Born of a pioneering spirit, Massachusetts College of Art and Design is the nation’s first independent public college of art and design—and the first art school to grant a degree. Massachusetts College of Art and Design is a public, independent college of art and design. The college's academic and co-curricular programs prepare students from diverse backgrounds to participate in the creative economy as artists, designers, and educators, and to engage in the well-being of their society. As a national leader in visual art and design education, the college influences contemporary culture through the creative accomplishments of its students, alumni, faculty and staff.