If you want to pursue a career in the visual arts, art school may be the perfect choice for you! Art schools offer students access to state-of-the-art facilities, equipment, and resources, from specialized studios to cutting-edge digital labs, that create the perfect space to explore your creativity. This hands-on approach to art education encourages students to embrace experimentation while receiving guidance from experienced faculty members.
However, the art school admissions process is complicated and competitive. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the 100 best art schools in the US to give you a leg up. Read on to start building your school list and discover the unique nuances of the art school application process.
Creating Your Future: The Benefits of Art School
While a traditional education isn’t the only way to succeed in the arts, art school provides a platform for college students to hone advanced skills while exploring various career paths. Art school offers:
- State-of-the-art facilities. Most colleges don’t have access to the types of supplies and specialized facilities that are necessary to create high-level art. If you want to study art seriously in college, an art school may be your best choice.
- Foundational skills. Art involves a lot of self-expression and experimentation, but you can’t convey your ideas without the basics. Art school will give you the fundamental tools and technical skills you need to create effective art.
- Constructive criticism and mentorship. Art school gives students unique access to experienced faculty members and successful alumni who can offer constructive criticism and help them navigate the complexities of the art industry. You will also be able to learn from your peers, building a mutually beneficial relationship where you can push each other to do your best.
- Varied career paths. Art school isn’t just for people who hope to become professional visual arts. Art school can expose you to a variety of art-related career paths, including art history, gallery and museum work, education, and arts administration.
- Transferable skills. Even if you decide not to pursue a traditional art career, art school teaches you valuable skills like creativity, innovative problem solving, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and adaptability, which will be valuable in any industry!
If you think art school is the right choice for you, then it’s time to explore your options!
The Best Art Schools and Colleges in the US
When it comes to pursuing a career in the arts, choosing the right art school is crucial, and the United States is home to some of the best art schools in the world, offering exceptional programs and resources for aspiring artists.
Here is a list of the top 100 art schools in the US:
| School Name | Acceptance Rate | Tuition Cost (Annual) | Number of Students | |
| 1 | Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) | 14% | $63,966 | 2,480 |
| 2 | School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) | 79% | $56,420 | 3,600 |
| 3 | California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) | 25% | $60,650 | 1,520 |
| 4 | Yale University School of Art | 6% | $48,500 | 6,900 (all undergraduates) |
| 5 | MIT | 4% | $61,990 | 355 |
| 6 | University of Pennsylvania | 7% | $60,920 | 28,711 (full university) |
| 7 | Pratt Institute | 53% | $61,915 | 4,875 |
| 8 | Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) | 80% | $56,500 | 2,122 |
| 9 | Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) | 84% | $41,630 | 14,000 |
| 10 | Parsons School of Design | 52% | $57,978 | 5,000 |
| 11 | School of Visual Arts (SVA) | 91% | $47,345 | 3,871 |
| 12 | Art Center College of Design | 75% | $53,086 | 2,062 |
| 13 | Carnegie Mellon University School of Art | 23% | $67,020 | 15,818 (whole university) |
| 14 | Otis College of Art and Design | 84% | $54,200 | 1,200 |
| 15 | Ringling College of Art and Design | 64% | $54,319 | 1,600 |
| 16 | Columbia University School of the Arts | 7% | $65,524 | 30,000 (whole university) |
| 17 | New York University (NYU) Tisch School of the Arts | 12% | $60,438 | 3,163 |
| 18 | The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art | 19% | $44,550 | 902 |
| 19 | Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) | 77% | $14,200 (in-state), $39,800 (out-of-state) | 1,780 |
| 20 | California College of the Arts (CCA) | 73% | $60,864 | 1,528 |
