Top 20 Art Schools In Delaware And Fees (2025)

Delaware may be a small state, but its art scene is dynamic and growing. From university art programs to community art studios and creative workshops, Delaware offers many opportunities for aspiring artists, designers, and art educators. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, or Photography — or just want to polish your creative skills — this list of the Top 20 Art Schools in Delaware will guide you toward the right choice.

In this article, you’ll find each school’s programs offered, fees, and why they stand out in the Delaware art community.

Top 20 Art Schools In Delaware And Fees

1. University of Delaware – Department of Art & Design

The University of Delaware (UD) is the state’s largest higher education institution and the most comprehensive provider of formal art education. The Department of Art & Design offers a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art, with concentrations in Painting, Sculpture, Photography, and Graphic Design. Graduate students can also pursue M.A. and M.F.A. degrees in Visual Arts or Design.

Programs offered:

• B.A. / B.F.A. in Studio Art
• M.A. / M.F.A. in Art
• Art Education and Graphic Design electives

Fees:
Tuition varies based on residency. Delaware residents pay around $12,000–$14,000 per year, while non-residents can expect about $36,000 annually. These figures include tuition but exclude housing and supplies.

UD is ideal for students who want a well-rounded education with strong creative and academic balance.

2. Delaware College of Art and Design (DCAD)

DCAD was once Delaware’s only dedicated two-year art college offering Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) degrees in areas like Illustration, Photography, and Animation. It partnered with leading institutions such as Pratt Institute and Moore College of Art & Design for transfer programs.

Programs offered (historically):

• AFA in Illustration
• AFA in Fine Arts
• AFA in Animation and Graphic Design

Fees:
Before its closure announcement in 2024, DCAD’s annual tuition was approximately $28,000–$30,000.

Note: DCAD has since begun the process of winding down operations. Students are encouraged to explore transfer pathways with nearby schools such as Moore College of Art & Design or UD.

3. Delaware State University – Department of Art

Delaware State University (DSU) offers a vibrant Bachelor’s degree program in Studio Art. The program focuses on developing artistic skills in drawing, sculpture, painting, and photography. Students can also explore Art Education tracks for teaching careers.

Programs offered:

• B.A. in Studio Art
• Art Education certification

Fees:
DSU’s in-state tuition averages around $9,000 per year, while out-of-state students pay approximately $17,000 annually.

DSU’s combination of affordable tuition and diverse courses makes it one of the best value art schools in Delaware.

4. Wilmington University – Graphic Design & Visual Communication

For students interested in modern design careers, Wilmington University (WilmU) provides programs in Graphic Design and Visual Communication that blend creativity with digital technology. The university’s flexible scheduling and online options make it perfect for working professionals or part-time learners.

Programs offered:

• B.S. in Graphic Design
• Certificate in Visual Communication
• Web and Multimedia Design courses

Fees:
WilmU charges about $400–$450 per credit hour, translating to roughly $12,000–$15,000 per academic year, depending on course load.

5. Delaware Technical Community College (DTCC)

Delaware Technical Community College (DTCC) offers affordable and practical associate degrees in Visual Arts and Design. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to start an art career in Delaware and later transfer to a four-year university.

Programs offered:

• A.A. in Visual Arts
• Certificate in Graphic Design
• Photography and Digital Media

Fees:
In-state students pay about $150 per credit hour, while non-residents pay roughly $350 per credit.

DTCC’s small class sizes and hands-on approach make it a great starting point for new artists.

6. Goldey-Beacom College – Communication & Media Studies

Goldey-Beacom College, located in Wilmington, offers a B.A. in Communication and Media that includes design and visual arts electives. The program is excellent for students who want to combine creativity with storytelling and digital media.

Programs offered:

• B.A. in Communication and Media
• Digital Media and Visual Design concentration

Fees:
Tuition averages $27,000 per year for full-time undergraduates. Financial aid and scholarships are available.

7. Cab Calloway School of the Arts (Wilmington)

Cab Calloway School of the Arts is a renowned public charter school dedicated to nurturing young artists from grades 6–12. Named after the legendary jazz musician, the school provides pre-professional training in the arts.

Programs offered:

• Visual Arts major (Drawing, Painting, Sculpture)
• Digital Media, Dance, Theatre, and Music

Fees:
As a public charter school, it’s tuition-free for Delaware residents.

8. Wilmington School of the Arts

Another excellent charter option, Wilmington School of the Arts (WSA) integrates arts into all academic subjects for K–8 students. The school emphasizes creative expression and performance from early education.

Programs offered:

• Arts-integrated curriculum
• Visual and Performing Arts education

Fees:
Public charter — tuition-free for local families.

9. Delaware Art Museum (DelArt)

The Delaware Art Museum offers non-degree programs and workshops for artists of all ages. These range from painting and photography to metalsmithing and ceramics.

Programs offered:

• Painting and Drawing classes
• Photography, Ceramics, Printmaking
• Youth art camps and workshops

Fees:
Workshops typically range from $100–$400 per session, depending on duration and materials.

DelArt is perfect for adult learners or those looking to develop portfolios outside formal academia.

10. The Delaware Contemporary

The Delaware Contemporary in Wilmington is both a modern art museum and a center for creative learning. It provides workshops, artist residencies, and exhibitions that help artists connect with the professional art world.

