The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division Comments

I strongly advise against attending the Art Institute. I'm set up to graduate in less than two months. I took my portfolio and demo reel to the recent CTN expo, where there were a lot of big names recruiting, like Disney, Dreamworks, and Blue Sky studios. Some friends and I went around to these studios, asking for reviews, and we were told that our work is consistently lower quality than industry standard. 
Now, don't get me wrong, we're not lazy and we're not bad studetns. At the school, we were considered the 'elite' group, the best of the best of our students. And we've been told by industry recruiters that the absolute highest quality work that comes out of our school is lower than what should be average in the industry.
One of my friends even went to talk to the Blue Sky recruiter, and they told him specifically that when they see a resume with "Art Institue" come across their desk, they usually just toss it. Students from this school are consistently not worth their time.

well then, Yuki, if thats the case...then i won't be going back to them for a BA! As soon as i get the associates, i'm going to take a break, do some self studying before i dare face the possible rejection from these Blue Sky bloody "elites" and may have to struggle just to get back into any school for the BA. I only knew of 1 alternative to that school, because noone took my desire for art studies seriously in the family! Maybe because the relatives are a buncha know it alls who prefer boring medical/scientific studies and a ton of income over art education. It was either be bored and fail out of some local college or take art classes and almost fail at life. There just was no alternatives offered to me and almost 0 art appreciation in my family! Until an alternative to the college is advertised, don't expect people to avoid them!

I just got off the phone with the Dept of Education who handles my Sallie Mae loans.  They said that AiP-online is not a "clearing house school" meaning that they have to update your enrollment with the Dept of Ed each time you take a class using regular mail, not electronically.  The Dean of AiP-online will be the same dean as the Ai of P. When applying for federal loans the Ai of P college code number is used.  My situation is this: I lack two classes before I receive my worthless Graphic Design Digital Diploma.  AiP-online has refunded my stipend loan back to the Dept of Ed. without my knowledge.  The only reason I found out about it was because the direct deposit never was made to my personal checking account.  Oh, and by the way, AiP-online is still charging me for the stipend amount EVEN THOUGH THEY SENT IT BACK TO SALLIE MAE AND THE DEPT OF ED!  Meanwhile, I have no stipend money to pay the bills and its right at Thanksgiving.  THIS SCAM SCHOOL SUCKS!!!!!

I wish I had read these comments before I decided to enroll into The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division. I am currently enrolled and I am tryin to transfer and yet I was told I need to withdraw. My classes just started today and I refuse to attend since I have been trying to transfer for a week now. This school is more like a business they fill your head up with all these bogus things charge you for all of them and then dont care if your leaving or not once they got there money. I am a gamer and I have been trying to enroll into the game/developement program but because I didnt have a portfolio I had to enroll into the graphic designing. This is my 1st time in college and I was very excited but now I dont even know if I can trust any colleges after this experience. I was told that I could start graphic designing and then transfer to gaming/developement so I didnt mind at 1st. Its only been a month and I felt like I was being ripped off since they changed my advisors without giving me a heads up. So I called my new advisor who by the way never picks up and I tryed to transfer I then get a phone call from a diffrent advisor informing me that my advisor told her to call me. I told her I wanted to transfer she said no I cant I must withdraw and also I would have to pay for my 2 classes even though I did not even start them yet. I emailed the support team requesting information so that I can contact the dean. I did not recieve any information instead I got an email that they forward my email to my advisor even though I stated that in my email my advisor was not doing his job. He then calls me at a random time I couldnt pick up. I was told to call him back and I did but now he does not answer all over again. I wonder if when the support team read my email did they think lets break confidential rights and forward this to his advisor who is not doing his job and see what he says about this. This Business that the art Institute runs should be noticed as a marketing business because thats all it is..... I do not reccomend this school to anyone. This is a Warning do not enroll into this Marketing business if you do not want to be dissapointed....

I wish I had other options. I'm in the military and there are no other online art schools. The fee's are ridiculously expensive and the accounting department is incompetent. If I had other options I would definately not attend AIOD.

I must echo the sentiments of those who say, "Don't go." Listen carefully to that advice - this school is in no way worth the tuition costs. The instructors have such cushy standards that it totally undermines the talented students. You get shoved through classes regardless of your skills and pretty much can pass if you turn in any half-baked attempt at a project. You can graduate from here pretty easily. But that's the thing - college should not be easy, and especially not one where yearly tuition is over $22K.

What they teach you is in no way based on anything you'd ever encounter in a real-life professional creative career, either...though they'll tell you it is. People are incorrectly educated or under-educated constantly, resulting in grads who won't get hired by anybody. Yes, I know degree does not equal a guaranteed job, but what AiP teaches you will certainly lower your chances of finding employment due to the horrible quality.

And don't even bother with Career Services - they're completely useless. When I was a sophomore at this school, my work had been published several times, among other freelancing ventures. They told me I was not experienced enough to do freelance work via the school. After graduation, my career adviser pointed me to a freelance website where typical rates are between one and two dollars, and to scam CraigsList jobs. Yeah, really convincing, AiP.

Oh, and you can't transfer any credits over to them from other schools, nor can you transfer AiP credits out. Did you take college prep math and English in high school? Whoop, sorry, the Art Institute of Pittsburgh isn't interested in your crafty money-saving schemes - you have to take THEIR superior math and English classes so they can get that many more credit hours out of you at a wonderful $487 per credit.

This school wasn't even accredited by the Middle States Commission until 2008, and trust me, employers are not impressed when you get a degree from a non-accredited college.

If you want to go to an art college, do not go here. You'll waste 3-4 years of your life and $100,000+ for a degree that is pretty much useless.

Stay away from AIO, go to Full Sail.
AIO throws you by the waste side after you graduate. Their recruiters are more agreeable then the people they hire to help us with jobs. They suck, and they teach us old crap and old methods, so if you suck after you graduate from AIO don't be surprised, you just went to a bad school there mate.
They are expensive, and they suck at their job, its like an expensive online forum that charges you to join their site. I'm an Aussie down under, and we don't scam our own people like Americans do.

Hi, ive been in the aiop online for 2 weeks now and i realized it was not the right decision for me, I was only in one class and financial aid covered everything. If i withdrawal will the financial aid still cover the time of the classes I took? and will I be able to get financial aid when i go to a ground campus??? Please help me out I have no idea what to do I just graduated high school and am highly stressed over this.

I'm just finishing up my first term at a REAL online university and I love it. I stopped going to AIO for many of the same reasons all the other people above have written. I wish I would have investigated this scam school further before I invested my time and money. Money is what this school is all about and they try every way to get it out of you. They could care less if you learn anything as long as they get the grant and loan money in. They are always looking for another way to make money. RUN FAST away from these scammers....!!!!

what is the name of the online school you are attending?

I do not recomend applying for this school. I attened a semester that I shouldnt of even been allowed to, I didnt have a job at the time, and I had horable credit, but they promised me that they would be able to help me in all financial expences. I had problems with my verison internet bill that came to $4,000 and needless to say I lost my connection couldnt pay for either one of my bills and now Im getting phone calls every night and not to mention all lhe letters I get from salie may. I will never be able to pay this on my own. I still dont have a job that pays, my job is at home with my kids and thats where my life long focus is.
        In the phone calls they have threntend me that they will garnish my wadges....well good luck I dont work what can I do ...I want to file bankruptcy but this being federal I cant..If Obama bails us out I would be saved, thats the only way I can get this off my back. I dont know how they expect me to give them anything when all the money I do recive go right to billd and food so I can take cake of my babies.

