Correspondence Art School?

Q: Has anyone dealt with this particular correspondence study school? My high school son is very talented, and this school is based in Minnesota. The classes MAY be used for college credit if the college recognizes completion of these courses. (I have a list of colleges which have accepted them in the past, including the Art Institute in Atlanta). We thought it might be a good way for him to get some kind of informal training during high school before he enters a formal college art program. Is this a scam? Is there anyone who has taken this course? Any alternatives which would be feasible for a 15-yr. old boy in this manner (other than enrolling at a community college, etc.). We plan to send him to art school, but we wanted to encourage his interest in art while waiting for his graduation from high school.

A:I have spent 27 years in art college administration (ie., schools granting the BFA and MFA degrees, accredited by NASAD) and have yet to hear of one of these art schools accepting credit

from a correspondence school. Perhaps some, like the Art Institute of Atlanta (2-yr degree I believe) will, but I haven't heard of it among the four-year schools. Better yet, why not find a good museum, local college, art school, or anything else nearby, that offers direct classroom instruction (most have programs specifically oriented towards high school students). In my experience, the kind of schooling you mention is mainly formula-driven and skills-based. Imagination, dialogue, and problem-solving are not usually in their repetoire. Plenty of ways to encourage his interests and give him instruction opportunities as well (see above) - look around a bit.........