Student Resources

Student Support Services

The Reception Desk

The Reception Desk is located inside the north entrance on the 1st floor of the Texas Building and is staffed during normal business hours. The Reception Desk is the central hub for information and a variety of student and employee services.

Students can drop off pre-stamped mail, pick up lost and found items, communicate with Security, or gather current information such as events, galleries, and directions. Students can pick up booklets, pamphlets, and other RMCAD and local information at the desk.

Students are urged to approach the desk with any questions. Students may also drop off class assignments and projects for their instructors. However, it is the student’s responsibility to inform their instructor that a class assignment/project has been dropped off at the Reception Desk. All assignments/projects must be in an envelope or properly labeled with the students’ and instructors’ names. These assignments/projects will be placed in an internal mailbox or on a shelf in the mailroom by the Reception Desk staff member. Students may not access the campus mailroom.

The Reception Desk is staffed during normal business hours. To communicate with the Receptionists, chat or email resources@rmcad.edu.

Reception Desk Telephone Messages

The staff at the Reception Desk will take messages if calls are received for students and then will attempt to reach the student through the RMCAD email system. Only in emergency situations will staff attempt to locate students on campus to deliver a message.

Palette

Palette is the RMCAD one-stop campus resource center providing students with on-the-spot access to Financial Aid and Advising services. The collective goal is to assist students with immediate support across partnering student service departments to enhance the student experience. The Palette is staffed to have all of your finance, schedule, and advising questions answered, one stroke at a time.

Library/Learning Commons

The RMCAD Library provides a variety of resources, striving to successfully support the academic needs and scholarly endeavors of our students and faculty.

Our growing and specialized resources consist of:

• More than 10,000 book titles in a highly focused collection, specifically tailored to our College’s curriculum needs;
• Several art and general education-related print magazines and journals, archived for five years;
• More than 2.5 million high-resolution images of Art and Design through the ArtStor Database;
• More than 700 carefully selected curriculum-supporting animated and feature film DVDs;
• Access to 28 excellent full-text databases for all majors;
• A reserve area for classroom textbooks.

The acquisitions of our Library Collection are primarily based on feedback from faculty and students to support the current curriculum. Our knowledgeable staff is happy to help you locate information and provide the services you may need to complete your assignments both on-campus and online. Our facilities offer a variety of seating areas for individual or group work. We also have wireless access to accommodate laptop use.   

The student portal offers 24/7 access to the Library catalog, subscription databases, digital images, and hundreds of helpful web links.

Other resources include instructional library usage tutorials, writing and research tips, citation/bibliography guides in various styles, grammar guidelines, and important information regarding copyright laws and plagiarism.

Student Learning Center

The Student Learning Center is a professionally certified, student-oriented academic support resource that offers Academic Mentoring and tutoring support for all online and campus courses. Trained peer tutors are available for both walk-in and scheduled appointments at the SLC or online through screen share. The SLC assists students with writing, math, studio classes, academic success strategies (note-taking strategies, time management, etc.), and software (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.). The SLC also helps create the content for the Provisional Academic Success Strategies (PASS) program. There is no charge to RMCAD students for any of the services. The SLC is located in the Triboro building and online.

In addition, students can take advantage of LinkedIn Learning, a subscription site providing thousands of computer program tutorials on everything from Microsoft Word and Google Mail to Adobe InDesign and DreamWeaver—and much more. Tutorials are available 24 hours a day.

Student Early Alert | ANCHOR

RMCAD faculty and staff utilize early alert activities in the College’s Student Information System to help promote the academic and personal success of RMCAD students. The main goal for using these early alert activities is to identify concerns regarding student progress and behavior early on and provide the student with supportive, helping resources before the concern impedes the student’s ability to be successful at RMCAD. Concerns raised via ANCHOR are wide-ranging and include, but are not limited to: academics, personal health and well-being, conduct and behavior, careers, and student dissatisfaction. ANCHOR activities have been configured intentionally with regard to student privacy laws (FERPA), so information in these activities is only shared with other faculty and staff who have a “legitimate educational interest” in the given concern.

Although ANCHOR activities help faculty and staff to ensure that each and every student is getting the help they need, the ultimate responsibility lies with the students to take advantage of the resources and help being offered to them.

Counseling

Personal and mental health counseling services provided by a licensed professional counselor are available for currently enrolled students on campus and online. Counseling is confidential private and free of charge. Counselors can refer students to external mental health facilities when necessary and appropriate. Students should email counselor@rmcad.edu for appointments.

Accessibility Services

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Section 504 of The Rehabilitation Act, the College affirms its commitment to seek to achieve reasonable accommodations for students who have documented disabilities. Prior to admission acceptance, the College will provide general information upon request.

Once enrolled, students are responsible for initiating a request for accommodations by disclosing their disability to the office of Student Accessibility Services (sas@rmcad.edu) and providing the required supporting documentation. The office of Student Accessibility Services will provide additional information to students requesting accommodations, such as standards for required documentation and specific policies regarding the use of accommodations. An individual’s needs must be communicated to the Director of Student Accessibility Services before accommodations will be made.

The Spectrum Store

The on-campus store, Spectrum, carries the majority of supplies necessary for classes at competitive prices.

RMCAD apparel and other RMCAD products, such as water bottles, earbuds, sketchbooks, and portfolio cases are available. Online shopping is also available at https://spectrum-the-rmcad-store.shoplightspeed.com/ where a variety of merchandise and supplies may be ordered and shipped to online students, friends and family, and alumni. 

Spectrum’s knowledgeable team will gladly assist students with any questions regarding art supplies. Some art supply items not carried in the store may be special ordered. A 75% deposit is required for all special orders. The Spectrum team takes into consideration frequently requested items and may begin to carry an item based on such requests. Please fill out this form to let us know about the items you would like to be considered for store inventory: http://tinyurl.com/jx3bsxm

Please keep in mind, that not all items carried in the store are visible; simply ask store associates if there is an item that cannot be found. Additional print account funds and large-format prints can be paid for at Spectrum.