I have been a student here for 8 months and let me tell you its been no walk in the park. If you are considering this school as a place to learn GUESS AGAIN!! The first class you take is on basic Microsoft Office it is a crash course and if you know about thing MS Office you will want to scream because you have just wasted 2k in money that you could of put towards another class that you really needed. I was told I had to take a drawing course in which I did and guess what the Instructor teaching that course doesn't have a Master's Degree in Art of any form. He is in all actuality a washed up has been in the field. His critiques sound like he got them straight off Google. Mr. Fernadez you are a complete moron and I really believe you couldn't draw anything to save your life!!! The Academic Advisor Sarah Anderson is a joke. No matter what you go to her for she talks to you like she is reading from a script of things to say. No one there is doing their jobs they are only there for their lousy $1500/month paycheck. The tuition for the Photography program is crap its over priced and lets get real it a FREELANCE BUSINESS, Photography that is. I have been fighting with them for 3 weeks now about dropping a course all because no one thought it would be common courtesy to reply to my emails and numerous phone calls within the time aloud for the withdrawing. They want to take your money and give you nothing in return. Call all of the local business in your area and ask if they except anything from the Art Institutes as a degree and guess what they will say: Unfortunately, we do not recognize a For-Profit school as a accreditation of a college. Therefore, what you are paying for here at the Art Institute is a piece of paper worth no more than toilet paper. Try transferring any credits you received from this school to any other school and guess what they don't mean nothing. I know I tried switching to a Major University and was told thats great you took all of those courses however, they are worth nothing!!! MY MONEY DOWN THE DRAIN!!! I have filed a complaint with the BBB and hopefully they will get my money back, however I doubt that is going to happen. If you considering this school as a place to go to...just take $80k and go outside to your driveway and set the money on fire, at least when your done you will have ashes. That is basically what your doing with your money when you go here. Trust me when I say do not go to this school because of the shady business practices and the unethical ways of business. If you need more proof of this bulls**t school go to MSNBC or CNN and read all of the information they have for you. You will be amazed.

I was thinking of going to this school only because it's the only online school I can go to for interior design that accredited by cida and that's pretty important to me, so I'm confused on what I should do since it's the only accredited online interior design school but I have heard SO many bad things about it. Oh and for people like hell on wheels that think you won't get any hands on experience your wrong.  You do have to work with a licensed interior designer for 3 years if I'm not mistaken, so you will gain the hands on experience you need to work in the industry. Some of us don't have the option to go to school, work full time and take care of a family.  Just make sure you check you facts before you open your mouth :)

I'm so depressed after reading all this. I've been attending Aipod for two years now and i have enjoyed it, but I've racked up $20,000 in loans and spent $40,000 total in tuition and I haven't even finished my second academic year. That is depressing. I feel like I am getting a quality education, but it seems many hiring managers look down on online degrees and assume online students are all a bunch of cheaters. I have enjoyed interacting with my classmates and feel genuinely challenged by the fast paced curriculum. It is up to the student how much work to put into assignments and unfortunately some teachers will let you slide by with minimal effort. All the classes I have taken so far have benefited me and I was looking forward to taking more - especially classes dealing with coding as that is the area where I really need instruction. I'm concerned with how expensive the school is and the fact that it seems like none of the credits would transfer to an accredited institution. I was confused and thought the school had a reputable accreditation but it turns out I was wrong. In the field i am studying - web design & interactive media, I think my portfolio would speak for itself - which makes me feel like pursuing this expensive degree is totally worthless aside from an enjoyable life experience. 
Also, I am extremely disappointed by the rebuttals made by AIPOD staff! How incredibly unprofessional. The employees posting here are writing responses littered with poor grammar and spelling and attacking students for having a bad experience. All that does is show me that the negative responses are true because apparently this is how employees at the Art Institutes handle frustrated current, past and prospective students. A school struggling to uphold a good reputation would make an effort to make sure every student has a good experience rather than bully individuals that feel ripped off. Typing in ALL CAPS and making ANGRY accusations is not making you guys look any better, at all. I feel ashamed to be attending this school after witnessing that behavior and wish I could get the last two years of my life, and $20,000 in loans I now owe back to apply towards an education that won't get me "laughed out of an interview". 

I want to know. Is there -anyone- out there that has actually graduated from AIPOD with a graphic design or web design degree that has anything to show for it other than an $80,000 piece of paper?! Also, STOP TYPING IN ALL CAPS, IT'S REALLY ANNOYING!

-Extremely frustrated

Well, I'm currently inthe process of enrolling but, reading all the reviews I'm having secounds thoughts because I'm a stay at home mom and I really don't have time to return and this was the only online school I could find that offers a degree in restaurant/hospitalty management and the school is very exspensive so my question is, is it really worth it?

I have attended AI Pittsburgh online for a year and I have to say its been the worst experience of my life. I never get replies from my student advisers via e-mail. The whole, peer comments, gets old fast. I also have problems with the fact that ALL students can see your work when it is submitted. I have constantly corrected the professors. Some of the professors aren't even knowledgeable in the classes they teach. 

I only recommend this school to people ages 45 and up who have nothing better to do than to waste time waiting on people to comment on your work to correct it for the next assignment and chances are no one will comment on your work.

I attended the Art Institute and didn't feel it was a very good option. If your an artist, you need to be within a group where you can be hands on.  Everything I was taught was carbon copied, very little wiggle room, very stringent guidelines, and very very little feedback from teachers. Actually in one class I got 'read the text book, everything you need to know is there.'  So I retorted 'You're the teacher, I'm paying you to teach me the course.' I was reported for being insubordinate, but a few other students chimed in they felt the exact same way. 

I withdrew from my courses, and was told I owed nothing. 60 days later I got an email stating that I owed 1100.00 for early withdraw that my loans didn't cover.  Uh...I had Pell Grands, and Federal loans. How could I not have been covered.  They also bill let me quote verbatum from the person contacting me for money.

'This is the main reason for the current charges. Regardless of when you submitted your withdrawal, you are billed for the class for logging into the class on these dates, whether it may be 1 hour or 1 minute charges will accrue.' 

According to any school policy when you withdraw even according to the handbook you are only charged a % of the class costs.  Here the man states we're charged by the MINUTE or Hour.  So in reality it's not a traditional school in how they bill us for classes for the Online Division. 

I would seriously look into a local Art School if you want to return.  There are many MANY good schools out there that will give you great education, help you put your portfolio together, and get you hired into your field. 

Most of the time you get the run around with the Staff when you call in, and many times you get mixed answers.  Hit up a traditional school. It's worth your investment in you.

This school is a joke. I owe them 2200$ because they are blithering idiots. First, when i was redoing my financial aid, they claimed my mother wasn't my mother. That delayed my financial aid and got me liked out of my classes. Then, get this. My financial aid officer leaves the school and doesn't notify me. I emailed her like 7 times asking what was going on. The. A month later I get an email from another officer who does what the first one did. Absolutely nothing. A few weeks go by and I'm still locked out of my class. I get a letter in the mail telling me I've been worhdrawn. A heads up would have been nice. Want to know why they said I was withdrawn? My GPA was under the academic requirements. Do you know why my gpa was low? I was locked out of my f******g class!!! I was a week ahead of everyone in that class when I was locked out. Now I'm not in school and I was told I can't register at another school until they are paid. Which means my student loans will be due in May because I can't pay them because I don't have a damn job!!!!

This school screwed me over. It's going to ruin my life. I didn't even learn anything! I was in the graphic design program and i did not learn anything new that I hadn't learned in high school. It was like graphic design for dummies. I lost interest in the classes because it wasn't challenging. How do we get in on the settlement?! I'm only 20 and my credit is already messed up because of this. And I don't even have anything to show for it!

Be warned! The Art Institute parent company, Education Management Corporation, is currently being sued by the United States Department of Justice for fraud- $11 billion worth of fraud. Best advise- run, run, run!

I'm really sorry to hear all of these negative comments coming from students at AIP, I have nearly completed my second year of a bachelor's degree in Graphic Design and have nothing but praise for the school. I think perhaps too many of us are still sizing up online with on ground environments. The best advice for those choosing online schools is this, if you want a degree you must learn to work for it, this means that if there is something that the school does not do or offer then take the initiative and do it yourself. All of the classes at AIP are wonderful and though I have found a strict code of ethics and hard line of of questioning from teachers I have always felt perfectly in line at AIP. 

AiP is a terrible school. I'm glad they're getting sued. I am going to be looking for a way to get my  name on the suit and ask for my money back from this fraudulent institution. 

I went to AIO's website to see if could get my transcript info, and happened to come across a tab  for information regarding FREELANCE. Are they seriously recommending freelance to students that go to the school for the sake of getting a career? You don't have to pay to go to school to end up in freelance, I learned that the hard way, and its an insult that they would be recommending it seeing as they charge you an arm and a leg to learn from books you can simply buy and teach yourself.

