Picture this: It’s 1848. The Industrial Revolution has spawned new industries, and Philadelphia is one of the biggest centers of it all. What can you do to capitalize on a pivotal moment in time? For Sarah Worthington Peter, that answer was to create a visual arts college that would empower women to achieve financial independence through a high-quality, career-focused education. 

Now, 177 years later, Moore College of Art & Design remains an inclusive and innovative home to ten prestigious BFA programs and so much more. Our mission is more relevant than ever, as technology, sustainability and diverse cultures drive and disrupt new and existing industries. Through dynamic BFA and Graduate Studies programs, educational programs for creatively curious youth and professional adult learners, and our own public and dedicated space for contemporary art—The Galleries at Moore—we are influencers and advocates for breakthrough artists and designers of all ages and backgrounds. 

 

THE WORLD NEEDS MOORE

When we say, “The World Needs Moore,” we speak to our history. We are an institution founded not out of some flight of fancy but because there was—and still is—a segment of the population not being served by existing academic institutions. Moore College of Art & Design exists to serve their needs.

Additionally, our tagline speaks to the value of our programs and the potential of our graduates. We produce artists, designers, leaders and entrepreneurs that the market not only wants but also needs. These are the voices the world needs to push creative professions to the next level.

Watch this video to learn about the behind-the-scenes process and meaning behind our new logo and tagline, developed in partnership with CCA (Creative Communications Associates) and featuring Utile, a typeface designed by Sibylle Hagmann for her type foundry, Kontour.

View our brand style guide!

OUR ADMISSIONS POLICY

Approved by the boards on June 1, 2026

Mission Statement

Moore College of Art and Design educates students for successful, high-impact careers. Our dynamic programs and uniquely inclusive environment foster creative excellence and amplify artistic potential, preparing our graduates to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of art and design. 

BFA Admissions Policy

Moore College of Art and Design offers a college experience which provides immersive education in visual arts and design. Undergraduate admission is open to qualified applicants of all genders.

Moore’s Boards of Trustees and Managers voted to open undergraduate enrollment to all students, planned to be in effect for the 2027/2028 academic year. We plan for all approvals to be received later this year. We will update this webpage when those approvals have been received. 

Learn More About Moore

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