video and Visual FX

• The School of Interactive Media and Technology

• The School of Visual Arts and Design

Collins College Admissions

The main credential that an applicant to the college must possess is a high school diploma – although a GED is also acceptable. Prospective students must also undergo an interview with an admissions officer – done in person if possible. Other factors may play into the decision, but as a whole, the school's admission process is designed to be inclusive.

Qualified applicants who are accepted and enroll may be eligible to receive money for their schooling from the U.S. government as well from state and private sources. Statistics from a recent class show that an overwhelming majority of students do receive assistance of one type or another, whether a grant or money that needs to be repaid.

Faculty Quality

Since the school provide a considerable amount of hands-on education, it makes sense that the teaching faculty members have substantial industry experience to share with their students – and they do. In fact the majority are still active in industry which helps to ensure that their knowledge remains current.

Collins College Student Enrollment

Based on a recent government survey, there are about 1000 students at the school with men representing about three-quarters of the total.

Student life

The school offers student clubs plus and alumni association to help graduating students network with Collins College alums out in the working world. Phoenix itself is one of the largest and fastest growing cities in the U.S. with professional and Division I collegiate athletics, major entertainment and recreational opportunities and access to some of the most beautiful places in the world such as the Grand Canyon and Red Rock areas near Sedona.