Buy the books you need, buy the hardware you need, avoid a colossal debt paying them for words in their forum of a classroom, and make money freelance or with a job. Why do friends of mine have jobs without a degree and I can't find one with a degree? Because they actually learned substance from books, I am unemployed with a big a$$ debt. If I knew they wouldn't even try to help me get a job, I would have NEVER EVER EVER EVER went to the school.....again I say NEVER! Talk to someone that is currently enrolled at AIO, versus the people that have graduated from AIO.

Its a business they get rich on your hopes and dreams.

I have been at Ai Pittsburgh for 2 years now. I have seen more complaints about the school than I can count, and someone is always going on about mistakes with financial aid, the way things are taught, the classes required, etc. Bottom line, in my own experience, I think this school is just like any other. I have never had a problem with my financial aid, but I am sure some times mistakes happen. This does not mean one bad experience can taint them all. This just means one person had trouble and decided the entire system was corrupt and to spread this impression to anyone willing to listen. The simple fact is, these things to not always happen. Unfortunately, we hear a whole lot more about bad experiences than good ones. 

I've also heard more than enough complaints about the classes required and how they are taught. Simply, the online program is an accelerated one. Just because you are at home does not mean you are getting a cake-walk education. And why would you want to? You are paying a lot of money to learn this stuff, and this is the route you chose to do so. I have never had any problems with professors helping me out, answering questions, or the like. This is an online degree, you will need to read some material. You will need to make sure you understand the material. You will need to do the work required. Also, the complaints about the general education classes are a little silly as well. Of course you are taking general education classes that really don't pertain to what your major is. This would be the case in any university. You would need a certain number of meaningless credits to graduate. The one's here are limited because its an online program. You obviously aren't going to be doing physical education here. 

And lastly, I want to point out to people that school is going to be work. For you especially. Some things may go wrong. You may have a few bad experiences. But ultimately, with your own reserve and dedication you will walk away with a degree. Not everything in life is easy and one bad move doesn't mean you give up and just rant about that one bad time all over the web. This school is giving you that degree if you're willing to work and do it for yourself. 

I hope this post clears things up for someone out there on the fence about this school or any other one for that matter. Your education is of the utmost importance and you should put every effort needed into reaching that goal. Good luck on your way there!

By the way, I forgot to mention that I also have no problem contacting any of my advisers. In fact, even now in my second year, I still get calls every so often from my admissions counselor, financial counselor, professors, and others from the school for regular check ins. They are all possible to contact. It may take some time to reply to an email, but phone calls are always an option. I know in this age of faceless communication no one wants to pick up the phone anymore, but sometimes if you really need something it can be the way to go. 

Hope this helps!

Google art institute uses predatory practices. Lawsuit pending. 

CONARTISTS, IDIOTS, RIPP-OFF!

They tricked me! They refused to change anything about how they run their school, so people form  traditional colleges can fit-in! I was grouped with older people when i thought i'd be surrounded by young adults. No offence, but i hate being treated like crap while watching old farts get off easy. Noone likes young childless people.

They don't have normal lengthed semesters, so i struggled, almost got kicked out over complaining about..how terrible the class is, which i only did on a few occasions. They only like students if they look good and seem professional even though idiots run it! They owe me and my dad thousands of dollars! They also owe me for all the psychological and emosional damage they have done! I'M A JILTED BRIDE, BECAUSE OF THEM! That school was putting pressure on me when i was preping to be a bride. ask Aakatosh at rains dot net...oh wait..you don't know anything about psychology. Neither does he.. I was on an antianxiety pill and struggling with the classes. Its as bad as being on an aphetamine to stay awake in a boring neoliberal catholic all girl school wher enoone gives 2 craps about politics. I was the only conservative female who gave a crap about the war of terror. Sadly AIOnline offers no real history classes nor anything relating to the real world except how to make ads and crap that everyone can learn off the web! I only went, because i hated my old college.

I OWE PEOPLE MONEY! F--K THE SCHOOL! I LEARNED LITTLE AT THAT COLLEGE AND IT WAS A WASTE OF MONEY, BUT IT WAS EITHER THAT OR LEARN BORING STUFF AND GO BACK ON DANGEROUS AMPHETMINES TO KEEP ME AWAKE AND FOCUSED IN CLASS. I NEEDED AN ONLINE CLASSROOM, NOT JUST A BABYSITTER ON FORUMS teaching crap that anyone cna learn form a book and form the web!

I WAS TEACHING MYSELF THE WHOLE TIME, SO I WAS MISERABLE AND FAILED MY DARLING AKATOSH. I HAD A MOODY EX BEFORE HIM AND THAT WAS ENOUGH!

I AM WILLING TO JOIN WHOEVER IS SUING THIS COLLEGE, HOWEVER, WE ARE BROKE, SO I JUST WANT A REFUND!

I GOT MY DEGREE, BUT I LOST A MARRIAGE, I HAD NO PARTY TO CELEBRATE!

I WANT MY MONEY BACK!

There is a class action suit. Google "whistleblower lawsuit". You will find it. 

Hi, silly people. A corrupted corporation/system well hire a really nice and good person to be the first of contact. Once you have been tricked, you are f-ucked. These 1% good people are scouted and hired by trolls and bad people to fool you. The rest of them are bad people and stupid and they don't care. You might think it is lone wolves who are doing bad things. But it is the other way around. It is the lone wolves who are good and are used as the martyr to pretend that the system and their products are good.

This system is rotten from the core. Don't go report this school to its master system. You will get nowhere unless by accident a good man saves you and brings justice amongst this system, but that is rare. And if that good man saves you, you will think the system is good and helped you, when it was that 1 good man who saved you. You people are so blind. Everything is f-ucked by the worst design of the human mind/psyche. This system is built exactly for bad people and trolls and scams and cons.

So don't even try to get mad if you get f-ucked by this school. You've been f-ucked from the start. I know this from birth, and tried to escape it, but who can you escape the f-ucked up world you are born into. I only went back to such a system because this system is everywhere and we are forced to live by it. And i cant live free, so i have to enter into their systems and be assimilated. Its the only way i might have a chance to do anything good. But for some reason i cant accept them. I see them, and i see people getting f-ucked by them, and it is retarded, then these people go complain to their masters, etc. Its disgusting. I'm only here because iv lost my mind, but why you guys or anyone is even here, shows why the majority of us need this system.

Of you have no clue how this has anything to do with this school, then you are so deserving to get f-ucked by this school and its systems and masters.

If there is a good school, it is by accident. If there is anything good, it is by accident.

Sarah, if you haven't paid the fee, and haven't gotten financial aid or pay them any tuition. There's nothing they can do to force you into their school. Even if they accept your application somehow. As long as no money is involved you are safe.

Anyone who got pushed into applying, were you able to stop the rest of the process? 
I just called yesterday for my application to be cancelled. Today the admissions calls and said he'd email me a conformation number and I still haven't received it. Can somebody please let me know if you were able to stop the application and move on? i want this nightmare to go away. 

I am a new student at the art institute. I started in the month of May. I was late starting. My first student loan came in on time. This is the first mod for me as I have gone from May,June, July,and August.I should be getting a stipend soon. Oh I am watching. Believe me. This really isnt my first college as all of the that I went to I recieved stipen checks from. One college I attended I recieved my part of $6500.00. Pretty good for class material, and to live on. But since I am new at this college, this will be my first stipen check from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh but, it wont be my last. I have only met one instructor at this college that is a totally rude meany. She talks very hostile in the classroom,and is overbearing. Much to serious about classmate communication. Does not like classroom student fraternising. Pfffft! One of the traits of alheimeizer toward the young I guess. Eventually Ill report her and make a big stink as I am paralegal also. So im a loaded gun, and she dont know it. Oh well. Ignorance is bliss. Unemployed is fun when you know how to be unemployed.  

So this is the beginning of my last week and the ending of my first session and I still don't have any aid on my account yet...Has anyone had it happen to them where the aid comes in this late? And if so what was the outcome? 

