Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design Shapes Future Creatives through Dedicated Support

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD), founded in 1963, is a premier institution headquartered in Denver, Colorado, with a strong online platform dedicated to shaping the next generation of artists and designers. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), RMCAD offers 11 undergraduate programs, including illustration, graphic design, animation, game art, and interior design. The college serves a diverse student body, providing both on-campus and online degrees to meet learners where they are.

RMCAD’s mission is to ignite passion for critical thinking, preparing students to become influential voices in their fields and communities. Its commitment to culture, excellence in education, and professional growth creates a vibrant, community-oriented environment. The college’s strategic plan, RMCAD RISE (Reflect, Innovate, Serve, and Evolve), sets a five-year course for advancing educational innovation, student success, and community engagement. This includes enhancing student services, career readiness, and a supportive culture for employees, all guided by data-driven decisions.

The institution’s values emphasize student-centered education and creative development, fostering an inclusive space that celebrates varied perspectives. RMCAD leverages resources like the Student Learning Center, academic advising, and career + alumni services to empower its community. Programs such as RMCAD Renew, which allows alumni to audit courses in their original field of study for free, and the Alumni PASS Program, granting campus access, reflect its dedication to lifelong learning. The college’s vision is ambitious: to evolve into a major university known for attracting a diverse, globally impactful student body.

Through a blend of tradition and innovation, RMCAD equips students for careers in the art and design industries. Its focus on equitable education and transparency ensures that every graduate leaves with practical skills, hands-on experience, and a robust network. As RMCAD continues to grow, it remains a leader in nurturing creative talent and building a lasting legacy in art and design education. We recently had the opportunity to connect with Nicolle Dale, Director of Career and Alumni Services at RMCAD, about how they support students and alumni and what lies ahead for Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design.

What is RMCAD’s philosophy on serving and supporting its students and alumni?

Our philosophy on serving and supporting students and alumni is centered on creativity, individualized support, and lifelong engagement. The institution is committed to fostering an environment where students and graduates feel empowered, valued, and prepared for success in their artistic and professional journeys.

The Career + Alumni Services philosophy focuses on equipping every student with the skills, experience, and confidence needed to transition successfully from student to professional. The department strives to ensure that each graduate leaves with practical knowledge, hands-on experience, and a strong network to excel in their chosen career. Beyond graduation, Career + Alumni Services continues to support alumni, foster their growth, and celebrate their achievements as they pursue their paths.

Can you share a specific example of when RMCAD went above and beyond to support a student or alumnus?

For students, Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design supported a specific case. One student had needs beyond typical advising protocol. Advising the student and the student’s FERPA contact created an outreach approach that kept the student accountable while also supporting those specific needs. Now, the student takes RMCAD Renew classes at every opportunity they can.

For alumni, the Career + Alumni Services department goes above and beyond by actively assisting students in their search for internships. The team personally reaches out to companies to follow up on initial inquiries and advocate on their behalf. They also provide a wide range of resources and programming to support career development and a strong alumni community. This includes RMCAD-funded events and awards tailored specifically for students and alumni, hosting guest speakers, and delivering additional artist-focused business education through CreativeStudy.com. The department promotes initiatives such as the RMCAD Renew Program, which allows alumni to audit courses within their original degree programs at no cost, and the Alumni PASS Program, which grants access to campus facilities and in-person course audits.

What methods does RMCAD use to track and measure student and alumni satisfaction?

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design tracks student satisfaction with End-of-Course Evaluations, Mid-Semester Check-Ins, and Annual Student Satisfaction Surveys. Academic Advising & Support Services measures retention and persistence rates. For alumni, Career + Alumni Services uses career advising surveys, graduate exit surveys, co-curricular assessments, and the annual student satisfaction survey.

How does RMCAD personalize its programs or services to meet the unique needs of its diverse student body and alumni network?

Online and on-campus programs allow students to choose a learning format that suits their lifestyle. Asynchronous online coursework accommodates different schedules and learning preferences. Career + Alumni Services personalizes its programming by offering one-on-one career coaching, resources, programming content, workshops, and alumni benefits specific to the Art + Design Industry.

What strategies does RMCAD employ to foster loyalty and lasting connections with its students and alumni?

Faculty and mentor relationships, thanks to small class sizes and hands-on instruction, create a deeper connection to the institution. We foster connections within our alumni network through our dedicated newsletter and active social media presence, keeping alumni engaged with the institution.”

How does RMCAD train its staff and faculty to provide exceptional support and guidance to students and alumni?

Comprehensive orientation programs introduce new hires to RMCAD’s student-centered philosophy, institutional values, and policies. Faculty receive yearly training on teaching methodologies, academic advising, and student engagement strategies.

What role does technology play in enhancing the experience of RMCAD students and alumni, both on campus and online?

For students, Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design relies on technology to enhance their experience. Edsights, an interactive chatbot, supports what Advising calls tier 5 level outreach. It conducts consistent check-ins with students about their academic, wellness, and financial status and provides a targeted approach to identifying urgent needs. Virtual sessions via Zoom offer easier access, allowing students to meet with their departments conveniently. Anchor flags help identify at-risk students for early intervention. The learning management system also delivers a seamless online experience with discussion forums, video feedback, interactive support, and engaging assignments.

For alumni, Career + Alumni Services uses the Symplicity CRM platform as a comprehensive portal for students and graduates. This platform hosts career-related programming content, resources, guides, and documents. It also includes an online job board and a mock interview tool. Workshops and guest speaker events are available in-person, via live-stream, or virtually through Zoom, offering flexibility for participants. Students and alumni can also schedule career advising appointments on Zoom, ensuring convenient access to personalized support.

What’s Next for RMCAD

RMCAD stands at a pivotal moment, poised to expand its influence in the world of art and design education. With its RMCAD RISE strategic plan guiding the way, the institution aims to solidify its reputation as a hub for creative innovation over the next five years. Leaders at RMCAD envision a future where the college attracts an even larger student body, amplifying its global reach while staying true to its roots in Denver. The integration of cutting-edge technology, like the Edsights chatbot and Symplicity CRM platform, signals a commitment to meeting modern demands, ensuring students and alumni remain supported in an ever-evolving industry.

As RMCAD looks ahead, it plans to deepen community engagement through events, workshops, and awards like the Radiance Awards, celebrating the achievements of its graduates. The college’s focus on inclusivity and data-driven growth promises to shape a dynamic future where creativity and professional success go hand in hand. We would like to thank RMCAD for sharing its insights and experience with our readers, offering a glimpse into how this institution continues to inspire and empower the next generation of artists and designers.