Cornell University features two schools for creatives: the College of Architecture, Art and Planning and the College of Human Ecology. As part of the land grant program, three schools, including the College of Human Ecology enable New York state residents to qualify for in-state tuition.

Syracuse University is an R1 research university but for creative students it is the home of the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA), S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, and the School of Architecture.

Of course academics are a major consideration when developing your college list, but there are social and financial considerations as well. Here are some things to think about as high school juniors make start researching colleges.

Northwestern University is a premier liberal arts university where creative students interested in performing arts will have the opportunity to study their craft as it intersects with the liberal arts.

DePaul University is a great option for students who want a liberal arts university in a fun, less hectic city environment of Lincoln Park but would also like to study film, performing arts, animation and other creative areas in a downtown city environment of the Loop Campus.

University of Miami offers all that you’d expect at a large school, but it is a gem for creative students as it houses the Frost School of Music, majors and minors in the Department of Cinematic Arts, and BArch degree from the School of Architecture. Worth considering if you’re looking for a school in a lively, international city.