Top 10 Art Schools In Long Island And Fees (2025)
Long Island, New York, is home to a thriving art scene, world-class museums, and universities that nurture creative talent. From classical fine arts to digital media and design, students here enjoy access to some of the best art schools in Long Island, offering programs for every skill level and budget.
Whether you’re an aspiring painter, designer, photographer, or art educator, this guide covers the top 10 art schools in Long Island, their programs offered, and tuition details to help you find the perfect fit for your artistic journey.
Top 10 Art Schools In Long Island And Fees
1. Stony Brook University — Department of Art (Stony Brook, NY)
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Studio Art
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Art
- Concentrations: Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, Sculpture, Ceramic Sculpture, Photography, and Electronic Media
Stony Brook University’s Department of Art is one of Long Island’s most respected institutions for aspiring artists. The program combines studio-based training with a strong academic foundation in art theory, history, and digital media. Students gain access to well-equipped studios, including ceramic, printmaking, and photography labs.
The MFA program emphasizes independent creative research, guided by accomplished artists and scholars. Its location near New York City gives students valuable exposure to major galleries and exhibitions.
Tuition and Fees:
Undergraduate tuition for New York residents is approximately $7,070 per year, while out-of-state students pay higher rates. Studio and lab courses may include additional material fees.
2. Hofstra University — Fine Arts, Design, and Art History Department (Hempstead, NY)
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Fine Arts, Design, or Art History
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in Art Education
- Graduate programs in Art Education and Fine Arts
Hofstra University offers a balanced education combining creativity with professional training. The Fine Arts Department emphasizes both traditional and contemporary practices, with students developing skills in painting, design, sculpture, and digital arts.
Hofstra’s location, just 25 miles from Manhattan, allows students to intern with major art firms, museums, and design agencies. The university also hosts regular exhibitions, art fairs, and portfolio reviews that connect students to industry professionals.
Tuition and Fees:
Hofstra’s annual tuition is approximately $59,960, with additional costs for studio materials. Financial aid and art scholarships are available to eligible students.
3. Adelphi University — Department of Art and Design (Garden City, NY)
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art
- BFA in Graphic Design
- BFA in Illustration
- BA in Art and Design
- Minor in Art History
Adelphi University’s Art and Design program blends creativity with career-focused skills. Students work in small studio classes, gaining hands-on experience in illustration, graphic design, and fine art disciplines. The program also promotes interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to collaborate with theatre, dance, and digital media majors.
Adelphi’s BFA curriculum includes exhibitions, internships, and opportunities to showcase work in on-campus galleries. Many graduates move into professional design roles or continue into MFA programs.
Tuition and Fees:
Adelphi’s annual undergraduate tuition is around $46,000–$48,000, depending on the program. Graduate and part-time per-credit costs vary, and scholarships are offered to art majors with strong portfolios.
4. Long Island University (LIU Post) — School of Visual Arts (Brookville, NY)
Programs Offered:
- BFA in Digital Art & Design
- BFA in Digital Game Design
- BFA in Photography and Film
- MFA in Fine Arts & Design
- MA in Clinical Art Therapy and Counseling
LIU Post offers one of Long Island’s most diverse visual arts programs, combining fine arts with digital innovation. The School of Visual Arts features advanced computer labs, film studios, and the renowned Steinberg Museum of Art, where students regularly display their work.
One of its standout offerings is the MA in Art Therapy, which blends creativity with psychology for students interested in therapeutic professions. LIU’s strong alumni network and internship programs help students transition into careers in media, gaming, and art education.
Tuition and Fees:
Undergraduate tuition is approximately $40,000 per year, with separate per-credit rates for graduate students. Additional fees apply for art materials and specialized workshops.
5. Molloy University — Department of Art (Rockville Centre, NY)
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in Visual Arts Education
- Minors in Graphic Design, Photography, Art Therapy, and Museum Studies
Molloy University provides a holistic art education focusing on creativity, teaching, and community impact. The school’s BFA in Studio Art lets students specialize in painting, ceramics, illustration, photography, and sculpture.
Molloy also offers a pathway for students aiming to become certified art educators, making it ideal for those who want to combine artistry with teaching. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and gallery exposure throughout the program.
Tuition and Fees:
Undergraduate tuition ranges between $39,000 and $41,000 per year, with additional course material fees depending on the studio area.
6. Farmingdale State College — Visual Communications (Farmingdale, NY)
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in Visual Communications: Art & Graphic Design
- BS in Interaction Design (IxD)
- Minor in Art & Graphic Design
As part of the SUNY system, Farmingdale State College offers one of Long Island’s best-value art programs. The Visual Communications program prepares students for careers in advertising, web design, and digital art.
