Founded by Sarah Peter as the Philadelphia School of Design for Women in 1848, our mission was and continues to be educating women for careers and financial independence.

The school’s first major, textile design, prepared women to work in the new industries created by the Industrial Revolution, of which Philadelphia was a center.

Today, Moore has ten fine arts and design programs leading to a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.

Moore offers majors in:

• Fashion Design
• Fine Art
• Art Education
• Graphic Design
• Illustration
• Interior Design
• Art History
• Textile Design
• Photography & Digital Arts
• Curatorial Studies

In addition, Moore is a recognized leader in the arts community through its gallery exhibitions, youth and public programs, and educational partnerships.

With an average of 500 students and a 9:1 student to faculty ratio, Moore is committed to maintaining a small-school environment as the College continues to evolve in the 21st century.

Moore faculty and administrators value individuality, creativity and professionalism. They encourage excellence, exploration and self-expression. Moore nurtures women with special talents in the visual arts and prepares them to flourish in their chosen fields.

Our Mission
Moore College of Art & Design prepares students for lifelong learning and leadership in fine arts, design arts, art history, and art education.

As a College founded for women in 1848, Moore continues to advance the role of women in the visual arts and to ensure their success by bridging the worlds of education and work. As a leader in the arts and cultural communities, Moore promotes the visual arts through distinctive education and gallery programs.

We accomplish this mission by:

• Emphasizing problem-solving, risk-taking, critical thinking, communication skills, self-confidence, creativity, and leadership throughout the Bachelor of Fine Arts curriculum
• Developing and promoting programs for a wide range of co-ed students, from childhood throughout adulthood, that provide personal and professional enrichment
• Bringing artists and designers of local, national and international importance to Moore and informing the community at large through exhibitions, symposia and other programs. 

Moore College of Art & Design is accredited by the Middle States Commision on Higher Education (MSCHE), National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), Pennsylvania State Council of Education (PSCE) and the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA formerly known as FIDER).