A private art and design college in Lancaster's vibrant arts district, preparing creative professionals for careers across multiple disciplines.
PCA&D offers Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Arts (BA), Associate of Fine Arts (AFA), and Associate of Arts (AA) degrees across six major disciplines: Animation & Game Art, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Live Experience Design & Production, and Photography & Video. All first-year students complete a Foundation Year curriculum in drawing, design, and liberal arts before declaring a major. Approximately one-third of all coursework is in liberal arts, supporting professional and studio training. The college also offers minors, certificate programs, and continuing education through its Center for Creative Exploration.
The main campus occupies 204 North Prince Street in downtown Lancaster's arts district, surrounded by over 125 galleries, theaters, performance spaces, and cultural organizations. PCA&D partners with the Academy of Live Technology at Rock Lititz for its Live Experience Design & Production program, providing access to professional event production facilities. Students benefit from on-campus housing, meal plans, clubs and organizations, an art garden, and support services including disability accommodations and counseling. The annual Senior Show serves as a capstone exhibition of graduating student work.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. The college offers multiple visit options including open houses, sneak peek Saturdays, weekday campus tours, and online info sessions. All students receive a scholarship, and many receive additional PCA&D Grants based on FAFSA results. In 2025, 79% of students received federal financial aid with an average award of $18,876. The college also offers the Founder's Portfolio Scholarship Competition and welcomes transfer and dual enrollment students.
PCA&D provides comprehensive career services including internship coordination, resume assistance, interview preparation, and alumni career strategy sessions. The college maintains on-campus and off-campus job boards and hosts annual Career Day events connecting students with employers. Alumni have pursued careers across diverse creative industries, from animation studios (Disney, Nickelodeon) to specialized technical roles in audio/visual production and data science. The college emphasizes transferable skills, professional readiness, and hands-on learning with faculty who are active practitioners.