The school itself is great, I loved my classes and the teachers are awesome.  The financial department; however, is where the problem lies! My financial adviser admittedly messed up my financial plan, then tried to shove loans down my throat while treating me like scum! He talked down to me and was completely rude! I contacted his manager to no avail as they never returned any calls or emails.  It took contacting the BBB to get a response from anyone there.  I expressed I never wanted that financial adviser to call me again yet that wasn't the case he has NOT been taken off my account and is still extremely rude! So if you decide to go to this school quadruple check your financial plan and don't trust your financial adviser! Might I add that I have the GI bill and two grants to cover my schooling so it wasn't an issue of me not having funds just an issue of him not doing his job correctly! 

So as today begins Week 4 of the quarter, my aid has still not come in yet. FAFSA says my application was processed but my aid counselor says that FAFSA has so many applications come in during this time that it's just taking sometime for my aid to come in. Who do I believe? I have a $3500 tuition due so if my aid doesn't come in, will I owe these morons the $3500 along with the $35,000+ I've already racked up over 2 1/2 years? I wish I would have found this site back in 2009 when I began. And to think I need a webcam for my next session that I SHOULD buy with my stipend that hasn't come in yet! #TRAGIC! 

I had this happen before due to late Pell Grants and Loan money coming in to their end. It took 19 days from the first day of school last year this same summer session for me to get one of two disbursements that came a week apart from each other. July 11th 2011 start + 19 days for all of your student aid to actually come into the school.
hopefully as with my experiences of last year that we are among the first group to have our aid posted among several and get our refund back before the next group of people start their classes. right now my financial aid counselor said that several people are still waiting for Pell grants for this summer term since it is the beginning of school for us whereas other start their classes this month some time around the 14-18, so we are screwed because of that. But call financial aid and ask for them to expedite your aid- because like me; I won't be ready for my next class without having stipend money to buy a new Epson printer for photography print class coming up soon. But my financial aid counselor id Anthony and he's good at what he do. He said keep a look out this week because his manager may be sending a bulk load of things through this week which according to my experience last summer makes it 19-20 days as before and right around the exact time frame. Usually they post all the funds then your student balance changes and hours later you see Stipend-then every Friday-Saturday you get your debit refund or direct deposit and come the following Weds-thurs of the following week; you get a second stipend for any money overlooked. then a month later they refund for book and software vouchers you dont use with them.  

Anyone who has information about ANY lawsuits by students of AIPO, please contact me, I will join, russcampbell1108atyahoodotcom

There is lawsuit started. 
Alexandra A. Filutowski
Attorney at Law
The Filutowski Law Firm, PLLC

New laws that just passed permit students from entering into a class actions suit against these crooks and their arbitration clauses force you to settle outside of court.  Every lawyer I've spoken to essentially tells me, "You're screwed".  It is SICK the government allows this school to do this.

Did they even get a signed copy? I never signed one and I ask them for one and they
Can't provide one because they know I never signed one!

This is a scam school.  We have to do something!  Who do we report them to?  There seems to be no one to turn to.  I am in deep for a worthless degree.  Everything I know about graphic design I learned BEFORE I went there.  I learned nothing new.

SCAM.    

I was pressured after I stated Friday I wanted to stay with my current school.  I was told it was work at your own pace.  So I logged in yesterday and did one post, then I realized looking on I had an assignment due today, tommorrow, thrusday that is not at your own pace.  I called today and told them to withdraw me.  They harrassed me about my decision and cause an emotional breakdown.  I'm disable and I told them I can't have stress.  I'm sure they are gonna keep 25% cause I made a post.  Is there a lawsuit going or how do we get one started.

I have been having the same problems trying to get ahold of people. I call there numerous times a day to try to get ahold of someone and I just keep getting transferred to a different person. Then I end up leaving messages that never get returned. I have tried contacting the dean, the person in charge of student complaints, my financial person, my admissions person, etc, etc (the list goes on). So far the only person I have been able to get ahold of is the Dean's Assistant at the Pittsburgh campus and she was very helpful. 

The problems I'm facing are:
1. My book voucher not getting to me until weeks into class. 
2. Being told my Student Aid would cover books and fees by my Admissions person and then getting bills for hundreds of dollars. I have called my finance counselor three times about this - he says he will look into it and then I don't hear from him until he calls to "just to check in" again and he STILL doesn't have the answer to my question. He is rude and every time I talk to him it seems like I am just intruding on his day. 
3. Constantly getting new advisors and representatives. So far my people have been switched three times and I'm only in my third quarter - the first people I talked to were absolutly amazing and helpful like they were there to lure me in. Then I get switched to people who don't care at all. 
4. Poor quality education - most of my classes refer me to search engines to do my own research about the topics. I have learned more from youtube than from all of my classes combined.
5. Poor quality teachers - One of my teachers didn't use proper spelling or grammar. He couldn't even write a complete sentence and none of his critiques made any sense to us. 
6. Not being able to get ahold of anyone. 
I am scared now that I have used my husband's military benefits for nothing but a scam. This tuition is expensive and I am not getting my money's worth.

 I'm officially turning my back on the AIO and I can't wait to be done with this mess - if I could only talk to real person about this I would be done already. 

FOR THOSE THAT ARE IN SERIOUS NEED OF ACCREDITATION CORRECTION...FOLLOW THIS LINK WITH THE TRUTH!!! 
{NOT affiliated with (ACICS)Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools at all. I currently attend there as well and have had nothing but "GOOD" and "POSITIVE" experiences as well. They helped me easily figure out a way I could afford schooling after a downfall I had too even in fact! The way was with dropping to a schedule that fits my lifestyle better instead of trying to take car of kids. hubby, business, and school all at the same time. So all in all I am even happier than I originally was even. AS far as responses...I'm not sure if there was a big change recently or what; but I've ALWAYS received VERY QUICK responses within 24 hours and usually only hours in fact. At every new class I even get calls to meet an greet with my professors each class as well! :) Every school adviser I've had has been MORE than helpful as well even. However, I have had online schooling before so I have had some experience and with that said if your not a completely "independent" type...online schooling just may not be for you as it really relies upon yourself to get all your tasks and time management in order is what I mean. 

Ok now with that all said...I am attending this school of choice for my Bachelors of Science in Photography and since beginning my schooling with them I have already been contacted to re-apply for my degree there by Colorado State University (which funny story didn't accept me as my 1st local choice originally lol), been able to begin and grow business, find other alike minds and future friends.classmates to market through each other with, and I now more so than before actually have some extra funds to use every 3 months from left over stipends too. Which yes I know that I pay them all back anyway; but for me it just helps invest into my business/schooling anyway which saves my out of pocket expenses now W/O real employment to depend on. 

Ok now here is that link that clearly states all these people on here claiming it is the other are all completely incorrect and WRONG indeed. This is a link pulled right from AIO (Pittsburgh) site as well. I actually did a lot of my research BEFORE attending and I must say...I agree that most negative comments are from those that must not have done their part or understood though. To get ahead in life in this society today EVERYTHING COSTS...so the sooner you suck it up and take it the happier you can find your life to be in your endeavors/career goals as a whole! It's already helping me after all as stated!!! :)

Accreditation:
The Art Institute of Pittsburgh is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
(Can't post the link...it won't let me; so I posted the info here for you instead. lol)

I called the AIO last June and was harrassed by the man in admissions for weeks.  He would call me 3 and 4 times a day.  I quit answering his calls so then he would email me and most of the time it was creepy stuff, like I miss talking to you and stuff like that.  I quit answering his emails then he started texting my phone from his personal phone.  That did it for me I dropped out of the school and complained to several people for weeks on end and kept getting transferred to this person then this person and saying someone was going to call me back which honestly never happened.  After several months, I decided I shhouldn't let one person stop me from persueing my dream so I called back and ask that I not speak with this person ever again and they informed me that he no longer worked there.  I enrolled again and it went fine for the first few months, then down hill from there.  I kept getting put in this same class 3 times when I ask not to be in that class.  I dropped out twice because this happened and tried for a third time and was put in it again.  I will never attend this school again and if anyone knows who I can contact about this problem please let me know.  I haven't gotten any help from the school they just give me the run around.

I have been a student @ AiP online since Jan.
This school is not prompt with posting Financial Aid.I can not seem to get my money.The stipend pay is paid when they feel it should be paid.I was due a pymt on the 4th.The money was in my acct in March but they have not posted anything.My software FOR CLASS is not working therefore,I have to leave home to post assignments.They are refusing to help me and said I have to fix the issue.
Changing schools...thumbs down to AiP..think twice before entering this school.

