New graduate degree prepares artists and designers to create, lead, and launch in an AI-powered creative economy
SAN FRANCISCO, CA (July 7, 2026)—Academy of Art University today announced the launch of its new Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in AI-Driven Creative Practice, an advanced graduate degree designed for artists, designers, and creative professionals who want to shape the future of artificial intelligence—not simply respond to it.
Offered through the Schools of Brand Communications, the program opens for enrollment in Summer 2026 and builds on the University’s rapidly growing Master of Arts in AI Marketing & Design. Since launching with just 10 students in Spring 2025, enrollment in the MA has grown to 54 students for Fall 2026, reflecting strong demand for creative education that combines artistic practice with emerging technologies.
The new 60-unit MFA extends that foundation through advanced studio practice, research, prototype development, and venture creation. Students graduate with more than a thesis—they leave with a fully developed, pitch-ready concept capable of becoming a product, service, creative venture, or new business.
“Artificial intelligence is transforming every creative industry, but technology alone has never driven great ideas—people do,” said Chris Visslailli, President of Academy of Art University. “Our responsibility is to prepare students to think critically, create fearlessly, and lead confidently in a world where AI is becoming part of every creative discipline. This MFA reflects what we’ve always believed: great artists don’t wait for the future—they help create it. We want our graduates to leave not only with exceptional creative skills, but with the vision and confidence to build what’s next.”
The MFA is structured as a natural continuation of the University’s MA in AI Marketing & Design, sharing its first 36 units before advancing into an immersive thesis sequence centered on research-through-practice, experimentation, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The program brings together AI fluency, studio-based creative practice, and venture development within a single graduate degree, preparing students for leadership across the rapidly evolving creative economy.
“What makes this program different is where it leads,” said Doug Van Praet, Executive Director of the Schools of Brand Communications. “Students aren’t simply refining a portfolio—they’re developing original ideas with real-world potential. The goal is to graduate creative leaders who are ready to launch new ventures, create new opportunities, and help define the future of creative work.”
The launch reflects Academy of Art University’s broader commitment to integrating artificial intelligence across creative education. In 2025, the University appointed award-winning creative director and longtime advertising educator Ross Patrick as its first Chief AI Evangelist, leading cross-disciplinary AI initiatives for faculty and students while strengthening connections between the University and San Francisco’s technology community. Patrick developed foundational courses—including AI for Advertising, AI for Designers, and AI for Everyone—that now anchor the graduate AI curriculum.
That investment extended further this year. The University named Justice Jones to a newly created role, Director of AI Strategy, beginning in July 2026. While Patrick’s work centers on AI’s role in academic and creative programs, Jones will lead development of an institution-wide AI roadmap spanning teaching, faculty support, and university operations. Jones brings more than 15 years of experience at the intersection of artificial intelligence, education, and organizational strategy, including building AI-powered learning platforms and advising leadership on responsible AI adoption.
The University’s leadership in AI integration in design is also being recognized beyond the University. Fred McHale, Executive Director of the School of Interaction & UI/UX Design, was recently selected for a cohort of approximately 100 Anthropic Community Leaders from more than 90,000 applicants. One of only five individuals in his cohort chosen to represent the design and creative sector, McHale will lead Anthropic-supported events in San Francisco exploring the future of design and artificial intelligence.
Program Details
- Degree: Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in AI-Driven Creative Practice Total
- Units: 60
- School: School of Marketing, Communication & Design
- Format: Online and on campus Enrollment:
- Open beginning Summer 2026
- Duration: Three-year pathway About Academy of Art University
About Academy of Art University
Established in 1929, Academy of Art University is one of the largest private, accredited art and design schools in the nation. As one of the oldest art schools located in San Francisco, the epicenter of culture and technology, Academy of Art University offers more than 129 accredited degree programs—available online and on-campus—spanning 70 areas of study, including entertainment arts, advertising, fashion, architecture, game development, music, communications, photography, and more.