| 21 | Tyler School of Art and Architecture, Temple University | 59% | $16,080 (in-state), $28,992 (out-of-state) | 1,500 |
| 22 | Washington University in St. Louis Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts | 12% | $50,680 | 14,622 (whole university) |
| 23 | University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of the Arts and Architecture | 5% | $43,012 (in-state), $64,550 (out-of-state) | 1,500 |
| 24 | Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts (VCUarts) | 25% | $14,710 (in-state), $35,010 (out-of-state) | 3,000 |
| 25 | Cleveland Institute of Art | 56% | $49,410 | 600 |
| 26 | Minneapolis College of Art and Design | 51% | $46,464 | 800 |
| 27 | Kansas City Art Institute | 58% | $44,000 | 700 |
| 28 | Pacific Northwest College of Art | 65% | $48,300 | 550 |
| 29 | University of Southern California (USC) Roski School of Art and Design | 14% | $60,446 | 900 |
| 30 | Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) | 58% | $7,183 (in-state), $20,253 (out-of-state) | 9,000 |
| 31 | Alfred University School of Art and Design | 48% | $41,500 | 400 |
| 32 | Cornish College of the Arts | 71% | $40,038 | 600 |
| 33 | Herron School of Art and Design, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis | 53% | $40,842 | 1,000 |
| 34 | San Francisco Art Institute | 75% | $46,564 | 600 |
| 35 | Lesley University College of Art and Design | 77% | $27,600 | 2,000 |
| 36 | New Hampshire Institute of Art | 44% | $25,500 | 400 |
| 37 | Moore College of Art & Design | 55% | $52,444 | 400 |
| 38 | University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) School of Art & Art History | 43% | $13,804 (in-state), $27,860 (out-of-state) | 750 |
| 39 | University of Texas at Austin College of Fine Arts | 32% | $11,448 (in-state), $40,032 (out-of-state) | 2,100 |
| 40 | Columbus College of Art & Design | 91% | $42,200 | 1,000 |
| 41 | California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) School of Art | 47% | $6,834 (in-state), $18,714 (out-of-state) | 2,000 |
| 42 | University of Georgia Lamar Dodd School of Art | 60% | $9,790 (in-state), $28,830 (out-of-state) | 1,200 |
| 43 | University of Florida School of Art and Art History | 46% | $6,381 (in-state), $28,659 (out-of-state) | 1,300 |
| 44 | Montserrat College of Art | 79% | $38,990 | 400 |
| 45 | Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts | 41% | $28,000 | 100 |
| 46 | University of Hartford Hartford Art School | 77% | $42,182 | 500 |
| 47 | The University of North Carolina School of the Arts | 32% | $6,497 (in-state), $24,231 (out-of-state) | 1,100 |
| 48 | Memphis College of Art | 60% | $32,368 | 400 |
| 49 | University of Arizona School of Art | 85% | $12,716 (in-state), $37,122 (out-of-state) | 800 |
| 50 | University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning | 76% | $12,138 (in-state), $27,472 (out-of-state) | 3,500 |
| 51 | Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design | 89% | $20,190 | 800 |
| 52 | Georgia State University Ernest G. Welch School of Art & Design | 69% | $9,286 (in-state), $24,517 (out-of-state) | 1,000 |
| 53 | University of Denver School of Art and Art History | 75% | $61,848 | 700 |
| 54 | University of Washington School of Art + Art History + Design | 49% | $12,092 (in-state), $39,461 (out-of-state) | 1,000 |
| 55 | University of Utah College of Fine Arts | 31% | $9,222 (in-state), $29,215 (out-of-state) | 1,200 |
| 56 | University of South Florida College of The Arts | 41% | $6,410 (in-state), $17,324 (out-of-state) | 1,000 |
| 57 | Art Academy of Cincinnati | 32% | $38,625 | 200 |
| 58 | Northern Illinois University School of Art and Design | 59% | $13,248 | 500 |
| 59 | College for Creative Studies | 49% | $51,960 | 1,500 |
| 60 | University of Kansas School of the Arts | 88% | $11,166 (in-state), $28,034 (out-of-state) | 1,200 |
| 61 | University of Wisconsin-Madison Art Department | 43% | $10,725 (in-state), $37,785 (out-of-state) | 900 |
| 62 | University of Oregon School of Art + Design | 83% | $13,857 (in-state), $39,309 (out-of-state) | 1,200 |
| 63 | Rochester Institute of Technology College of Art and Design | 71% | $40,626 | 2,000 |
| 64 | University of Massachusetts Dartmouth College of Visual & Performing Arts | 92% | $14,533 (in-state), $31,075 (out-of-state) | 800 |
| 65 | Syracuse University College of Visual and Performing Arts | 42% | $33,290 | 2,000 |
| 66 | SUNY New Paltz School of Fine and Performing Arts | 42% | $8,340 (in-state), $18,650 (out-of-state) | 1,500 |