Who posted this in such a tacky format?
I Fixed it right the way I wrote it elsewhere.

Any private paid or (TRADE SCHOOLS) can get a Accreditation from a lower standard G.A.A.P. accepted grantor.

A.C.I.C.S. is a lower standard accreditation that is recognized, by the C.H.E.A. However, they are considered ((National Accredited)) and (LOWER STANDARD) or cookie cutter accreditation with a National license in the US.  

Most Colleges and Universities will not except the majority of these lower credits. 

Regionally Accredited Colleges, in the educational field without argument are noted in the educational field, as (HIGHER STANDARD CREDITS) or (STANDARD CREDITS) These grounded educational Institutions are truly tried and tested to preform.

Argo, meaning, degrees from E.D.M.C. associated trades or the Art Institutes are without legal argument, lower standard credits, and non- transferable to the majority of higher colleges or universities. 

(THUS, MEANING THAT YOU PAY THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS FOR NOTHING!)

EDMC / Goldman Sachs is under investigation by the G.A.O. and other Government scrutiny. 

updated 40/13/2011

I am glad I got to see these reports. I'm looking for a school to take on line and came across The Art Institute and was told the same benefits the other posts spoke of. I was about to send a check too. My brother actually found this site for me. I almost never looked into these because there was only 1 review listed the list of colleges on this site. Thank You. I hope those of you who have invested into this outfit the best of luck.

Thanks for saving me the time and energy. 
I often forget to do this myself. GO to the BBB (better business bureau)especially if you have financial problems. Believe it or not it the BBB jumps right on them! 
Out of 61 problems 100% have been resolved!!!!!!!

And yes to the complainants satisfaction!

So if you have a legitimate beef with AI use the BBB. 

Dear Art Institute of Pittsburgh, I have purchased your software for hundreds of dollars, I have followed your text to the letter, I have utilized your free tutoring services, I have called you, I have posted questions for my Professor - in 2013 I will owe you $25,000+ dollars - So why will you not give me the education I'm so desperately trying to obtain???? And why do you employ tutors that don't know the answers? And why do you sell me software saying I will need it for my classes only to tell me the first day of class that a need newer software? 

You'll guys love this. I'm a senior with 4 or 5 classes left to go. My GPA has always been close to 4.0 (3.8 currently). 
I was told in the beginning by admissions that I'd be able to get my BS with straight financial aid and that I shouldn't have to get any private loans. So, last fall, I was told that I ran out of federal aid and I won't be able to finish until I came up with a few thousand dollars.
 So, they let me back in for a class and just booted me out again, after saying that because of my good grades and the fact that I'm almost done, I'd be able to finish up. 
Also, I was told in the beginning that there was job services. Yeah, right! They just have you take an Advanced Communications course (worth 4 credits and what....over a few thousand dollars?). This class was a joke. It was all about how to make a good resume, cover letter..etc. Then of course, I was told that they do have help in finding a job...and they showed me a list of websites. These sites are general sites that anyone could find...like Monster..etc. 

There were several classes that were just a repeat of other classes (like Advertising I and II, Typography I, II and Advanced..etc) 

I'm so sad though! I worked my butt off just to get nowhere. I'm just so sick of "The Man"...I want to scream!!!

I wish I would have seen these stories before I started this course in the summer of 2008.  I feel the same, I did finish but still don't have my diploma in hand because of two classes taught by one Teacher who should not be teaching at all.  I have to say most of the teachers were very good but as I learned from one of them some of the courses had been 11 week courses changed to 5.5 weeks and so all the same information was being shoved at us in less time which meant every single class I took was great first three weeks but I need to still go back to every one of them and teach myself the last two weeks because it was just so rushed in the end. And yes very over charged for the education offered. Working a full time job and trying to rush in education in last two weeks of each course which needed more time to learn does not work for a good learning environment.  This one teacher that I managed to get for two classes but one that was a very important class for me was flash design. Which is very hard but I truly wanted to learn this well.  The first teacher that I had experienced before and had not been pleased, well this time was even worse.  The first weeks she didn't even explain the basics and by the third week the class as a whole was so lost. The teacher was now not helping or answering questions in a timely manner or satisfactorily but a fellow student was helping us all in the online classroom. And others were posting things from the internet and other books that said would be more helpful because the teacher nor the class curriculum was up to date nor educational in the least.  At this point I now am stuck with this class have no way of getting out of it, still have to pay and am told I will have to finish the course, flunk out of it and dispute the money later and retake with a different teacher.  That my grade would be in transcripts but not part of my GPA.  So I did this and started with a new teacher who was just night and day.  It was still a hard class and again with so much information crammed into the 5.5 weeks I did only slightly better in her class but she truly loved teaching us and was very very good and needless of my low grade I did learn more from her in the first weeks then I did at all in the previous class.  
I ended school very discouraged upon finding out after two appeals supposedly sent to my dean of AIPO through my student counselor Jennifer which would not let me send it myself or give me a means of contact with the dean and also through another payment counselor. 
I still have no money returned for this ridiculous class that was worthless and a bill for the school that went over the amount my school loans would pay because of having to retake the class and then harassment for money which I should not owe to the school, and my GPA includes both of the classes even though I was told it would only be in the transcripts but not part of my GPA....  

On top of that I now a year later can not receive my diploma unless I pay money to them that I have tried to dispute as I said above through two different counselors and two appeals that have to this date never even been acknowledged.  Very sad to me to have it end this way and frustrating that I have no idea what further to do about this.  I found this site so figured I may as well post this but not sure this ever comes to any resolution.  I want the money corrected, I want my diploma still since I paid and arm and a leg with huge student loans as it is and I want my GPA fixed

I am in my 7th class and at my wits end with this school.  It took 3 months for me to get my financial aide worked out previously and this semester, they have messed everything up yet again.  Oddly, I called the FASFA support line and was told that this university made an error and after the error, the funds were still dispersed to them 10 days ago.  AIO says not so.  Who do you believe?  I took one class without a book and fought for an A by putting in countless hours researching online because without the fin aide I couldn't afford the book and now I am in the same position where I am headed into a class that requires a hard book and no fin aide to help pay for it.  My suggestion to all is simply don't go here.  Check out the Academy of Art and go there!  Its more expensive but you get what you pay for and this is a classic example.

Will I at least get my stipend from these idiots?

 I have been going to this school online part time for over a year now to get my associates in graphic design. I stumbled upon this review site and started reading and let me say that after reading all the reviews I want to cry.  So far I have had a great experience and I was so happy about going to school here but now I'm worried that when I try to get a job I will be laughed at and not hired!  When I was looking for a completely online art school there were only two that I found ,The Academy of Art and this one and since the first I mentioned was too expensive I had no choice but to go here. I work full time with an ever-changing schedule so I have no way of going to a non-online school!  Please if anyone knows of another online art school that is not more expensive than this one and is good PLEASE tell me. Im so scared of graduating with a worthless degree. :(      SO FAR all my financials are just fine as is everything else but after reading this I mean geez, who knows.

Good evening all I am a current student of this school nearly a year now after reading all of this just want to know what is a good school for media arts and animation that i can do online i so very want to have a future in the animation industry if not this school can someone point me in the right direction i would be greatful for any help sorry for any misspellings i am very tired at this point.

I have had nothing but problems with this school! I tried to get a hold of someone to transfer schools, because I could no longer afford to attend on my own. They purposely ignored my contact messages, so that I was forced to stay in that class. I finally got a hold of someone toward the end of class, and told me that I would have to pay for the entire class. Even though I tried to leave in or around the third week. I feel like I was taken advantage of, and I wrote my congressman because I was so upset about this. I have had nothing but problems with them.