Spectrum accepts the following forms of payment: cash; personal checks from enrolled students in good standing; MasterCard, Visa, Discover, or American Express; and Apple Pay. Prepaid Student Store Accounts are also available. For details, contact the Spectrum staff. They can set up your pre-paid account today! Questions about prepaid accounts can be directed to spectrum@rmcad.edu.

Most supplies required for the first day of class can be found at Spectrum. Instructors will inform students of additional materials needed for projects or assignments and labs. The hours of operation are posted on the doors of Spectrum. Spectrum is in the Texas building.

Merchandise purchased at Spectrum: A one-week return period applies for clothing and other non-course related merchandise. A full refund will be given in the original form of payment if supplies are returned with the original detailed receipt within 30 days. No refunds without a receipt. Merchandise must be in original condition – original package unopened, if applicable. Spectrum reserves the right to decline returns on items that do not have seals or are not easily discernible if the product has been used. We currently do not accept returns on web store purchased items.

All students are responsible to purchase required textbooks for their applicable courses through the retailer of their choice as Spectrum does not carry textbooks.

THE MINE: Student Supply Banks

Food Bank

The College operates a food bank for all enrolled students. Students may select up to 5 items a week. Food items are free, and the service is confidential. Students must provide their student ID number and a list of the items they have selected before leaving THE MINE. Students needing access to the Food Bank should see the Director of Student Life (303-753-6046 ext. 22050).

Online students experiencing food insecurity may find a similar resource in the Virtual Mine request which is available in the RMCAD student portal. 

Supply Bank

The college operates a supply bank for enrolled students in the local area. Students may exchange art supplies and materials for projects and assignments. Art supplies and materials are free and confidential. Students must provide their student ID number and a list of the items they have selected before leaving THE MINE. Students needing access to the Supply Bank should see the Director of Student Life (303-753-6046 ext 22050).

Student Life

Transportation

All students are provided with an all-access pass to use on Denver’s public transportation system, the Regional Transportation District (RTD). The College Pass program provides local, regional, light rail, and SkyRide (airport shuttle) services to currently enrolled RMCAD students. Students must pick up their RTD College Pass from TECHBAR to access RTD services using the College Pass program.

RMCAD offers a Shuttle Service between the College and the Regency Student Housing and the Lamar Street Station and Auraria Campus RTD light rail stops. Contact transportation@rmcad.edu.

RMCAD offers a free shuttle service between the College for specific events and activities located off-campus.

Housing

There are several housing options available near RMCAD, and each offers something different. Because the primary goal is to help students make a smooth transition to RMCAD, the priority is to help each student find housing that suits their individual needs. As a means to this end, The Office of Student Life provides services and resources to assist in the process. For a full list of housing options, see the Housing Guide, available through that Office.

Voter Registration

Voter registration information and materials are available through the Office of Student Life, online, and are distributed annually to the student body.

Student Activities

The Office of Student Life actively pursues the development of a positive, supportive, and inclusive sense of campus community at RMCAD. Through programs, events, activities, and organizations, the Office of Student Life strives to meet the social, intellectual, and cultural needs of current students. To meet this goal, activities offered provide a diverse range of experiences that help students develop essential life skills that complement their academics. Students are highly encouraged to get involved and share their ideas for programs and activities. Students interested in providing input or planning activities should speak with the Director of Student Life.

RMCAD provides a number of interesting and entertaining activities during the year. Activities include visiting artists and designers, videos, films, and lectures presented by featured artists and designers exhibiting in the galleries. Lectures and workshops are usually held during the lunch break or after school and are always free of charge.

The Student Life Office, Student Ambassadors, and Student Leadership Alliance (SLA) sponsor social, recreational, and educational events on and off campus each term. These include movies, sports events, plays, festivals, lectures, concerts, and gallery tours. Organized outdoor activities take place throughout the year and may include hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, skiing, and snowboarding.

Student Organizations

Students sharing common interests or hobbies can come together as recognized student organizations at RMCAD. Student organizations may be eligible to receive funds from the Office of Student Life and may plan events or programs for fellow RMCAD students. Organizations must be established for purposes that are legal, consistent with the educational aims and mission of the College, and in accordance with the regulations, guidelines, and policies of Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design and the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design Student Leadership Alliance. Recognition of a student organization does not, however, imply College endorsement of the organization’s purposes, nor does the College assume sponsorship of any of the group’s activities on or off College property.

Student organizations that receive or utilize College resources (including, but not limited to, funding, technology, and advisement) must operate and conduct themselves in line with all College policies, as stated in this catalog. Likewise, student organizations must operate in accordance with the mission and values of the College and may not intend to or actually do harm to the interests or reputation of the College.

Any RMCAD student can start working on the formation of a new student organization. Students who would like to start this process should meet with the Diversity Coordinator or attend a Student Leadership Alliance meeting to inquire.

Student Organization Event + Attendance Policy
Any on-campus RMCAD-sanctioned student club or organization planning an event or activity for fellow RMCAD students must present their proposal before the Director of Student Life for approval. Outside visitors are not permitted to attend any student-run club or organization, including alumni, and former employees, during the club or organization’s regular weekly meetings, events, or activities, unless otherwise notified.

Alumni

Alumni wishing to participate in a RMCAD club or organization’s event or activity must seek approval from the Director of Student Life prior to the event. Alumni will only be considered for approval providing they are in possession of a valid Alumni ID and are in good standing with the college.

Guest Speakers

Guest speakers and educators may only be permitted to attend a club or organization’s event, or meeting, on two conditions;

If they are approved prior to the event by the Office of Student Life, and

Providing they are hired from a certified outside resource and serve a specific purpose in the education of the group or organization.

Resources

RMCAD is able to provide a communication and organization platform for clubs and groups within the RMCAD Mobile application.

Student Ambassadors Program

Student Ambassadors are current undergraduate, full-time, on-campus students hired to serve as peer mentors to new students during Orientation and throughout the first year. They work to create community among the diverse group of artists and designers at RMCAD by planning events for the entire student body, as well as within each academic department. Additionally, the Student Ambassadors plan and execute several civic engagement projects throughout the school year to support and give back to the surrounding community. Students interested in learning more about the Student Ambassador program, or who would like information about the application process, should speak to the Director of Student Life.

Student Leadership Alliance (SLA)

The Student Leadership Alliance is composed of leaders of student organizations at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design. The Student Leadership Alliance works to support and improve the social and co-curricular experience for the RMCAD student body. The Student Leadership Alliance encourages all current RMCAD students to attend open meetings and to bring ideas and concerns to the attention of the SLA Students interested in obtaining information about Student Leadership Alliance meeting times and locations, or who have other questions related to the Student Government, should contact the Director of Student Life + Activities.

Civic Engagement

Service to the surrounding community is important to RMCAD at many levels. Students are encouraged to participate in volunteer work that appeals to their specific interests and passions. Volunteer work is an excellent way to become involved with the College as well as the community outside of our campus. Volunteer work is an extremely rewarding experience that often leads to strong personal and professional connections. The Office of Student Life serves as a resource for students who have an interest in participating in community service projects. The Office of Student Life provides information about a variety of service projects; from a single day spent working to preserve Colorado’s environment, to ongoing placements working with needy children. Additionally, the Office of Student Life sponsors group trips to local agencies that serve the Denver Metro community. These trips are designed to expose students to a diverse range of volunteer possibilities. Interested students should look for information about such projects via campus communication or inquire with the Office of Student Life.

Career + Alumni Services

The Career + Alumni Services Office is a resource for students and alumni that provides information, strategies, skills, guidance, and support that will assist them in successfully meeting their career objectives.

The office also collaborates with employers developing mutually beneficial relationships resulting in internships and employment opportunities (part-time and full-time) for students and alumni. In addition, the office maintains a student’s connection with RMCAD after graduation through Alumni Association services, programs, and events.

Ongoing Career Resources

The following is an overview of just some of the lifetime services offered to RMCAD students and graduates free of charge.

• Career assessment and personalized one-on-one career coaching.
• Assistance with creating and updating professional documents (resume, cover letters, and email etiquette and correspondence)
• Portfolio assistance and review.
• Interview assistance tips and evaluations.
• Access to online job board, networking, and career development software tools included in RMCAD’s Career Service Portal- PASSPORT. (https://rmcad.csm.symplicity.com) Please contact Career + Alumni Services for instruction on account access and activation.
• Employment search resources, strategy, and planning. 
• Assistance with Internship opportunities. 
• Networking events, Career Fairs, Employer information sessions, and guest speakers 
• Career-related programming and workshops. 
• Graduate and special program information.

Please contact Career + Alumni Services to set up an appointment at careerservices@rmcad.edu.

Alumni Association

Graduates of RMCAD automatically join the RMCAD Alumni Association upon successful completion of their degree program. The Alumni Association offers graduates a variety of benefits.

Benefits Include:

• Lifetime access to resources and services offered by the Office of Career + Alumni Services which includes career coaching and access to career and professional development technology tools.
• Discounts at the RMCAD Supply Store and Bookstore.
• RMCAD Renew Program   - the ability to audit (not for credit) RMCAD courses in your major with no tuition fees. (Restrictions apply; please contact Career + Alumni Services for details).
• Access to RMCAD Research Library (some exclusions apply).
• RMCAD email address (use of rmcad.edu email address allows for access and/or discounts on various software programs and services).
• Alumni Student Portal access for alumni-specific resources and information.
• Continued or new access to RMCAD’s Career Services Portal- PASSPORT. Please contact Career + Alumni Services for instructions on account activation.
• Participation in alumni social media pages.
• Opportunity to exhibit work in the alumni gallery.
• TECHBAR services include 3D Printing + Wide-format Printing.

Limited access to RMCAD computer labs and facilities for portfolio development. Access is only available during regular RMCAD business hours and a RMCAD Alumni ID ($10 one-time fee) is required. Campus access and obtainment of the Alumni ID must be coordinated through the Office of Career + Alumni Services. Please note: No work can be done on campus for commercial purposes, financial gain, or professional outcomes; and alumni are not able to check out any equipment from the TECHBAR. Fine Art Alumni are permitted to work in the woodshop and ceramic studios during hours posted with a designated supervisor/staff member in attendance.  Alumni (with the exception of Fine Art) are not permitted to work in the wood shops, ceramics studios, (including use of the kilns), and printmaking studios. RMCAD is working to create partnerships with local companies so our Alumni will have those resources available again in the future.

​Professional Organizations

RMCAD students have the opportunity to belong to a variety of professional organizations. Students are encouraged to be involved with the following groups, as applicable to the individual program of study. Many of these organizations visit campus at the beginning of the fall term as part of the annual resource fair, or throughout the academic year.