| 67 | Purchase College, SUNY School of Art+Design | 52% | $8,763 (in-state), $18,863 (out-of-state) | 1,200 |
| 68 | Rutgers University Mason Gross School of the Arts | 21% | $15,407 (in-state), $31,785 (out-of-state) | 900 |
| 69 | Louisiana State University School of Art | 61% | $11,950 (in-state), $28,627 (out-of-state) | 800 |
| 70 | University of Miami Department of Art and Art History | 16% | $52,080 | 700 |
| 71 | The College of New Jersey Department of Art and Art History | 48% | $16,567 (in-state), $28,901 (out-of-state) | 600 |
| 72 | University of Oklahoma School of Visual Arts | 44% | $11,538 (in-state), $27,069 (out-of-state) | 700 |
| 73 | University of Delaware Department of Art & Design | 61% | $13,680 (in-state), $34,310 (out-of-state) | 600 |
| 74 | Arizona State University Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts | 86% | $12,398 (in-state), $30,592 (out-of-state) | 4,000 |
| 75 | University of Iowa School of Art and Art History | 84% | $9,830 (in-state), $31,793 (out-of-state) | 1,000 |
| 76 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln School of Art, Art History & Design | 79% | $9,522 (in-state), $26,020 (out-of-state) | 500 |
| 77 | University of New Mexico College of Fine Arts | 26% | $7,448 (in-state), $23,292 (out-of-state) | 900 |
| 78 | University of Nevada, Las Vegas Department of Art | 16% | $8,604 (in-state), $24,126 (out-of-state) | 500 |
| 79 | University of Colorado Boulder Department of Art & Art History | 13% | $12,500 (in-state), $38,318 (out-of-state) | 1,200 |
| 80 | University of Hawaii at Manoa Department of Art & Art History | 52% | $11,304 (in-state), $33,336 (out-of-state) | 400 |
| 81 | University of South Carolina School of Visual Art and Design | 68% | $12,688 (in-state), $33,928 (out-of-state) | 500 |
| 82 | Auburn University Department of Art & Art History | 81% | $11,492 (in-state), $31,956 (out-of-state) | 400 |
| 83 | University of Houston School of Art | 26% | $9,519 (in-state), $24,159 (out-of-state) | 1,100 |
| 84 | University of Kentucky School of Art & Visual Studies | 96% | $12,484 (in-state), $31,294 (out-of-state) | 500 |
| 85 | University of Louisville Hite Art Institute | 68% | $11,928 (in-state), $27,954 (out-of-state) | 300 |
| 86 | University of Tennessee, Knoxville School of Art | 46% | $13,244 (in-state), $31,664 (out-of-state) | 500 |
| 87 | University of Akron Mary Schiller Myers School of Art | 100% | $10,508 (in-state), $16,022 (out-of-state) | 400 |
| 88 | University of Missouri School of Visual Studies | 78% | $11,520 (in-state), $28,348 (out-of-state) | 600 |
| 89 | University of North Texas College of Visual Arts and Design | 84% | $11,086 (in-state), $22,478 (out-of-state) | 2,500 |
| 90 | Kent State University School of Art | 51% | $11,300 (in-state), $20,464 (out-of-state) | 600 |
| 91 | Ohio State University Department of Art | 54% | $11,084 (in-state), $32,061 (out-of-state) | 1,200 |
| 92 | Oklahoma State University Department of Art, Graphic Design and Art History | 68% | $9,019 (in-state), $24,398 (out-of-state) | 400 |
| 93 | University of Texas at Arlington Department of Art and Art History | 80% | $11,620 (in-state), $26,999 (out-of-state) | 800 |
| 94 | University of Central Florida School of Visual Arts and Design | 44% | $6,368 (in-state), $22,467 (out-of-state) | 1,600 |
| 95 | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Peck School of the Arts | 62% | $9,493 (in-state), $20,905 (out-of-state) | 1,200 |
| 96 | West Virginia University College of Creative Arts | 72% | $8,976 (in-state), $25,320 (out-of-state) | 800 |
| 97 | Wichita State University School of Art, Design and Creative Industries | 91% | $8,622 (in-state), $17,686 (out-of-state) | 600 |
| 98 | Western Michigan University Gwen Frostic School of Art | 81% | $12,483 (in-state), $16,041 (out-of-state) | 400 |
| 99 | Oberlin College Studio Art Department | 33% | $50,484 | 3,000 (full college) |
| 100 | William & Mary Department of Art and Art History | 33% | $69,326 | 7,000 (full college) |
Let’s take a closer look at some of these top institutions to help you pick the best US art school for you:
1. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
RISD consistently ranks among the top art schools in the nation. With its comprehensive curriculum, renowned faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, RISD offers an immersive and rigorous arts education.
