The Art Academy of Cincinnati is an independent college of art and design.

The Art Academy is accredited and is a charter member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

The Art Academy has been issued a certificate by the Ohio Board of Regents under Section 1713.03, Ohio Revised Code, to grant a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, a Master of Arts degree in Art Education, and an Associate of Science degree in Graphic Design. It is authorized under Federal Law to enroll non-immigrant alien students and is approved for the training of veterans.