Non-Degree Students
MIAD accepts students who wish to take courses for credit without entering the degree programs. To be considered for admission as a non-degree seeking student you must submit an online application, and complete a personal interview with an admissions counselor.
If you are enrolling in six or fewer Foundations credits per semester, a portfolio review is not required. If you are enrolling in an upper level course, you will need to meet any pre-requisites to this course. Submission of college level transcripts and/or a portfolio will provide the necessary evidence of proficiency.
If you decide at some future date to enter the degree program, you must re-apply through the Office of Admissions as a degree candidate. The credits you have successfully completed as a non-degree student will be applied toward your degree program requirements.
News
MIAD Values Recognition Award: Lisa Floading
Lisa Floading, Coordinator of Tutoring Services, received the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) MIAD Values Recognition Award for November 2025. Lisa received nominations that highlighted her embodiment of MIAD’s Core Values, especially Innovation and Community.
MIAD lands #1 Graphic Design school in Wisconsin 2025
In its 2025 rankings, Animation Career Review named the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) the #1 Graphic Design School in Wisconsin and #11 in the Midwest. The college’s Animation and Illustration programs also received top rankings.
Social Choreography: A practice of dancing toward liberation
Kim Miller, professor of Fine Art + New Studio Practice, returned to the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) following her sabbatical year with a Ph.D. and an innovative presentation and practice for students, faculty and staff.
Fine Art senior selected for Wisconsin Artists Biennial 2026
Marta Tereziya ’26, a Fine Art + New Studio Practice senior at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD), is one of 50 Wisconsin artists selected for the 2026 Wisconsin Artists Biennial. The Wisconsin Artists Biennial is co-sponsored and organized by Wisconsin Visual Artists and the Museum of Wisconsin Art.
Sabbatical journey: Revelations and a new course for students
A sabbatical year immersed in Japanese culture, language and the study of Ukiyo-e – images of Japan’s “floating world” – led Professor Chelsea Holton to two main “aha” moments and development of a new course for students at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD).