Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague
Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague
Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague overview
Founded in 1885, the Prague Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design (UMPRUM) is one of the oldest and most prestigious art schools in Central Europe. Established during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the academy was initially created to elevate Czech artistic and industrial education by drawing inspiration from fine arts and design institutions across Europe. The academy played a significant role in shaping Czech artistic movements, particularly in the early 20th century when it became a center for modernist and avant-garde experimentation. Over the decades, UMPRUM has produced numerous influential designers, architects, and artists who made important contributions to Czech Cubism, Functionalism, and later to contemporary design and multimedia arts. The university became a hub of the Czech Cubist movement during the interwar period, producing groundbreaking works of architecture and design. After World War II, the academy played a key role in shaping socialist-era design, while also sheltering dissident artists and intellectuals who resisted political restrictions. Following the Velvet Revolution in 1989, UMPRUM adopted a more open and experimental curriculum and began attracting international students and faculty.
About Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague
Founded in 1885, the Prague Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design (UMPRUM) is one of the oldest and most prestigious art schools in Central Europe. Established during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the academy was initially created to elevate Czech artistic and industrial education by drawing inspiration from fine arts and design institutions across Europe. The academy played a significant role in shaping Czech artistic movements, particularly in the early 20th century when it became a center for modernist and avant-garde experimentation. Over the decades, UMPRUM has produced numerous influential designers, architects, and artists who made important contributions to Czech Cubism, Functionalism, and later to contemporary design and multimedia arts. The university became a hub of the Czech Cubist movement during the interwar period, producing groundbreaking works of architecture and design. After World War II, the academy played a key role in shaping socialist-era design, while also sheltering dissident artists and intellectuals who resisted political restrictions. Following the Velvet Revolution in 1989, UMPRUM adopted a more open and experimental curriculum and began attracting international students and faculty.
Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague faculties and programs
Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague Exam Requirements
Submitting at least one of the exams below with the required score is a prerequisite for application. The score threshold may vary by program.
How to get into Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague
Prospective students applying to undergraduate programs offered by the Prague Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design must meet the following admission requirements;
- High School Diploma
- Strong Grade Point Average
- CV
- An English proficiency certificate may be required for programs taught in English (IELTS, TOEFL)
- A portfolio of prior work relevant to the department the applicant is applying to
- Applicants may be required to take an aptitude exam administered by the university
Prospective students applying to graduate programs offered by the Prague Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design must meet the following admission requirements;
- Bachelor's Degree
- Strong Grade Point Average
- CV
- An English proficiency certificate may be required for programs taught in English (IELTS, TOEFL)
- A portfolio of prior work relevant to the department the applicant is applying to
- Applicants may be required to take an aptitude exam administered by the university
Application Deadlines
* These dates are subject to change. Get in touch with our Dream Uni advisors to learn the up-to-date deadlines and all the details about the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague application process.
Take a closer look at Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague
The Prague Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design (UMPRUM) is primarily housed in a historic building located in the city center, near Náměstí Jana Palacha. Designed by Czech architect František Schmoranz and completed in 1885, this main campus reflects the school's long-standing tradition of artistic excellence. A blend of Neo-Renaissance and historicist styles, the building features spacious studios, exhibition halls, and workshops specifically designed for various disciplines including architecture, design, fine arts, and applied arts. Over the years, the main campus has undergone several renovations to accommodate modern technology and contemporary teaching methods while preserving its historic significance. The building also houses Galerie UM, the school's dedicated exhibition space, where students, faculty, and guest artists frequently exhibit their work in ongoing shows. In addition to its main campus, UMPRUM has expanded its facilities across Prague to include specialized studios and workshops. These satellite locations provide state-of-the-art resources for students working in fields such as glassmaking, ceramics, textile design, and digital media. Some of these workshops are located in Žižkov and Holešovice — neighborhoods known for their vibrant creative scenes — giving students access to a broader artistic community and professional collaborations.
The campus fosters a creative and collaborative environment where students from a variety of disciplines — including architecture, design, fine arts, and applied arts — regularly interact and work together on interdisciplinary projects. Much of student life revolves around exhibitions, such as the annual Artsemestr show, where students present their semester projects to the public. The school also organizes international workshops and conferences, bringing in globally recognized designers and artists to inspire and mentor students. Students frequently gather in studio spaces and workshops to develop their craft while also taking part in discussions, collaborative projects, and social events. Many students participate in student-led initiatives at alternative cultural venues around Prague, including independent design markets, pop-up exhibitions, and experimental art performances. The academy also has a strong tradition of activism and artistic expression, and students often use their work to address social, political, and environmental issues. The UMPRUM student council plays a key role in organizing events, ensuring student representation, and advocating for student needs within the institution.
The Prague Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design has a broad alumni network that includes many distinguished graduates who have excelled in a variety of fields. Notable alumni include;
- Jan Preisler
- Stanislav Sucharda
- Josef Mařatka
- Vojtěch Preissig
- František Kobliha
- Bohumil Kafka
- Miloš Slovák
- Julius Mařák
among others.
Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague cost of living
Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague Location
Prag
Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague Contact
How to Get Into Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague
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The application process is managed meticulously by our professional team, and your acceptance letter is delivered to you.
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