• Association Internationale du Film d’Animation
• American Institute of Graphic Arts
• American Society of Interior Designers
• American Society of Media Photographers
• Art Directors Club of Denver
• Colorado Alliance of Illustrators
• Colorado Art Education Association
• Colorado Business Committee for the Arts
• Colorado Council of the Arts and Humanities International
• Colorado Photographic Arts Center
• International Interior Design Association
• Museum of Contemporary Arts
• Denver Art Museum

Art + Design Resources

Visiting Artist, Scholar, + Designer Program

The Visiting Artist, Scholar, and Designer (VASD) Program explores critical, diverse, and creative inquiry. This interdisciplinary initiative enriches the academic experience at RMCAD and serves the greater Denver-metro community. The VASD Program fosters passionate curiosity and innovation by bringing leading national and international artists, scholars, and designers to RMCAD. The Program is structured around a year-long theme. Past VASD Program series themes include Humor, The Senses, Collapsing Time, and Patterns. Stay connected with the VASD website for current and future program details.

The VASD Program provides RMCAD students with unique opportunities and direct access to creative thinkers from a variety of disciplines, regions, and ethnic backgrounds, and creates a forum for diverse and challenging artistic visions. While visiting, the Program’s artists, scholars, and designers present a public artist talk or performance. Visiting artists also engage with RMCAD students in private events such as workshops, studio visits/portfolio reviews, small group discussions, critiques, on-site installations, and more. A variety of other events such as the Program’s “Next Day Q+A Lunch” and off-campus film screenings are also offered. 

The VASD Program enhances all academic departments at RMCAD and is integrated into the classroom whenever possible. Past Program guests include John Waters, Lucy Lippard, Golan Levin, Will Vinton, Judy Chicago, Lynda Barry, Ian Bogost, Miranda July, Sondra Perry, Andrea Zittel, Kevin Young, Paul Pfieffer, and Robin Hunicke. Learn more and see past lectures and Program archives at rmcad.edu/arts-events/vasd/

Visiting Artist, Scholar, + Designer Learning Outcomes

• Students recognize the value of diverse perspectives, experiences, and creative methods.
• Students identify conceptual approaches within art, design, and culture.
• Students connect art and design to broader social, political, and cultural contexts.
• Students relate the content to their own studio practice and professional development.
• Students demonstrate a critical interrogation of the visiting artists’ content.

Wayfinding Series

The Wayfinding Series connects RMCAD students to creative professionals with a focus on career development through presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and more. With equal parts inspiration and honesty, creative professionals share their path towards a successful creative life and all of the twists and turns involved in that journey. Addressing career-focused issues such as industry trends, relevant skills, making connections, and professional fulfillment, these guests highlight that there is no one way to achieve a successful, creative career. Wayfinding guests represent a variety of creative employment opportunities, connect to multiple academic departments, and reveal that professional creatives are found in diverse and sometimes surprising fields. Speakers include local artists and designers working in creative fields, RMCAD faculty and staff, and accomplished RMCAD alumni.

The Wayfinding series is co-presented by RMCAD’s Career and Alumni Services Department and the VASD Program.

Fablab

Detailed information on 3D studios and full safety requirements and documentation is available on the Google site.

The RMCAD FabLab provides shop environments where the curious and creative fabricate mischievous projects. We transform the conceptual into the physical by exploring technological, contemporary, and traditional means of fabricating art + design. It is essential that students, faculty, and staff take an active part in preventive measures to control hazards associated with activities under their direction. Use of the FabLab is open to students currently enrolled in RMCAD classes during class times and posted open hours. Violation of the policies included in the FabLab Handbook or Student Handbook may result in the loss of shop access at the discretion of the Chair of Foundations + Fine Arts and Dean of Students.

RMCAD Galleries

The RMCAD campus is home to multiple galleries featuring dynamic and innovative work from contemporary artists and designers, RMCAD alumni, current students, and faculty. Open to the public, these galleries serve as a place to foster critical discourse around art and design for the RMCAD and broader communities by presenting exhibitions of challenging, educational, and significant work and projects. Through direct interaction with original artworks in a professional venue, along with a staff of knowledgeable gallerists, RMCAD Exhibitions enhance the learning experience and professional development of all RMCAD students.

The Philip J. Steele Gallery

Named in honor of RMCAD’s founder, the Philip J. Steele Gallery is the largest and most prestigious exhibition space on campus. Exhibitions include semesterly Graduation Exhibitions, Biannual Faculty + Staff Exhibitions, the Annual Student Exhibition, and a variety of nationally renowned visiting artists and designers. 

Rotunda Gallery

The Rotunda Gallery focuses on exhibitions featuring work by the RMCAD faculty, alumni, and local artists and designers in one of the college’s most unique buildings. 

Rude Gallery

The Rude Gallery showcases work and projects proposed by RMCAD students and features the Annual Student Symposium Exhibition. This intimate gallery offers close interactions with works and encourages experimental projects and installations. 

Epic Project Space

The Epic Project Space is a flexible space coordinated by academic departments and RMCAD gallery staff on an as-needed basis to display current RMCAD student work and projects.

Students are encouraged to apply for exhibition space in the RMCAD Student Gallery which is located in the EPiC building on the east end of campus. To apply, email a proposal to the Gallery Department (pjsgallery@rmcad.edu) with the subject Student Gallery Exhibition Proposal, and the gallery staff will contact you with further questions. Exhibitions in the Student Gallery are dependent on scheduling and merit. Contact pjsgallery@rmcad.edu for a link to the Student Gallery Exhibition Guidelines. The Gallery Director and Campus Preparator are also available to provide additional information about any of the College’s gallery spaces or to answer questions.

In addition to exhibitions in our Student Gallery, students have the opportunity to display their work on campus temporarily for critiques. Students must apply to display work in public spaces on campus by reviewing the Student Display Application Policies + Procedures and completing the Student Display Application Form located in the RMCAD Portal. Installation in a public space is not permitted until the Student Display Committee approves your proposal. Public spaces include outdoor areas, hallways, administrative spaces, and/or any other space that is not a designated critique space. Approvals may take up to one week. Be sure to coordinate your efforts to meet classroom deadlines. Designated critique space in hallways may be used for temporary display without Student Display Committee approval if the artwork complies with building and fire codes, Americans with Disabilities Act, and student handbook codes. Always check with your faculty first before installing in a designated critique space to verify locations and proper use. Stairwells and elevators may not be used for displaying due to the risk of injury. 