Students can explore a wide range of artistic disciplines, from painting and sculpture to graphic design and digital media. RISD’s emphasis on critical thinking, conceptual exploration, and technical expertise prepares students for successful careers in the competitive art world.
Key Details:
- Acceptance rate: 14%
- SAT Range: 1340-1510
- ACT Range: 29-33
- Application Fee: $60
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Tuition: $63,966 / year
2. School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)
SAIC is another prestigious art school renowned for its innovative and interdisciplinary approach to art education. With a diverse range of programs, including painting, photography, and fashion design, SAIC fosters creativity and encourages students to push the boundaries of traditional artistic practices.
The school’s proximity to Chicago’s vibrant art scene provides students with ample opportunities for artistic inspiration and networking.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- SAT Range: Not available
- ACT Range: 22-25
- Application Fee: $65
- SAT/ACT: Neither required nor recommended
- High School GPA: Neither required nor recommended
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Tuition: $56,420 / year
3. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
CalArts is a pioneer in art education, known for its avant-garde approach and commitment to experimental art practices. The school offers art programs in various artistic disciplines, including animation, film, and theater.
With a distinguished faculty composed of accomplished artists and industry professionals, CalArts provides students with guidance from the best in the field. The school’s emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and artistic exploration nurtures creativity and prepares students for careers in both the fine arts and entertainment industries.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 25%
- SAT Range: Not available
- ACT Range: Not available
- Application Fee: $85
- SAT/ACT: Neither required nor recommended
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Tuition: $60,650 / year
4. Pratt Institute
Located in Brooklyn, New York, Pratt Institute is renowned for its comprehensive art and design programs. From architecture and industrial design to illustration and photography, Pratt Institute offers diverse courses catering to different artistic interests.
The school’s urban setting provides students access to a thriving art scene and countless opportunities for creative inspiration. Pratt’s strong emphasis on technical skills and conceptual development prepares students for successful careers in arts and design.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 53%
- SAT Range: 1160-1430
- ACT Range: 26-31
- Application Fee: $50
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Tuition: $61,915 / year
5. Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
Founded in 1826, the private Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) is the United States’ oldest continuously degree-granting art college. MICA offers undergraduate and graduate art programs in a wide range of artistic professions, including design, education, and fine arts.
MICA is known for its transdisciplinary teaching philosophy, emphasis on community involvement, and commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The Baltimore Museum of Art is also located on campus, providing students with access to world-class exhibitions and collections.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- SAT Range: 1010-1370
- ACT Range: 17-23
- Application Fee: $70
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
- Tuition: $56,500 / year
6. Savannah College of Art and Design
With campuses in both Savannah and Atlanta, the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is widely regarded as one of the world’s best art schools. SCAD has nearly 100 distinct programs to help students realize their artistic potential, ranging from brand management to UX design.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 84%
- SAT Range: 1060-1280
- ACT Range: 20-28
- Application Fee: $100
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Tuition: $41,630 / year
7. University of Texas at Austin
UT Austin is a public university whose College of Fine Arts has renowned programs in studio art, art history, design, and arts and entertainment technologies. UT Austin combines the personalized attention of an art school with the robust resources of a large university to give students a well-rounded experience.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 31%
- SAT Range: 1230-1500
- ACT Range: 26-33
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Early Decision/Early Action: No
- Tuition: $11,448 / year (in-state), $40,032 (out-of-state)
8. Yale University
Yale University, located in New Haven, Connecticut, is an Ivy League Institution renowned for its prestigious and rigorous art programs. The Yale School of Art offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as painting, sculpture, graphic design, and photography. With small class sizes and access to world-class faculty, students receive exceptional education and mentorship.
