The Transfer Portfolio Print

The transfer portfolio should demonstrate knowledge of college-level course work. Your portfolio should include 20 - 30 pieces which represent basic skills in design, drawing, painting, color, and sculpture. If enough course work has been completed, the portfolio should also reflect experience in a major field of study.

The portfolio allows the admissions counselor or the divisional dean to evaluate which studio courses will transfer to MIAD and determines class standing. Therefore, your portfolio should include as much work as possible from all studio courses taken while attending other post-secondary institutions.

You may apply to transfer up to 48 studio credits. Transfer of studio courses is determined by the portfolio review. MIAD will only accept studio credits from courses which are compatible with our existing course offerings and for which you received a grade of "C" or better. Transfer credit will only be accepted from a college with regional or professional accreditation.

How to Submit Your Portfolio

You may submit your portfolio in the following ways:

A. You may schedule an appointment for a portfolio review, interview and campus tour Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (CST) by calling the Office of Admissions. This is the preferred method for all admissions candidates. However, if you live a great distance from Milwaukee it may be unrealistic to visit in person.

B. Show your portfolio to a MIAD representative at one of the National Portfolio Days held around the country. National Portfolio Days are hosted by MIAD and other institutional members of the National Portfolio Day Association. For information regarding dates, times and locations, watch for posters sent to your high school art department throughout the year or call the MIAD Office of Admissions for details.

C. Submit your portfolio by mail in the form of 35 mm slides or digitally. For slides, each slide must be numbered and labeled with your full name; include a description of each slide indicating the medium used, date completed and size. Place digital work onto a CD-R, labeled properly, and include a printed proof sheet and description. The slides or CD becomes a permanent part of your admissions application.

D. Present your portfolio during your interview. All students are interviewed as part of the admissions process to evaluate their enthusiasm, desire, and potential to succeed at MIAD. Interviews are conducted during the portfolio review or over the phone for students who submit their portfolio in slide or digital form.

Our goal in evaluating your portfolio is to help you become a better artist. Our counselor will give you opinions on what pieces are strong as well as which pieces need further development. Don't worry about framing or matting your work, and do not purchase an expensive portfolio case just for your review; we're interested in the art, not the container.

How to Build a Portfolio
If you haven't taken college-level studio art courses and need to develop your portfolio for general acceptance, or if your simply want to expand your skills, please read the Building Your Portfolio page.