The curriculum emphasizes creativity through technology, blending artistic principles with real-world problem-solving. NASAD accreditation ensures students receive nationally recognized training.
Tuition and Fees:
In-state tuition is approximately $7,000 per year, making it one of the most affordable bachelor’s art programs on Long Island. Non-resident tuition and lab fees are higher.
7. Suffolk County Community College — Visual Arts and Photography (Selden, Brentwood & Riverhead Campuses)
Programs Offered:
- Associate of Arts (AA) in Visual Arts
- Associate of Science (AS) in Photography
- Certificate programs in Graphic Design and Studio Arts
Suffolk County Community College is perfect for students seeking a cost-effective start to their art careers. With multiple campuses across Long Island, Suffolk offers hands-on instruction in fine arts, digital design, and photography.
The college’s art studios include traditional darkrooms and digital labs, providing a strong foundation for transfer to four-year programs. Many students go on to complete their BFA at Stony Brook or Farmingdale.
Tuition and Fees:
For Suffolk County residents, tuition is around $3,100 per semester. Non-residents pay slightly more, but overall, Suffolk remains one of the most budget-friendly art schools in the region.
8. Nassau Community College (NCC) — Department of Art (Garden City, NY)
Programs Offered:
- Associate Degrees in Fine Arts and Art History
- Certificates in Photography, Ceramics, and Digital Design
- Continuing Education Art Classes
NCC provides a strong foundation in studio art and design for students planning to transfer to four-year colleges. Courses cover drawing, painting, sculpture, and computer graphics, combining technical skills with creative development.
The college’s art department regularly hosts exhibitions and community art shows, giving students opportunities to display their work publicly. NCC’s affordability and flexible class schedules make it popular among working students and adult learners.
Tuition and Fees:
Full-time Nassau County residents pay about $2,995 per semester, while out-of-county or international students pay higher tuition. Material fees depend on course type.
9. Art League of Long Island (Dix Hills, NY)
Programs Offered:
- Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, Sculpture, Photography, and Jewelry
- Digital Art & Mixed Media
- Portfolio Preparation Courses for Teens
- Workshops and Master Classes
The Art League of Long Island is a non-profit art center offering community-based visual arts education. It’s ideal for beginners, hobbyists, and high school students preparing for college portfolios.
The League’s professional instructors and atelier-style environment provide a supportive space for developing skills at any level. Members gain access to gallery exhibitions, studio rentals, and continuing education programs.
Tuition and Fees:
Most classes cost between $300 and $600 per session, depending on duration and materials. Membership discounts are available for frequent learners.
10. Long Island Academy of Fine Art (LIAFA) — Classical Art Training (Glen Cove, NY)
Programs Offered:
- Classical Drawing and Painting
- Sculpture and Anatomy
- Youth and Teen Portfolio Programs
- Adult Workshops and Intensives
LIAFA specializes in classical fine art instruction using traditional atelier methods. Students learn the fundamentals of observation, proportion, anatomy, and composition through hands-on studio practice.
The academy is perfect for serious artists seeking rigorous, classical training or students building a competitive portfolio for BFA admission. Instructors are professional artists with backgrounds in academic realism and figure drawing.
Tuition and Fees:
Tuition varies by program. Short workshops or seasonal courses typically range from $400 to $1,000, depending on duration and instructor. Private mentoring and portfolio sessions may cost more.
How to Choose the Best Art School in Long Island
When selecting the right art school, consider the following factors:
- Program Type: Decide whether you want a full degree (BFA, MFA) or non-degree classes for skill building.
- Tuition Budget: Public colleges like Farmingdale and Suffolk offer lower tuition, while private universities provide more facilities and networking.
- Career Goals: If you aim for a design or commercial art career, consider schools like Farmingdale or LIU Post. For fine arts and teaching, look into Molloy or Adelphi.
- Portfolio Requirements: Many programs require a portfolio for admission—start preparing early through community classes or art leagues.
- Facilities and Faculty: Visit campuses or contact departments to see the quality of studios, labs, and instructor experience.
Conclusion
Long Island is more than just a suburb of New York City—it’s a vibrant arts hub offering opportunities for every creative dreamer. Whether you want to paint, sculpt, design, or teach, there’s an art school tailored to your goals and budget.
From Stony Brook’s research-driven MFA programs to Art League of Long Island’s community-based training, you can find the right place to grow your talent and turn your creativity into a lifelong career.
Before enrolling, always verify tuition updates on each school’s official website and explore scholarship opportunities for art majors.