The Mission of O’More College of Design

O’More College of Design provides a quality art and design education which emphasizes individual attention. The College promotes a partnership with the local, regional, and global community through exhibits, programs, continuing education, and service projects. We prepare students to think critically and imaginatively, to become responsible citizens, and to develop a pattern of lifelong learning.

History 
Founded in 1970, the College is located in the historic district of Franklin, Tennessee. O'More is patterned after Le College Feminin in Paris, France, where our late founder, Mrs. Eloise Pitts O'More, studied in the early 1920s. The Abbey Leix Mansion (ca. 1866), an Italianate-style home which serves as the College's administration building, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The McAfee Library and Hilliard Institute for Educational Wellness (ca. 1887), a Romanesque Revival-style home now in use as a sensory teaching and learning center and the visual communications department, is one of a handful of remaining examples of the work of H.C. Thompson, arguably Tennessee's most celebrated native architect.

Beauty
The campus is situated on seven park-like acres, two blocks from the heart of charming downtown Franklin. Nestled in between historic homes and centuries-old trees, the setting itself fosters creativity. Surrounded by a community rich in heritage, O'More offers a sensory teaching and learning environment, and is only a short walk to the many quaint shops, restaurants and galleries located around the town square. Franklin is famous for its festivals, historic landmarks and antique shops, which students enjoy during free time.

Individual Attention
The inspiring setting, coupled with O'More's intensive, individualized design instruction, provides students with an unparalleled educational foundation upon which to build a career in design. The O'More faculty is largely comprised of leaders in the design industries and working professionals who bring first-hand knowledge of the latest trends and technologies into the classroom. An average class size of eight, non-traditional facilities, the best internships, field trips to major metropolitan markets, global research and travel, educational service projects and participation in national design organizations... all result in O'More graduates who develop superior understanding of purposeful design.

Diversity
The O'More student and faculty body, ranging in age from 17-65 and representing 36 states and 14 foreign countries, embraces the diverse cultures and varying perspectives that influence good design. The O'More Cultural Field College offers students teaching, learning and service opportunities in a variety of cultures including Ireland, France, Italy, Germany, Rural America, and Native America. The campus is located 20 miles from metropolitan downtown Nashville, which provides students access to major museums, libraries and various cultural opportunities such as the performing arts, major concerts and sporting events. Our graduates have found career opportunities nationwide in the music, motion picture and television industries; with architecture and interior design firms; and with fashion manufacturers, retailers and design houses. Our graphic designers are working for advertising agencies, publishing houses and Web-based design firms.

Request More Information