Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD) today announced Creative Pathway, a bold new initiative that will make attending CCAD more affordable for qualifying students in Franklin and Delaware counties. Beginning with first-year students enrolling in fall 2026, CCAD will cover remaining tuition costs after federal and state need-based aid is applied, giving eligible local students a clear, accessible path to earning a top-tier art and design degree in central Ohio — and the opportunity to graduate with little to no debt.
A Major Investment in Central Ohio’s Young Creatives
Creative Pathway is one of CCAD’s most significant access initiatives in decades. The program strengthens the college’s longstanding commitment to central Ohio by creating a clear, affordable route for young artists, designers, and innovators in our communities to pursue an exceptional education close to home.
“Creative Pathway is a truly transformational moment for CCAD and for students who want to pursue an art and design education,” said President Dr. Melanie Corn, Columbus College of Art & Design. “We’re opening tuition-free doors for students with passion and potential, and we are making a bold investment in the future leaders our communities need. This is access. This is impact. And it shows what’s possible when we champion local talent.”
Opening Doors to In-Demand Creative Careers
Creative careers across Ohio are growing rapidly. The state’s creative industries support more than 292,000 jobs1 — a reflection of strong employer demand for designers, animators, filmmakers, illustrators, UX strategists, and other creative professionals. These are meaningful, sustainable careers that help shape the identity and economic strength of the state — and CCAD prepares students directly for these roles through nine undergraduate degree paths.
“Creative careers are in demand, and Creative Pathway makes them attainable for more students than ever before,” said Vice President of Enrollment Management Emily Ragland, Columbus College of Art & Design. “Every year, we meet extraordinary young people who want to study at CCAD but worry that cost is a barrier. This initiative changes that. It closes the tuition gap, opens doors, and empowers more students to build strong, rewarding careers right here in Ohio.”
Strengthening Central Ohio’s Cultural and Economic Future
Franklin and Delaware counties are home to exceptional young talent whose imagination and drive help define the cultural identity and creative energy of central Ohio. Creative Pathway ensures more of these students can pursue higher education and the professional pathways it unlocks.
“Creative talent is one of Franklin County’s greatest strengths, and every young person with the passion to pursue art and design deserves an affordable path forward,” said Board President, Commissioner Erica C. Crawley. “The Creative Pathway program removes long-standing financial barriers and connects more of our students to high-growth creative careers. By investing in local talent, we’re strengthening our workforce, expanding economic mobility, and ensuring our creative industries reflect the diversity and brilliance of our Franklin County community. We’re proud to partner with CCAD to help more students thrive right here at home.”
Program Eligibility
Creative Pathway will cover remaining tuition costs after federal and state need-based aid is applied for students who meet the following criteria:
- Residency & High School: Must be a resident of Franklin or Delaware County and graduate from a high school located in one of those counties
- Enrollment Status: Must enroll directly at CCAD from high school (no gap year)
- Income: Must come from a household with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $100,000 or less, verified via FAFSA
- FAFSA Deadline: Must submit the FAFSA by March 1, 2026
- Start Term: Must begin enrollment in fall 2026
Eligible students will have the opportunity to graduate with little to no debt, fully prepared to step into Ohio’s thriving creative economy. Students, families, high school counselors, and art educators can explore full eligibility details and next steps at ccad.edu/creativepathway, reach out to the CCAD Admissions team at [email protected], or begin their application to CCAD at ccad.edu/apply.
Media Contact:
Renee LeGendre, Senior Director of Communications
614-222-6162
[email protected]
1. Source: Creative Ohio’s Ohio’s Creative Economy 2024 study