Yale’s extensive resources, including the Yale University Art Gallery and the Yale Center for British Art, provide students with unparalleled opportunities for artistic inspiration and professional growth. The collaborative environment encourages interdisciplinary exploration, integrating art with other academic interests.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 6%
- SAT Range: 1500-1580
- ACT Range: 33-35
- Application Fee: $80
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
- Tuition: $48,500
9. Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon’s University School of Art stands out for its innovative approach to visual arts education. Unlike traditional institutions, Carnegie Mellon bridges the gap between established artistic practices and technology. This forward-thinking school fosters an environment that thrives on interdisciplinary exploration and collaboration.
Students are encouraged to push the boundaries of artistic expression by seamlessly integrating innovative technologies, critical theory, and their chosen studio practice. This emphasis on experimentation is further bolstered by exceptional facilities, including state-of-the-art fabrication workshops, media labs, and dedicated exhibition spaces.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 23%
- SAT Range: 1490-1570
- ACT Range: 34-35
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Tuition: $67,020 / year
10. Art Center College of Design
The Art Center College of Design isn’t your typical art school. Founded in 1930, Art Center set out to prepare artists and designers for the real world, not just the studio. Their mission is clear: “Learn to create. Influence change.” This philosophy underscores the school’s commitment to socially responsible design and making a positive impact through art and design.
Art Center’s unique approach has paid off for over 85 years; even during the Great Depression, Art Center grads were landing jobs right out of school. Talk about setting you up for success!
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- SAT Range: Not available
- ACT Range: Not available
- Application Fee: $50
- SAT/ACT: Neither required nor recommended
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Accepts Common App: No
- Tuition: $53,086 / year
11. Parsons School of Design at The New School
The Parsons School of Design at The New School is a top institution that immerses students in New York City’s vibrant culture. Students at Parsons engage in critical thinking to address issues like environmental challenges and accessibility. Through interconnected design labs, they participate in both on-campus research and international partnerships. In 2013, Parsons began offering programs at its Paris campus, further extending its global reach.
Parsons is recognized as the top design school in the U.S. and is among the top three worldwide. As part of The New School, Parsons provides an interdisciplinary education enriched by the resources of both its New York City and Paris campuses, preparing students to tackle the pressing issues of our time through art.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- SAT Range: Not available
- ACT Range: 21-26
- Application Fee: $50
- SAT/ACT: Neither required nor recommended
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Tuition: $57,978 / year
12. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
MIT is primarily known for its STEM majors, but its art programs are highly respected, placing MIT among the top art schools in the US. MIT takes an interdisciplinary approach to art studies, incorporating both traditional and modern techniques into a cutting-edge, tech-focused environment.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 4%
- SAT Range: 1530-1580
- ACT Range: 35-36
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT/ACT: Required
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
- Tuition: $61,990 / year
13. Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
The Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts (VCUarts) brings a public university option to the table. Located in Richmond, Virginia, VCUarts offers a vibrant arts education at a more affordable price tag than some other institutions. This highly-ranked institution (currently #4 in Best Fine Arts Colleges for grad schools by U.S. News) boasts a diverse range of programs, from visual arts to art education. With a focus on fostering artistic expression and a collaborative environment, VCUarts is a great choice for aspiring artists who want to develop their skills within a supportive community.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 25%
- SAT Range: 1030-1290
- ACT Range: 22-30
- Application Fee: Not available
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Tuition: $14,710 / year (in state), $35,010 / year (out-of-state)
14. Temple University
Temple University’s Tyler School of Art is a great choice for aspiring artists seeking a vibrant and diverse creative community. Located in Philadelphia, a city rich in art and culture, Tyler offers a vast array of programs, from traditional ceramics to unique fields like landscape architecture.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 59%
- Application Fee: $55
- SAT/ACT: Neither required nor recommended
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Tuition: $16,080 / year (in-state), $28,992 / year (out-of-state)
15. Otis College of Art and Design
Los Angeles’ Otis College of Art and Design is known for its immersive foundation program. Otis stands out as one of the premier art schools on the West Coast, offering a unique learning experience where first-year students dive straight into studio work to master the fundamentals across various art forms. This hands-on approach sets Otis apart from other art schools, making it a top choice for aspiring artists both in California and beyond.
