15 Best Art Schools In The US

Across the US, numerous esteemed institutions offer programs designed to cultivate artistic growth and equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge.

This guide delves into 15 of these esteemed institutions, unveiling their strengths, admission requirements, and the exciting opportunities that await graduates.

From renowned Ivy League universities to specialized academies, these institutions offer diverse avenues for honing artistic skills and fostering professional growth. 

Join us as we navigate this landscape and empower you to pursue your artistic dreams. 

List of 15 Best Art Schools In The US

Choosing the right art school is crucial in shaping your artistic future.

To help navigate this decision, we delve into 15 renowned institutions across the US, each offering distinct strengths and opportunities:

1. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) – 

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), founded in 1877 with a focus on accessibility to design education, offers diverse bachelor’s and master’s programs across 19 majors to approximately 2,000 undergraduates and 500 graduates. 

Affiliated with Brown University, it shares resources and offers dual-degree programs. RISD’s notable alumni, including MacArthur Genius fellows and Academy Award winners, attest to its global impact. 

The school’s museum houses extensive art and design collections. With a competitive 19% acceptance rate and a test-optional admissions policy, RISD prioritizes inclusivity. 

Its infrastructure spans College Hill and downtown Providence, providing state-of-the-art facilities for creative exploration. 

2. School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) – 

School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), established in 1866, is a renowned institution in Chicago, Illinois, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various art disciplines. 

Accredited by prestigious bodies such as the Higher Learning Commission and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, SAIC’s downtown campus comprises seven buildings, including the McLean Center and the Sullivan Center. 

With a multidisciplinary approach to education, SAIC emphasizes creativity and innovation, allowing students to customize their courses. 

Its esteemed faculty, including Nick Cave and Michelle Grabner, mentor students to excel. 

The school’s galleries, such as SAIC Galleries and Sullivan Galleries, provide platforms for students to showcase their work. 

3. Yale School of Art – 

Yale School of Art is the first professional fine arts school in the United States. It is renowned for its prestigious graduate programs in Graphic Design, Painting/Printmaking, Photography, and Sculpture. 

Located in New Haven, Connecticut, the school emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to explore various mediums and techniques. 

With a curriculum led by prominent artists and scholars, the Yale School of Art provides mentorship and guidance to students, fostering a rich artistic discourse. 

The school’s alumni network includes notable artists such as Chuck Close, Kehinde Wiley, and Eva Hesse, who have achieved remarkable success in the art world. 

Through exhibitions, lectures, and events, the Yale School of Art contributes to a vibrant artistic community, both on campus and beyond. 

4. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) – 

California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) was founded in 1961 as the first institution in the US dedicated to visual and performing arts. 

CalArts offers Bachelor of Fine Arts, Master of Fine Arts, Master of Arts, and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees through its six schools: Art, Critical Studies, Dance, Film/Video, Music, and Theater. 

Admission is competitive at this school, with applicants required to submit portfolios or audition pieces, prioritizing artistic merit over standardized test scores. 

Inspired by Richard Wagner’s concept of Gesamtkunstwerk (“total artwork”), CalArts aims to enable the professional artists of tomorrow by providing comprehensive training and education across various artistic disciplines. 

With notable alumni such as Mark Bradford and Heather Cassils, CalArts remains a leading institution for aspiring artists seeking to push the boundaries of artistic expression.

5. School of Visual Arts (SVA) – 

School of Visual Arts (SVA), founded in 1947, is a prestigious art and design college in New York City. 

Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, SVA offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines such as fine arts, graphic design, illustration, animation, photography, and film. 

With state-of-the-art facilities and a faculty of over 1,100 professionals actively engaged in their fields, the school provides a dynamic educational experience for its 3,000 students. 

Notable alumni include John R. Dilworth, creator of Courage the Cowardly Dog, and Tom Herpich, writer and storyboard artist for Adventure Time.

6. Columbia University School of the Arts – 

Columbia University School of the Arts is a prestigious graduate school in New York City, offering Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in Film, Visual Arts, Theatre, and Writing, as well as a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Film Studies. 

The school boasts a highly selective admission process, with portfolio reviews, auditions, and interviews. In 2016, the MFA film program admitted just 72 students out of approximately 600 applicants. 

Notable alumni include filmmakers Kathryn Bigelow and James Gunn, along with Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Ayad Akhtar.

