About

The Summer of Art at Otis College of Art and Design is an immersive, four-week pre-college experience (July 6–31, 2026) for high school students and young creatives ages 14.5 to 19. Designed for those seeking college-level studio exposure, the program combines hands-on specialization courses—such as Animation, Fashion Design, Game Design, and Graphic Design—with Drawing Studios. Classes are held on Otis’s main campus in Westchester, providing access to professional-grade facilities and studio spaces. Full-day participants earn three transferable college credits, while those in individual sessions earn one credit.

Tuition for 2026 is $4,190 for the full-day program; financial support, including full-tuition scholarships, is available for students who apply by the priority deadline in March. While the program serves many local commuters, it also offers a fully immersive residential option for $2,925, which includes housing in the residence halls, a full meal plan, and weekend excursions to landmarks like the Santa Monica Pier or Paramount Studios.

The daily schedule blends rigorous studio practice with individual and group critique, emphasizing portfolio refinement and conceptual development. Instruction is led by Otis faculty and professional artists, offering students grounded perspectives on the industry. Unlike recreational camps, Summer of Art embeds learners in college-style project cycles, culminating in a Final Exhibition on July 31 where family and friends are invited to view the students' work in a gallery setting.

Students can choose between "Specialization Courses" and "Drawing Studios" (Beginning, Intermediate, Life Drawing, or Costumed Model). Enrollment is open to students entering grades 9–12 and recent high school graduates. Because the credits are transferable and the workload is intensive, the program serves as a substantive bridge for students preparing for BFA applications and professional creative careers.