Otis College of Art and Design fosters creativity within an urban setting, providing a vibrant backdrop for artistic exploration and a supportive environment for students to develop their artistic talents.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 84%
- Application Fee: $50
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Considered but not required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Tuition: $55,200 / year
16. NYU Tisch School of the Arts
NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts stands as one of the top art schools globally. Positioned in the heart of one of the world’s artistic hubs, NYU Tisch offers unparalleled opportunities for aspiring artists. With an acceptance rate of 12%, Tisch is highly competitive, attracting nearly 30,000 undergraduate students to New York University.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 12%
- Application Fee: $80
- SAT Range: 1470-1570
- ACT Range: 33-35
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Tuition: $60,438 / year
17. University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania is an Ivy League institution that offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and boundless creativity. UPenn’s Bachelor of Fine Arts is a competitive program that combines classroom learning with hands-on studio classes and valuable industry networking.
Key Details:
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Application Fee: $75
- SAT Range: 1500-1570
- ACT Range: 34-35
- SAT/ACT: Considered but not required
- High School GPA: Required
- Accepts Common App: Yes
- Tuition: $60,920 / year
Choosing the best art school for your aspirations requires careful consideration. Use this list as a jumping off point to compare factors such as program offerings, faculty expertise, resources, and overall fit. Whether you’re seeking a traditional fine arts program or exploring innovative approaches to art and design, these institutions offer the guidance, mentorship, and resources to help you thrive as an artist.
Finding the Best Art School For You
There are many different factors to keep in mind when choosing an art school. As you compare colleges, look for:
Competitive and Modern Curriculum
A diverse, modern curriculum will stretch you as an artist and prepare you for success in a competitive employment environment. Your degree should combine technical skills with research, liberal arts courses, contemporary practice, and specialized classes like graphic design. It is critical to be able to apply your academic studies to a practical, real-world context.
State-of-the-Art Tools and Environments
The top art schools provide outstanding facilities for their students with access to innovative visual arts equipment and materials. Many of the schools on this list have huge digital labs, on-site art museums, and studios where students can learn welding, laser cutting, crafting, and other unique artistic disciplines.
Experienced Faculty
Faculty quality is crucial. Art is subjective and personal, so art students need to be able to trust and build relationships with their faculty mentors. The best art colleges hire teachers who are themselves successful artists and leaders in their respective disciplines.
Alumni: Famous Artists Who Attended Art School in the US
An art school’s alumni network is critical. In any field, alumni can help give young graduates a leg up, but in the competitive art field, well-connected alumni can make a major difference! Here are a few famous artists who attended art school in the US:
1. Georgia O’Keeffe
Georgia O’Keeffe, one of the most influential American artists of the 20th century, studied at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Art Students League of New York. O’Keeffe’s time at art school played a pivotal role in her artistic development and exploration of modernism. She gained recognition for her large-scale paintings of flowers, New Mexico landscapes, and abstract forms, establishing herself as a prominent figure in American art.
2. Jackson Pollock
Jackson Pollock, known for his revolutionary approach to abstract expressionism, attended the Art Students League of New York. His time at the League exposed him to different artistic techniques and styles, eventually leading him to develop his iconic “drip painting” technique. Pollock’s innovative use of paint and unique artistic expression made him one of the most influential artists of his time.
3. Andy Warhol
Andy Warhol, a leading figure in the pop art movement, studied at the Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University) in Pittsburgh. He pursued a pictorial design degree, laying the foundation for his future artistic endeavors. Warhol’s time at art school allowed him to experiment with various artistic mediums, leading to his iconic silkscreen prints and bold representations of popular culture.