With over 1,100 faculty members and a student body of over 3,000, Columbia School of the Arts offers a dynamic learning environment. 

Its facilities include Dodge Hall and Prentis Hall, along with the Miller Theatre and the recently constructed Lenfest Center for the Arts, designed by Renzo Piano. 

7. Parsons School of Design – 

Parsons School of Design in New York City, founded in 1896, is renowned for its fashion, interior, graphic, and lighting design programs. 

Affiliated with The New School since 1970, Parsons offers diverse undergraduate and graduate programs across five schools.

With a 46% acceptance rate, admission is competitive, requiring a portfolio and response to a “Parsons Challenge” but not standardized test scores. It consistently ranks as the top art and design school in the US and third globally.

Parsons boasts alumni like Jasper Johns, Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs, and Bella Hadid, who have made significant contributions to art, fashion, and design. 

The school’s emphasis on hands-on learning and interdisciplinary approaches prepares graduates to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving creative industries.

8. Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) – 

Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), in Baltimore, has been a bastion of visual arts education since 1826. Offering diverse undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, it stands out for its innovative curriculum, faculty, and commitment to the arts.

MICA’s undergraduate programs, including Illustration, Graphic Design, and Painting, provide students with a solid foundation in their chosen discipline, while its graduate offerings, such as Curatorial Practice and Studio Art, foster advanced study and creative exploration.

Beyond academia, MICA fosters a vibrant artistic community through exhibitions, lectures, and events, contributing to Baltimore’s cultural landscape. 

Its alumni, including prominent figures like painter Earl Hofmann and educator Dorothy Cavalier Yanik, exemplify the college’s enduring impact on the art world.

Through partnerships and initiatives, the college strives to create an environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive and make meaningful contributions to the arts.

9. Cooper Union – 

Founded in 1859 by industrialist Peter Cooper, The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in New York City offers programs in architecture, art, and engineering. 

The BFA program at Cooper Union provides students with a comprehensive education in the visual arts, including drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and new media. 

The faculty consists of accomplished artists who guide students through studio courses, seminars, and critiques to foster artistic growth and creativity.

The college discontinued its full-tuition scholarship policy in 2014 due to financial challenges but offers need-based aid. 

The school is divided into the Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture, the School of Art, and the Albert Nerken School of Engineering. 

Notable alumni include a Nobel Prize winner and recipients of prestigious awards. Despite financial struggles, efforts are underway to return to a tuition-free model.

10. Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) – 

Founded in 1873, Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) is renowned for its vibrant arts program and unique benefits. 

Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, MassArt offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in various artistic disciplines. 

With a diverse student body and rich traditions like the “Iron Pour” event and the annual Master Print Series, MassArt provides a dynamic learning environment. 

The recently opened MassArt Art Museum (MAAM) showcases contemporary art, further enriching the student experience. 

Notable alumni like Clint Baclawski (artist and photographer) and faculty Ericka Beckman (filmmaker) contribute to its distinguished artistic legacy.

11. ArtCenter College of Design – 

ArtCenter College of Design, situated in Pasadena, California, has been a beacon of art and design education since 1930. 

Offering undergraduate and graduate programs spanning advertising, entertainment design, film, graphic design, and transportation design, ArtCenter prepares students for thriving careers in the creative industries.

ArtCenter boasts a faculty of accomplished artists and designers who bring real-world expertise to the classroom. 

The college’s curriculum is complemented by industry connections and state-of-the-art facilities, providing students with hands-on experience.

ArtCenter’s strong alumni network, including renowned figures like Ryan Church, Ralph McQuarrie, and Syd Mead, exemplifies the college’s influence on the global creative landscape. 

The college’s commitment to addressing social and humanitarian issues through design led to its recognition as the first design college to receive NGO status by the United Nations.

12. Pratt Institute – 

Established in 1887 by industrialist Charles Pratt, Pratt Institute is one of the most affordable education institutions in Brooklyn, New York. 

With a founding ethos centered on accessibility and vocational training, Pratt quickly gained renown for its pioneering programs in engineering, architecture, and fine arts. 

Today, Pratt Institute comprises six schools and over 22 undergraduate majors, including acclaimed offerings in architecture, graphic design, and interior design. 

Its campus, spanning 25 acres, merges historic charm with modern vibrancy, housing the largest sculpture park in New York City. 

Notable alumni such as Martin L. Beck and Peggy Cyphers attest to Pratt’s legacy of excellence. 

Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Pratt Institute continues to shape the future of art and design education worldwide.

13. California College of the Arts (CCA) – 

California College of the Arts (CCA) is a renowned art and design school with campuses in San Francisco and Oakland, California. 

Founded in 1907, CCA offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fine arts, architecture, design, and writing. 

Accredited by organizations such as WASC, NASAD, and NAAB, CCA maintains rigorous academic standards and a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship.

CCA’s faculty includes accomplished artists, designers, architects, and writers who actively engage in their fields. 

With state-of-the-art facilities and connections to industry professionals, CCA provides a vibrant environment for students to explore their creativity and prepare for successful careers in the arts and design industries.

14. Carnegie Mellon School of Art – 

The Carnegie Mellon School of Art, part of the Carnegie Mellon College of Fine Arts, offers undergraduate and graduate programs. 

It grants a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with concentrations in drawing, painting, sculpture, and time-based media. 

Additionally, it provides interdisciplinary bachelor’s degrees and a three-year Master of Fine Arts program focused on contextual art practices. 

The school emphasizes interdisciplinary work and encourages engagement with the wider university community. 

Situated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, students benefit from the city’s rich art scene, including museums like the Carnegie Museum of Art and the Andy Warhol Museum. 

Notable alumni include Andy Warhol, John Currin, and Mia Brownell.

15. Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of the Arts – 

The Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of the Arts, is a prestigious public art and design institution. 

Established in 1928, it offers 18 bachelor’s and six master’s degree programs across a range of disciplines, including Graphic Design, Fashion Design, and Sculpture. 

VCUarts consistently ranks among the top 5 art programs in the U.S., with a reputation for excellence in both undergraduate and graduate education.

With its main campus in Richmond and a satellite campus in Doha, Qatar, VCUarts provides global opportunities for its students. 

The school prides itself on its affordability, offering the lowest annual tuition among leading arts and design schools in the country.

Admission to VCUarts is competitive, with a student body of approximately 3,000, including 200 graduate students. 

Prospective students must submit a portfolio of work along with standardized test scores and high school transcripts for consideration. 

Merit-based scholarships are available to 45% of incoming students.

Specific Requirements for Admission to Art Schools in the US

Admission to art schools in the United States typically involves specific requirements tailored to the creative nature of the programs offered. 

While each institution may have its unique criteria, several common requirements are prevalent across most art schools.

1. Portfolio showcasing artistic skills: 

Applicants must present a portfolio demonstrating proficiency in various mediums, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media, showcasing their creativity, technical skills, and artistic development.

2. Letter of intent explaining artistic vision: 

A compelling personal statement outlining the applicant’s passion for art, artistic influences, long-term artistic goals, and how they envision their artistic journey unfolding within the context of the program.

3. Academic transcripts demonstrating aptitude: 

Submission of academic transcripts reflecting strong performance, particularly in art-related courses, providing insight into the applicant’s foundational knowledge and readiness for college-level coursework.

4. Optional standardized test scores: 

While some schools may consider SAT or ACT scores, many art programs have adopted a test-optional or test-flexible policy, allowing applicants to choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.

5. Letters of recommendation: 

Strong letters of recommendation from art teachers, mentors, or professionals familiar with the applicant’s artistic abilities and character, highlighting their creativity, dedication, and potential for success in an art program.

6. Possible interview or audition: 

Depending on the program, applicants may be required to participate in an interview or audition to further assess their artistic abilities, interpersonal skills, and fit for the program.

7. Additional requirements as per program/school: 

Some art schools may have specific requirements or request supplemental materials, such as essays, additional portfolios, or specific projects, tailored to their program’s focus, philosophy, or areas of specialization.

By carefully preparing and submitting all required materials, applicants can maximize their chances of gaining admission to their desired art school.

Benefits of Attending an Art School in the US

Attending art schools US offers unparalleled opportunities for students to hone their craft, collaborate, and develop creative voices in a supportive environment. 

Let’s explore the benefits awaiting those who choose to pursue their passion for the arts through higher education.

1. Specialized Curriculum: 

Art schools provide a focused curriculum tailored to various art forms, allowing students to delve deeply into their chosen discipline and develop specialized skills under the guidance of experienced faculty.

2. Creative Environment: 

Immersion in a vibrant artistic community fosters creativity, collaboration, and inspiration, providing students with opportunities to engage with peers, exchange ideas, and explore new artistic directions.

