Art Schools to Consider
Explore Top Colleges for Aspiring Artists
Choosing the right art school or design program is a crucial step in building a creative career. With so many options available, it’s important to find a school that aligns with your artistic goals, whether you’re looking for a specialized art college, a university with a strong design program, or a school that blends fine arts with technology.
Below is a list of renowned art schools that offer exceptional programs in fine art, graphic design, illustration, animation, industrial design, and more. Each school provides unique opportunities, faculty expertise, and industry connections to help students succeed.
Dedicated Art & Design Schools
These schools focus exclusively on art, design, and creative industries, offering intensive, studio-based education and access to industry professionals.
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) – Providence, RI
One of the most prestigious art schools in the country, RISD is known for its rigorous studio-based curriculum, strong connections to the art world, and emphasis on conceptual thinking across disciplines.School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) – Chicago, IL
SAIC encourages interdisciplinary study, allowing students to explore various media while developing their artistic voice. Its close relationship with the Art Institute of Chicago provides unparalleled access to world-class collections.California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) – Valencia, CA
Founded by Walt Disney, CalArts is a leader in animation, film, and experimental art. Its programs foster innovation and pushing creative boundaries, making it a top choice for students in visual storytelling.Pratt Institute – Brooklyn, NY
Pratt offers a strong studio arts and design education within a larger university setting. Known for architecture, industrial design, and illustration, the school provides students with hands-on experience in professional settings.Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) – Savannah, GA
SCAD is highly regarded for its career-focused approach, strong internship connections, and top-tier programs in animation, fashion, UX/UI design, and digital media.Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) – Baltimore, MD
MICA is known for its fine arts and design programs, emphasizing collaboration and experimentation. The school fosters a balance between traditional techniques and contemporary practices.Parsons School of Design (The New School) – New York, NY
Located in the heart of New York City, Parsons is known for its cutting-edge approach to fashion design, communication design, and product innovation. Its curriculum emphasizes sustainability and global perspectives.Otis College of Art and Design – Los Angeles, CA
Otis specializes in fashion, product design, and digital media, with strong industry ties to entertainment, gaming, and advertising.Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) – Minneapolis, MN
A strong option for students interested in illustration, comic art, and design, MCAD blends fine arts with new media to prepare students for creative careers in publishing, animation, and branding.
University Art & Design Programs
These universities offer strong art and design programs within a larger academic setting, providing students with the opportunity to study other disciplines alongside their creative work.
Yale University – School of Art – New Haven, CT
Yale’s art program is highly competitive, offering small class sizes, renowned faculty, and a strong conceptual foundation. Its MFA program is considered one of the best in the country.University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – School of Arts and Architecture – Los Angeles, CA
A top public university offering fine arts, digital media, and design programs, UCLA gives students access to Los Angeles’ thriving art and entertainment industries.Carnegie Mellon University – School of Design – Pittsburgh, PA
Carnegie Mellon is known for integrating technology with design, offering top-tier programs in UX/UI, industrial design, and interdisciplinary innovation.Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) – School of the Arts – Richmond, VA
A highly ranked public art school with affordable tuition and excellent facilities, VCU is a great option for students pursuing fine arts, sculpture, and graphic design.Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) – College of Art and Design – Rochester, NY
RIT excels in photography, industrial design, and digital media, blending art with technology to prepare students for careers in animation, gaming, and visual effects.
Art School Profiles
Choosing the Right School for You
When selecting an art school, consider factors like:
Degree Type (BFA vs. BA) – Do you want a studio-intensive BFA or a broader BA with room for electives?
Specialized vs. University Setting – Do you prefer a dedicated art school or a university with a strong art program?
Career Goals – Does the school offer internships, industry partnerships, and alumni connections in your field?
Location – Would you thrive in a large city with art opportunities or a more focused, creative campus?
No matter where you apply, your portfolio is the key to acceptance—make sure it is curated, professional, and reflects your artistic voice.
Need Help Choosing the Right Art School?
At ArtBound, we specialize in helping students find the best-fit schools, build strong portfolios, and navigate the application process. Whether you need portfolio guidance, application assistance, or expert coaching, we’re here to support you every step of the way.