Programs offered:

• Studio workshops (printmaking, figure drawing)
• Artist-in-residence programs
• Community art classes

Fees:
Classes start as low as $15–$50 per session. Affordable, hands-on, and community-oriented.

11. Center for the Creative Arts (CCArts)

The Center for the Creative Arts, located in Yorklyn, offers one of the widest ranges of art courses in the state. From ceramics and glasswork to theater and photography, it’s a hub for community creativity.

Programs offered:

• Painting, Sculpture, Ceramics, Glasswork
• Mixed Media and Theater
• Youth and Adult Workshops

Fees:
Classes are moderately priced, typically between $100–$300 per session depending on the medium.

12. New Castle County Art Studio

The New Castle County Art Studio provides affordable community classes for ceramics and pottery lovers. The center offers all levels of instruction with access to professional equipment.

Programs offered:

• Pottery and Ceramics classes
• Sculpture and Glazing Techniques

Fees:
Average workshop costs are $75–$150, with open studio memberships available for local artists.

13. Bellefonte Arts

Located in Wilmington, Bellefonte Arts is a cooperative art gallery and teaching studio. It provides small group workshops led by professional artists.

Programs offered:

• Jewelry Making
• Mosaic Design
• Needle Felting and Mixed Media

Fees:
Workshops range from $25–$100, depending on materials and duration.

14. Centered Clay Studio

Centered Clay Studio offers pottery and ceramic arts training in an intimate, creative setting. It’s great for anyone looking to gain hands-on experience with clay and wheel throwing.

Programs offered:

• Pottery and Clay Wheel classes
• Glazing and Ceramic Sculpture

Fees:
Eight-week courses usually cost $200–$350.

15. Newark Arts Alliance

The Newark Arts Alliance (NAA) is a community-driven art space that promotes education, exhibitions, and artistic collaboration. It’s a popular destination for adults and teens.

Programs offered:

• Drawing, Watercolor, and Mixed Media
• Portfolio Preparation for Students
• Community Exhibitions

Fees:
Most classes range from $50–$200, making it one of the most affordable ways to learn art in Delaware.

16. Delaware College Transfer Partnerships

Although Delaware has few stand-alone art schools, the state maintains partnerships with prestigious institutions like Moore College of Art & Design and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design (PCAD). These transfer agreements make it easier for local students to complete their BFA degrees elsewhere.

Programs offered:

• Transfer pathways in Fine Arts and Illustration
• Cross-institution courses

Fees:
Dependent on receiving institution’s tuition. Typically $30,000–$40,000 per year at private colleges.

17. Continuing Education at UD and DTCC

Both UD and DTCC offer continuing education art courses for adult learners. These include short-term certificate programs in graphic design, painting, and digital media.

Programs offered:

• Non-degree certificates
• Portfolio Development Workshops
• Digital Media and Design Courses

Fees:
Prices vary from $400–$1,200 per short course.

18. High School Magnet Art Programs

Many Delaware high schools now include visual arts magnet programs that prepare students for college-level art study. They offer advanced placement (AP) Art courses and after-school studio sessions.

Programs offered:

• AP Drawing and Design
• Sculpture and Mixed Media

Fees:
Public education — no tuition for Delaware residents.

19. Artist Co-ops and Maker Spaces

Across Delaware, artist co-ops and maker spaces offer collaborative studio environments where artists can share tools and ideas. These facilities often host workshops in photography, printmaking, or metalwork.

Programs offered:

• Jewelry and Metalsmithing
• Printmaking, Screen Printing
• Textile Arts

Fees:
Workshops cost $25–$200; studio memberships vary monthly.

20. Out-of-State Options for Delaware Students

Many Delaware artists continue their education just over the border in Pennsylvania, Maryland, or New Jersey. Nearby institutions like Moore College of Art & Design, Tyler School of Art (Temple University), and Pennsylvania College of Art & Design attract a large number of Delaware residents due to their proximity and specialized programs.

Programs offered:

• BFA in Fine Arts, Illustration, or Design
• Graduate programs in Art Education and Visual Communication

Fees:
Annual tuition typically falls between $35,000–$45,000, depending on the institution.

Why Study Art in Delaware?

Delaware’s compact size allows for close collaboration between artists, schools, and cultural institutions. Students benefit from smaller class sizes, accessible tuition, and strong ties between local museums and universities. The state’s proximity to Philadelphia and Baltimore also opens doors to major art markets and internship opportunities.

How to Choose the Right Art School in Delaware

When selecting an art school, consider:

• Your artistic goals (fine art, design, or digital media)
• Program accreditation and faculty quality
• Tuition, fees, and available scholarships
• Studio facilities and internship opportunities

If you’re on a budget, start with DTCC or community-based art centers, then transfer or progress to UD for advanced degrees.

Conclusion 

Whether you dream of becoming a professional artist, designer, or educator, Delaware offers multiple educational paths to success. From formal degrees at the University of Delaware to community workshops at the Delaware Art Museum, each program provides a unique opportunity to grow your creative skills and connect with the state’s thriving art scene.

Explore your options, visit campuses, and choose a program that aligns with your passion and career goals — your artistic journey in Delaware starts here.