3. State-of-the-Art Facilities: 

Art schools often boast studios, workshops, exhibition spaces, and technology labs, equipped with the latest tools and resources to support artistic experimentation and innovation.

4. Expert Faculty: 

Students benefit from personalized instruction and mentorship from accomplished faculty who are practicing artists, designers, and scholars, offering valuable insights, feedback, and guidance to help students refine their artistic vision and technique.

5. Networking Opportunities: 

Art schools provide access to a vast network of alumni, industry professionals, and visiting artists, offering students opportunities for internships, mentorships, and collaborations that can enhance their professional development and career prospects.

6. Portfolio Development: 

Through coursework, critiques, and exhibitions, students have the opportunity to build a strong portfolio showcasing their artistic achievements and creative potential, which is essential for pursuing further education or launching a career in the arts.

Attending an art school in the US opens doors to a world of artistic exploration, personal growth, and professional advancement. 

Internship Programs

Internship programs provide aspiring artists with invaluable real-world experience and networking opportunities, bridging the gap between academic learning and professional practice. 

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Smithsonian Institution Internship Program: 

Smithsonian offers a wide range of internships across its various museums, galleries, research centers, and more, providing students with hands-on experience in fields such as curation, conservation, education, and exhibition design.

2. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Internship Program: 

The MoMA internship program provides opportunities for students to work closely with museum professionals in departments like curatorial, education, publications, and marketing, gaining insight into museum operations and contemporary art practices.

3. Metropolitan Museum of Art Internship Program: 

The metropolitan museum offers internships in departments such as curatorial affairs, digital media, education, and conservation, allowing students to engage with the museum’s vast collection and contribute to its programs.

4. Whitney Museum of American Art Internship Program: 

Whitney Museum provides students with experiential learning opportunities in areas such as curatorial research, public programs, museum education, and marketing, focusing on contemporary American art.

5. Guggenheim Museum Internship Program: 

Guggenheim offers internships in departments such as curatorial, development, education, and marketing, allowing students to gain exposure to modern and contemporary art while working on projects that support the museum’s mission.

These internship programs offer valuable hands-on experience, mentorship from professionals, and networking opportunities, helping arts students to develop their skills, explore career paths, and prepare for future opportunities in the field.

Job Options Available

After completing your art education, a plethora of job options await, catering to diverse interests and skill sets. 

Let’s delve into the career paths available to graduates of art schools:

1. Fine Artist: 

As a fine artist, you’ll engage in the creation of original artworks for exhibitions, galleries, commissions, or personal projects, expressing your unique vision and perspective through diverse mediums and techniques.

2. Graphic Designer: 

Graphic designers merge artistic creativity with practical functionality, conceptualizing and producing visual solutions for branding, advertising, publications, web design, and other media platforms.

3. Art Director: 

As an art director, you’ll lead creative teams and oversee visual aesthetics across different industries, guiding the development and execution of advertising campaigns, films, publications, and multimedia projects with a keen eye for artistic direction.

4. Curator: 

Curators are responsible for organizing exhibitions, acquiring artworks, conducting research, and engaging with artists and audiences within museums, galleries, or cultural institutions to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of art.

5. Art Educator: 

Share your passion for art as an art teacher or educator, inspiring students in schools, colleges, community centers, or arts organizations, imparting knowledge, and nurturing creativity in the next generation of artists.

6. Museum Professional: 

Explore various roles within museums, curatorial and conservation positions, museum education, visitor services, development, and administration, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of cultural heritage and artistic knowledge.

7. Illustrator: 

Illustrators breathe life into stories and concepts through their visual storytelling abilities, working across diverse industries such as publishing, animation, children’s books, editorial, advertising, or digital media to convey narratives and concepts through captivating imagery.

These career pathways offer art school graduates the opportunity to channel their talents, passions, and creativity into meaningful vocations that contribute to cultural enrichment and societal advancement on both local and global scales.

Conclusion 

In summary, attending an art school offers a multitude of benefits, including specialized training, diverse internship opportunities, and access to a supportive artistic community. 

Graduates emerge with refined skills, a robust portfolio, and valuable connections, poised to pursue rewarding careers across various creative industries. 

Ultimately, the journey through art school is a transformative experience that equips individuals with the tools and inspiration to make meaningful contributions to the world of art and beyond.

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