Overview
Santa Fe University of Art and Design was a private arts-focused institution located on the former College of Santa Fe campus. It traced its lineage to a Christian Brothers college founded in 1947, which was reorganized and rebranded in 2009 after Laureate Education acquired the struggling College of Santa Fe. The university specialized in creative and applied arts, becoming particularly known for its film school, which attracted students interested in production, animation, and digital media, benefiting from Santa Fe's growing film industry presence. The institution closed permanently in 2018 after Laureate Education decided to cease operations, citing declining enrollment and financial sustainability challenges.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Santa Fe, New Mexico |
| Founded | 1947 |
| Total students | 700 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 10:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 70% |
| Graduation rate | 45% |
| Average starting salary | N/A |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $29,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $29,000 |
| Room & board | $10,000 |
| Average financial aid | $15,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 80% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 900-1100 |
| ACT range | 18-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.10 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Film Production
- Digital Media
- Photography
- Creative Writing
- Design
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.