Gallery Details

Philip J. Steele Gallery

Curated by the Gallery Director (or guest curators selected by the Gallery Director)
Proposals not accepted

Exhibiting Work By:

• Current Students
• Faculty + Staff
• National Artists and Designers

Featuring the Following Exhibitions:

• Graduation Exhibitions (Semesterly, from week 6 of every B term through break week)
• Annual Student Exhibitions (Annually, Fall A term)
• Biannual Faculty Exhibitions (Biannually, Spring A term)
• Guest Artist/Designer Exhibitions (Annually, Summer A term, Biannually Spring A term in collaboration with the VASD Program)

Rotunda Gallery

Curated by the Gallery Director (or guest curators selected by the Gallery Director)
Proposals by faculty accepted

• Proposal requirements
• Proposals accepted Spring B - Summer A
• Proposals selected Summer A - Summer B

Exhibiting Work By:

• Faculty
• Alumni
• Local Artists and Designers

Featuring the Following Exhibitions:

• Proposed Faculty Exhibitions (Annually, Fall Semester)
• Local Artist/Designer Exhibition (Annually, Spring Semester)
• Annual Alumni Exhibition (Annually, Summer Semester)
• Graduation Exhibitions (as needed - semesterly, from week 6 of every B term through break week)

Rude Gallery

Exhibition and curation proposals by students 

• Proposal requirements
• Proposals accepted Spring B - Summer A
• Proposals selected Summer A - Summer B

Exhibiting Work By:

• Current Students
• Featuring the Following Exhibitions:
• Proposed Student Exhibitions (Semesterly)
• Annual Student Symposium Exhibition (Annually, Spring B term)

Graduation Exhibitions

Each term, all on-campus students graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree have the opportunity to participate in an on-campus exhibit. This group exhibition is open to all of the college’s program departments. The Graduation Exhibition is a college tradition and a privilege that brings all students, faculty, staff, and community together for a celebration of the talent and hard work of the students graduating with a BFA.

The graduation exhibition opens with a reception that is free and open to the public. The exhibition is open to the public for approximately two weeks. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. (summer hours may vary, please check rmcad.edu/exhibitions for the most updated information).

Students must attend the Mandatory Graduation meeting that is scheduled for the 2nd week of their graduating session and turn in all paperwork by assigned deadlines to participate. Please contact the Gallery Director/Coordinator or your Department Chair for the BFA Graduation Exhibition Handbook and/or additional information.

The Annual Student Exhibition

The Annual Student Exhibition brings all students, faculty, staff, and departments together once a year for a celebration of the talent and hard work of our students. The Annual Student Exhibition is a College tradition that has taken place since the College was founded in 1963.

All students who are enrolled are eligible and strongly encouraged to submit work. It is our largest exhibition of the year, consisting of work representing a wide diversity of media, content, and scale.

The exhibition is a juried competition; student work is juried in categories against other work of the same level. Department Chairs with their respective faculty identify a panel of jurors and select the Best of Department Awards. Professionals working in the field who are not immediately affiliated with the College select the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Award winners. After the work is selected, the gallery staff curates the exhibit within the space.

Information about the process of participating in the exhibition is emailed to the Student Body through the Philip J. Steele Gallery (pjsgallery@rmcad.edu). Please keep an eye on your inbox for details.

Spivak Student Studios

The Spivak Studio building is a creative center at the heart of Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design. A longtime tradition of the college, this building serves as a studio space and gallery for Spivakians- the loving nickname dubbed to our student resident artists. Each studio can allow 1 to 3 students and is an amazing chance to create alongside peers, have studio visits with professional artists, and develop a strong studio and gallery practice.

Each semester, an application is sent out requiring an artist statement, portfolio of work, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 with preference given to those with 3.0 or higher, and a minimum of 45 completed credit hours with preference given to those with 60 completed credit hours or higher. This is a competitive process, and students of all majors are encouraged to apply for this privilege. Please contact the Studio Manager at spivakmanagement@rmcad.edu with any inquiries.

The RMCAD Student Expression Wall

To be bestowed annually upon the incoming spring class, the Expression Wall serves as a perpetual collaborative art piece for the student body. Each spring, summer, and fall, students may create works of art on the wall, which will be photo-documented as a testament to their time at the college. Then, each spring the wall will be painted white once more, in a symbolic passing from upperclassmen to the new incoming students.

Students must adhere to the RMCAD Student Code of Conduct and respect the work of fellow students. The material must be non-toxic and environmentally safe. Work must be two-dimensional and rest flat against the surface of the Expression Wall. The RMCAD Student Expression Wall may not be damaged or dismantled.

Technology Resources

Student Communication

All enrolled students receive an assigned RMCAD email account before the start of the term. RMCAD news and important updates will be sent to this email address.

All RMCAD communication between students, faculty, and staff must occur through assigned RMCAD e-mail.

All students are required to authorize RMCAD to send SMS (text) messages to their mobile phone number on file. Students who do not wish to receive SMS communication must specify by opting out.

Hardware + Software Requirements for Courses

As student success is of the utmost importance, RMCAD has set degree-specific technology requirements. The most current technology requirements by degree program are listed in the Course Materials section on our website. Please use these requirements as a guide when purchasing the hardware for your degree program.

Students are charged a technology fee, which includes access to specific applicable software for their degree. The school does not provide some of the program-specific software; students are required to purchase this software on their own. New students are given access to provided software during the week after the term’s add/ drop period has ended. An email will be sent to new students with instructions on downloading their software.

