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 the first and only visual arts college that would empower women to achieve financial independence through a high-quality, career-focused education.

Now, 175 years later, Moore College of Art & Design remains the first and only historically visual arts college for women in the nation—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.

Mission & Vision

Adopted by Moore's Boards of Trustees and Managers, May 7, 2024

Vision Statement

Moore College of Art & Design is a visionary force in preparing the next generation to shape and drive the global creative economy. Building on our 175-year legacy of barrier-breaking success, Moore redefines career focused art and design education for the future innovators who will change the game.

Mission Statement

Moore College of Art & Design, the only historically women’s art and design college in the United States, educates women, nonbinary, and gendernonconforming 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.

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

Founded in 1848 under the mission to expand women’s access to higher education, Moore College of Art & Design offers a women’s college experience. Undergraduate admission is open to otherwise qualified applicants: (i) assigned female at birth; or (ii) who self-identify as women, trans women, nonbinary, or gender nonconforming individuals, at the time of application. This policy will apply to applicants to be considered for enrollment for the 2021–22 academic year and beyond.

Adopted by Moore's Board of Trustees & Managers, May 5, 2020

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