Wow im so shocked I have been going to AI online Im now in my 8th class and Im a Transfer student & grad from AI NYC. ALot of my course's transfered in when I came into this degree and I hope all the things I have read are not true and is being worked on. I will look into all the finaical tricks and other things I read. All I can say is that I do enjoy the class's and the only thing that gets old is the commenting on students work. I am going for my BS in Fashion retail Mag & marketing. I feel like this is more of a paper class more then a hands on so maybe thats why I have yet to have a real problem..... I guess this is a to be continued.. 

hate it horrible courses and crappy teachers not worth the time or money should have went to slippery rock

Dealing with this school has been amateur hour. My wife was enrolled 3 yrs ago and besides the classes being a waste of time, we have not been able to get them to mail her official transcript to her current school. We have contacted them numerous times over the last year and they still have not been able to place it in an envelope and mail it out though they have promised to do it multiple times. If you can't even mail out a document you have no business referring to yourself as an institute of higher education. Please don't waste your time with this "school"

I am not yet enrolled, and I think I am glad after reading all these negative reviews. I already applied online though, and they wavered the fee for me supposedly. I wanted to do the BS in photography. The people I spoke with seemed very nice and caring.. but after reading what people experienced, Idk it's just making me very nervous about it. If anybody else did the the photography program, please reply and we can email because I just wanna get to know about it alot more before actually enrolling...


And this may sound stupid, but I only applied online so far, I didn't get a 'conformation' that Ive been accepted, so if I do get accepted, can I turn them down If I want to?

thanks.

The same thing happened to me last week. I was only interested in the program and wanted more info. The admissions person pressured me into applying and wavered? my application as well. Yesterday, I called to cancel application and I only got a conformation number over phone and I have yet to receive an email verifying my cancellation. Did you end up enrolling or were you able to get out?

Hey there, I am enrolling in the BS in Photography as well. I know this is a few months later than your post, but I wanted to talk to you and see how things are going.
Cheers.

I'm not sure if I want to take photography classes online or go to Colorado to take the classes, what is your advice. (Im from Nebraska) I am i sophomore at a community college, and not sure which classes i'll have to take for a bacholar science in photography. could you help me out thanks   

Try going to campus first-hands on experience in a active photography classroom is better in terms of meeting potential people that you can learn from and help you get your first jobs in the field. also your portfolio of your work can be looked at by instructors and they can help you build a really stand out one.

im in it and having no problems

I really wish I had read threads like this before signing my life away. Now I have a worthless degree that cost me about $100,000. The art institutes are nothing but scam artists that are only interested in your money. I first noticed this when they purchased many flat screen tv's to impress the parents when I couldn't even find a working computer in the classroom half of the time! They're terrible educators, just terrible. I think you will find your money much better spent at a real school.

I am a current (an disappointed) student at AIO. When I was talking to admissions, they promised to much. One of the promises was that I would never have out of pocket expenses because I have no income, and both parents are diabled and on SSI. This sounded great, so I was O.K. with everything. I was also told since I'm under the age of 24, I HAD to fill out this 'parent plus loan' for the amount of 13,000 or I wouldn't be accepted. This, is a lie, and they refuse to fix this. I got the "Oh, im so sorry" story from everyone I've talked to, but so far nothing has been done. I basically have to teach myself EVERYTHING by doing research online/in books because the instructions the "instructors" give are basically set in stone for every teacher and class. It also takes them oh, about 2 days to respond to important e-mails.
This school sucks, and I believe I'm paying $80,000 (they didnt even tell me how much my specific degree is when I enrolled?) to teach myself! YAY!

I have been enrolled in AIOnline since August. I was supposed to receive a refund check for the first two terms and I have received nothing. They said that where I failed one of my classes and I did this because I was terribly ill and recovering from surgery. I still am being charged for the amount but havent received anything yet. It is hard to go to school and make passing grades and take care of a household,when you arent receiving the money that is promised to you.They are telling me that my money was sent  back to the government to be reconfigured,if someone can make sense of this please inform me of it.
That I have to wait for the government to send it back to them,and that is a lengthy process. Should it have taken over three months?I dont think so,mail in forms say to allow 6-8 weeks for processing. This is ridiculous. Can anyone help me with some information?Because I am not making sense of this bull that they are feeding me.

AS a father of a daughter going to a public school, the amount of support and academic help is ver, very small. It has been a year that she has been in school and we have had over nine different financial advisors/counselors. Unreal, I was in college for four years and maintained the same counselor. It does seem that all they want is your money. They dropped her from the rolls for not having a new FASFA paperwork. Seems they did have mine and it was up to date for her. There lack of care and ability to resolve issues leaves a bad taste.  Please do not attend this Online school at any cost. There tution is outrageous and they continue to hound you for money when you have paid. Please take the advice of a father who has made numerous calls and left countless voicemails. Been there and done it.

Before I say anything, let me respond to the rude people here accusing reviewers of being negative simply because they're drop outs that "couldn't hack it". 

I can hack it.  Anyone can, as the courses at this school are absurdly easy and un-challenging.  I've managed to get great grades without *EVER* reading *ANY* of the books or online materials they provide, which I find disturbing.

Furthermore, I'm not a drop out, in fact, I'm still enrolled and attending for my Bachelor's and I'm rather mortified by what I'm learning about my school.

That said, I simply can't recommend this institution.  They are grossly disorganized and I've even been put in the same class twice because of a mix up simply caused by the fact they slightly changed the name of the course.  The process of getting me out of said class was long and annoying, wasting my time for weeks. I've *almost* ended up in the same classes multiple times as well, aside from that incident.  

In my experience, academic advisors at this school are extremely disorganized and often don't have their facts straight whatsoever.  I was told by their website I would graduate in January 2011, only to hear from my new advisor that was a mistake and I'm not to graduate until December 2012!!  More money for them.

My girlfriend also attempted to attend and their rude, apathetic and incompetent advisor failed to inform her of a very large, additional sum owed until it was a mere week before it was due.  The school made no effort whatsoever to rectify this or chastise the lazy advisor, despite his very obvious negligence.  So she didn't even get to start.  

Sadly, I'm envious of her because I haven't learned a single thing at this school I didn't already know about my field (Graphic Design) and now I'm on the hook for a ton of money.

I will say the teachers are usually nice enough and helpful, however.  I have, although, had a few lame ones that seemed to know less than I do about the subject matter.

You'll switch academic and financial advisors often, and they might bother to inform you.  You'll get charged for books even if you don't need to buy them to get through the classes (and you never will - the online courses almost NEVER reference the accompanying texts).

You'll get weird bills in the mail for expenses you've never been spoken to about.  The only bright side there is *most* of the time if you call them up and complain they'll claim it was a billing error and you don't have to pay.  Although, this leaves you to wonder how many of these "erroneous" bills they send out and accept money for. 

I would strongly advise avoiding this school's online division.  I can't speak for their physical locations, but the digital incarnation of this school is extremely disorganized, misinforming and honestly rather shady.  

ITS A CON! AiO pestered me into joining and has since repeatedly tried to extort me for more and more money.  Their tuition is outrageous and the more I am involved with them the more i feel that all they want is my money.

I was an adjunct professor this past year through AI Online, and taught basic drawing.  Worst experience of my life and I will do whatever I can to dissuade others from teaching in this manner.

I am a professional artist, with a Master's Degree in Visual Art.  I have taught drawing for over 15 years.  And I have NEVER EVER seen an inept method as this to teach drawing.

This was an accelerated course, and my students barely had time to catch their breath, never mind complete the assignments on time. The school expected us to be available to answer questions, participate in online dialogues and to correct the assignments. I estimated that, in the end, I earned roughly about $4.50 an hour.  The national minimum wage average is over $7 per hour!  Criminal!  And my mentor had the nerve to ream me up one side and down the other for my teaching technique.

One was locked out of her classroom material and could not reach her advisor, all the while getting harrassing calls and e-mails from the financial dept.

The students, unfortunately, are the losers here.  The courses are set up so that the students will get go grades, but for what?  They don't learn how to draw!!  They have nothing for their portfolios!

Do NOT ENROLL IN THIS SCHOOL unless you love to give away tens of thousands of dollars for a useless degree.  Remember, too, that most, if not all, of the credits will NOT TRANSFER to another school.  

BUYER BEWARE!!! Take it from me....I was a teacher there!!

I am a student here, and I am writing an article about this scam school.  I would like to correspond with you so I can include your account.  I am desperately looking for help in finding whom to report this school to, but I'm having no luck.  Any help at all you could offer would be DEEPLY appreciated.  wolf.rikk@gmail.com - please contact me.

Thank you.