If you have any questions about the software, including the Adobe renewal process, please email spectrum@rmcad.edu or stop by Spectrum on campus and speak with the manager.

Software Support:

RMCAD’s online help desk, RMCADGO

Students in online/hybrid programs must have a computer that allows for access to our Learning Management System (LMS) and corresponding materials and with sufficient memory and hard drive capacity to upload and download multimedia files. Students must also have regular access to a high-speed Internet connection.

A list of the necessary software is available to students from RMCAD and is listed by degree program in the Course Materials section of the RMCAD website. The different software components based on the program are essential to supporting coursework completion. Laptops and other degree-specific hardware are excluded. RMCAD provides a list of minimum required technology specifics to students during the admissions process.

PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT

Students enrolled in the Photography BFA program will be required to purchase an entry-level Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) or Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera (MILC) and a 2-head studio strobe light kit. There are many options at a variety of price points. The following lists provide recommended equipment for appropriate models of camera and light kits.

Entry-Level DSLR/MILC Model Recommendations

• Canon EOS Rebel Series with 18-55mm (T7i)
• Nikon XXXX with 16-55mm (ie. 3200, 7200, etc.)
• Sony Alpha (A) Series with 16-50mm Lens (Mirrorless a73, a6000)
• Olympus OM-D Series with 12-40mm Lens (Mirrorless OM-D E-M10, OM-D E-M5)

Lighting Kit Brand Recommendations

• Elinchrom Studio Strobe Kits (4/4 Softbox to Go Kit)
• Paul C. Buff Alien Bees Studio Strobe Kits
• Godox Studio Strobe Kits
• Adorama Flashpoint Studio Strobe Kits
• Profoto Studio Strobe Kits

FASHION DESIGN EQUIPMENT: Online + Campus

Students enrolled in the Fashion BFA Program are required to have the appropriate technical equipment, which is covered by student fees. Please see Tuition and Fees for further information.

MUSIC PRODUCTION EQUIPMENT

Students enrolled in the Music Production BFA are required to have the appropriate technical equipment, which is covered by student fees. Please see Tuition and Fees for further information.

Books + Supplies for Online + On-Campus Courses

All students are required to purchase required textbooks and to furnish their own art supplies and materials for the completion of each course. The on-campus store, Spectrum, carries the majority of supplies necessary for classes. The RMCAD textbook information is available in each course description in the Course Descriptions section of the Academic Catalog.

The instructor provides students with the required supplies for each course via email the week before the class start date. Basic supply information is included in course descriptions for many courses. Materials may vary depending on the instructor, make sure to check with your professor before purchasing.

Students are expected to purchase books and supplies and have them available by the date the term begins to participate in the course learning activities and to complete course assignments.

RMCADGO/TECHBAR/Technology Support

Students have access to multiple methods of technology support.

All students enrolled in online courses are assigned the RMCADGO support network. RMCADGO supports RMCAD’s learning management system (LMS), as well as providing support for laptops and front-end applications. They can be contacted by calling 888-RMCADGO (888.762.2346), or by email at RMCADGO@rmcad.edu.

Students enrolled in on-ground classes can utilize the TECHBAR for all non-Learning Management System (LMS) issues. The TECHBAR is designed to be the first point of contact for on-ground students requiring technical assistance with digital technology, software questions, wireless connectivity, email, student portal access, printing, and any other technical needs. The TECHBAR is staffed during campus hours. Technical support is available by calling 303.225.8529, by email at TECHBAR@rmcad.edu, or on the web at: support.rmcad.edu.

The TECHBAR also provides items such as digital cameras and digital video cameras on loan for on-campus student checkout on a first-come, first-served basis and does not offer reservations. A current student ID must be shown, students must not have fines greater than $30.00 and their account must also be in good standing. Fines are incurred for items turned in late.

Technology Policies + Procedures

The following technology policies are to be followed by ALL students, faculty, staff, alumni, and guests of RMCAD. You will be held accountable for following these policies, so it is important that you read and understand our policies regarding technology.

Emergency Notification

All campus emergency notifications are sent via SMS Text, mobile app notification, and email, broadcasted over the phone system, and displayed on lab computer screens across the campus.

Students and Faculty may have text messages sent to their cell phones by requesting the service feature with a “Yes,” or “Y,” sent to the number 67587. You can update your emergency contact information by updating your mobile phone number inside the student portal. To do this Navigate through the sidebar menu using: MY PROFILE > MY INFORMATION > and then click “Request Change” in the lower right corner of the window.

Computer Labs

There are many computers on campus for student use. If you encounter a class in session, please ask the instructor if you may work on a vacant workstation without disturbing the class. It is up to the instructor to allow you to work. Please respect the instructor’s wishes. Students are welcome to use the labs with some recommendations and restrictions.

• Shore Annex: Recommended for Illustration and Fine Arts Majors (Mac)
• Rude Garden Level: Recommended for Photography Majors (Mac)
• Animation Lab (TX006, TX004): Recommended for Animation Students (Windows)
• Game Art Lab (TX107): Recommended for Game Art Students (Windows)
• Interior Design Lab (TX108): Recommended for Interior Design Students (Windows)
• Sewing Lab (TX104): Restricted to Fashion Design Majors
• Graphic Design Labs (TX204, TX205, TX222, TX223): Recommended for Graphic Design Majors (Mac) and Foundations students
• CAD lab (TX108) Restricted to Interior Design Majors 
• EPiC Cintiq lab (EPiC205): Recommended for Illustration, Graphic Design, Fine Arts, and Art Ed Majors (Windows)

Personal projects or belongings are collected from labs at the end of each week and either discarded or placed in “Lost and Found” located at the Campus Resource Center.

Computer Lab Files

You are encouraged to always make a personal backup of your work onto an external hard drive of your own purchase.