4. Cindy Sherman
Cindy Sherman, a renowned contemporary artist, attended the State University of New York at Buffalo, where she studied painting and later pursued an MFA in photography at the University of Buffalo. Sherman is best known for her self-portraits that challenge traditional notions of identity, gender, and representation. Her time at art school provided her with the technical skills and conceptual framework to explore these themes in her groundbreaking work.
5. Mark Rothko
Mark Rothko, a prominent figure in abstract expressionism, studied at Yale University’s School of the Fine Arts. Although he initially pursued figurative painting, his time at Yale exposed him to the work of European modernists, which shifted his art style toward the abstract. Rothko’s large-scale color field paintings, characterized by luminous rectangles of color, earned him international recognition.
6. Roy Lichtenstein
Roy Lichtenstein, another key figure in the pop art movement, studied at the Ohio State University, where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in fine arts. He developed his distinctive style, which combined commercial art techniques with traditional fine art themes, at OSU.
7. Jean-Michel Basquiat
Jean-Michel Basquiat, an influential artist known for his raw, expressive works, attended the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. Although he did not complete his degree, his time at Pratt exposed him to new artistic techniques and theories that influenced his later work. Basquiat’s art often addresses themes of race, identity, and social inequality.
8. Kara Walker
Kara Walker, known for her exploration of race, gender, and identity through silhouettes, earned her BFA from the Atlanta College of Art and her MFA from the Rhode Island School of Design. Walker’s education provided a solid foundation for her to develop her unique and provocative style, which has made her a prominent figure in contemporary art.
These journeys through art schools in the US highlight the importance of formal education in nurturing and developing artistic talent. Their experiences and the skills they acquired significantly contributed to their success and left a lasting impact on the art world.
Applying to Art Colleges
Applying for art colleges is very similar to the standard college application process; however, it has a major difference: the art portfolio. Your portfolio is a collection of samples of your work, such as paintings, graphic design pieces, and sketches. The portfolio helps schools get a sense of your artistic talent, style, and technical level, so try to select a broad variety of pieces to show your range.
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Each art school has its own set of application standards, so it’s critical to familiarize yourself with each program you’re considering. An art school application often includes:
- Academic transcripts
- SAT/ACT scores
- A letter of recommendation
- An art portfolio
- A personal statement
However, each school’s requirements will be different, and so will their deadlines. Make sure that you stay on top of each school’s specific needs. To maximize your chances of success, it is critical that you submit the right materials on time.
Art School Application Assistance with Empowerly
Art education has played a vital role in their artistic development, providing them with technical skills, exposure to different artistic movements, and opportunities for creative exploration. Through their experiences at art school, these artists were able to refine their unique styles and make lasting contributions to the art world.
However, art school admissions is very competitive, so it’s critical that you present the best portfolio and application possible. Empowerly can help! Our top-rated college counselors have been proven to boost college admissions rates by 11x. We can help you navigate every step of the art school admissions process, from developing your school list to creating a well-rounded art portfolio. Book your FREE consultation today.
FAQs:
Is going to art school necessary to become a successful artist?
While many renowned artists honed their skills at art school, it’s not the only path to success. There are plenty of self-taught artists who have made a significant impact on the art world. However, art school can provide valuable training, mentorship, and connections to accelerate your artistic journey.
What are some of the benefits of attending art school?
Art schools offer a structured learning environment where you can develop your technical skills, explore different mediums, and experiment with various artistic styles. You’ll also gain valuable feedback from instructors and peers, fostering your artistic growth. Additionally, art schools can connect you with a network of artists and professionals, potentially opening doors to future opportunities.
How do I choose the right art school for me?
Consider factors like location, program offerings, faculty expertise, and cost. Research schools with strong reputations in your area of interest, and visit campuses or attend virtual tours to get a feel for the atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to contact schools directly to ask questions about their programs and admissions process.
Are there scholarships or financial aid available for art schools?
Yes, many art schools offer scholarships and financial aid to talented students. Be sure to research scholarship opportunities and deadlines. You may also be eligible for federal financial aid to help cover the cost of tuition.
What are some other resources for aspiring artists?
There are many online resources, workshops, and local art communities that can support your artistic development. Consider attending museum exhibitions, artist lectures, and studio visits to gain inspiration and learn from established artists.