Everyone cannot always be happy with everything. I am nearing the end of my Freshman year and I have absolutely no complaints. My books and classes have been no problem to access and my financial aid is totally intact. I even get stipend checks to help with expenses. Yes, I do understand that everything will have to be paid back eventually, but that is the same with any school you go to and have taken out loans. My student advisor has been great and he has been the same for the whole year as well as my financial aid officer. I have read all the posts here and while I agree, some people may have problems; it does not include everyone. My experience thus far has been terrific. The instructors I have had are all very helpful and take the time to answer your questions in a timely manner too. I am working on my BS in Graphic Design. All my classes thus far have taught me a lot of new things. My classmates are all very helpful too. Don't listen to all the negativity. There are just uninformed people out there that didn't know what they were getting into and now want someone to blame. I love my school and I will graduate and get a great job out of it. Your education is what you make of it. I know my education alone will not get me my dream career, but it is a start and my dedication and hard work combined with my education will get me where I want to be someday. Anyone considering going back to school... EDUCATE YOURSELF and then, MAKE THE DECISION THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU!!!

So far, I have had mo problems with AiOD. I don't understand why so many people have had problems getting in contact with anyone at the school. I've got their number, extensions and fax. Every time I call I get a hold of someone. They are friendly and look up all my information. I don't worry about them switching financial officers because all the information is in their system. So, if they need to know who I am, they ask me my student ID or SS# and they find out. I had no problems signing up and all my classes and materials nave been paid for. I have read that there has only been 72 complaints in 3 year from the BBB. That's real good, especially since ALL of them have been resolved and most were problems were probably from people who complain too much or have lack of information. Stop bit ching and worrying about scams. Yes there are a lot of scams out there, I ought to know coming from someone who has been scammed. And I am gullible like most people, sh it if you tell someone something and they believe it when you were lying, then that makes you a liar, not me gullible. The school has not lied to me yet, and I have full confidence that everything will work out for anyone who is serious about going to school. I think the majority of problems stated on here, have been from people who don't do anything but look for something negative from anything. Or, from individuals who don't understand what they are doing in life! I look for positive from negative, and if I don't get that I make it happen. The school has a B- rating and is accredited. AI is NOT accredited by ACICS--we are accredited by the middle states and if you do your research on what accredidation is...is has to do with the location...all of our ground schools have a different accredidation due to state requirements.

As I read this comment, you seemed real truthful about your situation. As I got to the end I realized in the way that it was being worded, you mistakenly were acting as if you were a student but then started to say "we" and "our". As I can tell you were busted. You are actually one of them pretending to be one of us. Life will catch up to all who lie and fabricate. Carma is real.

I am enroll on the Media Arts and animation degree and all my classes so far has been online.. I also think the prices are really high and basically we are paying to teach ourselves So i advise anyone not to enroll in this institute and to do some research and fine a better one and less costly..

I just enrolled... Had a question for anyone who attends. Is it really ALL ONLINE? I'm looking over the Program Manual and it is slightly confusing. The Bachelor's degree requirements for Photgraphy indicate that some classes will need to be taken on campus. Help please?!

I was looking into the AIO for a bachelor's degree in photography. A couple of years ago I took interior design through Westwood College Online and only lasted about 5 months due to the same issues everyone seems to be having w/ this school. I am really glad I decided to really look into others experiences w/ this school .-sure it's a degree, but a lot of headache and a LOT of money!! After getting an email from an admissions counselor I found out it would cost roughly $112,000 for me to get my bachelor's degree in photography through this school!!!!!THAT'S CRAZY!!

Does anyone have any suggestions of a GOOD school that offers an online bachelor's degree for photography? really, because this school is the only one I can find and I am NOT going here!!!

DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME! I attended the Online Pittsburgh Division. Three other friends attended a local campus. They have a HUGE turnover of staff, especially the online campus! I had a new Financial Aid and VA rep every month! 

They also don't tell you that even though you are technically a F/T student, since you will never meet the VA's requirements as a F/T student (one month, you may only be part time, and another 3/4 time, even though you're taking a F/T load), the VA won't pay you, since you're not F/T for the entire month!

They also have classes that are only available at set times! Meaning that on some terms, you can have classes mornings, afternoons, and nights, on different days, throughout the week. No job will work with that sort of erratic schedule, which can change every few months! Their solution: take out loans to pay your bills! Get into even MORE DEBT, on top of what you must pay for your classes!

DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME, ONLINE OR ON CAMPUS!

I attended the college for four years.At the San Bernardino Campus.It was a big mistake. The people are shady,they embezzle money,harass students as well as faculty,they dont tell you anything about your financial aid.They kept sending me back and forth saying that my financial aid was fine then they would call me in the office half the time and tell me I needed all these papers and then they would stress me out.my school time was being interrupted by them calling me into the office.they would go into the classes and take people out of them just to do fasfa.They are as well holding my transcripts  because i owe them money for housing that was suppose to be covered by my financial aid.I left the school. and I am only planning on paying 5 dollars a month cause its all I can afford they want me to pay 1,000 dollars a month.They are evil and they embezzle money. Please Save yourself do not go to Art Institute Of San Bernardino.At the end of the day your education is what you make it and the people in that office only care about thier big checks thats coming from your money.The money that the goverment is suppose to supporting you is going to them not you.!!!

dawn, please point us to the firm, thanks

james     hoyer   dot  com

I was totally lied to about the financial aid.. this school totally ripped me off..Infact after I withdrew from the school they sent me a bill for things I used after the withdraw.. now how can I use anything after a withdraw.. they are holding my credits over money I do not owe them.  I found a law suit that is going on as we you read this against them over fraud and lies. I would not recommend this school to my worst enemy.

am drafting up the lawsuit in the next few days, contact me, asearchers@yahoo.com

I wanted to take a moment, as this seems like an active discussion board, to post my perspective on the AIOPD. I already have a B.S. in Computer Science from a traditional program but am interested in a dramatic career change into graphic design. With a full-time job, an online program seemed like the best option. I researched the accredited online programs for graphic design and felt comfortable with AIOPD. I also had several discussions with a financial planner to understand the costs and what I could afford.

After completing 3 years at a part-time student pace, I've changed my program from Associates to Bachelors because I'm enjoying myself and my classes overall. Here are my thoughts on all the various comments here:
1. I would never recommend an online program right out of high school unless you had no other options. I feel as though I'm able to self-manage and self-motivate to get the most out of AIOPD because of my previous traditional college experience and working experience.
2. It is definitely a mixed bag of instructors but in the 3 years I've taken classes, I feel as though I've only had 5 instructors that shouldn't be teaching. Otherwise, I've been impressed with most of the instructors pushing me to create portfolio pieces of my assignments.
3. I agree with other comments feel as though the instructors at AIOPD allow mediocre talent to pass their courses and that is frustrating to me but I have no basis within a creative environment to know if this is normal or not. It seems very subjective to me but I hope that the 300- and 400-level course instructors will keep these students from embarassing themselves and AIOPD if they really don't have talent.
4. Many of the comments sound as though people talked to their academic advisor instead of their financial advisor and ended up with unexpected costs? I would never make a decision without talking to the financial advisor. The one time I had to drop a class and push it to the next session, I did so without talking to my financial advisor and I completely messed up my loan and owed $2000. Shame on me, not shame on AIOPD.

College is what you put into it and an online program takes double the effort of the student to get quality out of it. Online might be more flexible but it's not easier. I'm very satisfied with my experience at AIOPD and look forward to completing my B.A. in another 2 1/2 years.

I began as a student at AIO a few years ago in their Graphic Design Bachelor's Program.  Initially, I was enjoying the experience.  I took some time off when I joined the military and decided to come back to continue my education.  The second time around, I decided that I wanted to enroll in their Animation and Media Arts Program.  They were very helpful in assisting me back and treated me like I never left to begin with.

After studying under their Animation program, I quickly began to realize that things had changed.  There were some instructors that I was happy with, but they were few and spread apart.

What really opened my eyes to seek my education elsewhere was the fact that I was seeing many of the same students in several of my classes.  What's worse was that I saw very few of them making any progress in their skills and talents.

I know that art is subjective and everyone has their own unique set of skills and capabilities.  At the same time, however, the Animation industry is pretty competitive and you have to be able to market yourself with a competent portfolio.  