We also encourage you to utilize the campus Google Drive service as well via your RMCAD Gmail.

All classroom computers wipe data stored on the desktop and other folders upon computer restart. Students must ensure they safely copy files to an external resource to avoid losing any generated content.

Computer Lab Software

Some software is specific to coursework. This includes animation software and AutoCAD software. Many classrooms are specifically designed to serve courses in each major, thus you may expect courses you will be scheduled in will be outfitted with the necessary elements for your courses. Please see the TECHBAR for details.

Installing software OF ANY KIND is strictly prohibited as is uninstalling existing software on Lab machines.

RMCAD does not permit booting a machine using any personal media from a CD, USB device, or external hard drive.

Fonts are the property of the College. Do not copy fonts. Do not add fonts from home to a RMCAD workstation.

Using school equipment for gaming, online gaming, and questionable entertainment use is strictly prohibited. (Exceptions will include curriculum-based game design classes, school-approved LAN parties, and gaming events approved by RMCAD IT Admin staff.)

Do not attempt to access secure areas of RMCAD’s information network.

Viewing content deemed offensive and that falls under RMCAD policy or local, state, or federal law as harassing or discriminatory to others is prohibited at RMCAD.

Data on Windows computers is cleared when the machines are turned off. Data on Macs is cleared weekly.

Computer Lab + Campus Guidelines

Lab computer equipment is not to be modified. Do not unplug or change hardware in any way. This includes but is not limited to power cables, monitor cables, keyboards, mice, network cables, speakers, and scanners. Do not remove chairs from labs.

Food and Drinks are not allowed inside computer labs except at designated tables.

Computer labs and key areas of campus are under monitored and recorded surveillance. RMCAD reserves the right to approve or deny the sharing of any recorded surveillance data.

The acquisition, downloading, and illegal viewing of copyrighted material/content (i.e. illegally streaming movies, video, BitTorrent, etc.) using any RMCAD resources is prohibited. Violators will be subject to punitive action, up to, and including expulsion.

Equipment Checkout

The TECHBAR offers many digital devices for on-campus student checkout, including digital video cameras, digital SLRs, audio recording devices, lighting kits, tripods, and more. Game Art and Photography equipment is only checked out to select students with the appropriate department head or department chair’s approval.

Students must have a Student ID and current term TECHBAR sticker and have less than $30 in late fines from the TECHBAR. By checking out any device, students assume replacement/repair costs if the device is damaged, lost, stolen, or missing any components. Items that are not returned within 15 days after their due date will incur a full retail replacement charge plus a service fee. Fines are $5 dollars a day each day beyond checkout duration.
The TECHBAR does not offer equipment reservation as a service, equipment is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Alumni actively enrolled in the RMCAD Renew Program are eligible to check out TECHBAR equipment with a RMCAD Alumni ID.

Printing:

Printers are located throughout the campus and computer labs; maps are located at each printer as well as within RMCAD’s Mobile application. RMCAD-provided printing is considered an “at-cost” printing solution. Initially, all students are given $1.00 for printing.

Printing allotments carry over to the next semester. Additional money for printing can be added at the SPECTRUM Supply Store.

Students are required to enter a username and password to print.

RMCAD does not currently support color accuracy for color printing on any of the printers offered on campus. Please take this into account when designing and preparing final projects. At the end of the term, printing gets very heavy and Murphy’s Law takes effect. Allow time to use a service bureau like OfficeMax or Kinko’s as a backup for final output.

The TECHBAR offers 42” wide-format color printing and 36” wide-format color printing on Canvas. We require 72 business hours for all orders. Rush orders are not accepted. Students may pick up a printing form at the TECHBAR.

The TECHBAR offers 3D Printing services. We require 7 business days for all orders. Models are reviewed to meet 3D printing standards and are accepted/rejected based on said standards. Rush orders are not accepted. Students may pick up a 3D Printing form at the TECHBAR.

Holodeck Sound Recording and VR Studio and Studio 1 & 2 Spaces:

The Holodeck Sound Recording and VR Studio and Studio 1 & 2 Spaces are specialized studio spaces that can only be utilized by making an appointment through TECHBAR. Keep in mind that some of these spaces are reserved in advance for scheduled class sessions per term. Students who wish to use either location outside of scheduled classes must complete the TECHBAR’s training requirements.

Laptops:

Student and faculty use of laptops is encouraged with the following guidelines:

All laptops must include current antivirus software and/or current security software updates to access RMCAD’s network.

Laptops may be used in labs but not at computer workstations during class time. Some classrooms have appropriate provisions for their use.

Students may not use equipment or cables from a lab workstation for their laptops.

The TECHBAR can answer questions regarding proper laptop etiquette.

RMCAD is not responsible for the theft, loss, or damage to personal equipment. Do not leave laptops or other possessions unattended. We recommend purchasing anti-theft / recovery software to protect your investments.

Wireless Internet:

The entire campus is set up with Wi-Fi or Wireless Access. Students and Faculty who own a laptop can visit the TECHBAR to get configured to access the wireless network.

Alumni, Family, Friends + Co-Workers Usage:

Alumni Association members have limited access to computers when not enrolled in the Renew Program. Contact Alumni Services for details: 303.225.8569.

Family, friends, and non-RMCAD co-workers are not authorized to use school equipment. Visitors and Students may be asked to show a valid student ID at any time.

Failure to follow the RMCAD technology policies and procedures outlined above will result in fines and disciplinary action as defined in the RMCAD catalog, Employee Handbook, and school policies. Software, hardware, or equipment theft is enforced by RMCAD, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, and the Lakewood Police Department.

Email

All students are assigned a RMCAD Google Suite user account, which includes an email for the student. Official college communication is conducted via the RMCAD email system, and students are required to check and use their RMCAD email accounts regularly. RMCAD email is accessible at gmail.rmcad.edu, or from gmail.com with the full username and domain included.

Each student is included in the appropriate email groups to get modality and degree program-specific correspondence. Email addresses are the first name, a period, and the complete last name up to 20 characters in total. The only exception to this would be in cases that would result in duplication. Students should not correspond with faculty or administration using email accounts other than RMCAD’s @rmcad.edu account.

Students should not ever give out a username or password via email. The RMCAD IT Department will never ask for this information via email. Students who are unable to use or are not receiving RMCAD email should contact the RMCADGO or TECHBAR support teams immediately (contact information can be found under College Resources). RMCAD reserves the right to monitor emails for troubleshooting and violations of College policy and by request from law enforcement.

Student Identification

On-Campus Student Identification

All enrolled on-campus students are issued a RMCAD student identification (ID) card. To maintain a safe and secure campus environment, all students must retain their student ID throughout their enrollment. Students’ ID cards are used for door access on campus. Students may be requested to show their ID by College Agents. Photographs for student ID cards are initially taken during New Student Orientation and students are expected to retain the card for the duration of their enrollment at the College. On-campus students should expect a $10 replacement fee for new ID cards, which may be ordered through the TECHBAR. At the start of each academic term in which they are enrolled, students must obtain a validation decal from the TECHBAR to be affixed to the ID card. Students in financial arrears with the College may be denied the validation decal, and subsequently, the privileges and access associated with the student ID card. A valid student ID card is necessary to access campus buildings, check out technology materials from the TECHBAR, and check out books or other materials from the Library/Resource Center. Additionally, several art supplies stores, museums, sporting venues, movie theaters, and other businesses offer reduced rates or discounts for individuals presenting a valid student ID card.

Online Student Identification

For Online-only attending RMCAD students, requests for a student ID card must be submitted to RMCADGO  at rmcadgo@rmcad.edu or by phone at 1-888-RMCAD-GO (1-888-762-2346). The request must include the submission of a recent photo clearly showing the student’s face, as well as a current mailing address to receive the card once it’s printed. Student ID card requests will take approximately one week to be printed and shipped from the date of the initial request.

Verification of Student Identity in Online Learning

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design operates in compliance with the provisions of the United States Federal Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) concerning the verification of student identity in distance education.

All credit-bearing courses and programs offered through distance education methods must verify that the student who registers for a distance education course or program is the same student who participates in and completes the course or program and receives academic credit. According to the HEOA, one or more of the following methods must be used:

• An individual secure login and password issued by the College
• Proctored examinations, and/or
• Other technologies or practices that are effective in verifying student identification. (These practices include phone/Digital Meeting check-ins and portfolio review sessions.)

Any online student work, assessments, or activities that are graded or contribute to a student’s grade must be submitted via a system that verifies the student’s identity as noted above. Students submit their work via the College’s secure Learning Management System (LMS).

Please note: There is currently no fee associated with the verification of student identity. Any future fees will be indicated in the Catalog or Addendum and in the Tuition and Fees  section of this catalog.

Secure Login + Password
Each RMCAD student is assigned a unique username and password to log into the College’s learning management system. Students are responsible for providing their complete and true identity information in any identification verification process.

Students are required to use their individual username and password to access the LMS and must protect the confidentiality of their username and password. Students are responsible for all transactions that occur under their username. Students are prohibited by College policy from the following activities:

• Soliciting login information or accessing someone else’s account on the LMS
• Signing into the LMS using anything other than their own official RMCAD credentials
• Providing their log-on information to any other individual, or allowing any other individual to post to the site under the student’s log-in

As technology and personal accountability are not absolute in determining a student’s identity, the responsibility of maintaining integrity is shared across several departments. Faculty teaching courses through distance education methods are responsible for using assignments and evaluations that support academic integrity and requiring students to submit assignments using the college’s secure LMS. The IT department holds responsibility for providing industry-standard mechanisms for assigning usernames and password systems, maintaining systems security, and investigating unusual user activity. All faculty and staff are responsible for reporting any suspected infractions to the Department Chair, IT Director, Dean of Students, or Senior VP of Academic Affairs.

Enforcement
Failure of students to comply with this agreement/policy will be addressed through the College’s Policy on Academic Integrity  and the Conduct System as noted in the College’s Code of Conduct . If warranted, a student’s failure to comply will result in termination of access to College technology resources. Failure to comply may also be a violation of civil/criminal law and may cause the violator to be subject to applicable penalties.

The Student Portal

Initial registration is required. Students are responsible for reviewing the information stored in the student portal. Students can view and print many portions of their student records. 

The following is a list of information currently available to students once they’ve become an applicant at RMCAD: 

• Account Information
• Making Payments Online
• Payment Information
• RMCAD Financial Aid Links
• Document Center

The following is a list of information currently available to students once they’ve registered for courses: 

• Academic forms 
• Class Schedule 
• Grades (current and past terms; midterm and final grades) 
• Billing information (current and past terms) 
• Account holds 
• Academic and Financial Aid Advisor assignment 
• Financial aid award letter 
• Financial aid missing documents 
• RMCAD unofficial transcripts

Additionally, students will work with their assigned Academic Advisor to register for classes.

RMCAD Mobile App

The RMCAD mobile app is meant to enhance your student experience whether it’s on-campus, online or both! This app will give you the ability to always be in the know about what’s happening in the RMCAD community while connecting you to students, faculty, and staff. Click here for more information and to download the app on your iPhone or Android device.

Below are a few of the many features offered:

• Connect with your students, faculty, and staff
• Personalize your homepage by adding your favorite resources for quick access
• Access your course info through the LMS Tile
• Learn about events happening on-campus and the latest RMCAD news
• Break the ice and introduce yourself on the campus wall