I know this sounds mean to say but there were too many students who probably would've been more successful in med school.  That's not to say that I considered myself to be the best of the best.  On the contrary, as I continued my education with AIO, I began to doubt my own abilities as an artist.  Sure, I had a 4.0 GPA, but so did everyone else.  What I saw, time and time again were students, with mediocre talent, constantly being herded through the system.  I began to think that, perhaps, my talents weren't any better and I was simply passing to keep paying tuition.

I finally quit AIO when I had to leave for a military deployment overseas but I'm back in the states now and since my return, I've enrolled with the Art Academy University of San Francisco.  A lot of their alumni are hired by professional animation studios such as Pixar, ILM, and Dream Works.

72 complaints in 3 years is a lot you uneducated dumbass...

I have been attending AIO for almost two years now, and after reading so much negative feedback, I thought I should write about how my experience with the school has been excellent so far.  
  My teachers have all been very qualified and I have learned a ton of new information from them, and from the other students through active class discussions.  There are a lot of reviews that say the school is bad because the tuition is too high.  First of all, you should know how much the school costs before you enroll. Also, the "legal tender" that you pay the tuition and loans with is worthless electronic bits of data, created out of nothing...is that more valuable than your education?      
  One thing that I have noticed is that you do have to be self-motivated. You have to get out there and find your own answers.  This approach to learning doesn't bother me because I think it's progressive, and I prefer that method of learning.  I could see how unmotivated people could confuse this type of learning with poor education.  
  If there was one area of improvement for the school, I think it would be admissions.  I would like to see them make it tougher to get into the art/design programs by requiring a portfolio review.  I have been in class with some people that are in the graphic design program and were creating really terrible work.  There are many students who are really talented too, but always a couple that probably shouldn't be there.  
  The best part of my experience is that, without the flexibility of schedule offered at AIO, I would not be able to attend art school.  There are no good art schools around me for fifty miles.  I also work full time, and have a family.  For that reason I am very grateful for the opportunity to work towards an accredited bachelor of science degree in graphic design.

Check out the University of Pittsburgh College of General Studies.  They'll let you take art classes and your credits will transfer to almost any other university in the world.  The University of Pittsburgh has been around since 1787.

Courtney:
I'm looking at this one and Academy of Art as well. I also looked at Westwood, but I don't think you want to go there for interior design because they are not CIDA accredited. Academy of Art and Art institute of Pittsburgh are the only online interior design programs accredited by CIDA at this time (the Art Institute just recently became accredited).

Oh and I looked AIP up on bbb.org (Better Business Bureau) and the rating is B- not D-. It should also be noted that all complaints filed with the BBB in the past 36 months (72 whole complaints in 3 years, guess that was every single person who had something to say on the forums...) have been resolved....sounds like some people need to check their facts a bit. Like I said: DON'T let whiny, weak people make up your mind for you :)

I am currently in my 3rd quarter (5th class so far) of my 1st year at AIO. So far I'm really loving it. I'm sorry that so many people have had issues, but from reading it sounds like a lot of a) Not listening to/fully understanding what is being communicated by the school or b) expecting the school to do things FOR you that are YOUR responsibility (that every other college on the planet will also expect of you). Examples: When my aid package was discussed (PS, it IS totally up to the gov't what you get, NOT the school), if I was unsure of something, or something wasn't clear, I'd ask. And if I still didn't get it, I'd keep asking til I understood. Also, I have everything in writing. As far as people leaving because the school didn't get them their books, software, etc....that is YOUR, let me repeat, Y-O-U-R responsibility. Always. At any school. Don't be ridiculous. I really cannot believe that breathing, concious, adult people would even think for a second that any school would literally do everything for them. I can only believe that these dilusional individuals had never attended college of any sort prior to AIO. I went to community college before this and that school cared a LOT less about waht I "needed". Oh, and all those community college credits transferred :) For anyone still unsure, let me put it to you straight: online school, regardless of the curriculum, is NOT for everyone. You have to be extrememly focused and disciplined for this because nobody is there to police you and you have no formal class times. If you are lazy, irresponsible or immature, you WILL fail in any online school. Please PLEASE do not listen to these embittered, self-righteous people who only have bad things to say. People with positive experiences rarely post on forums, its a fact. Please remember that. There are trials and tribulations with any type of higher education, its not easy or free otherwise EVERYONE would do it. If anyone has legit questions, concerns, whatever, please feel free to email me, I will share all the info I have with you. Everyone has to make their own choices, I'd read some of this negative drivel before I enrolled but I did it anyway and I'm so happy that I did. Don't let sad, pathetic strangers who couldn't cut it hold you back from greatness!
ladyhjordis@gmail.com

I just read all of this and WHEW! Thank you guys for posting your experiences!

I REALLY didn't need a scam or a headache with finances for my degree - Academy of Art has online classes and maybe they are more expensive, but there is NO DOUBT that it is a credible and GREAT art school to attend and one that anyone can be PROUD to say they earned a degree from.

I've only gone so far as the transcripts and the FAFSA part, but I think I'll be sending an email saying no thank you - I have reconsidered this college, and I am not interested in continuing this with them any further, but will seek to apply elsewhere.

My only concern - how do I MAKE SURE that I cancel the FAFSA stuff on their end???

Well, I am rereading the same problem I am having all the way down this list. You get baited then things switch. They are not just screwing the student they are screwing FAFSA, telling them they are giving a student 6 credit hours, actually charging for it then only giving one class. Billing me for software I never purchased. Then the counselors, well u may have erin one day then sara the next so someone please tell me where any consistancy is here. How can someone know your file or case when they don't have you for more than a couple weeks. Then trying to call them lol thats a joke. You get voice mail, 3 days later u get a return call and if you miss it , hey we are back to voice mail again. So I have emailed everyone up the chain of command hoping someone will reply. But if this fafsa scam isnt fixed then I am going to have to follow through with the federal track.It's no longer a point of I am getting screwed as the point that they are getting away with this and somehow I cannot believe the federal government can be that stupid. lol hmmm? So anyone have any federal leads let me know at stormi295@yahoo.com .

YN,
You will have to apply at almost any school before they will review your transcripts and tell you what classes would transfer. Ai Pittsburgh Online can usually waive your application fee if you do your financial aid forms right away, just don't get pushed into something if you aren't comfortable with it....saying no isn't all that hard..especially over the phone. AiPO does allow credits for life/work experience but you have to submit additional paperwork for each one. Also, a year might be a little unrealistic unless you can take classes full-time.

I enrolled in the AI but on campus. I was interested becuase they assured me they could work with my work schedule saying the had morning, evening, nights and weekend classes. Turns out the majority of classes are a one time morning classes. They lied to me to lure me in and I took the bait. Now they say I must have misunderstood because the Advisors are well aware and would never say such a thing, ja. However, I know a handful of people there who can say they were told the same. I have attempted finding a job compatible with these hours and that also pay the bills but am having no luck. I must now choose between school or a roof over my head. Mmm, tough choice. Now I'm worried I'll have to pay them all there money back and that just adds to my worries. Don't let them fool you.

I see this negativity with all school. You all are a bunch of whiners. If you really want to go to school and get your degree, the only thing you should look at is the curriculum of the school and the accredidation. Stop looking at cost. If you don't want to pay, go to a community college and get a degree in GenEds. I am attending AIO and I have problems but I deal because the quality of education I am getting is teaching me what I need to know for my program. Suck it up and get some balls. listening to others bitch should not be your decision maker; You should be your decision maker. There are pushy admissions people with every school ground or online. I bet none of the other schools were willing to be up front with the curriculum or cost. make up your DAMN minds.

I was considering taking the online courses at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh to complete BS in Interior Design. 
There is an another online school that I was looking at. But I was discouraged by the negative reviews by students and news medias, similar to the AI Pittsburgh's. 
Now, I am cautious. 
I've been practicing interior design for over 16 years with an Associates degree of interior design from The Art Institute of Philadelphia. 
I was hoping to transfer previous school credits many as possible as well as my career experiences to be considered as academic credits. 
For me, the most important thing is to get the degree quickly.
I am hoping I can get all done within one year by taking online courses. 
Are there anyone who has an experience transferring credits to AI Pittsburgh? 
 Anyone graduated from AI Pittsburgh? Do you proud of holding a degree from AI Pittsburgh?